Australian Unity names new wealth chief

Australian Unity has named the successor of Esther Kerr, who departed the organisation last year.

Balaji Gopal will join the firm as chief executive and group executive for wealth and capital markets on August 24, replacing Adam Vise who has been in the role at an interim basis.

Gopal has more than 20 years' experience in transformation, growth and innovation across large, complex wealth and investment businesses, Australian Unity said.

He is currently the head of strategic growth, customer experience, digital and partnerships at Vanguard Investments Australia, where he was stationed for the past decade in senior capacities spanning investments, customer growth and distributions.

Gopal also brings deep investment expertise across portfolio construction, capital markets and product strategy at ANZ, NAB, SMS Management and Technology, among others, earlier in his career.

Commenting, the group said Gopal possesses the capability to bring the company forward.

"[Gopal] has a strong track record in building and scaling integrated wealth platforms and delivering improved customer outcomes through technology-enabled solutions with a clear focus on supporting strong member outcomes and long-term financial wellbeing," Australian Unity said.

"The board and management team look forward to welcoming Gopal and to the contribution he will make in advancing the group's wealth and capital markets strategy and member-focused approach."

The firm has also thanked Vise for his contribution while acting in the role.

Notably, the company also appointed a new chief executive less than a year ago, welcoming Kelly Bayer Rosmarin as group managing director and chief executive to succeed Rohan Mead who retired in December 2025.