SMSF Association appoints Michael Houlihan Vice Chair

The SMSF Association has appointed Michael Houlihan as its new Vice Chair, effective today.

Houlihan, who joined the Board in June 2019, will replace Robin Bowerman, who retired from the Board yesterday after joining in 2011.

SMSF Association Chair Andrew Hamilton says: “Although it’s sad to farewell Robin after nine years, it’s a tribute to the calibre of the Association’s Board that Michael can step into this role.

“Michael has a very impressive CV, having spent 30 years in senior leadership roles in superannuation and financial services, including Head of Product and Technical Services at JBWere Investment Management and Vanguard Australia and his current role as Joint Managing Director of Strategic Wealth Services.

“Since joining the Board Michael has played a very constructive and diligent role in all our deliberations, making him an ideal choice to fill the Vice Chair position.”

Hamilton paid a strong tribute to Bowerman’s long service to the Association, especially the past three years as Vice Chair that included four months as Chair.

“There have been some challenging issues for the Association over this period, and the Board has always benefited from Robin’s sage advice, policy knowledge, and media background. His ability to see issues germane to the SMSF sector in the broader context of the superannuation industry has been particularly helpful over the journey.”

Houlihan says: “It’s an honour to be asked by my fellow directors to follow Robin who has served the Association with such distinction. I am excited by the challenges that await our vibrant sector of the superannuation industry and comforted by the fact that the Association is well positioned to resolve them.”

Bowerman, who is Head of Corporate Affairs at the fund manager Vanguard, says: “It’s been a privilege and a pleasure to serve the Association. Over this time there have been many positives changes in the SMSF sector, and the Association can take pride in its significant role in bringing them about.”