Newcastle local Darren Turner has been appointed the next chair of NGM Group, with Samantha Martin-Williams set to step down.
The leadership change will take place on 1 March, with the latter bidding farewell on 28 February.
Mr Turner brings more than 40 years of experience in governance, strategy and financial risk management to the role.
His appointment follows a long professional history with both Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent.
With these roles, he’s developed a deeper understanding of the customer-owned banking model and the communities it serves.
Beyond banking, Mr Turner currently chairs the Hunter Medical Research Institute and holds director positions with Varley Group and Phoenix Health Fund.
Meanwhile, Ms Martin-Williams will conclude a 13-year tenure across the boards of Newcastle Permanent and NGM Group.
Her leadership marked several historic milestones, including becoming the first female director of Newcastle Permanent in 2012 and the organisation’s first female chair in 2024.
Under her guidance, NGM Group recorded the strongest growth of any mutual bank in Australia.
The organisation now serves 650,000 customers nationwide, manages $23 billion in assets, and invests more than $6 million annually back into local communities.
Reflecting on her time with the organisation, Ms Martin-Williams said it had been a privilege to serve for more than a decade.
“It’s gone from strength-to-strength and I am incredibly proud to have played a part,” she stated.
“It is so rewarding to see the positive impact we have made on our customers and communities.”
Looking ahead, Mr Turner said he was honoured to step into the role at a time of continued growth.
“NGM Group has a proud legacy and an exciting future,” he added.
“I’m looking forward to working with the board and executive team in this new role, to continue to deliver value to our customers and invest in our communities.”
NGM Group managing director and chief executive officer Bernadette Inglis said the transition positioned the organisation well for its next phase.
“Sam has played a key role in helping scale NGM Group into what it is today, applying best practice contemporary governance while ensuring that our purpose and our people have remained front and centre,” she explained.
“Darren’s long history will be invaluable in guiding us through our next phase of growth as we strengthen our position as Australia’s leading customer-owned bank.”
Rod Jackson will remain deputy chair, contributing more than 15 years of experience across financial services and not-for-profit boards..
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