About the speakers

Chet Bennetts CFP®
Assistant Professor of Financial Planning & Program Director, The American College of Financial Services
Chet's journey of service began with an honorable 8.5-year tenure in the Marine Corps, both active and reserve, culminating in a medical discharge after a tour in Iraq in 2004 and 2005.

Transitioning into the financial services industry, he has amassed over two decades of experience, demonstrating versatility in roles as he progressed from 401(k) customer service, to financial planning and asset management with $400 million of AUM, to managing a team of 80 advisors across five states. His credentials include CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, RICP®, CLF®, and an M.S. in Family Financial Planning.

He recently earned his Ph.D. in Personal Financial Planning at Kansas State University while also imparting his knowledge on financial planning to undergraduate students as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and graduate students at Columbia University. His research, primarily centred on behavioural finance, explores the intersection of financial, physical, and psychological well-being, and how consumer’s choices surrounding their finances impact them. Bennetts' scholarly contributions span a diverse range of topics, including the application of AI in financial planning, the influence of behaviour on investment allocations during volatile markets, and the positive impact of bequest intentions on retirement satisfaction.

His influential work on the necessity of financial planning/counseling in PTSD treatment for Veterans has been recognised and utilised by the U.S. Congress as well as White House staff. During a legislative fellowship he was awarded in 2023, this advocacy led to his involvement in Congressional hearings and assisting in the drafting of legislation. These efforts resulted in the VA creating FINVET which is a no cost, robust informational portal that also allows veterans and caregivers the ability to meet with an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®). His commitment to his field and his passion for advocacy underscores his dedication to the financial well-being of individuals and communities.

Mark Hedderman
CEO, Hedderman Financial Services and President of the LIA
Mark Hedderman is the current President of the LIA, Ireland’s leading professional education and development body for the financial services industry, representing over 12,000 financial professionals. Now in his second year as President, Mark is a driving force behind the organisation’s mission to raise standards and support excellence within the Irish financial services community.

In addition to his role with the LIA, Mark serves on the Board of Directors for the Financial Planners of Ireland (FPI), a volunteer-led body dedicated to supporting and promoting the work of Certified Financial Planners™ in Ireland.

Mark is also a CFP Practitioner and the CEO of Hedderman Financial Solutions (HFS), a second-generation family firm founded in 2007. Taking over leadership in 2021, he works alongside his two brothers, continuing a legacy started by their parents. Under Mark’s leadership, HFS has become known for its client-centric approach—delivering clear, structured, and personalised financial plans to a select group of individuals and families.

Rooted in the values of honesty, integrity, and always acting in the best interests of clients, HFS stands as a trusted name in Irish financial planning.

Mark holds the highest professional qualifications in financial services and is deeply committed to advancing the profession both at home and abroad. He has spoken at financial planning events in Ireland and South Africa and is passionate about promoting the global value of financial advice. Mark brings a uniquely international perspective on financial planning, leadership, and family business succession.

Dr Michelle Cull
Associate Professor, School of Business, Western Sydney University
Associate Professor Michelle Cull is the Associate Dean, Engagement in the School of Business at Western Sydney University and a leading academic in financial planning. Michelle is also co-editor of the Financial Planning Research Journal, Vice President International Relations for the Academy of Financial Services in the United States, and member of the Financial Planning Education Council. 

Michelle led the development of the WalletSmart App, which aims to build the financial capability of university students and is co-founder of the Western Sydney University Tax Clinic. 

Michelle is a Fellow CPA and an Academic Affiliate member of the FAAA. She has taught accounting and financial planning for over 20 years across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. In 2021, Michelle received Western Sydney Women’s Western Sydney Educator of the Year Award. Prior to becoming a full-time academic, Michelle worked for 15 years in accounting and finance roles at ASX-100 listed companies. 

Michelle has also worked as a consultant and volunteered on the board of the Campbelltown Chamber of Commerce and as Deputy President of CPA Australia’s NSW Divisional Council. She currently volunteers as Chair of the Macarthur Advisory Council for the Salvation Army, member of the UniSuper Consultative Committee, and on the Women’s Committee of Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce. 

Bianca Musico CFP®
Principal & Senior Adviser, WARR HUNT
Bianca Musico is a Principal and Senior Adviser at WARR HUNT in Melbourne.  Bianca joined the firm in 2013 and holds the leadership responsibility of Head of Advice. In recognition of her commitment to helping her clients live their ideal lives for over 10 years, Bianca became a Principal of the firm in 2024. She is passionate about developing the next generation of adviser and ensuring as many people as possible get access to sound financial advice.