New GM appointment – keystone to Forbes Saville future business objectives says CEO

MELBOURNE, Australia - July 14, 2024 - PRLog -- Forbes Fava Saville Financial Planning (FFSFP) will bolster its position and presence in the financial planning sector with the appointment of Gus Smarrini to the newly created role of General Manager Operations said Senior Financial Planner and CEO Cameron Forbes.

Commenting further on the appointment, Cameron Forbes said, when developing FFSFP's strategic plan, the role of GM Operations was identified as the crucial keystone link between the provision of professional advice / service and the growth of the business.

"Gus's depth of financial services experience, understanding of advice businesses – and hands on ability to pro-actively support advisory practices to deliver the highest standards of client advice and operational excellence, made him the obvious choice," affirmed Forbes.

In this newly created role, Smarrini, a former Practice Development Manager, will be responsible for strategic planning, business growth, client communication and engagement, M&As, recruitment of talent, marketing / PR, compliance and events.

Prior to joining FFSFP Gus held senior Practice Development Manager roles with MLC/Insignia Financia (15 years) and ING Licensees (8 years) and prior to this had experience as an adviser and practice manager.

"This is an exciting time to join FFSFP", said Gus Smarrini.  "Our commitment to managed growth and a personalised boutique approach to the provision of professional financial advice, aligns perfectly with my own values"

"I am eager to leverage my experience and background with the collective knowledge, expertise of the entire FFSFP team (including our alliance partners) to support the delivery of professional advice, solutions and service that address the evolving needs of our valued clients".

Commenting on the future of financial services, Cameron said the industry – and in particular, the advice sector – continues to face significant headwinds.

He also noted that many advisory practices were failing to capitalise on their potential as they seem to have a list build issue (in AFL football terms) i.e. some new entrants alongside very mature practitioners but with a large gap in between.

No one is really investing in professional development, coaching and training in a structured manner that dovetails into a strategic, long-term objective and outcome.

"Our goal is to implement an internal framework that nurtures and encourages a team-based approach to tackle and address the issues of today and tomorrow – hence the importance of Gus's appointment as GM Operations", said Cameron Forbes.

"One of Gus's key undertakings has been to bring new entrants and seasoned veterans together and develop an FFSFP pathway that provides career opportunities for advisers and administrative staff to flourish – including opportunities for financial advisory business owners to consider an alliance or succession solution with our group".

Issued by Forbes Fava Saville Financial Planning       www.forbesfavafp.com.au