SMSF Association recruits BT exec

The peak body for self-managed superannuation funds has hired BT's head of public policy to run membership and corporate development.

Neil Sparks, who will come aboard next month, is a Fellow of the SMSF Association and has held the specialist advisor designation for over 15 years.

He is a former member of the SA State Chapter committee and has previously presented at the Association's annual national conference.

Before his 15 years with BT, Sparks was the regional sales manager at Australian Executor Trustees.

Commenting on the appointment, SMSF Association chief executive Peter Burgess welcomed Sparks to the critical role.

"Neil's industry experience, SMSF technical knowledge, and deep understanding of the Association's values and members make him an outstanding addition to our team,' he said.

"The SMSF sector continues to grow strongly and along with it the demand for SMSF specialist advice. So having someone like Neil on our team, with his established adviser and licensee connections, will be invaluable in our quest to encourage more industry professionals to step up and become SMSF specialists."

Sparks emphasised his long relationship with the SMSF Association.

"I have always admired its professionalism and values, so, to be able to join a team that is dedicated to improving the quality of SMSF advice, and moving this sector forward, is incredibility exciting."