Q&A with LGsuper's new Chair
Bronwyn Morris has been named as the new chair of LGsuper, the $8.5b Queensland superannuation fund for local government employees. A professional non-executive director with experience in the publicly-listed, government and not-for-profit sectors, Morris shares with Industry Moves what she is most looking forward to in the new role, what she's learnt from predecessor Brian Roebig, and the importance she places on having 'an enquiring mind'.
Bronwyn Morris has been named as the new chair of LGsuper, the $8.5b Queensland superannuation fund for local government employees. A professional non-executive director with experience in the publicly-listed, government and not-for-profit sectors, Morris shares with Industry Moves what she is most looking forward to in the new role, what she's learnt from predecessor Brian Roebig, and the importance she places on having 'an enquiring mind'.
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
The superannuation industry is certainly dynamic and interesting. I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to meet the challenges that will confront us, including greater competition. The future looks very exciting and I consider it a privilege to be part of it.
What have you learnt from previous chair, Brian Roebig?
Brian has been a dedicated and passionate chair over a long period of time. During the 19 years in which Brian was chair, LGsuper grew from under $1b in funds under management to over $8.5b and membership virtually tripled in size to almost 90,000 members today. Brian has always been focussed on what is best for our members. I hope that LGsuper never loses that focus.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I have been very fortunate to have enjoyed a varied career commencing with chartered accounting both in Australia and overseas and leading on to non-executive directorships. Every experience along the way has shaped me to some degree so I find it very difficult to pinpoint a particular highlight. I have worked for and alongside some very talented individuals from whom I have learnt a lot. I suspect that is the highlight - I am always learning and hopefully putting into practice what I learn!
What skill do you think is paramount in working in the financial services industry?
One of the most important skills to have, no matter what the industry, is an enquiring mind. My many years in auditing taught me that and I am extremely grateful for it.
Would you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert? And why?
I probably exhibit characteristics of both. Many people believe accountants are introverts (not always the case) and as a female whose career developed at a time when male professionals were in the majority, I have had to be something of an extrovert. I guess there is a skill in knowing when to be one and not the other!
What was your very first job?
My very first job was over school holidays in a newsagency when I was about 16 years old. I developed a new respect for people whose jobs require them to stand up all day!
Do you have a secret skill/hidden talent?
I fear that any secret skill or hidden talent I have is just that - hidden! Time is running out though, so I hope it appears soon. My children tell me I am a good cook when I put my mind to it but I suspect they are just being kind.
Is there a particular charity or cause that you support?
I like to support a variety of charities, particularly those involving health, education and humanitarian causes.
