Bankwest appoints first female head

Bankwest, a subsidiary of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), has announced the appointment of Sinead Taylor as its new head, the first female to lead the organisation in its 124-year history.

Taylor, formerly Bankwest executive general manager, personal and business banking, will be confirmed in the role permanently subject to regulatory approval.

Her appointment follows Rowan Munchenberg's decision to step down as managing director "to pursue other opportunities."

In welcoming Taylor to the role, Angus Sullivan, CBA group executive for retail banking services, said: "Sinead's appointment shows our commitment to developing high calibre leaders. Sinead has a clear focus on improving customers' financial wellbeing and I have no doubt she will continue this focus in her new role, leading a business that has strengthened under the stewardship of Rowan and his team."