Headquarters:
ANZ Centre, 23-29 Albert Street, Auckland CBD
Year founded:
1840
Number of employees:
8,000
Phone:
0800 269 296
Email:
anztheinsider@anz.com
Website:
anz.co.nz
LinkedIn:
nz.linkedin.com/showcase/anznewzealand
“We prioritise embracing cutting-edge technologies, creative problem solving and continuous improvement to enhance our premium funding solutions and provide exceptional value to our clients”
Emily Mendes Ribeiro
General Manager, Homeowners
Hayley Burgess
Head of Mortgage Adviser Distribution
Austin Lobo
Leadership
Emily Mendes Ribeiro is general manager of Homeowners at ANZ New Zealand, where she shapes the strategic direction of the Home Loans business. She oversees advisor distribution and insurance partnerships, ensuring strong customer, financial and risk outcomes across the value chain. Known for her inclusive leadership and strategic foresight, Mendes Ribeiro excels at navigating complex regulatory environments and driving customer-centric innovation. With over 17 years in product management, including more than a decade at ANZ, she consistently delivers value for both customers and the business. Mendes Ribeiro holds a Bachelor of Commerce & Administration from Victoria University and is committed to sustainable business growth.
General Manager, Homeowners
Emily Mendes Ribeiro
Hayley Burgess brings over 20 years of experience at ANZ, spanning banking products, credit delivery and relationship management. As head of mortgage adviser distribution, she has led her team to multiple Lender of the Year awards and champions initiatives that enhance the adviser experience. Burgess works closely with stakeholders, industry partners and regulators to ensure ANZ delivers a competitive, customer-focused home loan proposition. Her strategic leadership and dedication to continuous improvement have earned her respect across the industry, positioning her as an influential leader committed to elevating both adviser and customer outcomes.
Head of Mortgage Adviser Distribution
Hayley Burgess
With over 30 years in banking, including roles at HSBC India and ANZ New Zealand, Austin Lobo is an expert in credit risk, operations and strategic change. Since 2004, he has played a key role in ANZ’s mortgage lending and, in 2016, helped build the award-winning mortgage adviser assessment team. This team now supports over 2,000 advisers and accounts for approximately $16 billion in new lending annually. Lobo currently oversees the Credit Management function, guiding 15 teams and around 250 staff, all dedicated to supporting New Zealanders in achieving home ownership and sound financial management.
Austin Lobo
BRETT BASTOW, IQUMULATE PREMIUM FUNDINGs
Leadership
Leadership
Mike Tunai
Business Development Manager
Mike Tunai is a seasoned business development manager, supporting advisers across North Shore and Whangarei. With over 20 years of banking experience, Tunai’s lending expertise was honed as a mobile mortgage manager and further developed through leadership roles, including branch manager at ANZ. His collaborative approach, strategic thinking and strong communication skills have made him a trusted partner to advisers and clients alike. Tunai’s approachable style and ability to build lasting relationships enable him to deliver tailored support and drive success for those he works with in the dynamic mortgage industry.
Business Development Manager
Mike Tunai
Jennifer Zhang
Business Development Manager
Jennifer Zhang brings nearly 15 years of experience at ANZ, with a well-rounded background in lending, leadership and adviser support. Her career has spanned branches, lending assessment, customer service operations and the homeowners team, giving her a comprehensive view of the lending journey. Zhang is known for her proactive, results-driven approach and excels at delivering seamless support to advisers through clear communication and tailored solutions. She holds tertiary qualifications in education from the University of Auckland and commerce from Victoria University of Wellington and is valued for her strong relationship management skills.
Business Development Manager
Jennifer Zhang
Stevens & Associates Lawyers is a leading and trusted employment law firm based in Sydney known for delivering high-quality legal expertise in the area of employment law and industrial relations across Australia, alongside a proven track record of effectively and swiftly resolving a variety of workplace law issues.
