The Actuaries Institute has appointed David Bell as its new CEO.
Bell, who starts the new role in January, has 20 years’ experience in management and public advocacy with organisations including the Australian Bankers’ Association, NRMA, Telstra, Westpac, and Ogilvy PR.
Bell joins the Institute from Ogilvy PR Australia where he was group managing director, corporate. He replaces Melinda Howes, who left earlier this month after four years in the role.
Prior to Ogilvy, Bell spent two years at Westpac as general manager corporate affairs and sustainability, where he was responsible for the bank’s reputation with key stakeholders. Before that he spent a decade as CEO of the Australian Bankers’ Association, where he worked closely with the Government and industry during the global financial crisis to make sure that the best policy and regulatory settings were in place to ensure the Australian banking system remained strong.
Previously he was chief of staff to NSW Minister for Agriculture, Ian Armstrong, and a management consultant with Anderson Consulting.
Bell also spent almost two years as general manager corporate affairs & communications for NRMA
IAG.
Institute President John Newman said: “David has extensive management, leadership and advocacy experience and appreciates the long-term value the actuarial profession adds in both the private and public sectors and in contributing to public policy debate.”
“He joins the Actuaries Institute at a crucial time when Australia faces uncertainty in a range of areas, such as the financial implications of improving longevity and an ageing population. The actuarial profession has a significant contribution to make wherever there is uncertainty of future financial outcomes,” Newman said.
Commenting on his plans for the Institute, Bell said he looked forward to serving the members by ensuring the expertise of actuaries is brought to bear wherever there is a need and opportunity.
“The Actuaries Institute is already doing a great job representing its members’ interests and Australians continue to see the unique role that actuaries play in corporate life, as well as across society,” he said.
“It’s important going forward that the Institute’s voice is heard on the critical issues which governments are now considering, not the least being the recently announced Financial Services Inquiry and the National Commission of Audit.”
Bell said raising the profile and influence of actuaries will complement and enhance the other key roles of the Institute which are to provide member services and professional development, to oversee actuarial education, and to promote the actuarial profession.
