I think your last sentence is the most accurate one. They want a CFO that will look after the Australian business, be able to go through the motions, keep full control/knowledge of what is going on and get things done, which was clearly lacking pre-2015. They don't need a replacement for Houghton or an ambitious CFO who wants to put their stamp on the company - as you say, it is be new BOD (read: Anchorage) that will make all the decisions and want to be kept fully informed. They want someone to help steer the ship on the course set.
SGH Price at posting:
7.5¢ Sentiment: Sell Disclosure: Not Held