Kathryn van der Merwe to depart ANZ

Dr van der Merwe joined ANZ as Group Executive Talent and Culture on 1 May 2017 and in April 2021 took on responsibility for ANZ’s Service Centres in Bengaluru, Manila and Chengdu. She is a passionate advocate and Executive Sponsor for ANZ’s Reconciliation Action Plan.

During her six years at ANZ, Dr van der Merwe has established a strong team and played an integral role in the purpose-led transformation of the bank. She introduced a new remuneration and reward structure and joint-led an initiative with Technology to modernise ANZ’s Talent and Culture platforms and optimise its services and processes. Dr van der Merwe also played a pivotal role in ANZ’s COVID response during a time of significant disruption.

ANZ Chief Executive Officer Shayne Elliott said: “Kath has played an important role in the bank we’re building by strengthening our overall employee experience. She has helped create a solid foundation for our culture and values as well as new ways of leading and can be proud of her significant achievements over the past six years at ANZ. I wish her all the best for the future.

“We have a strong talent and culture team in place and are prepared with a solid succession plan to ensure a smooth transition,” said Mr Elliott.

Dr van der Merwe said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at ANZ and am incredibly proud of my team and how we’ve worked together to deliver what matters for our people, customers, shareholders and the community.”

ANZ will conduct an internal and external search for a permanent replacement for Dr van der Merwe. While the search is underway Richard Howell, Tribe Lead, Transforming Talent and Culture will take on the role of Acting Group Executive Talent and Culture, and Sreeram Iyer, Chief Operating Officer, Institutional will take over responsibility for ANZ’s Service Centres in an acting capacity, both effective 1 June 2023.

Dr van der Merwe will finish with ANZ at the end of May 2023.

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