Infocus backs refreshed model with executive hires

Off the back of its newly announced “revised national adviser business model”, Infocus has also made two strategic executive appointments to support its refreshed service offering.

Matthew Fogarty has joined as Executive General Manager – Strategic Relationships and Hayley Briggs is taking on the role of Chief Financial and Operating Officer.

Fogarty’s 25 years of experience and Briggs’ 27 years were particularly welcomed as they assume their new roles at Infocus at the same time as the firm undergoes its whole-of-business refresh and focuses on its “flexible, end-to-end advice model that fosters growth, innovation, and operational excellence”.

“The financial advice sector is at a turning point and advisers need a trusted partner who not only understands their unique challenges
but is deeply and actively invested in their success,” Infocus Founder and Managing Director, Darren Steinhardt, said.

“Matthew and Hayley’s leadership will be key in advancing Infocus’ value proposition, driving innovation and delivering solutions that help advisers achieve client-first, best interest outcomes. We’re excited to welcome them and confident their expertise will be invaluable to the team.”

In his new role, Fogarty will spearhead the Infocus Partner Program (IPP), linking up with advisory firms to streamline their operational channels and ensure client needs remain front-and-centre. He brings experience and expertise from previous roles including including CEO of Fitzpatricks Private Wealth, Head of Private Wealth at Kelly+Partners Chartered Accountants, and co-founder and former director of The Encore Group.

“Infocus is creating something totally unique in the Australian advice sector, offering Member, Partner and Enterprise partnership models that provide flexibility and industry-leading support for advisers at every stage of their journey,” Fogarty said.

“What really draws me to Infocus, though, is the strong, adviser-first community. It’s the power of being part of something bigger, where everyone is invested in each other’s success and in making high-quality advice more accessible to people across the country.

“I’m eager to be part of this journey and to help advisers grow their practices in a sustainable and highly professional way that helps lift the standards in our industry.”

Briggs has spent decades in several senior roles with global financial institutions such as JP Morgan, Deutsche Bank and Merrill Lynch.

“Infocus is at an exciting stage of growth as a national advisory firm, and I’m delighted to be part of the journey. I am impressed with the culture and its strong, community-driven approach,” she said.

“I look forward to contributing to the overall mission to help advisers succeed in a way that works for them, no matter where they are in their advisory practice, or what their business model looks like.

“I’m proud to be part of a company that’s built for the future and committed to delivering real value for advisers, advisory firms, and ultimately, their clients.”