He has followed former boss's career trajectory
Mike Pero Mortgages has named Aaron Skilton as its new chief executive officer, effective April 11.
In his role, Skilton will be responsible for Liberty Financial and the Mike Pero Group, which includes mortgage broking and real estate. He replaces Mark Collins, who left the role after six years to be the head of ChildFund, a global charity that works to reduce poverty for children in developing countries.
Prior to joining Mike Pero Mortgages, Skilton (pictured above) served as the chief executive officer of both New Zealand Home Loans (NZHL) and Liberty – roles that Collins also previously held as he followed the latter’s career trajectory.
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Sherman Ma, executive director at Liberty Financial, welcomed the appointment of Skilton after his outstanding performance in NZHL.
“Aaron’s immense knowledge and deep expertise will be invaluable in continuing to strengthen Liberty, which incorporates the recently merged Mike Pero Real Estate and Mike Pero Mortgages businesses,” Ma said. “Additionally, we acknowledge the long-standing business relationship between Liberty and New Zealand Home Loans, and are hopeful to further build on this valued partnership over time.”
In the meantime, NZHL will appoint Igor Stychinsky, general manager for strategy and transformation, to step in as the interim chief executive officer for the company.
“Aaron has made a massive contribution to the strategy and growth of NZHL, as well as the development of key leadership talent. We are genuinely sad to see him go, but also happy for him and his family in the career progression he’s making,” the NZHL board said in a statement. “An immediate search will also commence for a new chief executive, but in the interim it’s important to note that NZHL remains in very good hands, thanks to the strength and capability of the leadership team that Aaron has built.”
