SMSF Association CEO to step down

The SMSF Association has announced that John Maroney will step down from the position he has held since May 2017 in March 2023, after he decided to "take some time off to explore future opportunities".

The peak body has been quick to name Mr Maroney's replacement from March next year in its current deputy CEO and director of policy and education, Peter Burgess.

"As the Association approaches its 20-year anniversary in 2023, it remains recognised as the pre-eminent organisation in the SMSF sector by government, policymakers, regulators, educators, and the industry. We have also been a driving force in building collaboration across the financial sector," Mr Maroney said in a statement.

“Having weathered the COVID storm and returned to hosting large, physical events, including the National Conference in April and Technical Summit this week, 2023 is the ideal time to hand over to Peter for the next growth phase of the sector and Association.”

SMSF Association chairman Scott Hay-Bartlem paid tribute to Mr Maroney and welcomed Mr Burgess' appointment as CEO.

“We are extremely fortunate to have someone of Peter’s calibre to succeed John. His knowledge of the sector is legendary, with his annual ‘legs and regs’ address to the national conference always compulsory listening.

“I am certain the members will welcome Peter’s appointment as someone who is totally committed to the SMSF sector and very understanding of the issues they face in running their businesses.

“Since John’s appointment in 2017, he has had the onerous responsibility of guiding the Association and its members through exciting and challenging times, particularly the dynamic regulatory environment and handling the enormous impact of the COVID pandemic.

“I know I speak for the Board and all members when I say John has performed admirably in very difficult circumstances, and that the strong position in which we find ourselves, is, in no small part, due to his leadership.”

Mr Burgess will bring over 20 years' experience to the role, including three years as the SMSF Association's technical director.

“I am thrilled to be offered the position of CEO of the pre-eminent body in the SMSF sector. I am passionate about the SMSF Association, and the work we do to uphold the integrity and sustainability of the SMSF sector," Mr Burgess said.

"But most of all, I am passionate about our members and helping them to provide the best SMSF advice they can. They are rightfully considered experts in this field and ensuring they have all the necessary skills and education to remain the elite advisers will be my priority.

"I look forward to working with the Board and members to achieve this outcome.”

Neil Griffiths

Neil is the Deputy Editor of the wealth titles, including ifa and InvestorDaily.

Neil is also the host of the ifa show podcast.