Anna Bligh named ABA chief

FORMER QLD Premier and Education Minister Anna Bligh has been appointed chief executive of the Australian Bankers’ Association (ABA).

Ms Bligh will become the ABA’S first female chief executive, commencing in her role on 3 April.

She replaces Steven Münchenberg, who announced in October last year that he was stepping down after almost seven years.

Mr Münchenberg will finish with the ABA on 14 April to help with the transition process.

ABA chairman Andrew Thorburn said the association was excited to appoint Ms Bligh to the position at such a pivotal time for the industry.

“Anna’s focus will firmly be on the culture within banking and lifting respect for our profession; creating a strong vision for customers and on how our industry responds and leads on regulatory reform,” Mr Thorburn said.

“As I’ve met with Anna I’ve seen the leadership, values and accountability she will bring to the role – and a willingness to confront and challenge the industry to continually improve.

“Anna has a track record of community service and a strong ability to connect with people.

“She is highly regarded and respected by community, political and business leaders and understands the need for all stakeholders to work together to deliver the best outcome for customers.”

Ms Bligh has more than 30 years’ experience in public service, initially with community organisations, before entering the QLD Parliament in 1995.

She held ministerial responsibilities for a number of portfolios including Education and Finance, and served as Treasurer and Deputy Premier before becoming Premier from 2007-2012.

She holds honorary doctorates from the University of Queensland and Griffith University; and gained the National Emergency Services Medal for her service during the Queensland floods in 2011.

Ms Bligh was also awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in the Australia Day honours in 2017.

Ms Bligh is currently NSW YWCA chief executive, a role she has held for the past three years.

During that time she has worked with vulnerable and financially disadvantaged Australians.

Ms Bligh said Australian banks were critical to the strength and stability of the national economy and the prosperity and well-being of every Australian.

“We all rely on our bank for the most important financial decisions of our lives, so we want a system that is open, fair and trustworthy,” she said.

“I am excited by this opportunity to lead and shape the reforms needed to strengthen public trust and confidence in our banking system.”

Image: Stock.