Statewide Super has appointed  Tony D’Alessandro as its new chief executive.

He will replace Richard Nunn, who unexpectedly quit the role last month – after three years at the helm-  after being poached by MetLife to head up the Australian business.

Currently heading up member engagement for the fund, D’Alessandro has worked in private banking, wealth management and administration, having held a broad range of senior executive positions at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, St George Bank and Bank SA.

He will take up the position effective from the start of next month.

MetLife is Statewide Super’s insurance partner. In the 12 months to September 30, 2018, the US-based insurer’s in-force group premiums surged by 11.8 per cent to $721 million DEXX&R data shows.

That still lags Australia’s two largest players – AIA Australia, which has $1.9 billion of in-force group premiums, and TAL with $1.7 billion worth of in-force premiums.

Statewide Super chair, Ken Williams, said of the appointment: “the board is confident that Mr D’Alessandro will continue to strengthen the company’s reputation and member servicing in a time of unprecedented change and attention on the superannuation sector.

“Tony has been an integral member of the Statewide Super leadership team for the past three years. His natural ability to develop and inspire high performing teams and winning cultures, allows him to skilfully lead business progress at every opportunity. He is a man of great integrity and honesty with an unwavering belief in equity for all Australian, he said.

Commenting on his promotion to the top job, D’Alessandro added:  “It is a privilege to be appointed to lead Statewide Super, as we continue to deliver exceptional outcomes for our member’s retirement income goals. No Australian should be deprived of the opportunity to live a dignified retirement, and this will be my key driver.”

“Statewide Super has become a prominent, respected name across the national superannuation sector. We’ve experienced positive membership growth and increased funds under management, delivered consistently strong investment performance and established a strong, capable and cohesive leadership team. It is exciting to lead the next phase of the organisation’s growth and development, “he said.