Farewell to our CEO, Leeanne Turner
With over 40 years of experience in the super industry, Leeanne says she’s incredibly proud and privileged to be Spirit Super’s inaugural CEO.
‘Bringing Spirit Super to life and bringing together this amazing team of passionate and dedicated professionals has been incredible. It’s an experience I will cherish and never forget.’
Leeanne started her career in public sector super before moving to AvSuper in 2001. After six years, including two as CEO, she moved to MTAA Super as Deputy CEO then CEO from 2011.
Under her leadership, MTAA Super received numerous industry awards, including the 2015 and 2017 Conexus Financial ‘Medium Fund of the Year Award’. In 2014, Leeanne won the prestigious Fund Executive of the Year Award.
When not leading funds, Leeanne also helped strengthen the Australian super industry as a director for many leading industry bodies, including ASFA, ISA and FEAL.
Now, with a lifetime of work and experience behind her, she says it’s time for someone else to take the lead.
‘Stepping back has been in the back of my mind for a while. But it was very important for me to set Spirit Super on its path to future success and to hand over to someone else to take the fund to the next stage,’ Leeanne said.
‘I am proud to leave Spirit Super in a strong position. We have strong investment performance, over $26 billion in funds under management, and more than 320,000 members. Importantly, we’ve continued to cultivate a culture committed to putting our members first, and that’s what I’m most proud of.’
Spirit Super Chair Naomi Edwards paid tribute to Leeanne’s strong leadership establishing Spirit Super and positioning the fund as an emerging leader in the competitive superannuation market.
‘Leeanne’s role in this merger has been outstanding. She has led with passion and enthusiasm to integrate our people and processes. The trustee and staff hold her in the highest regard.’
Former Victorian Premier and long-serving Chair of MTAA Super, the Hon John Brumby, also paid tribute to Leeanne.
‘Over the past decade, Leeanne has made a huge contribution to MTAA Super and its successful merger as Spirit Super. Leeanne has been a tireless advocate for member interests and outcomes and has positioned Spirit Super exceptionally well for ongoing success,’ said John.
Following an extensive search, Jason Murray has been appointed the next CEO of Spirit Super. Jason is currently Chief of Member Experience at QSuper and has financial services experience spanning banking, insurance and superannuation in Australia and the UK. Jason will join the fund in early 2022.
Leeanne is confident Jason will be an exceptional leader for Spirit Super.
‘Jason’s experience in product, innovation, digital, business development and distribution will help Spirit Super reach its goal of being “big enough to make a difference but small enough to care.” He’s also committed to a strong people-centric culture, which is essential for a high performing and thriving fund. So, I’m confident our members are in good hands.’
As for Leeanne, she’s keen to embark on a new era of her own. Just don’t call it retirement.
‘I hate the word retirement! It sounds so old and grey. But I’m excited for the next chapter. I’ll be spending more time with my family and friends and — CODIV-19 permitting — travelling as much as possible. I also want to continue contributing to the super industry where possible, so we’ll see what opportunities arise for me to do that.’