BankWest, part of the HBOS Australia Group, has appointed Rene Maddalena as State Manager of its Victorian Retail Sales division. In this role, Mr Maddalena will head up BankWest's retail expansion plans.
BankWest recently unveiled the first of 160 new-look retail stores in NSW, which are to open nationally over the next three years. BankWest's retail-inspired stores invite customers to sip, surf, browse and relax while doing their banking; giving Australians a fresh alternative to the major banks.
BankWest's Victorian stores are set to roll-out from early 2008, with the first location secured in the heart of Melbourne's Bourke Street Mall.
Speaking about Mr Maddalena's appointment, BankWest's Head of Retail Sales, Mark Reid said: "Rene is talented, experienced and thoroughly focused. He has an in-depth knowledge of the local market in Victoria and a real understanding of what drives sales. His extensive expertise in the retail finance sector is an invaluable tool in pushing BankWest's expansion plans forward."
Mr Maddalena made the decision to join BankWest because of its reputation as an ambitious and fast growing business, which he says has all the other banks and financial service providers looking over their shoulders.
"With this expansion, BankWest is aiming to provide customers with a completely fresh banking experience; from the way the outlets look and feel - to the types of products and services on offer" says Mr. Maddalena. As an organisation, BankWest is passionate about providing customers with a unique experience and ensuring that we provide them with a 'better deal'.
Mr Maddalena joins BankWest after a retail banking career spanning 11 years with both St. George and nab.
Commenting on what he plans to bring to the company in his new role, Mr Maddalena says: "I bring passion and an absolute commitment to ensuring that we truly focus on the needs of our customers. Our aim is to help reshape the Victorian retail banking market - with a commitment and energy around ensuring we are easy and engaging to do business with. Unlike our competitors, we are not afraid to truly offer the Victorian public a 'better deal' when it comes to their banking needs. "
Mr Maddalena says that he is looking to build a customer-focused team from a varied range of backgrounds - both from the finance and retails sectors. "BankWest does things differently and challenges the status quo. We offer a diverse, challenging yet fun experience for our colleagues and ensure that they have the tools necessary to deliver a great customer experience. It's important for us to get the right colleagues on board - we want the best and we reward them accordingly."
Mr Maddalena is studying for an MBA at the Australian Graduate School of Management, and has a diverse range of interests outside of banking.
