Michael Lawrence appointed COBA CEO

22 Nov 2017 10:47 AM | Deleted user

COBA today announced the appointment of Michael Lawrence as its new CEO.

Mr Lawrence brings 30 years’ experience in financial services to the role.

He led AMP Bank as Managing Director from 2007 to 2015 and also worked at NAB in a range of roles in Australia and overseas, as well as time at Westpac.

During his tenure as Managing Director of AMP Bank he took profit from $9m to $104m, with return on capital increasing from 6% to 16% and cost to income ratio down from 78% to 31% over the same period.

“The Board warmly welcomes Michael and looks forward to the pivotal role he will play representing customer owned banking,” COBA Chair Wendy Machin said.

“Michael’s strong background and experience as a leader will enable him to immediately take up a busy advocacy agenda.

“Michael has already shown a great understanding of the issues and opportunities for the sector."

Commenting on his appointment Mr Lawrence said:

“I am delighted to join COBA as its new CEO.

“The customer owned banking sector has a great deal to be proud of, particularly with its strong customer and community focus.

“I look forward to advocating strongly for the sector and ensuring it continues to have a vibrant and strong future.

“Customer owned banking already delivers terrific outcomes for millions of Australians. I’m very keen to help COBA members deliver on their exciting plans for growth in the future and within a competitive environment.”

Michael Lawrence begins as COBA CEO on December 4.

This article was originally sourced from Customer Owned Banking Association.


Strengthening Trans-Tasman Connections: AuSAE and Tourism New Zealand Business Events Renew Partnership

Association professionals across Australia and New Zealand have even more reason to explore trans-Tasman opportunities. AuSAE is proud to announce the renewal of its longstanding partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events, celebrating 11 years of collaboration.

For over a decade, this partnership has strengthened connections between the two countries, helping associations expand networks, share knowledge, and deliver world-class events.

Toni Brearley, CAE, Chief Executive Officer at AuSAE, said:

“Our partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events has opened doors for association leaders to plan unforgettable events and connect with peers across the Tasman. Together, we’ve created opportunities, shared knowledge, and elevated the experiences of our members and their delegates. This partnership reinforces our commitment to fostering strong trans-Tasman collaborations, helping associations innovate, grow, and deliver outstanding value to their members.”

Helen Bambry, Business Events Manager at Tourism New Zealand, added:

“Partnering with AuSAE means we can directly support association professionals in bringing their next international business event to New Zealand – offering assistance, funding, and support to ensure exceptional experiences for both organisers and delegates.”

Watch the Tourism New Zealand Business Events video

What this partnership means for you

For Australian associations:

  • Receive expert guidance and support to bring conferences or member events to New Zealand.
  • Access funding assistance through Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
  • Expand your network and build partnerships with New Zealand peers and industry leaders.
  • Deliver international experiences for members and delegates just across the Tasman.

For New Zealand associations:

  • Strengthen professional connections with Australian association leaders through AuSAE’s network.
  • Share expertise and collaborate on professional development, governance, and member engagement initiatives, and more.
  • Gain visibility within the broader association community in Australia and New Zealand.
  • Access opportunities to host international association events and delegates in New Zealand, boosting local engagement and knowledge exchange.

About AuSAE:

The home for association professionals, the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is the leading - and only not-for-profit, member-based - organisation supporting association professionals in Australia and New Zealand. For 70 years, AuSAE has been a trusted partner for those working in associations, providing professional development, support, and networking to help association leaders achieve organisational goals, advance their careers, and strengthen the wider sector.

About Tourism New Zealand Business Events:

Tourism New Zealand Business Events provides expert guidance, funding, and support to attract conferences, incentives and corporate events to New Zealand.

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For more information about AuSAE, please contact Toni Brearley, CAE:
Toni Brearley, CAE
Chief Executive Officer, AuSAE

E: toni@ausae.org.au
T: + 61 458 000 155

To apply for funding and support to host a conference in New Zealand contact Helen Bambry:
Helen Bambry
Business Events Manager, Tourism New Zealand

E: Helen.Bambry@tnz.govt.nz
T: +61 415 933 325


The Australasian Society of Association Executives

Contact us:

Email: info@ausae.org.au
Phone: 1300 764 576 (within Australia)
Phone: +61 7 3268 7955 (outside Australia)
Address: Unit 6, 26 Navigator Place, Hendra QLD 4011, Australia

                    
        


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