Bravura unveils APAC leaders, secures $100m for global push

The ASX-listed technology solutions provider has appointed two new Asia Pacific (APAC) directors, while securing a $100 million senior facility from HSBC to continue its global push.

Nicole Kennedy has been promoted to managing director, APAC, based in Melbourne, while former AustralianSuper chief retirement officer Shawn Blackmore has joined the company in a newly created position.

In her new role, Kennedy will lead Bravura's regional business, bringing together its capabilities and leadership teams to drive collaboration, deepen client relationships, and support growth across the region, Bravura said.

Kennedy joined the company as head of Sonata Alta - Bravura's consolidation and digital platform for intuitional users - in 2021 and has been instrumental in strengthening Bravura's business in the region, it said. She has since been promoted into several leadership positions, including head of service management, APAC executive of operations and advice, and more recently, managing director for wealth and advice since July 2025.

Prior to joining Bravura, she was head of operational delivery at CareSuper for almost five years, and spent well over a decade at VicSuper, now Aware Super, in senior capacities.

"Her client focus, commitment to excellence, strong leadership and operational expertise have helped guide the organisation through a significant period of change while building the foundations for future growth," Bravura said.

"This appointment reflects Nicole's outstanding contribution to Bravura over the past five years, the depth of talent within the business, and our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients."

Meanwhile, Blackmore has commenced as director of growth, APAC, bringing more than 25 years' experience in financial services, spanning super, fintech, private wealth and consulting. He was the chief retirement officer at AustralianSuper between 2022 and 2024. More recently he was a partner at The Thinkery, a boutique strategic advisory firm working with financial services professionals.

Bravura noted Blackmore joins the company at an exciting time.

"As we continue to build on the strong progress across our business. His appointment reflects our confidence in our growth trajectory and our commitment to investing in opportunities that support our clients and long-term success," the company said.

"His deep industry expertise and experience across Australia's leading financial services organisations will strengthen our client engagement, strategic direction and market presence across the APAC region."

The appointments come after Bravura received a $100 million senior secured facility from HSBC to support its ongoing global expansion.

The lending enables Bravura to pursue investment in the business and create greater capacity for innovation, HSBC said.

HSBC Australia and New Zealand structured lending solutions director Ranga Ediriwickrama said the transaction reflects Australian businesses are continuing to look for opportunities to scale globally.

"This flexible financing will support Bravura Solutions' international growth ambitions whilst supporting the evolving needs of its customers," he said.

Bravura Solutions interim chief financial officer noted the facility arrived at an "intense period" for the company.

"Proud to have played a key role in securing our new HSBC debt facility, delivered alongside the significant demands of FY26 year-end and our AIM admission process," she said.

"A big thank you to the incredible teams and everyone involved for their commitment and hard work in getting this over the line - a fantastic team effort."