SMSF Association chair Andrew Hamilton said although it was sad to farewell Mr Bowerman after nine years, Mr Houlihan’s appointment is a “tribute to the calibre of the association’s board”.

“Michael has a very impressive CV, having spent 30 years in senior leadership roles in superannuation and financial services, including head of product and technical services at JBWere Investment Management and Vanguard Australia and his current role as joint managing director of Strategic Wealth Services,” Mr Hamilton said.

“Since joining the board, Michael has played a very constructive and diligent role in all our deliberations, making him an ideal choice to fill the vice-chair position.”

Mr Houlihan said it was an honour to be asked by his fellow directors to follow Mr Bowerman.

“I am excited by the challenges that await our vibrant sector of the superannuation industry and comforted by the fact that the association is well positioned to resolve them,” he said.

Mr Hamilton also thanked Robin Bowerman for his long service to the association, especially his three years as vice-chair and four months as chair.

“There have been some challenging issues for the association over this period, and the board has always benefited from Robin’s sage advice, policy knowledge and media background. His ability to see issues germane to the SMSF sector in the broader context of the superannuation industry has been particularly helpful over the journey,” he said.

Mr Bowerman said it had been a privilege and a pleasure to serve the association.

“Over this time, there have been many positive changes in the SMSF sector, and the association can take pride in its significant role in bringing them about,” Mr Bowerman said.