legalsuper operating chief exits

legalsuper has overhauled its management team in a move that has seen the sudden exit of the chief operating officer which has kicked off the search for a new finance chief.

Trevin Erichsen was hired as operating chief last October, joining from the Australian Retirement Trust.

While spending only five months at ART, he was with Sunsuper for 14 years before that before it merged with QSuper.

In addition to his job as operating chief, Erichsen also worked as interim CEO for seven months following Andrew Proebstl's exit from the fund after 20 years.

Legalsuper chief executive Luke Symonds said he created a new chief financial officer role to drive excellence in strategic operations across the business.

"The role will complement our demonstrable strengths in members' services, investment strategy and performance, delivered through our high-performing team culture," he added.

Symonds - who joined legalsuper in April - said the fund had hired Odgers Berndtson to recruit for the "crucial" executive role.

"As a result of this change at the executive level, we have reached a decision with Erichsen who left legalsuper to pursue other opportunities. Trevin goes with the gratitude and very best wishes of the board, executive team and all legalsuper colleagues for his strong contribution during his tenure."

In a LinkedIn post, Erichsen said he planned to take a short break to reflect on the last 12 months and explore his next steps.

Symonds added: "Your willingness to tackle any opportunity has been greatly appreciated and you know everyone here wishes you all the very best for whatever exciting new opportunity you pursue."