National Australia Bank has announced its chief executive officer Ross McEwan is set to retire in April.
Andrew Irvine, who has held the role of NAB’s group executive business and private banking since 2020, will take on the top job after McEwan’s departure.
NAB Chair Philip Chronican said in a statement Irvine was well suited to take the bank into its next chapter of growth.
“The customer is front and centre for Andrew. He has lifted our business and private banking performance and been a tireless advocate for the agricultural sector, small business and First Nations business.
“His expertise in digitisation, transformation and modernising has created significant benefits for how our bank operates. He has made work simpler and easier for colleagues by deeply understanding their needs.”
Chronican paid tribute to McEwan, who has been in charge of the bank since 2019.
McEwan was seen as a stabilising force who joined NAB at a turbulent time in the wake of the Royal Commission.
“Ross has been exactly the CEO we needed. He came in at a critical time with significant international experience and expertise,” he said.
“He reminded us of the value of getting the basics right, simplification and exceeding customer expectations.”
Irvine said he was excited to take on the top job.
“This is a humbling decision by the Board. I am excited by the opportunity to lead NAB, a bank that is core to the financial needs of so many Australians and New Zealanders,” he said.
