ABA appoints new chief executive

Steven Münchenberg has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Australian Bankers’ Association (ABA), starting from March 8.

Münchenberg has had over 20 years experience in public policy in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. He is currently head of government affairs and public policy for the National Australia Bank, a role he has held for the past three years.

Prior to this, he was deputy chief executive of the Business Council of Australia, representing the chief executives of the top 100 corporations in Australia.

He has also been chief executive of a not-for-profit organisation working in the minerals sector and has worked at senior levels within the Commonwealth Government.

“Steven brings a wealth of experience to the ABA and will focus on enhancing the work of the association, which is an effective advocate for the banking industry and its customers,” ABA chairman Ralph Norris said.

“One of the key roles for Steven will be explaining to the community and governments whether the regulatory developments which are being developed overseas in response to the global financial crisis are appropriate for the Australian banking system,” Norris said.

Münchenberg said: “Australia has one of the most secure and successful [banking] industries in the world. Our challenge is to protect and enhance the qualities of our banking sector which made it resilient and strong, while adapting to the post-crisis environment.”