Focus Partners boosts wealth advisory capabilities via new hire

Yasmine Raso

Senior Journalist

9 July 2026

Focus Partners Australia has responded to rising demand for more holistic wealth management services integrated with specialist advice by strengthening its own capabilities with the appointment of David Lane as Head of Wealth Advisory.

A statement from the firm said Lane’s appointment is intended to meet the heightened demand for advice that covers wealth management, tax, accounting and lending expertise in one “single, coordinated client experience”.

In his new role, Lane will take responsibility for Focus Partners Australia’s wealth advisory arm, boosting its existing referral network, adviser capabilities and continued business growth. He will closely with the firm’s President, Kristen Bell, to capitalise on “strategic opportunities” to grow its advice platform and address changing client needs.

“David’s appointment reflects our long-term commitment to investing in our wealth business and building greater capability to support clients’ evolving needs,” Bell said.

“The advice landscape is changing rapidly. Clients increasingly want advisers who can help them navigate every aspect of their financial lives through connected, specialist advice rather than fragmented services.

“David brings the leadership, experience and deep understanding of advice businesses that will help us continue to strengthen our wealth offering, support our advisers and deliver the best outcomes for clients.

“His appointment is another important step as we continue building one of Australia’s leading integrated advice businesses bringing boutique individualised services to clients at scale.”

Lane joins Focus Partners Australia most recently from Ord Minnett, where he was State Manager for Queensland and Senior Private Wealth Adviser. He also brings more than three decades of experience to the new role, enjoying several previous senior leadership roles at Pitcher Partners and FirstUnity Wealth Management.

“I’m excited to be joining Focus Partners Australia at such a pivotal time for the industry,” he said.

“I look forward to partnering with FPA’s expanded capability in technology and operations to continue growing the business, enhancing the client experience and building on the strong foundations already in place to help more Australians achieve their financial goals.”

Lane commenced in the new role from 6 July.