Welcome to the April issue of Communiqué
I am writing to you as our nation faces an enormous challenge. COVID-19 has disrupted our way of life in, until recently, unimaginable ways. Despite this I would like to reassure our members that our bank continues to be strong and functioning normally. We continue to offer our regular digital, telephone and branch services as usual. We are working in full co-operation with Australian health authorities and will continue to follow all guidance offered to us. We urge our members to do likewise and be vigilant in following advice to ensure harm is minimised.
With ANZAC day almost upon us, I’d like to take a moment to remember all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations and the contribution and suffering of all those who have served or continue to serve.
On behalf of the Board and our members, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank John Ford, former CEO, for his wonderful service and dedication to the bank over the last 7 years. During his tenure as CEO we successfully converted to mutual bank status, returned to positive net membership growth, successfully re-tendered for the DHOAS scheme, lead a digital transformation journey, converted to a modern and open banking system (on time / on budget) and attracted an investment grade corporate rating.
Furthermore, I’d like to also take this opportunity to welcome Darlene Mattiske-Wood as our new CEO. We are very fortunate to have Darlene, who has more than 20 years’ experience in strategic and executive leadership, 15 of these within the Mutual sector. We see Darlene’s strong member values and experience as a natural fit to take us into our next phase of growth, as we continue to transform to meet the current and future expectations of our members.
In other news, on February 20th we officially launched our flagship digital-first branch at RAAF Williamtown base. We would like to extend our appreciation to our honoured guest, Group Captain Peter Cluff, Senior Australian Defence Force Officer, RAAF Williamtown who officiated the opening.
On behalf of the Board, I would like to extend our thanks to our members for their continued support.
John Brooks
Chairman
