Financial Services Council appoints new Chief Executive Officer

The Financial Services Council (FSC) today announced the appointment of Kirk Hope as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 18 September 2024.

Mr Hope succeeds Richard Klipin who left the FSC in May after nearly eight years with the organisation.

Mr Hope brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the business and financial services sectors to the FSC. He is currently Chief Executive of BusinessNZ, New Zealand's leading business advocacy group. 

FSC Board Chair Rob Flannagan says, “After a comprehensive search process, we are delighted to appoint Mr Hope as CEO of the Financial Services Council at a critical time of growth and change for our sector. Mr Hope is a proven leader with a deep understanding of financial services, the business landscape, and the challenges facing many New Zealanders. 

“His expertise and experience in regulatory affairs, policy and advocacy will provide strong stewardship as we continue to deliver value for our members and advance our strategic priorities to grow the financial confidence and wellbeing of New Zealanders.” 

About Kirk Hope

Prior to joining BusinessNZ, Mr Hope was CEO of the New Zealand Bankers' Association, Executive Director of the Financial Services Federation and held a range of senior positions at Westpac, including Head of Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs. He holds a Master’s degree in Law, focused on regulation of financial services, and an Honours degree in Political Science.

Mr Hope says, “I am delighted to join the team at the Financial Services Council as Chief Executive and I am very much looking forward to working with the members of the Council on strategic and policy initiatives in the financial services sector that will grow the financial confidence and wellbeing of New Zealanders.”

About the Financial Services Council

As the voice of the financial services sector, the FSC is a non-profit member organisation with a vision to grow the financial confidence and wellbeing of New Zealanders. FSC members commit to delivering strong consumer outcomes from a professional and sustainable financial services sector. 

Its 119 members manage funds of more than $100bn and pay out claims of $2.8bn per year (life and health insurance). Members include the major insurers in life, health, disability and income insurance, fund managers, KiwiSaver, and workplace savings schemes (including restricted schemes), professional service providers, and technology providers to the financial services sector.

Haydee Stroud continues in the role of Acting CEO until Mr Hope officially joins the organisation.

ENDS