In the past year, the firm’s growth has been notable. It has:
• experienced a 213% growth in the number of client matters, increasing from 149 client matters in the 2022 financial year to 390 client matters in the 2023 financial year
• improved its online visibility, leading to over 50 online enquiries each month and a conversion rate of client leads of up to 40%
• significantly expanded the breadth and type of matters that it advises on day to day, which has increased the firm’s skillsets, diversity and resilience
• expanded its community outreach by collaborating with local Sydney venues for client seminars and continuing active participation in a Sydney small/family business group
Stevens & Associates Lawyers has adapted to digital trends by implementing an effective strategy with SEO and web design, resulting in a structural shift that has seen increased representation of employees where the firm previously mainly advised employers.
The firm’s recognition as a “Fast Firm” attests to its momentum in the employment law space.
“IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started”
Wayne Tower,
IQumulate Premium Funding
Lynnette Fanovaha
Business Development Manager
Rebecca Lanning
Head of Customer Lending Assessment
Darren Watt
Commercial Director
Pam Chhabra
Manager – Residential Strata
With over 20 years in banking, Lynnette Fanovaha brings deep expertise in leadership, credit and operations to her role as business development manager. She works closely with advisers across the network, leveraging her industry knowledge and people-first approach to foster strong, trusted relationships. Previously a team manager in ANZ’s customer lending assessment team, Fanovaha is recognised for her leadership and passion for developing people. Her collaborative style and commitment to delivering value have made her an essential partner in driving adviser success and supporting the growth of ANZ’s lending business.
Business Development Manager
Lynnette Fanovaha
Rebecca Lanning has 19 years of experience in financial services, spanning human resources, customer experience and operations. She established ANZ’s customer experience team and has led customer service and lending operations for the past three years. Lanning is known for her strong people leadership and focus on transformation, guiding large teams with an emphasis on strategic delivery, risk management and engagement. Under her leadership, customer lending assessment supports approximately 2,000 advisers and accounts for $16 billion in new lending annually, helping New Zealanders achieve home ownership and financial wellbeing.
Head of Customer Lending Assessment
Rebecca Lanning
Darren Watt is the commercial director at Stuartholme School, bringing over 20 years of experience in auditing, accounting and business management within the education sector. Since joining in May 2022, he has overseen the school’s commercial operations, including financial strategy, procurement and business services. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Commerce, a Bachelor of Arts (General), a Graduate Certificate in Business, is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). As a key member of Stuartholme’s leadership team, Watt plays a vital role in supporting the school’s mission within the Sacred Heart network.
Commercial Director
Darren Watt
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Commercial Manager
Stephen McMillan
One culmination of these efforts has been the real-world, needs-based IQEdge solution. A one-stop online quoting tool designed for both the Australian and New Zealand markets, IQEdge delivers quotes in under 60 seconds. Plus, the solution offers quote comparison and quote versioning capabilities, enabling users to review vital historical and financial data in a single page view.
IQEdge can streamline and automate application processing, underwriting document verification and payment collection, cutting the need for manual labour and minimising processing errors. A digital “self-service” platform, IQEdge, reduces the need for customer and administrative support. Meanwhile, borrowers can access their accounts, make payments and manage their policies independently and through sales and support teams, which are always available for further assistance.
“We’ve created a quality platform that simplifies the quoting process yet amplifies the customer experience,” says Gordon. “It’s a real game changer.” IQumulate offers an online digital quoting tool to clients. The best-in-market solution enables IQumulate to tailor funding offerings to brokers that align with their prefered distribution channel.
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What does IQumulate have in mind for the future?
“IQumulate is on a technology journey, and we’re just getting started,” says Wayne Tower, CEO. “Through continuous engagement with our clients, partners, marketplace and industry, we will listen to the needs as they arise and position our business to be agile and respond to changes as they occur.
“Faster decision-making innovations such as AI-powered decision support systems can expedite the underwriting and approval process, leading to quicker responses to clients. This can improve client satisfaction and potentially attract more business, creating a competitive advantage with the potential to allow IQumulate to command premium pricing or capture a larger market share.
“As forward-thinkers with a digital and ‘do it better’ mindset, we collectively and proactively look to learn and improve on our customer experience for our clients, paving the way for successful business outcomes for our clients and our business in the coming years ahead.
“We’re excited for the future and look forward to what’s on the horizon.”
