ASFA chooses former super exec Elkins as chair

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) has selected industry veteran Linda Elkins to lead the organisation, marking a significant leadership change for the sector as it faces a range of complex challenges. Elkins has been nominated as chair of the industry’s peak body, subject to member approval, with the appointment set to take effect on 25 August. She will replace Gary Dransfield, who is stepping down after four years in the role.

Thirty years of experience in financial services

Elkins brings more than 30 years of experience in financial services, having held senior leadership roles across superannuation, wealth management and financial regulation. She previously served as executive general manager at Colonial First State, overseeing the retirement savings of more than one million Australians. Earlier in her career, she held positions with Russell Investments, Sunsuper, the Insurance and Superannuation Commission and ASIC.

The selection process involved an external recruitment firm, which identified several shortlisted candidates before Elkins was chosen. She currently serves as a non-executive director of AMP and AMP Bank and has previously been a member of the ASFA board, as well as chairing committees for ASFA and the Financial Services Council.

Elkins said she was looking forward to joining the board at what she described as a key time for the sector. “I’m delighted for the opportunity to join the board at this key time for the super sector. If the members approve, I’m looking forward to working with Mary and the ASFA team on critical issues like cyber security, delivering better financial advice and retirement outcomes, and maintaining trust in super,” Elkins said.

Focus on retirement income and cyber security

Her appointment comes as ASFA continues to advocate on policy issues affecting the APRA-regulated super sector, with retirement income, cyber security and financial advice among the priorities identified by the organisation.

ASFA chief executive, Mary Delahunty, said Elkins’ experience across industry, retail funds, advice, platforms and government made her well placed to lead the organisation as the superannuation system increasingly shifts its focus from helping Australians accumulate retirement savings to supporting them in retirement. Delahunty added, “Our goal is ensuring Australians can retire with confidence, supported by the world’s best retirement system, and Linda, our Board and the ASFA team will be relentless in making this a reality.”