CFS distribution executive steps down

After more than seven years at Colonial First State (CFS), the firm's group executive for distribution will leave before the end of the year.

Bryce Quirk joined CFS in March 2019 as head of retail sales and shortly thereafter became the general manager of CFS Advice Relationships, effectively becoming part of the leadership team.

He was then promoted to the role of group executive for distribution in July 2021. This was part of a broader transformation strategy CFS rolled out that also unveiled new leadership that included promoting Kelly Power as the chief executive of CFS Superannuation at the time.

Darren McKenzie was also appointed to the role of chief operating officer, while Shenaz Waples joined as chief people officer.

Before CFS, Quirk spent a decade at BT Financial Group in business development roles, rising up the ranks to take on senior management positions in adviser distribution for Victoria and then leading the adviser distribution platform.

"Bryce has been an integral part of CFS's transformation throughout this period and a valued member of the leadership team," CFS group chief executive Clive van Horen said in a statement.

"I would personally like to thank Bryce for the contribution he has made to our business over many years, and for his enduring commitment to the advisers we work with and the customers they serve. We wish him every success for the future."

Quirk will leave the business in December.

Following this change, Mick Baquie will assume the role of acting national head of distribution, working with Quirk to ensure a smooth transition, van Horen added.

Baquie has worked as the head of platform sales for the last six months and was director of platforms distribution three years prior.

Baquie also worked at BT Financial Group, spending nearly nine years there, and finished up as the head of new business in late 2023.