ACSA chief to step down

Australian Custodial Services Association (ACSA) chief executive Robert Brown is set to depart the organisation in September.

Brown has been the ACSA chief since 2017. He was previously the head of client relationship management for HSBC Australia and CEO of NAB's Ausmaq, which is now Clearstream.

ACSA chair Sally Surgeon is overseeing the transition process. She thanked Brown for his contributions to the organisation, including advocacy and leadership. "Rob led the organisation through a major transformation of operating model, put in place key management disciplines and fostered a high standard for engagement within the member base and external stakeholders. We wish him all the best for his future endeavours," said Surgeon.

Brown, who has been CEO of ACSA for just over four years, has a long history with the organisation. He previously served as director from 2008-2010. Reflecting on his time, Brown said that he's proud of his contributions and believes the organisation is in a strong position to continue supporting and speaking on behalf of its members. "ACSA does an amazing job through our voluntary working groups in promoting systemic efficiency improvement on behalf of members and their clients. While not grabbing the headlines, the Association makes an important contribution to the financial services sector, including superannuation and managed funds."

Brown is leaving the ACSA to pursue private business interests. The organisation is currently recruiting for a new chief executive.