Avant announces new Managing Director

Adrian Urquhart to take over from Natasha Fenech as Avant Mutual Managing Director

Avant Mutual Chair Dr Steve Hambleton is pleased to announce that Adrian Urquhart will assume the role of Group CEO & Managing Director of Avant Mutual, effective October 1, 2025, succeeding Natasha Fenech.

Mr Urquhart has served as Chief Financial Officer since September 2023, where he has demonstrated exceptional financial expertise alongside genuine commitment to our members, our people, and a deep understanding of Avant's unique mission and values. Mr Urquhart is deeply committed to the purpose vision and culture of Avant, to be a sure friend for members, not just in uncertain times but at all times.

Prior to joining Avant, Mr Urquhart served as Chief Financial Officer of TOGA, a prominent property development business, for two years. Before that, he held several senior leadership positions within AMP.

"On behalf of the Avant Board, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Adrian Urquhart as Group CEO & Managing Director of Avant," said Dr Steve Hambleton, Chair of Avant Mutual. "He is a natural leader who genuinely cares about our membership, and it is particularly pleasing to promote an internal candidate to this pivotal role."

Ms Fenech, who has led Avant Mutual over the last five years, has decided to step down to pursue a portfolio career as a Non-Executive Director.

"We will be farewelling Natasha Fenech, who has led Avant Mutual superbly during her tenure," Dr Hambleton continued. "She has worked tirelessly for our members and leaves Avant as a vibrant, professionally managed mutual that remains focused on delivering in the best interests of its members."

Ms Fenech's tenure has coincided with a period of remarkable success for Avant, highlighted by above-market growth in our core Medical Indemnity business, industry-leading expansion through the Doctors Health Fund, and the establishment of multiple products designed to support doctors while strengthening Avant's future.

Under Ms Fenech's leadership, Avant's revenue has grown close to $700 million, with more than two-thirds of Australia's doctors now having a relationship with Avant. The organisation has welcomed exceptional talent into its growing team, more than tripling its workforce during this period.

Her achievements include creating a robust ecosystem of products and services that genuinely make a difference, launching businesses such as Avant Law Commercial and Avant Finance, and overseeing strategic acquisitions including Cgov, Hoxton, Kooyong, and a 25% share of Team Medical. Throughout this growth, Avant has strengthened its operational and cyber security foundations while staying true to what matters most: our members and each other.

"Natasha will be greatly missed," Dr Hambleton said. "I want to recognise, in particular, her commitment to helping Avant give back to the community through her instrumental work in establishing a $50 million capital contribution towards the Avant Foundation."