First PEXA CEO to join Iress

Based across the world, Iress is an ASX-listed outfit that provides software to a range of businesses in the financial services sector, including lenders and brokers. 

Earlier this year, Iress confirmed it would no longer divest its UK-based mortgage business.   

In January 2020, Iress completed its acquisition of the blockchain communication platform provider BC Gateways.  

In 2019, the fintech confirmed it had appointed the first BDM for its Australian mortgage software business. 

Mr Price, whose role with Iress is expected to commence his roles as CEO and managing director on 3 October, comes to the position with over 25 years of experience in the financial services and fintech space. 

From 2010 to late 2019, Mr Price was the CEO of PEXA, serving as the e-conveyancing outfit’s first chief executive. 

Between 2008 and 2010, he was also a general manager with NAB, a role that succeeded a four-year stint as the executive director of Dun and Bradstreet Consumer Credit. 

As per Iress, he replaces Andrew Walsh, who steps down from the role with the intention to retire. 

On Tuesday (26 July), Mr Price was named as a non-executive director of Iress. 

Mr Walsh is expected to remain as a consultant with Iress from 3 October “until the end of January 2023”. 

Iress chair Roger Sharp said that Mr Walsh has “been an outstanding leader and steward of Iress”, helping build the fintech during his 13-year tenure as CEO. 

“Since taking over as CEO in 2009, he has been instrumental in building Iress into a highly innovative market leader with a global footprint,” Mr Sharp said. 

“The board understands his decision, is tremendously grateful to Andrew for his service, and wishes him well in his future endeavours.”

Mr Sharp added that he believes Mr Price is “ideally placed to steer Iress on the phase of its journey”. 

“He brings tremendous experience in financial services and technology businesses with a demonstrated track record in creating shareholder value,” Mr Sharp said. 

Mr Price commented: “Andrew has been an outstanding leader of Iress, and leaves behind an enviable legacy of achievements after nearly 13 years as CEO. Further, Andrew has set the foundations for the continued domestic and international success of this highly respected Australian technology business.” 

He added that he felt “privileged to be able to follow in his footsteps” and that he was grateful for his appointment as the fintech’s next CEO. 

Mr Walsh commented that he was “proud to have seen Iress through a period of substantial transformation and growth” and that fintech is, today, “a successful global technology business and market leader”. 

“My sincere thanks go to the entire Iress team for their hard work, support and friendship over the years and I look forward to supporting Marcus in the transition,” he concluded. 

[Related: Iress calls off divestment of UK mortgages business]