Former Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) Superannuation Fund deputy executive director Paul Watson will take on the newly created job of deputy chief executive with the $17 billion superannuation fund ARIA.

"We are growing substantially and faced with some challenges, we needed extra resources in place to help us with a new strategy for the fund," ARIA chief executive Steve Gibbs said.

Watson will be involved in the marketing, communication and stakeholder relations for the fund as well as the day-to-day running of the organisation.

From July 1 2008, the fund's Public Sector Superannuation Scheme members will have the choice of moving out of their defined benefits to an accumulation scheme with ARIA or with another superannuation fund.

Education will play an important role in order for our members to make an informed choice once this legislation comes into effect, Gibbs said.

"Paul's strategic guidance for the development of the business will provide members with the products, services and education they need to make the most of their financial future," he said.

For the past 10 years, Watson was involved in the strategic planning, product development and customer service for MTAA Super. He was also involved in the fund's investment strategy.

In 2006, Watson took out the Fund Executive of the Year Award, presented by the Fund Executive Association Limited (FEAL).

Watson was chosen because of his commitment to the education of both MTAA members and the industry as a whole.

Last week, ARIA hired Alison Tarditi as its chief investment officer.