The peak body supporting financial planners, the Financial Planning Association (FPA), has appointed the former Deputy CEO of the Investment and Financial Services Association (IFSA) to its top position.

Jo-Anne Bloch replaces Kerrie Kelly, who will become Executive Director of the Insurance Council of Australia on April 3.

Ms Bloch will take up her new appointment on June 12. She has had varied experience in financial services, including work in the superannuation, financial planning, funds management and life insurance sectors.

FPA Chairman Corinna Dieters says Ms Bloch’s “excellent grasp of the issues affecting financial planning and the FPA” will help drive the association in the right direction.

“She was selected as the candidate best able to drive forward the board’s agenda, which continues to focus on professional standards with a view to increasing community confidence in financial planning.”

Ms Dieters says Ms Bloch’s work at IFSA gave her an understanding of the importance of delivering value to members, something the FPA sees as important.

“She has worked with government, and in policy formation and advocacy. These factors, along with proven leadership and excellent communication skills, prepare her well for this role,” Ms Dieters said.

Ms Bloch – who has been based in the UK for two years as a human resources consultant – realises her new role won’t be easy.

“I don’t under-estimate the challenge but anticipate the satisfaction that will come from working with and for members who represent the best of this profession,” she said. “Clearly, I have a solid foundation on which to build.”

Ms Bloch has worked for a number of high-profile Australian companies such as the National Mutual Life Association of Australia and Macquarie Bank.