Financial Advice NZ appoints new Head of Professional Development

Former board member becomes Fin Advice NZ's new head of professional development.

Tuesday, April 30th 2024, 1:08PM

Financial Advice New Zealand has appointed Cecilia Farrow to the newly created role as Head of Professional Development, the first strategic hire under chief executive Nick Hakes.

Hakes said “Financial advisers are now looking towards the future, towards a thriving advice industry where more consumers actively seek out quality financial advice to help them achieve their financial goals. I look forward to Cecilia’s strong contribution to Financial Advice New Zealand’s growth strategy.”

Farrow brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the New Zealand advice community and has built strong relationships across the industry particularly with the emergence of Financial Advice Providers and as a former director on the board of Financial Advice New Zealand.

Farrow will ensure the association's professional development capability is built around the needs of the modern adviser, and that its members of today are recognised as trusted professionals of tomorrow.

“Throughout my 27 years in financial services, I have been passionate about contributing to lifting financial advice to a professional status. The settings are in place now for all financial advisers, irrespective of the scope of advice they specialise in, to be recognised as a professional. We know this will increase trust by consumers and reduce barriers to kiwi’s seeking out quality financial advice. It’s exciting to have the opportunity to spearhead the Financial Advice New Zealand professional development programme and professional designations pathways to support our members to reach the pinnacle of their chosen career,” Farrow says.

Members will continue to have access to best-in-class financial advice designations, professional pathways, and ongoing professional development solutions on a global scale which are purpose built fo r our unique Kiwi culture.

Financial advice professionals’ commitment to high standards will encourage more Kiwis to seek quality financial advice from Financial Advice New Zealand members to help manage, grow, and protect their wealth.

Tags: FANZ