Darren Turner Takes the Helm at NGM Group as Martin-Williams Bids Farewell
In a significant leadership change, NGM Group has announced the appointment of Darren Turner as its new chair, effective March 1. This transition comes as the current chair, Samantha Martin-Williams, steps down after an impressive 13-year tenure on the boards of both Newcastle Permanent and NGM Group.
Turner, who boasts a rich background as a former partner at PwC and director at a mutual bank, is ready to steer the $23 billion customer-owned bank into its next chapter. With over four decades of experience in strategy, governance, and financial risk management, he has already established strong connections within the mutual banking sector through senior roles at both Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent.
In addition to his new role, Turner is currently the chair of Hunter Medical Research Institute and serves on the boards of Varley Group and Phoenix Health Fund, among other organizations across various sectors, including private, public, and non-profit.
Expressing his enthusiasm about stepping into this pivotal position, Turner shared, "It is an honor to be appointed to lead NGM Group. The organization has a proud heritage and an exciting future ahead. I look forward to collaborating with the board and executive team to enhance value for our customers and make meaningful investments in our communities."
He also paid tribute to Martin-Williams, stating, "Sam has led NGM Group with great compassion, and her influence is evident throughout the organization. Taking on this role following her leadership is a privilege, and I am committed to upholding the standards, values, and sense of purpose she has instilled."
Rod Jackson will remain in his role as deputy chair, contributing his extensive experience in financial services and international business, along with over 15 years on various boards focused on financial services and non-profits.
Martin-Williams Leaves After Remarkable Growth and Merger
As Martin-Williams prepares to conclude her service on February 28, she reflects on more than a decade of dedication that has seen unprecedented growth for the customer-owned group. She joined the Newcastle Permanent board in 2012, breaking barriers as its first female director, and transitioned to the NGM Group board following its merger with Greater Bank in 2023. In 2024, she made history again by becoming the organization’s first female chair.
Under her guidance, NGM Group experienced remarkable success, surpassing all other mutual banks in Australia in terms of growth. Furthermore, her leadership led to substantial investments in technology and innovation, enabling the customer-owned bank to serve approximately 650,000 Australians, manage assets totaling $23 billion, and contribute over $6 million annually to local communities.
Reflecting on her accomplishments, Martin-Williams expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve NGM Group for over a decade. "This organization has flourished during my time here, and I take immense pride in having been part of that journey. Witnessing the commitment and enthusiasm of our teams firsthand at our branches, contact centers, and corporate offices has been incredibly rewarding. I am excited to see the positive changes we’ve made for our customers and communities," she stated.
She concluded with confidence in Turner’s leadership, believing that NGM Group will continue to prosper under his guidance, driven by its customer-first principles and focus on supporting regional Australians and their communities.
Board Signals a Commitment to Stability Amid Growing Capacity
Bernadette Inglis, managing director and CEO of NGM Group, acknowledged Martin-Williams’ impactful leadership, emphasizing that Turner’s vast experience places the board in a robust position moving forward.
"Sam has been instrumental in scaling NGM Group into the successful organization it is today, ensuring that best practices in contemporary governance were applied while keeping our mission and people at the forefront of our evolution," Inglis remarked. "Darren’s long-standing connection with regional communities and his strategic insights will be vital as we navigate our next growth phase, solidifying our status as Australia’s leading customer-owned bank."
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