Meet the Team
Richard Pillay
Director / Certified Financial Planner
Richard Pillay is a Certified Financial Planner, which is the highest designation an adviser can attain under the Financial Planning Association. He holds a Bachelor of Economics Degree from Macquarie University and a Diploma of Financial Planning.
Prior to starting Next Chapter Retirement Solutions, Richard worked in the financial service industry for over 13 years. He began his career at Money Solutions, supporting advisers working with industry super fund members. He then moved to FuturePlus Financial Services, where he gained experience in both advice and preparation for Local Government super fund members, learning the importance of building strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. With a growing desire to work with clients directly, Richard started working at State Super Financial Services. Here he developed expertise in retirement advice for both public and private sector employees, and helped clients manage wealth, investment risk, tax, cash flow, social security entitlements, estate planning and future aged care needs.
During his time at State Super Financial Services, Richard built over 300 client relationships, managing a portfolio exceeding $165 million and was valued for simplifying the superannuation system for clients and helping them meet their needs.
With a strong foundation and a passion for helping people navigate retirement, Richard established Next Chapter Retirement Solutions, in 2018. The business focuses on providing clients a meaningful experience and peace of mind, allowing them to enjoy their retirement.
Richard is a family man, married to Komi, with three children in primary school. Raised in Western Sydney, Richard has strong ties to the local community including involvement with The Ponds Cricket Team. Recharging is important to him, and as a family they make time to escape up North to the beach throughout the year.
“I have a fantastic team supporting me, all focused on providing you personalised advice to help you reach your financial goals.”
Merinda Garland
Operations Manager
Merinda brings with her over 17 years’ experience in the finance industry. Having specialised in business engagement, acquisitions, integrations and marketing.
Merinda is here to ensure everything runs smoothly for you. From assisting with onboarding new clients to managing communications, payments and seminars, Merinda is your go-to for support throughout the year. Merinda resides in Sydney, is married and a proud parent (and uber driver), of two energetic children in primary school.
Komi Pillay
Business Administration Officer
Komi is Richard’s wife and together they established Next Chapter Retirement Solutions in 2018.
Komi is dedicated to ensuring we consistently provide the highest level of service to our valued clients. Komi plays a key role in making sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently for you.
Komi is a part-time high school teacher working in Western Sydney with over 15 years’ experience.
Nicky Hoschke
Planner Support Manager
Nicky is an experienced finance professional with over 30 years of expertise in finance, financial education and web content creation. She is known for her ability to take complex information and make it consumer friendly.
Nicky works with Richard to develop the best strategies to achieve your financial goals, liaises with paraplanning on the production of your financial plan, and checks all plans when they are complete. Nicky can answer any questions you have about the advice process and may ask you questions to clarify your situation while appropriate strategies are being developed. Nicky loves to travel, lives in Brisbane but has strong ties to Sydney and Kenya!