The Financial Markets Authority has confirmed that Chief Executive Samantha Barrass will leave her role immediately, bringing forward her departure after she had previously decided not to seek renewal of her term when it expires in January 2027. Her suspension has ended, and Alastair Hercus will serve as Acting Chief Executive while the Board continues its search for a permanent successor. \n\nThe independent investigation led by Paul Wicks KC will be subsumed into the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment investigation into workplace conduct and culture at the FMA. That investigation, launched in August and led by Kristy McDonald KC, followed matters raised concerning conduct and culture at the regulator. Barrass said she intends to participate in the MBIE process.
2026-09-03New Zealand Financial Markets Authority
New Zealand Financial Markets Authority confirms Samantha Barrass’s immediate departure and names Alastair Hercus acting chief executive
Samantha Barrass will leave her role as Chief Executive of the Financial Markets Authority immediately, with her suspension ending and Alastair Hercus becoming Acting Chief Executive. The separate investigation led by Paul Wicks KC will be folded into the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment investigation into workplace conduct and culture at the FMA.