ANZ CEO Mike Smith has been announced as the Chairman of the Australian Bankers Association (ABA), with Citi’s Stephen Roberts as Deputy Chairman.

 

Mr Smith succeeds Ralph Norris, who is retiring from his position as Manging Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commonwealth Bank.

 

“I’m pleased to be elected Chairman of the ABA at such an important time for the industry,” Mr Smith said.

“My focus will be to ensure Australian banks are not placed at an unnecessary disadvantage through the onerous implementation of global reforms into a market that performed strongly during the recent financial crisis.

“Having a sound banking system is critical to the success of our economy so it’s important that the implications of these reforms are well understood and the ABA will continue to play a leadership role in this debate,” Mr Smith said.

 

Stephen Roberts, Chief Country Officer of Citi Australia, replaces David Liddy, former Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Queensland (who retired in August), as Deputy Chairman of the ABA.

Mr Roberts said: “I am pleased to take up the position of Deputy Chair because it provides an opportunity to make a further contribution to the development of the industry.   Not since the early 1980s has both the Australian economy and banking industry faced so many international risks and opportunities.   In this environment, it is important we maintain the strength and resilience of the Australian banking industry while navigating developments offshore.  

“I look forward to continuing David's good work with the industry and supporting Mike Smith in his role as Chairman."