Equip Super makes board appointment

Equip Super has appointed Julian Widdup as member director on its nine-strong board. 

He had 20 years’ experience including four years on the board of Australian Catholic Superannuation from 2019–23 and seven years as a director at Palisade Investment Partners.

The board consists of three independent directors, three member directors, and three employer directors. 

Widdup will replace Jan Dekker who has served on the board since July 2016.

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Equip Super chair, Danny Casey, said: “Julian brings a wealth of experience across many large companies, both domestically and abroad. He has successfully led organisations both within and outside the superannuation sector and his insights will add to our board’s ability to guide the fund through its next phase of growth.”

Widdup said: “I’m excited to be joining one of Australia’s oldest superannuation funds, which has been equipping Australians for retirement for more than 90 years. It’s a pivotal time to be part of Equip Super as we look to build on the work of all those who have led the fund before.”

Last year, Equip completed its merger with Catholic Super to create a $30 billion fund for over 150,000 members. It is now targeting to manage $50 billion for 300,000 members. 

It also made several senior hires last October as it was focused on diversifying its assets.

Alister Wong joined as a senior portfolio manager for defensive assets and alternatives and Manish Utreja joined as senior portfolio manager for alternatives.

Wong was formerly head of investments at Australia Post Superannuation Scheme and Utreja was head of alternatives at Insignia Financial.

Jessie Pettigrew was also appointed as head of responsible investments. She was formerly head of ESG and sustainability at BT Financial Group.

Internally, Darren Rosario was promoted to deputy chief investment officer, Libby Sparshatt to head of asset management, and Stephen Austen to head of investment operations.