Centric Wealth has appointed Phil Kearns as its new chief executive, starting on 12 December.

Kearns joins from Investec Bank, where he was corporate finance managing director.
 
"The board and management are thrilled that Phil will be joining Centric as CEO," Centric chairman David Shein said.

"The board evaluated a number of outstanding candidates for the role and ultimately decided that Phil is best suited to lead the company.

"At Investec, Phil was instrumental in building the private bank's client base and in introducing investors to innovative investment products, including aircraft and wind farm investment funds.

"In addition, he has been responsible for leading significant corporate transactions in wealth advisory and other industries. This combination of experience, plus his prior experience as managing director of a human capital firm, gives Phil a special skill set to further grow and develop Centric."

The appointment follows the sudden departure of former chief executive John McMurdo, who left the company in July.

Centric also announced chief financial officer Chris Powell will take on the additional role of chief operating officer.

"Chris joined Centric as CFO in July and since that time has made a significant mark on the business," Shein said.

"Centric now has in place a complete senior management team.

"This team can rapidly grow the business while adhering to Centric's core values of transparent relationships where client interests always come first."