Digital wealth platform Kernel has announced three strategic appointments to the business and board, following a breakthrough year that saw its funds under management surge by 137%, adding nearly $1 billion in 2024 alone.
Founder and chief executive Dean Anderson said: “The strengthening of our team reflects Kernel’s ambition to reshape New Zealand’s investment landscape as we enter our sixth year of operation.”
Helen Skinner joins the business as head of distribution and sustainability strategy in March, adding resource to Kernel’s adviser and wholesale segment.
Of the opportunity, Skinner said: “I’m excited to be joining Kernel; an innovative company where I can see many opportunities for growth.” She will be working alongside relationship manager Nicola Maling on their adviser solutions.
Kernel’s previous head of marketing and customer strategy, Catherine Emerson, has been appointed to the role of chief customer officer. With this change, the platform has strengthened its team with Andy Havill, formerly of Fisher Funds, joining as head of marketing.
“Andy’s appointment could not have come at a better time,” said Emerson. “Last year, our KiwiSaver membership was up 95%, our average investor balance grew 48%, and January saw our highest month of new customer sign-ups – ever.”
This rapid growth reflects a significant shift in consumer behaviour, with Kiwis increasingly seeking digital-first solutions for managing their savings, investments, and KiwiSaver through transparent, customer-aligned platforms.
Emerson said: “What’s really exciting is how Kiwis are consolidating their entire financial lives on our platform – from emergency savings to KiwiSaver.”
With 2025 set to be an even bigger year for the challenger brand, on the corporate front, Kernel has appointed Jennifer Page as independent director starting in April.
Page brings extensive financial services experience from ANZ, Citi, and Goldman Sachs. As well as legal skills, she has strengths in regulatory oversight, governance, and risk management. She currently holds a senior role at Air New Zealand and sits on the NZ Markets Disciplinary Tribunal.
Page noted: “I have long admired Kernel’s mission and focus on financial literacy and technology opportunities. I’m looking forward to using my skills to help their talented and committed team in the next phase of growth.”
Page’s appointment follows the addition of former Xero executive Alastair Grigg to the board in 2024.
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