Class hires CEO to lead new strategy

Self-managed super fund (SMSF) software provider Class has appointed former REA Group executive, Andrew Russell, as its chief executive to lead its new ‘reimagination strategy’.

The strategy aimed to make accountants, administrators and financial advisers “reimagine” their back office with new cloud-based technologies intended to improve productivity.

Russell was formerly executive general manager, financial services for the REA Group, as which he focused on advising and gaining board approval for entry into Australia’s mortgage distribution market. He was then given responsibility for the Group’s financial services businesses across Australia and Asia.

“A proven leader and senior executive with unparalleled experience in developing corporate strategy, sales leadership, market entry and business turnaround,” Class said in a statement announcing the appointment. “Andrew will drive Class’s ‘reimagination’ strategy to support the profession’s productivity and profitability.”