Profit-to-member superannuation fund Aware Super has announced that it has appointed Christine McLoughlin AM as its new Chairman.
Christine, who is also the Chairman of the Suncorp Group and a Director on Cochlear Limited, officially starts at the Fund on 1 October 2024. She has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services sector as both an Executive and Non-Executive Director.
Aware Super’s Chair of Governance and Nominations Committee Patricia Faulkner AO confirmed Christine’s appointment followed a process conducted by an independent search firm to identify candidates with financial services, regulatory and governance experience.
“I recognise this is a critical time for industry funds and the superannuation industry more broadly.
“I believe Aware Super is best in class and will continue to help many Australians navigate a successful retirement.
“As I’ve learned more about Aware Super, I’ve been struck by how strong the organisation is, not only in terms of their advice and digital services for members, innovation, investment capability and commitment to governance, but how they’re thinking about retirement.
“Ageing populations mean retirement is one of the greatest challenges faced by developed economies the world over, and I’m proud to be joining Aware Super at a time when they are already thinking and acting on how to best serve and deliver value for not only their members but the broader community.”
Christine McLoughlin AM, Chairman, Aware Super
Christine succeeds former Chair Sam Mostyn AC who stepped down in April when she was appointed Australia’s 28th Governor General. The new appointment follows a period of digital transformation for the Fund, which is now empowered to focus on providing support to its members as and when they need it and maintaining the ethos of being Super Helpful.
Currently, Aware Super has $180bn in funds under management and prides itself on helping improve member outcomes in retirement, delivering one of the highest returns for members in the default MySuper – Grow option in FY24 compared to key industry peers, and backed by strong returns over the long-term.
“Attracting a Chair of Christine’s calibre reflects the importance Aware Super places on good governance and its deep expertise in delivering optimal member experiences.
“Aware Super’s ambition to lead in retirement is enabled by our industry-leading digital platform which offers our members a secure, easy and fast way of Interacting and getting the help they need to achieve their retirement aspirations.”
Patricia Faulkner, Chair of Governance and Nominations Committee, Aware Super
At this year’s Chant West Awards, the Fund was also named Pension Fund of the Year and Super Fund of the Year – the first time any super fund has taken out the top two honours in the same year – alongside Investments Best Fund and Insurance Best Fund.
“As Aware Super continues to shape the best possible retirement for members, insights from other sectors will strengthen the Fund’s Board. Aware Super is fortunate it will have the benefit of Christine’s strategic and governance experience in large, complex and heavily regulated sectors, combined with her international business background and aligned values.
“Christine also has a passion for enablement and has been actively involved in the not-for-profit sector throughout her career as evidenced by her previously held directorships on The McGrath Foundation, The Smith Family and The Ethics Centre.
“We’re committed to continuing to redefine the superannuation industry in Australia with our digital capabilities and expertise to meet the growing retirement needs of Australians and deliver high quality service for all our members.”
Deanne Stewart, CEO, Aware Super
