REI Super has appointed Hayley Pope as general counsel and chief risk officer, as the fund moved to strengthen its executive leadership and risk management framework.
Pope commenced in the role on 8 April 2026, joining from First Super where she most recently served as executive manager, governance.
She brings experience across risk management, governance, compliance and legal functions in the superannuation and financial services sector, having also held senior roles at Cbus Super, Hostplus, Australian Unity and IOOF Holdings Ltd.
REI Super chief executive Jarrod Coysh said the appointment underscored the fund’s focus on governance, prudent risk settings and member outcomes.
“Hayley brings a strong track record in risk, governance and compliance, with deep experience across the superannuation sector,” Coysh said. “She understands the regulatory environment we operate in and the importance of sound risk management in supporting better outcomes for members.”
Alongside the appointment, REI Super also made management title and portfolio changes aimed at streamlining accountability and decision-making across the fund.
Andrew Tait will now serve as chief operating and growth officer, while Michelle Boucher has taken on the title of chief member officer.
The fund said the changes were intended to better align executive accountability with its strategic priorities, while supporting operational efficiency and a continued focus on delivering value for members.
“These changes clarify accountability across our executive team and better reflect how the fund operates today,” Coysh said.
“They support faster decision-making and stronger coordination of activities across the fund.”
Earlier this month, the fund announced a new chair as Claire Higgins stepped down after more than a decade.
Higgins had served on the REI Super board since 2014 as chair, with her departure occurring in line with the fund’s board tenure requirements. During her time leading the board, the fund said it recorded consistent growth, strengthened internal capability and completed a successful custody and administration transition.
In her place, the fund appointed Geoff Peck who joined the board in 2022 to the chair role. The fund said Peck’s elevation followed a planned and orderly succession process, with the former deputy chair and independent director formally assuming the chair role from 1 April.
He served as deputy chair of REI Super and chaired the fund’s risk committee since 2022, giving the fund continuity at board level as it moves through the transition.
