When I sat down with Michael Dwyer in what would be his last interview before handing over the reins to Deanne Stewart, I must admit I was more than just a little curious. I was actually worried.
I have known Michael Dwyer for well over 20 years. In my 20s, I was one of the founders of The Fund Executive Association (FEAL) and Michael was the person Greg Bright and I first approached to help. Our vision was to start an educational and peer group learning industry body for superannuation CEOs.
Michael did of course help, and today that organisation is extremely important in educating and championing the executives of the biggest industry in Australia. It would never have happened however, without Michael Dwyer.
He is someone whose passion and energy is only equaled by his integrity and values. The kind of CEO you wish the Royal Commission had seen more of. His farewell dinner hosted by FEAL was full of a room of 250 pretty important people, who all waxed lyrical about his leadership style and care for people, especially the member.
So when I sat down to talk to Deanne, I wondered – would she stack up? She probably has one of the biggest “shoes” to fill of any job going in financial services today.
It became clear within the first five minutes that she is indeed worthy of the job of running this 80 billion dollar organisation. She is very high energy and thoroughly down to earth. She also shares a passion and almost obsession with taking care of the member – after all, most of her family are teachers and nurses.
I know you will enjoy watching this exclusive interview with Michael and Deanne, as we pre-launch a very special edition of our talk show, After Hours, ahead of its launch next year. I am also joined by the Managing Director of highly respected investment house Orbis; Jenny Josling. I have asked her to co-host season two of After Hours in 2019 and you will see why when we launch. She is incredibly knowledgeable and extremely relatable.
I am constantly inspired by the level and quality of leaders I get to talk to. I am relieved that our superannuation sector is so well equipped to care for members and look after their retirement. It is, after all, one of the most important jobs on the planet.
Until next time,
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