The association noted that Mr Phipps-Ellis, a trusted leader in redefining the way SMSF audits are performed, is well known for his focus on harnessing technology to improve audit processes and outcomes.

In 2005, following a long career in audit, accounting and tax, he founded Evolv Super, a leading and innovative Australian SMSF audit business built around expertly developed, fully automated, integrated SMSF audit software that ensures high-quality, time-saving and cost-effective audits.

“The SMSF industry contributes substantially to our economy, and SMSF auditors play a key role in supporting compliance with SMSF industry legislation,” Mr Phipps-Ellis commented on his appointment.

“Given the continued growth path of the industry, the opportunity to elevate the importance and profile of SMSF auditors is necessary and timely. Members benefit by being represented by a specialist professional body such as SMSFAAA, and the SMSF industry as a whole is better off, too.

“Growing an association like SMSFAAA requires a team of well-intentioned, motivated people. Based on my years of experience building a scaled SMSF audit business, it’s time to contribute my skills to furthering specialised education, support, networking, thought leadership and other services that create real value for members.”

Since its establishment in 2018, SMSFAAA has played a significant role in maintaining the integrity and independence of SMSF auditors in Australia in an increasingly litigious environment.

To date, the SMSFAAA has made representations to the Treasury to ensure practical and ethical concerns over changes to auditor independence and SMSF audit-specific complexities are raised and attended to in accordance with auditing standards. The association said it also continues to represent and support ASIC-approved SMSF auditors who contribute so much to the development and integrity of the superannuation sector.

In 2018, five founding directors created SMSFAAA with a collective vision around maintaining the integrity of the SMSF industry and supporting the SMSF auditors who audit it.

The board has further expanded since to enhance diversity and expertise, with Mr Phipps-Ellis joining directors Lina De Marco, Ariful Haque, and Brian Roughley, alongside three of the original founding directors, Karen Stewart, Sam Marotta and Gino J Coiera.