FAAA names new chair as David Sharpe prepares to step down

The Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA) has appointed named its chair-elect following a board election process.

Michelle Veitch will officially assume the role of chair after the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in November, succeeding current chair David Sharpe, whose maximum 10-year tenure as a director concludes at the event.

Veitch will continue to serve as deputy chair until the 2026 AGM and then assume the role of chair through to the 2028 AGM.

A veteran of the sector with over 25 years of experience, Veitch has served as deputy chair of the FAAA board since the association's formation in April 2023, following the merger of the AFA and FPA.

Veitch was one of the founding principals, and managing director, of her South Australian based practice, Mybluesky, she currently serves as general manager advice (SA) for PSK Private Wealth and continues to practice as a senior financial adviser.

FAAA chief executive Sarah Abood welcomed the appointment citing Veitch's deep operational and leadership background.

"Michelle brings deep experience, excellent judgement and a strong connection to the profession through her ongoing work with clients," Abood said.

"She has played an important leadership role within the association and the broader financial advice profession for many years."

Reflecting on her upcoming appointment Veitch noted she is focused on executing the association's long-term vision amidst ongoing industry shifts.

"When I assume the role of chair in November, my focus will be on continuing to deliver the FAAA's strategic priorities to 2030, keeping the association relevant in a rapidly changing environment, and bringing stakeholders together to build a stronger future for our members and the profession," Veitch said.

Outgoing chair David Sharpe expressed strong confidence in his successor, noting the "custody of FAAA's chair role will pass to Michelle who I know is both passionate and eminently qualified to continue representing FAAA members and to take on these challenges and more."

Sharpe indicated his remaining four months will focus heavily on navigating challenges surrounding the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort (CSLR) and rebuilding adviser numbers.

Abood also thanked Sharpe for his significant contribution to the association.

"David has led the FAAA through a formative period in its history and has been a passionate advocate for members and the profession. In addition to the last three years as chair of the FAAA, David served seven years on the FPA board, including as the FPA chair from May 2022, and will have reached the end of his maximum 10-year tenure as a director by the AGM in November," Abood said.

"On behalf of the board, management and our members, I would like to thank him for his leadership, commitment and tireless work on behalf of financial advisers and their clients across Australia."