BT Financial has named a new head of strategy to guide the firm as the role of platforms in financial advice continues to evolve.
Simon Aboud joined the firm on 1 June, BT confirmed to Money Management, bringing more than 25 years’ experience from across wealth management, investment management, superannuation and financial advice.
He joins from Allianz Retire+ where he was chief product and marketing officer since May 2021, prior to which he served as head of investment management, innovation and brand at FIIG Securities,
Meanwhile, his earlier career saw Aboud complete a 12-year stint at Macquarie Group where he held a range of senior leadership roles, including head of product development and management for Macquarie Global Investments and head of brand and client marketing within the banking and financial services division.
He also worked alongside the Association of Financial Advisers (AFA) prior to its merger with the Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) through which the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA) was formed in 2023.
BT Financial chief product officer Annabelle Kline told Money Management: “He will play an important role as we position ourselves for the significant shifts we’re seeing in the market – from increasingly complex retirement needs through to the growing role platforms can play for advisers and their clients.”
With the business entering a new phase, Kline emphasised the value of Aboud’s expertise from across the financial services sector as it will help inform the firm’s decisions going forward.
“We’re pleased to welcome Simon to BT at an important point for the business. With the Asgard migration successfully behind us, we have strong momentum as we move into our next phase of growth.
“Simon brings deep experience across wealth management and product strategy which will be critical as we strengthen how we support advisers and quality financial advice to thrive, with better outcomes for clients.”
Other recent exits from Allianz Retire+ include Robert Coulter, who left for Generation Life after three years as head of key accounts, developing key platform and licensee partnerships for the firm, as well as having worked at banks and platforms including AMP, MLC Australia, ING and BT Financial.