UniSuper’s Ann Byrne, Superannuation Trust of Australia’s Paul Costello, Asset’s Michael Dwyer, CSS/PSS’s Steve Gibbs and QSuper’s Rosemary Vilgan have been voted the most influential trustees or fund executives in the superannuation industry over the past 12 months.
Byrne was recognised for all the consolidation work she has done at UniSuper, for driving and delivering significant change to a very large fund and for leading an impressive and innovative team.
Costello was viewed as a driving force when it came to industry funds tackling master trusts over the year, and for being a highly regarded industry spokesman and innovative fund executive.
Dwyer was considered an excellent operator and a creditable spokesperson for the industry, thanks to his involvement in industry bodies and commitment to debate at various forums.
Gibbs was seen as having done a massive job in modernising his funds and in taking a leading role in issues like corporate governance and socially responsible investment. He is also an informed commentator who regularly speaks at conferences.
And, Vilgan was recognised as an outspoken public sector fund representative who has had a high profile and has left her mark on ASFA’s policy making.
Sadly, no one from corporate funds made it into the list. Our panel, however, noted that unlike their counterparts elsewhere, corporate fund trustees or fund executives don’t have to attract new members, and are rather the ‘quiet achievers’ of the industry’.
