Virtual Business Partners expands to support local planning firms

Virtual Business Partners (VBP) has expanded its team with two newly created roles including Lia Gunawan as strategic relationship manager.

Ms Gunawan, who has over 20 years’ experience in strategic business development, has previously worked as a commercial partnerships manager for AMP and will refine VBP’s strategic relationship management framework.

Meanwhile, Hannah Pike will join the company as its new client services specialist, where she’ll work to enhance VBP’s financial planning assistants.

“We’re pleased to have someone of Lia’s calibre joining us at VBP. Her experience at AMP will broaden our ability to deliver effective advice strategies for financial planning firms right around the country,” VBP CEO David Carney said.

“In addition, Hannah’s appointment will further enhance our ability to continue our operational excellence within our client services team.

“Both Lia and Hannah are subject matter experts in their respective areas and have successfully established and developed global teams previously.”

Mr Carney recently joined the ifa Show where he argued that there are “lots of opportunity” for financial advisers working in the industry, despite declining numbers.

Listen to the full podcast with Mr Carney here.

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.