Fresh governance team to steer advisers through retirement reforms
Financial Advice New Zealand (FANZ), the professional body for financial advice, has appointed Trisha Edmonds as an independent director of its board, effective 15 December. The board has also confirmed the reappointment of member director Paul Sewell for a further three-year term.
The appointments are intended to strengthen governance as the association continues to “lead, support, and inspire” the financial advice profession and prepares for new Incorporated Societies Act requirements from April 2026.
They also follow FANZ’s support for the 2025 Review of Retirement Income Policies, which it says highlights changing retirement needs and the central role of quality financial advice.
Edmonds joins as independent director
Edmonds said she was honoured to join the board and looked forward to supporting advisers and their clients across the country.
"It is an honour to be appointed to the role of independent director with Financial Advice New Zealand," she said in a media release. "More than ever New Zealanders need to be able to access professional advice driven, nurtured, and supported by a professional body such as Financial Advice New Zealand.
"This is a great opportunity for me to work with like-minded board members, the team, and advisers who are passionate and committed to ensuring the financial wellbeing of all New Zealanders.”
Sewell reappointed for three-year term
The board also confirmed the reappointment of Sewell CFP for another three-year tenure.
“It’s a privilege to be reappointed to the board," he said. "This is an important time for our profession, and I’m excited to help drive initiatives that grow our membership base, strengthen adviser engagement, raise professional standards, and deliver real value to New Zealanders seeking quality financial advice."
Chairman Tiumalu Peter Fa’afiu said the combination of continuity and fresh perspective would support FANZ’s strategy.
“Paul’s reappointment and ratification by members brings in his experience and pragmatism at an important time in the implementation of the strategy," Fa’afiu said. "Trisha brings deep senior executive experience and perspective across the wealth management value chain.”
Governance refreshed ahead of 2026 deadline
The director appointments follow a special general meeting in May to update Financial Advice New Zealand’s Constitution to comply with the re‑registration requirements of the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, ahead of the April 2026 start date.
“The appointments complete the governance composition for the professional body. I’m very pleased with the diversity of skills and experience. It will ensure robust strategic decision making as we work towards our vision of an adviser-driven, high-engagement professional body,” Fa’afiu said.
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