Australian Unity embarks on trustee business strategy with hire

Australian Unity has appointed Kirstin Follows as executive general manager for trustees within its wealth and capital markets platform.

She will lead Australian Unity Trustees, the firm’s professional trustee services business that provides estate administration, financial and legal administration, trust management, and financial attorney services.

Follows has been acting in the role since July and will now take over on a permanent basis. She previously worked as general manager for legal, risk, and quality in the firm’s independent and assisted living business.

Esther Kerr, chief executive of wealth and capital markets, said: “The rise in ageing Australians and increase in blended families has created unprecedented demand for trustee services. This year our trustees business has seen solid growth and helped more individuals and families achieve better wellbeing.

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“As we embark on delivering the next phase of our trustees business strategy, Kirstin’s strong management experience, legal expertise and understanding of the business’ role in the community will be invaluable.”

Follows added: “Our business is based on the premise that trustee services should support the wellbeing of every Australian, rather than acting as a service exclusive to the wealthy. I’m excited to continue leading our team to help Australians ensure their wishes are fulfilled after a death or loss of capacity.”

In February, the former global head of investment management solution delivery at Vanguard, Michael McGavigan, was announced as executive general manager for operations on the firm’s wealth and capital markets platform.

In this role, he is responsible for the platform’s project management, operational compliance, and information technology.