John McMurdo Joins charity board

Australian Ethical Investment chief executive John Murdo has been invited to join the Australian Philanthropic Services (APS) board replacing Tim Fairfax who will retire.

Murdo - who has supported a numer of charities for many years - said structured giving is one of the most effective vehicles for growing philanthropy in Australia and helping direct much-needed funds into the community.

In a recent post on social media, he said there has been a surge in interest in the companies and sectors that make the cut.
 "Awareness of ethical investing has jumped by 20 per cent in just two years," he added.

"Around 82 per cent of Australians are aware of the existence and benefit of social investing.  I do think fear is now visceral and felt in the real world. People want to be able to do something."

."John's passion for philanthropy and over 35 years' experience in investment, advisory and wealth management experience will be invaluable for helping to guide the growth of APS," said APS chairman Chris Cuffe.

"We look forward to having him as part of our board."

Cuffe a former Colonial First State executive and currently a member of UniSuper's investment committee, thanked Fairfax for his contribution, having been an inaugural non-executive director for more than 11 years:

"Tim's high profile and reputation, as well as his commitment to philanthropy, advocacy for making a difference and action in inspiring new generations, have been an asset to the APS board since March 2012.

Aside from Cuffe, the APS board includes Barrenjoey Capital Partners chair David Gonski, Qantas director Belinda Hutchinson, former Westpac chief Gail Kelly and Jan Swinhoe who serves as chair of Mercer Superannuation Australia.

Finally, Dan Philips and Michael Trail are former executive directors of Macquarie Group.