Nicole Killen, chief governance and risk officer for Newcastle-based industry super fund Mine Wealth + Wellbeing, has been appointed as interim chief executive officer to the $9.5 billion super fund.
Outgoing chief executive officer Bruce Watson will leave the fund on February 12, after 23 years of service to the superannuation needs of Australia’s mining community.
Chair Grahame Kelly said the board is continuing its comprehensive search for a replacement chief executive, including consideration of internal candidates. Killen will continue in the role until a permanent chief executive is appointed.
Kelly paid tribute to Watson and his accomplishments during his tenure and welcomed Killen to the role. “We thank Bruce for his passion, leadership and commitment during his distinguished career and during this time of transition for the fund. The board and I wish him the very best for his future endeavours,” Kelly said.
He added: “Nicole has already worked tirelessly for the fund for over eight years, overseeing the development and implementation of a world-class governance and risk structure.
“Nicole brings a wealth of experience to the role, including her experience as former general manager of Accountants Super.”
Killen has led the team responsible for the Mine Group corporate governance functions including director and board governance, company secretariat, risk management, compliance, internal audit and in-house legal functions across the superannuation, financial planning and administration companies.
She also has superannuation experience in business management, operations, risk management, compliance, governance, death and disability claims, insurance management, consulting, relationship management and business growth.
Killen said she is ready for the task of leading the fund to greater success.
“I look forward to working with the board, the executive team and the business to ensure we continue to build on the success our members have come to expect under Bruce Watson,” Killen said.
Watson also commented on Killen’s appointment: “I believe the board has chosen wisely in appointing Nicole. I can leave feeling great comfort that the fund and our members’ wealth and wellbeing are in excellent hands.”
Watson said he will take a break and travel with his wife for a couple of months before looking for his next opportunity.
[tv playlist=’55c989c3150ba0fb768b458c’ theme=’im_article’]
