Four years after leaving the Association of Financial Advisers (AFA), Richard Klipin has become CEO of another industry association – this time in New Zealand.

He starts this week at the nation’s Financial Services Council (NZFSC), replacing Acting CEO Owen Gill.

Mr Klipin was CEO at AFA for seven years until 2012.

He later led the Millennium3 dealer group before heading to New Zealand as chief distribution officer for Sovereign.

NZFSC Chairman Rob Flannagan says the group is committed to stepping up its work in the areas of regulation, tax policy and professional standards.

“This includes work on a professional code of conduct that will apply to members,” he said.

“The NZFSC is renewing its role in representing the personal insurance and wealth sector to the Government and to consumers in a constructive way.”

Mr Flannagan says potential changes in regulation, product distribution and consumer expectations require a strong organisation to represent financial services businesses.

“Mr Klipin is an ideal CEO to lead the NZFSC and its members through this time of potential change, given his extensive experience in this area.”