Apex super boss leaves for tech job

Andrew Griffioen, managing director for superannuation at Apex Group, will leave the company in September to join its technology partner, Novigi, as chief strategic growth officer. His new role begins September 1, ending a four-year tenure overseeing Apex’s superannuation business.

A career shaped by industry transitions

Griffioen’s departure closes a chapter that started before Apex acquired IFAA in May 2022. He led IFAA as chief executive for two years before the deal, calling that time foundational to his career.

In a LinkedIn post, he described the business’s growth under his leadership. “Over the years, I’ve worked alongside exceptional people as the business evolved, became part of Apex Group, and grew into one of Australia’s leading superannuation administration providers,” he wrote. “We’ve welcomed new clients, built strong teams, completed complex transitions, and set higher standards for clients and their members.”

“The next chapter feels like a natural step,” he added, noting his passion for superannuation remained unchanged despite the shift in responsibilities.

Leadership continuity at Apex

Griffioen’s exit creates a vacancy at Apex, though the company has named an interim successor. Chris Stevens, a strategic leader within the firm, will take over temporarily. Nicholas Happell, Apex’s regional head for Asia Pacific, said Stevens’ experience would maintain stability for clients.

“Chris has deep experience driving strategy at an enterprise level, ensuring strong leadership continuity and operational focus on client outcomes,” Happell said.

For Novigi, the appointment signals expansion plans. The firm, which provides technology solutions for financial services, has been growing its presence in Australia and globally. Ash Priest, Novigi’s chief executive, called the hire important for the company’s future.

“As chief strategic growth officer, Andrew will help us broaden our capabilities and pursue new opportunities,” Priest said. “We’re eager to have him on board.”

Apex has not named a permanent replacement for Griffioen. The interim arrangement with Stevens suggests a careful approach.

In his post, Griffioen noted his transition wouldn’t end collaboration with Apex or its clients. “I’ll continue working closely with the team and many of the same clients, partners, and colleagues,” he wrote. “Just from a different angle.”

This shift reflects how knowledge is turned into capability in financial services.