Hejaz recruits from LUCRF Super

Chris Deakin, a former distribution manager at LUCRF Super has landed at Hejaz Financial Services, the Australian Islamic financial services provider.

Deakin has been appointed to the newly created role of sales director responsible for overseeing the company's anticipated growth to $100 million funds under management as Australian Muslims seek sharia-compliant financial products.

She brings more than 30 years of financial and business development experience to the Hejaz leadership team, having previously worked at IOOF, First State Super, Health Super, and Superpartners.

She has also served as a national board director for the Victorian branch of Women in Super and on the Expert Advisory Committee for Superfriend.

"While Chris' commercial acumen and background is nothing short of impressive, it was her values and passion for social inclusion that stood out to us," said Hejas operating chief Muzzammil Dhedhy.

"A significant portion of Muslim Australians do not engage with the financial system because traditional banking products fail to address their religious needs, so we want to get the word out that alternatives exist."

Dhedhy said Hejaz has doubled in size over the past 12 months fuelled by demand from Muslim Australians for sharia-compliant investment products.

At the current growth rate, he went on to say, the firm is expecting to add more than $100 million to its funds under management in 2022.

"We are delighted for Chris to join the team and continue to build towards our goal of becoming the country's first Islamic bank - helping overlooked and often unbanked Australians grow wealth and accomplish their goals through best-in-class financial products.

Commenting on her appointment, Deakin said Hejaz is creating first-of-their-kind Sharia banking alternatives that enable Muslim Australians to achieve their aspirations without compromising their faith.