Ms Abood has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, and, prior to her role at HOPE, she worked as chief executive of privately owned and self-licensed financial planning firm Profile Financial Services for nine years.

“Sarah impressed the board with her deep understanding of the financial planning profession, and the demands of running a financial planning practice, gained from her nine years as CEO of Profile Financial Services,” FPA chair Marisa Broome said.

“She is also very passionate about the financial planning profession and how it has transformed itself in recent times.

“As the CEO of the FPA, Ms Abood will build upon the strong legacy of Dante De Gori to further develop services and support for members and the financial planners of the future.”

Ms Abood said she is joining the FPA at a crucial time for the industry as it emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The FPA is the largest professional association for financial planners and has a strong track-record and heritage in supporting their needs. It is strongly positioned to continue supporting its members, and the financial planning profession as a whole, as it enters 2022,” she said.

“I am impressed by the FPA’s vision for the future of financial planning as a vibrant and integral part of Australia’s prosperity, and look forward to playing my part in achieving this.”

The appointment comes after Mr De Gori announced his decision to step down in July, following a six-year stint as CEO and 12 years with the FPA.

“Dante’s contribution and advocacy during a period of great change and upheaval has been instrumental in helping develop recognition for financial planning as a profession,” Ms Broome said.

“He will leave a lasting positive legacy at the FPA, and we wish him all the best for his future plans.”