The Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation, manager of the New Zealand Superannuation Fund, has appointed Paula Steed to the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer. 

Ms Steed, who joined the Guardians in 2021, is currently the Guardians’ General Manager, Technology. She was previously General Manager Strategy and Shared Services and was Acting CEO between December 2023 and April 2024. 

Guardians CEO Jo Townsend says that the new role will be responsible for the Guardians’ technology, corporate strategy and shared services functions. 

“Combining these business units will help break down operational silos and create a clearer line of sight between our strategic priorities and their execution,” Ms Townsend said. 

“Paula’s skill set makes her the ideal person to take on this role.”  

Ms Townsend said it was important the Guardians continued to focus on efficiency and scalability, given the NZ Super Fund’s value is projected to double over the next 10 or so years.  

Before joining the Guardians, Ms Steed had a 25-year career in financial services and banking, including various executive finance and general management roles with AMP, ANZ and ASB.