New Zealand Financial Services Group (NZFSG) has appointed Baden Martin (pictured) as Brendon Smith’s successor at the helm. Martin will assume the chief executive post on February 19, while Smith transitions to his new role as NZFSG chair.
Sam White, executive chairman of NZFSG and LMG across Australia and New Zealand, said in an emailed release: “Our decision to welcome Baden as CEO reflects NZFSG’s commitment to forward-thinking leadership and innovation.
“Baden’s expertise in digital transformation and his vision for the future are perfectly aligned with our ambitions for 2024 and beyond. He is not just a leader but a strong advocate for the adviser community.”
The incoming chief executive, who NZFSG believes will provide a “fresh perspective” to the group, has two decades of experience in financial services. He most recently served as mortgage adviser distribution head at ANZ.
“Baden is the right leader to carry forward the legacy of NZFSG,” Smith said. “His deep empathy for business owners and his understanding of the challenges and opportunities in today’s dynamic world make him an ideal fit for guiding the company into the future.”
Commenting on his appointment, which is part of NZFSG’s expansion plan, Martin said: “I am thrilled to join the NZFSG team and support our advisers as we embrace the next phase of growth.
“My focus will be on empowering advisers with innovative, technology-driven solutions, to help them save time and stay safe, and continue to advocate strongly for advisers and their clients.”
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