Our brief

Bank First, a member-owned bank with a proud history of supporting educators and healthcare professionals, engaged People for Purpose to find a new Non-Executive Director.

The brief was highly specific: the Board required someone who had served as Head of Risk at one of Australia’s big four banks. This narrow mandate called for a carefully targeted search.

Our work

We undertook a detailed mapping of networks and conducted direct outreach to a small, highly qualified pool of candidates. The emphasis was not only on technical expertise but also on finding a leader whose values aligned with Bank First’s member-focused mission and its commitment to ethical banking and social impact.

The outcome

Mike Thornton GAICD was appointed as Non-Executive Director. With more than 35 years’ experience in life insurance, wealth management and financial planning across Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Asia, Mike has held senior executive roles including Group Chief Risk Officer and Group Chief Actuary at AXA, AMP and AIA.

He brings deep expertise in risk management, extensive experience leading through transformation and regulatory change, and a proven track record of developing high-performing teams.

His appointment strengthens Bank First’s capacity for strategic risk oversight and supports its ambition to innovate while safeguarding members’ interests.

The People for Purpose difference

At People for Purpose, we understand that the most effective governance appointments are not only about experience but also about fit. By listening closely to the Board’s requirements and leveraging our networks, we were able to deliver on a brief that demanded precision, discretion, and alignment with Bank First’s mission of serving those who serve the community.