“We are very excited to find someone of Neil’s calibre to fill this critical role,” SMSF Association chief executive Peter Burgess said.

“Neil’s industry experience coupled with this SMSF technical knowledge and his deep understanding of the association’s values and members makes him an outstanding addition to our team.”

“The SMSF sector continues to grow strongly, and along with it, the demand for SMSF specialist advice. So having someone like Neil on our team, with his established adviser and licensee connections, will be invaluable in our quest to encourage more industry professionals to step up and become SMSF specialists.”

Mr Sparks will be responsible for membership growth and building bilateral and multi-lateral strategic alliances and partnerships with finance industry corporates, licensees, and advice businesses.