Teachers Mutual Bank (TMB) has appointed big four bank alumnus Anthony Hughes as its next chief executive, replacing longstanding CEO Steve James.
Hughes, who commences at TMB today, was most recently managing director of mortgages at Westpac, a role he held for nearly two years. Prior to this, he served as GM of the bank’s customer service hub and home ownership functions, being appointed to the role in 2016.
Hughes, who has extensive experience across the big four banks, began his banking career at NAB in 2000 before joining CBA in 2003, where he held various senior roles across a nearly nine-year tenure.
TMB chair Maree O’Halloran acknowledged Hughes’ “extensive financial services and leadership experience” and “strategic capability”.
She added: “His experience leading a diverse portfolio of financial service businesses and large-scale transformations put him in good stead to lead TMBL through our next growth phase.”
Acknowledging TMB’s member-focused and social responsibility objectives, Hughes said he would ensure the bank’s “members are always put first and that our service, products and digital banking offer continues to evolve as we strive at all times to be a bank for good, for those who do good”.
O’Halloran also recognised the outgoing CEO’s “unwavering commitment and dedication to the bank” over his more than 44-year tenure at the bank, 18 of which as chief executive.
“Steve [James] has been an integral part of Teachers Mutual Bank Limited shaping and maintaining the strength, security and sustainability of the bank,” she said.
She also recognised James’ management of the organisation through the Covid-19 pandemic, “ensuring Teachers Mutual Bank Limited continued to operate to our high standards and [putting] our members at the heart of everything we do”.
“Steve has been an integral part of Teachers Mutual Bank Limited shaping and maintaining the strength, security and sustainability of the bank.
“He will be missed by many within the bank and in the mutual banking sector and retires with the warmest of wishes and thanks from myself and the board.”
The outgoing James will work alongside Hughes until his retirement on 27 October.
