Kiwi Group Capital Limited (KGC), the non-operating holding company of Kiwibank, has announced the appointment of Susan Peterson as chair of the Kiwibank board for a three-year term beginning 30th November 2025. Peterson will replace Jon Hartley, whose term concludes on 29th November 2025.
Peterson is a well-known New Zealand director with extensive experience in governance, business growth and strategic leadership. She currently chairs Vista Group Limited and is a director of Xero Limited and Mercury Limited. She is also a former director of ASB Bank Limited and previously served nine years on the New Zealand Markets Disciplinary Tribunal. KGC said Peterson’s background overseeing listed and private companies, major transactions and complex regulatory landscapes positions her strongly to guide Kiwibank’s next phase.
“I’m honoured to take on the role of Chair at Kiwibank,” Peterson said. “Kiwibank is our largest New Zealand-owned bank and has a proud history and a clear Purpose of Kiwi making Kiwi better off by creating meaningful competition in the banking market. I am confident Kiwibank can deliver great customer outcomes while also offering world class career opportunities to talented Kiwi. All Kiwibank profits remain in New Zealand, and this means that every Kiwi benefits when Kiwibank is successful. This is an exciting time to join Kiwibank, and I am looking forward to working with Steve Jurkovich and the team to find more ways to strengthen its position as the challenger bank and support more Kiwi, more Kiwi businesses and New Zealand’s overall economy to thrive.”
Hartley has served as chair since November 2019 and has overseen a period of expansion and operational momentum. KGC acknowledged his leadership and strategic contribution, noting the organisation was well positioned for continued progress.
KGC has also reappointed Kevin Malloy as an independent director of Kiwibank for a further one-year term from 28th November 2025. Malloy, who joined the board in 2016, will remain in place to support continuity during the transition.