Bank CEO resigns, interim appointed

Suncorp Group has announced the resignation of its banking and wealth CEO, Lee Hatton, who will depart the bank at the end of the month.

Ms Hatton, previously CEO of UBank, was appointed in December 2019, replacing former CEO David Carter.

However, according to Suncorp, Ms Hatton has accepted a role with a Sydney-based financial technology company.

Bruce Rush, executive general manager, deposits and payments, has been appointed as acting CEO until a permanent appointment is made.

Ms Hatton said her decision to step down was motivated by family concerns. 

“I have reassessed the demands of commuting from my home base in Sydney to Brisbane and the impacts this will have on my family and have reached the conclusion that this will not be sustainable,” she said. 

“Suncorp is a wonderful company with many opportunities ahead of it. I am thankful to [group CEO Steve Johnston] and the leadership team for their support of my decision.”

Commenting on Ms Hatton’s resignation, Suncorp Group CEO Steve Johnston added: “Lee is a highly capable executive, and I am disappointed to see her depart after a short time with the group. I respect her desire to spend more time closer to home, and I wish her well.

“The bank has an experienced and capable executive team, and I’m very confident that Bruce will provide strong leadership and direction while we seek a permanent appointment.”

[Related: Suncorp ramps up borrower scrutiny]