Ralph Lomu is a Member Education Manager in Sydney for HESTA.

With 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry including relationship management roles at a number of financial institutions, helping people make better informed decisions around their future is what really makes Ralph tick.

The value of people’s stories

Everyone’s financial situation, goals and aspirations are unique. “I enjoy listening to people’s stories to understand what their dreams and goals are for their retirement,” says Ralph. “It makes me happy to hear from members who were once fearful of life after work, who are now enjoying themselves in retirement and have gained from the knowledge we’ve been able to provide them at HESTA.”

It’s Ralph’s aim to provide HESTA members with the education they need to help them make better informed decisions around their future. “Being able to truly help someone at a critical time in their life, is what I really love about my job,” says Ralph

The importance of education

“Retirement is a daunting concept for many of our members. Often people go to their friends and peers to get information about retirement – rather than to a professional financial adviser. Unfortunately, information provided by friends can be misguided at times.

“It’s my role to ensure that people receive the correct information that is relevant to their situation so they can make an informed decision about their retirement. Having the right information when they need it enables members to set themselves and their family up for a successful future,” says Ralph.

The personal touch

“The freedom to truly engage with our members at HESTA, is the best part about working in Member Education. One of the more recent instances that Ralph remembers was organising to go to the home of an elderly member who had recently lost her husband.

“She was feeling overwhelmed with the task of managing all of her financial affairs, so I met with her and a family member to ensure that all her documentation was completed correctly,” says Ralph.

“As the member was going through such a stressful time, she really appreciated me being able to handle her affairs in person rather than over the phone.”

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Issued by H.E.S.T. Australia Ltd ABN 66 006 818 695 AFSL 235249, the Trustee of Health Employees Superannuation Trust Australia (HESTA) ABN 64 971 749 321.

This information is of a general nature. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or specific needs so you should look at your own financial position and requirements before making a decision. You may wish to consult an adviser when doing this. Before making a decision about HESTA products you should read the relevant product disclosure statement (call 1800 813 327 or visit hesta.com.au for a copy), and consider any relevant risks (hesta.com.au/understandingrisk).