The new member will commence her new role in April
Westpac NZ has appointed Debbie Birch (pictured above) as an independent non-executive director to its board, starting April 18, to enhance its financial expertise and governance capabilities.
Debbie Birch’s vast financial market, governance experience
Bringing more than 30 years of experience, Birch has a background in managing global investment portfolios. Her executive roles include serving as head of capital markets trading at Wardley (HSBC).
In addition to her financial markets experience, Birch also has extensive governance experience, including her directorship at Tourism Holdings and her advisory roles in both Crown and Māori/Iwi commercial organisations.
Pip Greenwood, Westpac NZ board chair, said that Birch will introduce a new perspective and a rich array of complementary skills and expertise to the board that align with the bank’s “commitment to supporting our customers and the communities we operate in.”
“I’m excited to join a board of directors that has the range of background, skills, and experience to ensure Westpac continues to deliver for all its customers and stakeholders,” Birch said.
Birch, who has Ngati Tuwharetoa and Ngati Raukawa ki te Tonga heritage, served as deputy Māori trustee and general manager of investments at Te Tumu Paeroa from 2012 to 2016.
Recently, she received the INFINZ Māori Leadership in Finance Award for her work in the Māori economy through her governance and advisory positions.
The Reserve Bank has approved her appointment without objection.
Board member to retire
Greenwood also expressed gratitude towards retiring board member Jonathan Mason, acknowledging his contributions over the past nine years, with his retirement set for June 17.
“Mason has played an important role on the board throughout his tenure, including as board audit committee chair. We wish him all the best for his future endeavours,” Greenwood said.
Recently, Westpac NZ announced that it became the first New Zealand bank to launch the LanguageLoop interpreting service, enabling its employees to assist customers in over 190 languages. Last month, the bank also became the first NZ bank to provide all employees with a comprehensive sustainability learning program.
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