Ethnic and gender diversity are the top two greater requirements of super boards in a decade, according to a survey.
The survey conducted by BNP Paribas Securities Services and the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) found other important themes include environment, social and governance issues, and responsible investing and environment considerations.
However, only 11 per cent of respondents believed they will have international directors on their boards by 2025, with 20 per cent saying they are uncertain. This is despite the fact that there is a natural progression towards increasing the need and appetite for overseas investment products.
The survey also found the top job in superannuation by the time-frame will be member relations, advice, and services.
Job growth is expected to be in line with the sector's anticipated growth of between $3.5 trillion and $4.5 trillion. The greatest need for people is expected to be for fund member/investor relations, financial planning, and services with 31 per cent of respondents predicting the greatest area of growth.
However, the survey found roles expected to decrease in 10 years were fund operations, back office, administration, and call centres.
Jim Chalmers has defended changes to the Future Fund’s mandate, referring to himself as a “big supporter” of the sovereign wealth fund, amid fierce opposition from the Coalition, which has pledged to reverse any changes if it wins next year’s election.
In a new review of the country’s largest fund, a research house says it’s well placed to deliver attractive returns despite challenges.
Chant West analysis suggests super could be well placed to deliver a double-digit result by the end of the calendar year.
Specific valuation decisions made by the $88 billion fund at the beginning of the pandemic were “not adequate for the deteriorating market conditions”, according to the prudential regulator.