Association of Financial Advisers (AFA) Vice President Sam Perera has been named National President, taking over from Michael Nowak, who stepped down from the role.

Other board changes announced last week include the appointment of Samantha Robinson as Treasurer, following the resignation of Matthew Hawkins, and Michelle Veitch as Vice President.

The AFA board now comprises of Mr Perera, Ms Veitch, Ms Robinson, NSW/ACT Director Katherine Hayes, Queensland Director Patricia Garcia, SA/NT Director Jawad Ahmad, WA Director Stephen Knight and Independent Director Shaun McDonagh.

The Victoria and Tasmania director seats are vacant as of now.

Mr Perera thanked his predecessor and Mr Hawkins for their contributions to the peak body.

“[Mr Nowak] has served for nine years, three of those as President, and [Mr Hawkins] for seven years, a year as Treasurer,” Mr Perera said.

“[Mr Nowak] has been an outstanding President of the AFA, tireless in his advocacy on behalf of the AFA as the royal commission reforms have continued unabated and the COVID-19 pandemic created major operational challenges for the AFA and our members.

“As Vice President, I had a unique insight into how the passion and absolute commitment [he] has for the AFA translated into a huge workload as President on top of his family and business commitments.

“The AFA Board fully supports Mike’s decision to share the load and allow somebody else to take on the presidential responsibilities.”