IOOF appoints Head of Research from Lonsec

IOOF has announced the appointment of Matt Olsen as the group's new head of research and retirement incomes, effective late April 2018.

Olsen succeeds Matthew Drennan, who departed from the role of head of research and portfolio construction in March.

In his new role, Olsen will be responsible for sourcing and delivering investment insights in support of financial advice and IOOF's advice-led strategy.

For the past two years, Olsen has been the CEO of Lonsec research, a role he departed in March. Prior to this, he spent 12 months as the CIO of Energy Industries Super Scheme. Previously, he was the head of research for Select Investment Partners and deputy CIO & head of manager research at van Eyk.

Commenting on his appointment, IOOF group GM of wealth management, Renato Mota, said: "We're excited to have someone the calibre of Matt joining our group, to help lead what is a transformational period for IOOF. Having Matt's experience in leadership and investment insights as we create a market leading position through the combination of ANZ Wealth Management and IOOF is an exciting proposition."

Olsen added: "My time at Lonsec gives me a strong grounding in understanding the importance of advice and the role of advisers within it. I'm excited by the opportunities to apply that knowledge in an organisation so committed to the advice space."

Lukasz de Pourbaix, CIO of Lonsec Investment Solutions, has stepped in as interim CEO of Lonsec Research. He will retain his CIO responsibilities.