Genetic Signatures has appointed Anne Lockwood as interim Managing Director, bringing extensive financial expertise to guide the company through a critical transition period.
- Anne Lockwood appointed interim Managing Director for six months
- Appointment follows recent CEO and CFO resignations
- Lockwood brings over 30 years of financial and governance experience
- Permanent CFO appointment deferred during interim period
- Remuneration includes $350,000 base salary plus service rights pending shareholder approval
Leadership Transition at Genetic Signatures
Genetic Signatures Limited (ASX, GSS), a specialist in molecular diagnostics, has announced the appointment of Anne Lockwood as interim Managing Director, effective from 2 March 2026. This move comes amid recent executive changes, including the resignation of the former CEO and CFO, signalling a period of leadership renewal for the company.
Lockwood, who joined the board in October 2024, brings a wealth of experience spanning over three decades in finance, risk management, and corporate governance. Her background includes senior roles such as Chief Financial and Commercial Officer at Integral Diagnostics and directorships at several ASX-listed companies. This depth of expertise is expected to provide Genetic Signatures with robust financial oversight and strategic discipline during the transition.
Strategic and Financial Stability
The appointment is designed to strengthen the company’s leadership team at a pivotal time. Lockwood will work closely with newly appointed CEO Maria Halasz to execute the company’s strategy while maintaining capital discipline and cost control. Notably, the company has deferred appointing a permanent CFO during Lockwood’s interim tenure, leveraging her financial acumen to fill that gap.
Genetic Signatures emphasises that this refreshed management structure not only ensures continuity but also reduces key personnel costs, aligning with shareholder interests. The company’s Chair, Caroline Waldron, highlighted the importance of this leadership team in positioning Genetic Signatures to deliver sustainable shareholder value.
Remuneration and Governance Considerations
Lockwood’s remuneration package includes a base salary of $350,000 per annum, with 30% of this amount offered in the form of service rights subject to shareholder approval. If shareholders do not approve, the company will compensate her in cash. There are no short-term or long-term incentives attached to this interim role, reflecting a focus on stability and cost discipline.
This appointment underscores Genetic Signatures’ commitment to strong governance and financial management as it navigates executive transitions. The company continues to expand its global footprint, with operations in Australia, the United States, and Europe, and this leadership refresh aims to support that growth trajectory.
Looking Ahead
With Lockwood’s interim leadership and Halasz’s CEO role, Genetic Signatures appears poised to maintain momentum in executing its molecular diagnostics strategy. The board will review the management structure after six months, leaving open the possibility of further changes depending on how the company’s strategic priorities evolve.
Bottom Line?
Genetic Signatures’ interim leadership appointment signals a cautious but confident approach to navigating executive change while safeguarding shareholder value.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the board confirm a permanent CFO after the interim period?
- How will shareholder approval of service rights impact Lockwood’s remuneration?
- What strategic initiatives will the new leadership prioritise during this transition?