She will chair the audit committee of the bank's board
Newly licensed Avenue Bank has announced Jo Mikleus (pictured) as the newly appointed independent, non-executive director to its board.
Mikleus, a veteran with over 35 years in business, banking, and technology, will chair the board’s audit committee following the departure of Christian Bernecker.
Currently holding directorship roles at Acumentis Group and Yondr Money, and serving as senior vice president at Cyble Inc., Mikleus brings extensive expertise to Avenue Bank. Her lengthy tenure at ANZ and Latitude Group, spanning over three decades, highlights her deep roots in banking and financial services.
“We wish to thank Christian Bernecker for his valuable contribution to Avenue and are delighted Jo has accepted her appointment,” said Stephen Rix, chairman of Avenue. “Jo’s proven track record and focus on growth, customer design thinking, and innovation will be valuable to Avenue’s board of directors.
“Her experience will ensure our board continues to have the collective skills needed as an ADI to deliver on its strategic plan as Australia’s first and only bank specialising in bank guarantees.”
“It’s a thrilling period to join Avenue’s Board,” Mikleus said. “I look forward to contributing to Avenue’s trajectory, reinforcing its position at the forefront of banking innovation for Australian businesses.”
The appointment coincides with significant developments for Avenue Bank, which received its full banking licence from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) in March, positioning it as an ADI.
Liberty is the major shareholder of Avenue, which was founded by entrepreneurs Colin Porter and Dale Hurley. Since its launch, the bank has introduced digital bank guarantees, which have been well-received by the Australian business community for their rapid 24-hour issuance, marking a significant advancement in commercial leasing.
“The response to our digital bank guarantees has been overwhelmingly positive,” Peita Piper, chief executive of Avenue Bank. “We are reshaping the future of commercial leasing, and Jo's guidance will be crucial in steering our next phase of growth and innovation.”
Want to be regularly updated with mortgage news and features? Get exclusive interviews, breaking news, and industry events in your inbox – subscribe to our FREE daily newsletter. You can also follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.
