Q&A with Australian Catholic Super's former Deputy CEO
After 13 years as deputy CEO of the Australian Catholic Super and Retirement Fund, Sam Hallab has decided the time is right to move on. Sam tells Industry Moves what he is planning to do next and shares a highlight from his time with the fund. He also reveals his secret musical talent, and some sage advice for never being caught off-guard.
After 13 years as deputy CEO of the Australian Catholic Super and Retirement Fund, Sam Hallab has decided the time is right to move on. Sam tells Industry Moves what he is planning to do next and shares a highlight from his time with the fund. He also reveals his secret musical talent, and some sage advice for never being caught off-guard.
What made this the right time to move on from Australian Catholic Super?
After 13 years as deputy CEO at the Fund and a further 10 years prior to that as the external audit partner of the Fund, I felt that it was time for a new challenge.
What are some highlights from your time with the fund?
We had many achievements over the years but the highlight for me was the significant growth of the Fund from a FUM of $80 million in the early days to over $7 billion at the time of my departure.
What are you planning to do next?
I want to take a small break and travel for a few months. After that I hope to find a Fund CEO role, if any are available in Sydney, or alternatively seek Board positions as an independent director in the industry super space. With my qualifications and experience I believe I can make a significant contribution as a CEO or director.
Who do you most admire and how have they influenced your life/work?
In my early career at Pannell Kerr Forster I was fortunate enough to work for an audit partner that was very smart and had a very strong work ethic. I learnt a lot from him and as a consequence aspired to be a partner myself, which I achieved by the age of 31.
What is one of the best pieces of advice you've ever been given?
The best piece of advice that I have ever been given is to always be prepared. This has been valuable advice as it is applicable in both business and personal life.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in the Parramatta area with 4 brothers. We were all very sports minded and loved Rugby League, to such an extent that I ended up playing for the Western Suburbs Magpies and my brother playing for the Parramatta Eels in the late 70's early 80's.
What was your very first job?
I had many casual jobs whilst studying but my first real job was as a graduate with Pannell Kerr Forster, Chartered Accountants in Sydney. In those days I probably spent about 8 months of each year working on the audit and consolidation of the News Corporation.
Do you have a secret skill/hidden talent?
I can sing. Some say I am in the wrong profession. I think I would have been a crooner in another life.
Is there a particular charity or cause that you support?
I support various charities but the particular charity that I am passionate about is the Cancer Council.
