Challenger MD and CEO takes on Co-Deputy Chair role with FSC

The Financial Services Council (FSC) has announced the appointment of Brian Benari as co-deputy chair of its board, effective March 2018.

Benari is the managing director and CEO of Challenger and has been a member of the FSC board since September 2013. He will share the role of deputy chair with BT Financial Group CEO, Brad Cooper.

Benari has led Challenger since February 2012 and has held various executive positions, including group CFO and COO, since joining the firm in 2003. Prior to this, he held roles with J.P. Morgan, Bankers Trust and Macquarie Bank.

The FSC has also announced the appointment of CBA executive general manager, Commonwealth Private, Marianne Perkovic, to its board, replacing Annabel Spring.

Commenting on both appointments, FSC chair, Geoff Lloyd, said: "Brian and Marianne bring a combined 50 years' financial services experience and a broad range of skills to their new roles. I look forward to working closely with them as the FSC develops public policy aimed at achieving a comfortable retirement for all Australians and promoting growth in the economy."

Benari added: "I'm pleased to take on this new position and further support the FSC which is playing a vital role in contributing to good public policy for Australia's financial services sector."