1. CHATSWOOD - MEMBER CONSULTATION FORUM
26 March 2018
Summary

2. 409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
Overview of Session
The Concourse,
409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
12.00pm
Board members:
Merran Kelsall
Registered: 78
Attended: 38
Divisional Council:
Opened by: Shabnam Amirbeaggi Attended by: David Crook, Rosalie De Gabriele, Allison Yeoland
Topics Discussed
The process to appoint the current board
The model for future board appointments
Engagement between members, the Divisional Council, and the Board
AGM and proposed changes to the constitution
The appointment of the new CEO
The impact to the brand and the way forward
CPA Australia Advice, and the upcoming review
Termination payment to the former CEO
Advocacy work in relation to financial advisors
Membership fees

3. Summary of discussion
CPA members asked over 30 questions directly of Merran Kelsall, as representative of the board.
The main topics discussed were:
The process for appointing the board, including the pros and cons of other appointment models and the number of directors currently on the board. Members who participated in the appointment of the board provided insight into the process for appointment. There were concerns that 9 directors are not enough to allow for appropriate levels of diversity in skills, geography, ethnicity, gender and career experiences.
The termination payment made to the former CEO and the board’s decision, with legal advice, to not pursue recovery.
The level of engagement between the board and Divisional Council, and the degree of influence the Divisional Council has on the board. Ensuring the current levels of communication and engagement are maintained.
Whether the new governance models proposed could ensure that the recent events would be avoided in the future. Proposed constitutional changes, including the proposed Nominations Committee and Appointments Council, and the engagement of external search advisors, were discussed as mechanisms to reduce the likelihood.
The discussion also covered:
The appointment of the new CEO, his experience, how his performance bonuses would be agreed and assessed, and the need for him to complete the CPA program
The action required to improve the image of the CPA brand, both from an internal and external perspective. Upcoming media campaigns were discussed.
The future of CPA Australia Advice and its cashflow position, along with the merits and costs of conducting an external review
Endorsement of rebuilding a member focussed organisation, which is forward looking, and provides value for the members
Membership fees for retirees
Potential advocacy work that CPA Australia can undertake in relation to the registration of financial advisors