St George extends private banking reach

St George Private Clients has appointed a state head of Queensland and Western Australia following a recent restructure that demonstrates a renewed focus on private banking.

James Blackshaw, who joins St George Private Clients from BankWest Private Banking, takes on the role later this month. General manager of St George Private Clients Rebecca Lim said Blackshaw’s appointment completed the business restructure, adding that local leadership for distribution teams in each state would drive a stronger focus on customers in key areas. Lim stated that St George Private Clients provided a private banking alternative to the major banks and international players.

“There is huge growth potential for private banking in Australia, with Australia’s private wealth market among the largest and fastest growing in the world,” she said, adding that St George Private Clients was well placed due to its focus on customer service coupled with the strength and capabilities of the BT Financial Group.

Blackshaw’s appointment reflects a renewed vigour in the private banking sector across the BT Financial Group. BT Financial Group chief executive Brad Cooper recently stated that the group was focused on delivering a broader suite of services more aligned to the needs of its high-net-worth clients.