ANZ NZ chief executive Antonia Watson will step down from the helm of New Zealand's largest bank in September.
Watson would finish up in the role on September 30, the end of FY26, and be replaced by ANZ NZ leadership team member Ben Kelleher.
She became chief executive and group executive in 2019, replacing David Hisco.
Watson said seven years was a long time to be the chief executive of a major company.
"I’ve loved every moment of my time at ANZ. I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredibly smart, hardworking and clever colleagues and customers, which has made navigating the difficult times like Covid all the more rewarding," she said.
“It’s been a joy to be invited on to the farms, factory floors, board rooms and homes of many customers across New Zealand and the Pacific in my role and they have inspired me and taught me so much about banking and the real economy."
She said she never aspired to be a chief executive but that she counted herself lucky to have led ANZ NZ.
"I have no immediate plans. But after an extended period of travel, I’m looking forward to finding other professional and personal challenges."
ANZ chairperson Scott St John said Watson had dealt with heightened customer, shareholder, staff, political and regulatory expectations "exceptionally well".
"She has ably guided us using her powerful intellect, easy management style, openness and strong sense of values."
Her replacement Kelleher had been ANZ NZ's chief risk officer for more than two years, with his appointment subject to a Reserve Bank of New Zealand non-objection and other regulatory engagement.
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