ASX Limited announces that CEO Helen Lofthouse will step down in May 2026, coinciding with the imminent go-live of the CHESS project’s first phase. The Board initiates a global search for new leadership to guide the next stage of transformation.
- Helen Lofthouse to leave CEO role in May 2026 after 11 years at ASX
- Departure timed with April 2026 CHESS project first phase go-live
- Board and CEO agree new leadership needed for next transformation phase
- Global CEO search underway with Korn Ferry engaged
- Focus remains on technology modernisation and market infrastructure resilience
Leadership Change at a Pivotal Moment
ASX Limited has announced that its Managing Director and CEO, Helen Lofthouse, will step down in May 2026 after more than a decade with the company, including four years at the helm. Her departure comes as the ASX prepares to launch the first phase of its long-awaited CHESS replacement project, scheduled for April 2026.
Ms Lofthouse’s tenure has been marked by significant challenges and strategic resets, most notably her decision to halt the previous CHESS project and initiate a comprehensive reset. Under her leadership, the ASX has accelerated technology investments and strengthened its risk management focus, laying the groundwork for a more resilient and modern market infrastructure.
A Strategic Transition
ASX Chair David Clarke emphasised that the timing of the CEO transition aligns with a natural turning point for the organisation. “Helen took the CEO role at an exceptionally challenging time for ASX,” he said, noting her role in steering the company through a complex transformation agenda. “As we approach go-live for CHESS Release 1, the Board and Helen have agreed this marks an appropriate moment to commence the transition to new leadership.”
The Board is now conducting a global search for Ms Lofthouse’s successor, engaging Korn Ferry to assist in identifying candidates with strong credentials in financial markets, transformation, and risk management. Internal candidates will be considered alongside external applicants, reflecting confidence in the existing executive team’s capabilities.
Looking Ahead
Ms Lofthouse reflected on her time leading the ASX, highlighting achievements in modernising technology, enhancing customer engagement, and shifting organisational culture. She acknowledged the demanding nature of the role but expressed pride in the progress made. “We’ve made great strides even as we’ve faced challenges,” she said, underscoring the importance of fresh energy for the next phase of ASX’s journey.
Despite the leadership change, the Board reassured stakeholders that momentum on key strategic initiatives will continue unabated. The executive team remains fully accountable for delivering on major projects, with a clear focus on operating reliable and resilient market infrastructure while maintaining active stewardship of Australia’s financial markets.
Bottom Line?
As ASX prepares for a critical technology milestone, the leadership handover sets the stage for a new chapter in market evolution.
Questions in the middle?
- Who will emerge as ASX’s next CEO to lead post-CHESS transformation?
- How will the leadership change impact the final rollout and stability of the CHESS project?
- What strategic priorities will the new CEO pursue to build on recent technology investments?