How we’re supporting the next generation in super

As a WA-based fund, we pride ourselves on applying local industry expertise to manage the super savings of around 240,000 current and former WA public sector employees.

We know how important it is that this knowledge and experience is passed on to the next generation of employees in the super industry. One of the ways we're working to help create pathways for the future workforce of WA is by supporting recent graduates through specialised training and development programs.

Working towards developing the future workforce of WA

One of the key priorities of our workforce and diversity plan is to increase workforce representation of youth (under 25). This commitment to recruiting, developing, and retaining youth will help create a talent pipeline for the future which will allow effective succession and workforce planning.

'As the largest WA-based super fund, we want to help support WA and create ways for the next generation to learn about working in super,' Our Senior Manager, People and Business Services, Gus Dhillon said.

'It's also important that we continue to seek fresh perspectives and new ideas that young people bring to the table.'

The Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees' (AIST) presented a unique and valuable opportunity through its SuperGrads program.

SuperGrads offers a diverse range of job roles for graduates from different backgrounds and provides a comprehensive 12 month-professional development program, structured so that participants can excel in the industry.

'There was an overwhelming interest from local graduates, with over 70 applications submitted for the AIST graduate position,' Gus said.

'AIST provided a shortlist and from there we interviewed six candidates. We were extremely impressed by the calibre of all the interviewees; it was a tough decision to make.'

Successful candidate Allanah Baxter joined us as an Investment Coordinator and is being supported day-to-day by our experienced Investment Operations team.

Our existing communications graduate, Aden Dielesen, was also given the opportunity to participate in the SuperGrads program.

How the program develops skills to support the future of WA super

SuperGrads has been developed by AIST, a not-for-profit membership organisation representing the interests of Australia's profit-to-member superannuation industry, with the support of the Australian Council of Trade Unions and Industry Super Australia.

It aims to develop skilled and qualified people that understand the goals and objectives of not-for-profit superannuation.

At the heart of this is a member-first ethos that Allanah and Aden both recognise as something that initially attracted them to the industry and the program.

'Having your members' interests at heart is what's important in this industry, and it's key to GESB's culture and way of operating. That's something I noticed right away,' Allanah said.

'For me, it was important that I work for an ethical employer and among people who truly believe in working towards a common goal of helping members. Super is important for people’s futures, and that makes working in this sector meaningful.'

The program exposes graduates to a wide range of learning and professional development opportunities, both on the job and through the SuperGrads educational program.

'I am looking forward to meeting and working with a range of people who have a wealth of industry experience and expertise,' Aden said.

'I am hoping to gain a deeper understanding of the industry, how we can improve outcomes for members, and learn ways to develop my career within the WA super sector.'

Allanah and Aden have a busy 12 months ahead of them as they navigate full time work and study. We'll check back in with them at the end of the program to hear about their experiences.

Find out more

See our workforce and diversity plan for more information about key initiatives and strategies to promote a culture of inclusion.

Learn about working at GESB.