SMSF Association chair Deborah Ralston said that both Ms Scotchbrook and Mr Houlihan have managed complex stakeholder relationships, have experience at senior management and board levels, have relevant tertiary qualifications and ongoing involvement with the SMSF sector.

“The fact that these members have had such a long and committed relationship with the association bodes well for continuity at a time when we are undertaking board renewal. It also reflects well on the strength and capabilities of our membership that we can make appointments of this calibre,” Ms Ralston said.

The two appointments, she said, are a direct response to the expressions of interest called for late last year.

“What’s important to note is that we attracted a very strong field of almost 30 candidates, demonstrating to me and my fellow directors the commitment and enthusiasm our members have, not just to the association but to the SMSF sector,” she said.

“These appointments, when coupled with the recent appointment of Bernie Ripoll, who has served on our Public Policy Committee since early 2017, allows us to build a strong and diverse board with a range of skills and experiences that will enable us to better meet the needs of members and tackle the policy challenges facing the sector.”

Ms Scotchbrook is a chartered accountant who has had significant involvement with the association, including membership of the Professional Standards and National Membership committees and chairpersonship of the West Australia Local Community from 2012 to 2016. She was also a board member and treasurer of Community Midwifery WA from 2009 to 2012.

“It’s a privilege to be asked to join the board. I have always found it tremendously fulfilling to be involved with the association, and especially the West Australian Local Community, so to have my commitment recognised in this way is enormously rewarding,” Ms Scotchbrook said.

Mr Houlihan has more than 30 years of experience in financial services and brings an excellent understanding of market trends and dynamics across the different superannuation sectors to the board.

He has been member of the Victorian Local Community for the past seven years, and he is also the executive director of Strategic Wealth Services, the non-executive director of Evergreen Consultants and the chair of Eltham College.

“I have always been a passionate supporter of the SMSF sector, believing it gives people who opt to do so the opportunity to take direct responsibility for their superannuation,” Mr Houlihan said.

“It’s for this reason I chose to contribute to an organisation that’s rightly recognised as the peak body for the SMSF sector, and to have that contribution acknowledged in this way is extremely satisfying.”