The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has appointed Carole Ferguson to the position of Director, Institutional and Wholesale Compliance ­– a new role the beleaguered regulator hopes will “add strength and value to our work and ties with the industry”.

ASIC’s Acting Chairman Jeremy Cooper says Ms Ferguson – who will work with Executive Director of Compliance Jennifer O’Donnell – will concentrate on increasing ASIC’s presence in the wholesale and institutional industries, while improving the regulator’s approach to major institutions.

He says Ms Ferguson has had “substantial industry experience”, and most recently held the role of Senior Legal Counsel at Colonial First State Investments. She has also worked for Prudential Corporation Australia.

“Carole is a well-known financial industry participant through her roles in the private sector and as member or chair of various committees of the Investment and Financial Services Association,” Mr Cooper said.