Helen Morgan-Banda, who most recently worked as CEO of the Law Society of New Zealand and CEO of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, will commence her role with the AFA from 2 August.

“Over the course of her career, Helen has managed significant disruption, akin to that currently being experienced by financial advisers,” AFA national president Michael Nowak said.

“She has demonstrated a deep understanding of the issues being faced by our members and the broader industry, and we believe she is the right person to lead us into the future.”

Ms Morgan-Banda will take over from Phil Anderson, who has worked as acting CEO for the past six months.

“Phil has essentially performed two demanding roles while we were engaged in the search for a new CEO,” Mr Nowak said.

“Phil remains an integral part of the AFA’s senior leadership team and will continue to play a vital role consulting with regulators, government and other industry bodies on behalf of our members.”

Meanwhile, the Financial Planning Association (FPA) confirmed on Monday that Dante De Gori has advised the board of his decision after six years as CEO and 12 years with the association. The FPA board has confirmed they are seeking a replacement immediately.

“With the FPA’s five-year MAC strategy in place and the launch of the FPA Policy Platform Affordable Advice Sustainable Profession, the time is right for a new custodian to lead this amazing organisation,” Mr De Gori said.

“I will forever be grateful to everyone who has supported the FPA, it has been both an honour and privilege to have served in this role.

“I would like to thank the FPA team for their dedication and passion in supporting our members and the profession, our chapters and committees, the board and our partners and, of course, our FPA members who are the true champions of the advice profession and for whom I will always remain their biggest advocate.

“I would also like to acknowledge Marisa Broome for her support and also past chairs who have supported me, specifically to Julie Berry, Matthew Rowe and Neil Kendall.”