David Plant will be the AFA’s general manager of strategic alliances, according to a statement.
He will be responsible for building and enhancing mutually beneficial alliances across the spectrum of financial advice.
Mr Plant has more than 30 years of experience in financial services, including senior roles in licensee operations, business coaching and customer service.
Further, he has worked collaboratively with regulators, and has consulted as a business coach, strategic implementer and change facilitator.
Mr Plant said he’s “thrilled to [be] joining the AFA at a time that it will be the catalyst for a new era of advice”.
“I want to play my part in improving the reputation and professionalism of the industry, to encourage more Australians to take up quality advice,” he said.
“The direction that the AFA is taking, being passionate advocates for advisers and advice, attracted me to the role. I’m a strong believer in the value of advice and hope to make a difference through this role.”
In response, AFA chief executive Phil Kewin said Mr Plant has “exceptional qualities that will be of great benefit to the AFA community”.
“He’s on board with the AFA’s vision around the future of advice, and we’re delighted that he’s joined us on our journey to provide great advice to more Australians,” Mr Kewin said.
I’m fed up with people who won’t give their name that seem to have a smart comment about those who went before them and gave a lot to this industry through good trusted advice and were paid in the relevant way of the day. It was by commission at the time, how many of us dinosaurs employed new advisers and gave them a start
Having worked along side David Plant for many years, I can advocate that he understands advisers needs and requirements and will be a great advocate for our industry
“A new era of advice” but AFA is fighting to retain grandfathered fees and commission to appease the dinosaurs holding the industry back.