The company said Worrell brings more than 20 years’ experience in the wealth management sector, with a background spanning product development, distribution and large-scale transformation programs across some of Australia’s major financial institutions.
Worrell most recently spent more than a year as general manager of remediation within Insignia Financial’s enterprise services division. Prior to joining Insignia, she held senior leadership roles at AMP Advice, including general manager of business delivery, strategy and projects, and head of advice transformation.
She has also held senior positions at Commonwealth Bank, Perpetual, ING Australia and MLC/NAB, experience the company says gives her “a comprehensive understanding of the competitive landscape and evolving client needs in the Australian wealth sector”.
In her new role, Worrell will lead the wrap product management function, with responsibility for shaping and executing product strategies designed to simplify and integrate MLC Expand’s suite of capabilities. The company said this will be focused on ensuring scalability, efficiency and agility across the platform.
Worrell commenced in the role on Monday, 19 January.
MLC Expand chief executive Liz McCarthy said the appointment strengthens the platform’s leadership team at a time of continued focus on product capability and governance.
“Irene is an outstanding leader with a proven track record in delivering innovative product solutions and driving transformational change,” McCarthy said.
McCarthy said Worrell’s background would be critical as the platform continues to evolve its offering for advisers and clients.
“Her deep understanding of wealth management – particularly the financial advice industry, combined with her ability to navigate complexity and build trusted partnerships, will be instrumental as we continue to enhance our wrap platform and deliver exceptional outcomes for advisers and their clients.”
McCarthy also pointed to the platform’s broader strategic focus, describing MLC Expand as “the largest super and retirement platform”.
“At MLC Expand we’re committed to using our advice expertise and feedback from clients to continue building on our scalable and sustainable product suite to meet the evolving needs of investors and advisers,” she stated.
“Irene’s vision and expertise will help us achieve that ambition while maintaining the highest standards of governance and compliance.”
Worrell said she was looking forward to joining the business and working with the existing leadership team to drive innovation across the platform.
“I’m passionate about delivering products that empower financial advisers and their clients to achieve their goals,” Worrell said.
“MLC Expand has a strong foundation and a clear vision for the future, and I look forward to working with the team to drive innovation and create value for our clients.”
