Dexus chief financial officer steps down

Dexus chief financial officer Keir Barnes will move to the ASX, ending a seven-year stint with the real estate investment manager.

Barnes will step into the role at ASX following the announcement earlier this year of current chief financial officer Andrew Tobin's retirement. Tobin will continue in the role and support an orderly transition until Barnes takes over.

Barnes will remain active in her role at Dexus until mid-December 2026, supported by Kerri Leech who has been at Dexus for four years and was recently appointed as deputy chief financial officer.

Barnes first served as the deputy chief financial officer at Dexus, before taking over the top role five years ago. She has an extensive background in the property and funds management industry, with 20 years of experience in roles across finance, funds management, real estate corporate advisory and chartered accounting.

Dexus group chief executive and managing director Ross Du Vernet said: "Keir has made a significant contribution to Dexus in a range of roles and has been a valued member of the executive team. We thank Keir for the positive impact she has had on Dexus and wish her all the best for the next chapter in her career."

ASX has also made two other senior appoints with Mark Peterson stepping into the newly constituted role of managing director of clearing and settlement from November. It has also appointed Elaine Vaisanen as chief operating officer who will take over the role from December.

"The ASX has a critical role in serving Australia's capital markets and we have a clear plan for improving how we deliver for all of our stakeholders," ASX managing director and chief executive Anthony Attia said.

"These appointments are adding important depth and critical experience to our leadership. Keir, Mark and Elaine have decades of global experience in finance, markets and complex operating environments, as well as leading teams through periods of significant transformation.

"They are high calibre, seasoned executives who will help speed up this next phase in ASX's development and explore opportunities for future growth."