Adam Basaldella
Manager – Claims
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Commercial Manager
Stephen McMillan
Claire Watson
Product Manager
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
Claire Watson
Product Manager
Stephen McMillan first entered the financial services Industry when he joined GE Capital as a finance analyst in 2008, from which he progressed through roles working both onshore and offshore. From there, he moved into Pacific Premium Funding as a financial planning and analysis leader in 2012 and was a key resource in the evolution of the business, first with the successful sale to Macquarie Pacific Funding and then the following progression into IQumulate Premium Funding, where he is now the commercial manager.
As commercial manager, McMillan leads a team that is responsible for commercial analysis and business support, identifying and reporting improvement initiatives, and the securitization and treasury functions of the business.
Product Manager
Claire Watson
“We also maintain open lines of communication with advisers so they know what to expect and can plan accordingly”
Hayley Burgess, ANZ New Zealand
“We’ve invested heavily in resourcing and process improvements to reduce friction and speed up approvals”
Hayley Burgess, ANZ New Zealand
Ivan Verescuk
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director
Shaun O’Brien
Head of Underwriting
Emily Walker
Head of Strata and Development
Rex Oakman
Head of Operations and Risk
Sandy Newton
Head of Underwriting
Andrew Mitchell
Manager – NSW
Michael Prokopis
Manager – Southern Region
Pam Chhabra
Manager – Residential Strata
Jeffrey Valdivia
Manager – Commercial Strata
Adam Basaldella
Manager – Claims
When ANZ was named Lender of the Year at the 2025 NZ Mortgage Awards, the honour recognised years of investment in tools, skilled staff and streamlined processes that have improved the experience for customers and advisers. It’s helped keep the country’s largest bank closely tied to New Zealand households.
Culture remains central to its identity. Leaders describe it as inclusive, diverse, and customer-focused, with collaboration treated as essential to better outcomes.
The bank positions itself as both a financial institution and a partner in helping New Zealanders into homes. Under CEO Antonia Watson, customers have stayed at the heart of strategy while digital transformation has accelerated to keep pace with a fast-moving market.
Those priorities show up in daily practice. Products are designed to support clients through different life stages, from first mortgages to investment portfolios. Advisers say that commitment comes through in responsiveness, consistency and trust, qualities they rely on when conditions are unpredictable.
IQumulate invests in education and people, which are vital to attracting new business and talent to the company.
“We have long tenures for several of our key staff, including some in leadership positions, and this sound working knowledge of our business, practices and industry provides great insights and a wealth of experience to offer our clients,” says Bastow. “Our new head of sales, Graeme Gordon, formerly manager for New Zealand, joins us in Australia to drive our sales strategy and lead our team to successful outcomes for our clients and our business. We look forward to great things ahead with Graeme as he continues to be active and present in the New Zealand market as well as building sound working relationships and new connections in Australia.”
Clients can also expect a lot from working with IQumulate.
“Through active engagement with our trusted broker network, IQumulate provides relevant information, education and training content,” says Graeme Gordon, head of sales. “Our clients can expect IQumulate to support their business in several ways, providing an understanding of what premium funding solutions are available and how IQumulate can spread the cost of insurance and help borrowers get the right level of insurance cover to free up their cash flow for other expenses or business growth opportunities. Premium funding is often considered a tool for those who simply cannot afford to pay their premiums in full. While this is certainly a significant driver for many, it is also successfully used by profitable companies who use premium funding to manage their cash flows more wisely or better manage their liquidity.”
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Resourcing has been treated as a deliberate lever for growth. ANZ has expanded assessor teams, trained them to combine technical expertise with empathy and equipped them with the market knowledge to make faster, more reliable decisions. Advisers depend on turnaround times that meet client expectations.
“We’ve invested heavily in resourcing and process improvements to reduce friction and speed up approvals,” says Hayley Burgess, ANZ head of mortgage adviser distribution. “We also maintain open lines of communication with advisers so they know what to expect and can plan accordingly.”
People development follows the same philosophy. New hires are chosen for both skill and attitude, and training goes beyond technical proficiency. Programs cover credit assessment, economic literacy and client engagement, with equal weight on empathy and communication. Advisers often work with clients under stress, and ANZ expects its people to balance expertise with human understanding.
