The Institute of Actuaries of Australia has appointed Melinda Howes as CEO.

IAA President Trevor Thompson says Ms Howes’ appointment reflects the institute’s ongoing commitment to public policy development and its desire to further raise the profile of actuaries in the financial services industry and general business community.

“A trained actuary with strong management credentials, Melinda is one of Australia’s leading thinkers on superannuation policy reform,” he said. “As our federal leaders determine the future of our retirement income system, Melinda’s expertise and industry relationships will ensure the actuarial profession’s perspective is part of the debate.”

Ms Howes, who will take up the position in February, was formerly director of policy and industry practice at the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia.

She replaces John Maroney, who left the IAA in August to join the Bank for International Settlements in Basel, Switzerland as a member of the secretariat of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors.