UniSuper hires former TesltraSuper's head of retirement

The super fund has appointed a former TelstraSuper executive to lead its advice strategy, research governance and technical frameworks.

Melanie Slade has joined UniSuper as head of advice strategy and technical, reporting to chief advice officer Andrew Gregory, who was previously the head of advice until he was promoted to his current role in September last year.

Slade brings over 20 years' experience in financial services, beginning as a financial planner earlier in her career before taking on the role of team leader in financial education and advice team at Superpartners for two years.

She was a team manager for advice and engagement at First State Super from 2011 to 2015 and joined TelstraSuper in the same year, serving in various leadership positions, including heading its retirement, product, and member services divisions.

TelstraSuper merged with Aware Super in May, some nine months after it first announced that the two funds were exploring a potential merger.

Meanwhile, UniSuper said the fund is "incredibly pleased" to welcome Slade and explained that she will lead various "important" initiatives in her new role.

"Mel will lead advice strategy, research governance and technical frameworks for UniSuper's advice business, helping shape the future of advice delivery and retirement outcomes for members," a UniSuper spokesperson explained.

"Mel will also oversee future advice propositions, ensuring advice services remain member-focused, scalable and compliant."

The appointment comes as the government is set to introduce the New Class of Advisers (NCAs), as part of the Delivering Better Financial Outcomes (DBFO) reforms, to APRA-regulated super funds and life insurers during a National Press Club announcement last month.

The government will review the implemented measures in three years to determine whether it should be expanded further.

The Financial Advice Association of Australia has said it will advocate to expand NCAs to all financial advisers.