Mutual bank appoints two new directors

The mutual bank has appointed Group Captain Jeffrey Howard and Pam Rebecca as directors of the board.

Mr Howard and Ms Rebecca have both been appointed for three-year terms. 

Mr Howard is currently the director for education and training at the Australian Defence Force Academy. He originally joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1996 and has since completed a wide range of postings and deployments with Air Force, joint and non-service group units, including No. 86 Wing, Estate and Infrastructure Group, the Defence Aviation Safety Authority, and Headquarters Joint Operations Command. 

Ms Rebecca has extensive experience in digital platforms, transformation and innovation, most recently at World Vision Australia where she held a range of roles including chief of strategy, innovation and digital, and chief of retail and digital.

She spent more than 25 years of her career at ANZ, where she held various executive positions in digital, customer contact centres, retail lending and human resources. 

Welcoming the new appointments, Defence Bank chair Fran Raymond said: “The appointment of Pam and Jeffrey is exciting for our board.  

“Pam has a deep understanding of banking and the needs of members and will support our digital strategy to deliver effortless banking for our people. Her time in the not-for-profit sector will support our vision to give back to the communities we serve. 

“Jeffrey brings a strong connection with the Defence force and understands the needs and aspirations  of young servicemen and women and their families. Jeff will support our continued efforts to connect with the Defence community and build strategic partnerships. 

“I look forward to working with them on Defence Bank’s exciting plans for the future.”

Mr Howard said: “It is a tremendous privilege personally and professionally to serve on the Defence Bank board. My defence experience in Air Force, joint and multinational appointments underscores the value of teamwork that I see reflected throughout the Defence Bank. 

“I first became a member of the Defence Bank in 1996 – then known as DEFCREDIT – when I began training at the Australian Defence Force Academy. Although now called the Defence Bank, the heritage of dedication to its membership remains a hallmark of its service to the community. 

“I look forward to working with the entire Defence Bank team to meet the needs of our members.” 

Ms Rebecca said: “Defence Bank offers a wonderful opportunity to combine my expertise in both retail banking and  digital transformation with my passion and experience in the for-purpose sector. The member focus and ‘people-led, technology-enabled’ strategy really resonate with me, and I am delighted to be joining the board.”

The appointments come after the retirement of long-term director Lieutenant Colonel Craig Madden.  

Ms Raymond thanked him for his service, saying: “Craig has been a valued member of the board for 15 years and his commitment to the bank and advocacy for ADF personnel has been most appreciated.

“I would like to thank Craig for his dedication to our board and the Defence Bank Foundation. His fellow directors and the trustees will miss his contribution.” 

[Related: Applications open for FHLDS round 2]