Former Iress CEO steps up as advice firm chair
Former Iress chief executive, Andrew Walsh, has been promoted to chair of a boutique advisory firm, while it has also appointed a chief executive.
Walsh joined Profile Financial Services in October 2024 as an independent non-executive director at the self-licensed advice firm, which has three offices across NSW.
In the chair role, he will succeed Peter Coleman who is stepping down as chair but will remain at the firm as a non-executive director.
Walsh is the founder of financial planning software Xplan, which was acquired by Iress in 2003, and he went on to work as Iress’ managing director and chief executive for 13 years, part of a 21-year career with the company.
He was formerly the chair of wealth platform Mason Stevens, but stepped down in March 2025 after the firm completed an acquisition by private equity firm Adamantem Capital.
Meanwhile, Profile has also appointed Shane Dooley as its new chief executive from 4 August. He is currently the CEO of Sydney financial advice firm Much More Than Money.
Dooley will replace Lena Ridley who stepped down as chief executive in November 2024 after almost seven years with the business.
He brings more than two decades of financial services and fintech experience to the role, including more than 15 years with Westpac, during which time he held a wide range of responsibilities, including business manager, regional general manager, and most recently, executive manager of product and business banking.
Commenting on Dooley’s appointment, Walsh said: “Shane’s vision and passion for personal advice, and his deep understanding of the advice landscape, makes him the ideal leader to guide Profile. We are confident that under his leadership, Profile will continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients and stakeholders.
“I look forward to working closely with Shane and the entire leadership team to build on strong foundations. Peter’s continued presence on the board will be invaluable as we focus on executing our strategy for growth.”
NSW firm Profile is a boutique firm of financial planners which is 100 per cent owned by current or former employers and was set up in 1986 by Garry Ohlsen.
AUTHOR
Shy-Ann Arkinstall
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