More kernels added to the cob

Kernel has made three strategic appointments.

Helen Skinner, joins the business as Head of Distribution and Sustainability Strategy in March, "adding powerhouse resource" to Kernel’s adviser and wholesale segment.

Skinner most recently was head of sustainability at ANZ and before that at Craigs Investment Partners.

She will work alongside Relationship Manager Nicola Maling to further the successful growth of Kernel's adviser solutions.

“Kernel are creating an ecosystem where technology and human expertise work seamlessly together, to make quality financial advice accessible to all Kiwis, regardless of their wealth level", Skinner says.

At the end of January, 45% of Kernel FUM comprised of adviser and wholesale clients; with rapid adoption of its adviser KiwiSaver solution. “Our advised KiwiSaver solution has grown organically – we're now working with over 25 firms and have a focus on expanding the technology capacity of this product in 2025”, Chief Executive Dean Anderson says.

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”, says 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", says Emerson.

The 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.

After five years of technology investment, Kernel's growth metrics demonstrate strong product-market fit. "Surpassing 30,000 customer accounts is a significant milestone, but what's more impressive is the behaviour we're seeing", says Emerson.

"Our customers are committed long-term investors, consistently adding to their portfolios. What's really exciting is how Kiwis are consolidating their entire financial lives on our platform - from emergency savings to KiwiSaver. This kind of adoption shows we're delivering the trust that Kiwis have been looking for in their financial services”, says Emerson.

Kernel have also appointed Jennifer Page as independent Director starting April. She has 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.