PORT MORESBY — Westpac PNG is pleased to announce the appointment of Tamzin Wardley as chairwoman of the Board, alongside the appointment of Presley Semi and Michelle Hau’ofa as non-executive directors, effective immediately.
These appointments come at a strategic moment for the bank, as Westpac PNG recently welcomed its new chief executive, Andrew Cairns. The strengthened board, comprising both continuing and new directors, will work closely with the executive leadership team to drive sustainable growth, deepen community impact, and ensure sound governance in alignment with the national development agenda.
Andrew Cairns, chief executive of Westpac PNG, said :“I am delighted to welcome Tamzin as Chairwoman and Michelle and Presley to the Board. Their combined experience and leadership will be instrumental in driving the bank’s strategic priorities. Together with the Board, we are committed to building a bank that is fit for the future – agile, inclusive and aligned with evolving needs of our customers, communities and the broader financial landscape.”
Newly appointed Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley shared: “We are committed to strengthening the Board’s ability to guide and support the executive team as we work towards our purpose to provide best practice financial services to our customers nationwide.”
“For over 115 years, Westpac has played a significant role in communities across PNG, and we are proud to continue that legacy as we work together to shape a strong inclusive future,” she added.
Tamzin brings more than 25 years of experience across the commercial, development and sports sectors. A member of the Order of the British Empire and former PNG Institute of Directors’ Female Director of the Year, she has served on the Westpac PNG Board since 2018. Her appointment reflects Westpac PNG’s commitment to values-driven governance and long-term nation-building.
Michelle Hau’ofa, returning to the board after a prior term (2018–2022), commented: “We bring strong compliance knowledge and governance acumen that will serve us well. Westpac PNG is well positioned to make a difference by supporting every banking need and helping communities grow.”
Michelle brings more than 20 years of experience in the private sector and 15 years of leadership across public health, education, and governance-focused NGOs.
Presley Semi, newly appointed non-executive director, said: “I look forward to supporting Westpac’s long-term investment strategy, built on sound governance and accountability. Our role is to challenge and support the bank to remain resilient and relevant in a rapidly changing market.”
Presley is the current CEO of Nimamar Capital Limited and has led several successful technology-led business transformation programmes within PNG’s financial services sector.
Emma Low, managing director of Westpac Pacific and continuing director on the Westpac PNG Board, stated: “As a Board, we value the role that banking plays in building the future prosperity of Papua New Guinea. Our shared goal is to ensure Westpac PNG remains a trusted, inclusive and forward-looking banking partner.”
Emma oversees Westpac’s operations across Fiji and PNG, bringing over two decades of international experience in financial markets and institutional banking.
George Koi, continuing non-executive Director, said: “These appointments strengthen a strategically aligned Board that brings deep governance expertise and national insight to support Westpac PNG’s long-term growth agenda.”
George is a highly regarded commercial lawyer and currently serves as chair of the Westpac PNG Board Audit and Risk Committee.
This announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Westpac PNG, with a refreshed leadership structure focused on accelerating strategic transformation, fostering inclusion and delivering long-term value in an evolving PNG economy.
“We are here to work with the executive team to deliver a bank that is resilient, responsible and responsive to the needs of Papua New Guineans today and for generations to come,” said Tamzin.
