Russell nabs BT sales lead

Elizabeth Fry

20 May 2026

Russell Investments has appointed distribution executive Tonya Ripley to lead key accounts and platforms in its local wealth team.

Ripley joins from BT Financial Group, where she most recently served as head of national accounts.

Before her seven years with BT, she spent six years at AMP, including as national development manager for its platform business, about four years at AXA in a similar role and also held a stint at HUB24.

“Tonya brings more than 20 years’ experience across wealth platforms and distribution, along with a strong track record of building strategic partnerships and driving growth,” Russell Investments Australia and New Zealand head of distribution Neil Rogan said.

“Her appointment reflects our continued momentum in the Australian wealth market and our focus on strengthening support for our key accounts and platform partners.”

Rogan noted that Ripley’s relationships across licensees and platform providers, along with her experience in wealth management, would support the firm’s growth strategy.

Ripley said she was looking forward to connecting with strategic partners, platforms and advisers in the new role.

The appointment is Russell Investments’ second senior hire in as many months.

In April, the asset consultant recruited NGS Super deputy chief executive and chief member officer Ben Facer to run its superannuation business.

Facer was appointed deputy chief executive in 2023 before adding the chief member officer role two years later.