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HESTA CEO Debby Blakey has backed her recently-appointed successor Robbie Campo to lead the health industry super fund "from strength to strength".
Ms Campo will take over the role as the head of the $100 billion profit-to-members fund in August 2026, when Ms Blakey steps down after 11 years as CEO and more than 17 years as a HESTA executive.
"I've had the opportunity of working with Robbie over many years on improving the super system for women and working Australians," Ms Blakey said.
"I am thrilled I will have the privilege of handing over to Robbie as the incoming CEO in August, and feel confident she will lead the Fund from strength to strength."
Ms Campo, currently the CEO of ESSSuper, has worked in the superannuation sector for 26 years and is Chair of the 'Women in Super' advocacy group.
"I am thrilled to be appointed as HESTA's CEO, a role which will allow me to continue my passion for improving the economic security of Australians and, in particular, improving retirement outcomes for women," she said.
"HESTA is a top-performing fund with a proud history of constant and courageous advocacy, global leadership in responsible investment and a strong track record of supporting its members."
Debby Blakey has helped HESTA become one of Australia's leading super funds
Since forming in 1987, HESTA has grown its membership past one million Australians – with 80 percent of those being female, working mainly in health and community services.
"The nurses, carers, educators, and community service workers that make up the Fund contribute so much to the community, and it will be an honour to help them achieve a more secure retirement," Ms Campo said.
"I look forward to building on the Fund's very strong foundations, and to receiving the baton from such a high-impact leader as Debby."
HESTA Board Chair Nicola Roxon said Ms Campo's wide-ranging leadership experience made her a standout choice to lead the Fund through its next, significant strategic era.
She was previously Group Executive of Brand, Engagement, Advocacy and Product at CBUS and Deputy Chief Executive of Industry Super Australia (ISA), while also serving as a non-executive director of Victoria Legal Aid and as a Director at Industry Fund Services.
"Robbie brings extensive experience across executive and CEO roles, leading organisations, big and small, through complex regulatory, operational and investment environments to deliver better outcomes for members," Ms Roxon said.
"As HESTA grows beyond more than one million members and $100 billion in assets, Robbie's skills will position her well to lead the Fund as it enters an exciting new chapter – striving always to help our members feel confident, connected and well prepared for the future.
"Alongside our shared commitment to improving the financial futures of working people, particularly women, Robbie's an inspiring leader who will bring fresh eyes and new energy to amplifying the positive impact HESTA has for generations of our members."
Ms Roxon also paid tribute to Ms Blakey's achievements at HESTA.
"Debby leaves with a legacy of sustained performance, with HESTA recently winning the SuperRatings Net Benefit Award for the fifth time in the past six years," she said.
"The foundations are in place for future growth with a new technology-led administration platform ready to be optimised and a scaled investment strategy that has close to 20 percent of the portfolio managed internally, making HESTA's internal team the Fund's largest asset manager.
"Debby has been a passionate and tireless advocate for a fairer super system, helping narrow the gender super gap and reduce inequalities for our members and working women across Australia."
Chief Operating Officer Stephen Reilly will also be leaving HESTA, in June, having been at the fund since 2015.
"Stephen's leadership over the past decade has supported the development of an operating model that has set HESTA up for the years ahead," Ms Blakey said.
"We wish him every success in his next opportunity."
- HESTA is APHA's Diamond Sponsor.
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