Padua to drop co-CEO model as Anne-Marie Esler joins board

Padua Solutions is officially retiring its co-founder and co-CEO leadership model between brother-and-sister duo, Matthew Esler and Anne-Marie Esler, with the appointment of the latter as Non-Executive Director as of 1 January next year.

Anne-Marie Esler, who will step down from her co-CEO role on 31 December, will also take on the position of Industry Engagement Lead in addition to her new board duties in the effort to continue expanding Padua’s presence across the industry by participating in key initiatives and engaging with stakeholders regarding its Advice Generation Platform.

She has also been appointed company secretary, in which she will spearhead the firm’s engagement with shareholders and investors. Esler also continues as a member of the Women in Wealth Awards 2026 judging panel, her third consecutive appearance, supported by this masthead.

“I am confident the business’s growth trajectory will remain strong,” Esler said.

“I look forward to continuing to represent Padua at conferences, industry events, university collaborations and as sponsor of the Women in Wealth Awards, as well as championing the role of women in financial services more broadly.”

Since co-founding Padua Solutions in 2013, the business has expanded to host nearly 90 employees based out of two offices and supply tech-powered solutions to over 100 advice firms. Esler’s appointment also follows after several significant developments completed by the firm in recent months – including its third capital raise and the acquisitions of Wealth Data and Wealth X – that have solidifed its position in the advicetech market.

“Anne-Marie and Matthew have built Padua into the strong business it is today,” Padua Chair, Peter O’Connell, said.

“Anne-Marie’s continuing role on the board ensures she remains a key adviser to the company, with a particular focus on industry and community engagement – areas the board recognises as critical to Padua’s ongoing success.”

Matthew Esler will take on the role of Managing Director and CEO as of 1 January 2026.