Alexis George to take over AMP Limited leadership

AMP Limited has appointed Alexis George as its new group CEO, replacing Francesco De Ferrari who has left after three years.

"In Alexis George, we have a great leader and strong fit for the future of our company," said AMP chair Debra Hazelton. "On any measure, she has outstanding industry experience in wealth management and banking, and is committed to continue the transformation of AMP's business, and importantly, our organisation's culture. Alexis will work with our executive team to complete and build on the strategic initiatives started under Francesco's leadership and take AMP forward to its next phase of growth."

Said De Ferrari on his successor, "I wish Alexis and AMP only the best and you can count on me to continue cheering for its success from the sidelines."

George has been with ANZ since 2013 as group executive for wealth and deputy CEO. In relevant experience for her work with AMP, George was involved in the divestment of ANZ's wealth business.

"While we are incredibly disappointed to lose Alexis, I could not be more proud she has been asked to take on such an important role as the next CEO of AMP," said ANZ CEO Shane Elliott. "Alexis has made an invaluable contribution over the last seven years and I know she will have a similar impact on her new company. Her leadership during the pandemic was exceptional and made a big difference to how we were able to support our staff and customers through an incredibly challenging period."

Elliott particularly reflected on the grounded wisdom that George brought to ANZ, saying that she's ideally placed to succeed at AMP. "It is also a good thing [that] our most senior women are being selected for this high-profile and challenging roles. It shows we are providing our people with the opportunities they deserve and Alexis' appointment as CEO of AMP is ultimately in the best interest of the Australian business community," said Elliott.

Before joining ANZ, George held global roles with ING and was the executive director for ING Australia. She's also held senior roles at BT, PWC, and was the CEO of Cogent.

"I'm leaving ANZ with very mixed emotions," said George. "While I'm excited about the challenge ahead, I'll miss the people and the supportive and inclusive culture we've built together at ANZ. I'm very proud to have been part of a team that has continued to focus on our customers while supporting each other during a particularly difficult year. I wish them every success."

The deputy CEO responsibilities will be split across the executive committee.