FPA names new head of education


The Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) has appointed Shaun Weston-Cole as its new head of education. He will replace Howard Cook who has transitioned into the role of head of academic relations to bolster FPA's relationships with academic institutions.
In his new role, Weston-Cole will be in charge of delivering the CFP Certification Programme and his responsibilities will also include the introduction of new technologies. His nomination comes as a part of a broader strategy aimed at growing the profession and supporting the financial planners.
FPA chief executive, Dante De Gori, said that the FPA would now focus on delivering "the best possible student experience" while at the same time it aims to develop a solution for financial planners who need to undertake further study in order to meet the forthcoming education requirements.
"Shaun brings considerable experience to the FPA and we are excited to have him join the team" he said.
Weston-Cole joins FPA from the College of Law where he oversaw learning content design and development along with the implementation of a new learning management system for all academic programmes across the Asia-Pacific region. Prior to this, he worked for CCH Australia, a provider of information solutions for accounting, legal and employment, and safety professionals.
Prior to this appointment, the FPA nominated Andrew Cooper to lead engagement with students to help put the financial planning on the career agenda.
"We're passionate about supporting the development of the financial planning curriculum in Australia," De Gori said.
"We are also excited to build on our relationships with universities and ensure the foundations are in place to support budding financial planners on their career journey."
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