ASB has appointed Mark Heer its new general manager for rural banking replacing Grant Abbott.
Heer has been with ASB for five years, and has worked for some 20 years in rural and corporate banking. In his most recent role he focused on the development of ASB's rural corporate business. Originally from Otago, he has a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from Massey University and spent eight years working for the Rural Bank in the South Island followed by stints at other banks in area management and corporate banking.
Releasing the banks annual results last month ASB CEO Barbara Chapman said the bank grew rural lending by 5% in the year to June 2012 helped by securing its largest ever share of 1 June farm settlements, although no details on this share were provided. According to Reserve Bank sector credit data, overall rural debt rose 3.2% to NZ$48.338 billion in the year to June.
"In his new role, Mark will lead ASB’s rural team across New Zealand. He will focus on deepening customer relationships and growing the Bank’s rural business market share through delivering on the Bank's goal of Unbeatable Team, Unbeatable Service," ASB said.
Abbott is staying with ASB in a new senior position.
We welcome your comments below. If you are not already registered, please register to comment.
Remember we welcome robust, respectful and insightful debate. We don't welcome abusive or defamatory comments and will de-register those repeatedly making such comments. Our current comment policy is here.