Rabobank Australia announces new chair

Rabobank Australia Limited has announced the appointment of James Fazzino as its new chair, succeeding Sir Henry van der Heyden.

Fazzino, who has been a member of the Rabobank Australia Limited board since March 2020, has had an extensive career in senior executive roles in the agribusiness sector and broader business, and is a director of APA Group, Australia’s leading energy infrastructure group, and chair of Manufacturing Australia. He was previously chair of Tassal Limited and served as managing director and chief executive officer at Incitec Pivot Limited from 2009 to 2017. Fazzino is also a co-convenor of three Champions of Change groups.

Announcing the appointment, Rabobank managing board member, Els Kamphof, said Fazzino’s comprehensive understanding of Rabobank Australia Limited and its market, combined with his extensive experience and knowledge in agribusiness and the wider business environment, made him an ideal candidate to take on the role of leading the Australian board.

Kamphof thanked Sir Henry van der Heyden for his "extraordinary tenure and commitment to agriculture" during his six years as chair and almost 12 years on the bank’s board.

“Henry has been an exceptional leader. His dedication and commitment over the years, serving as the chair of Rabobank Australia and contributing to the boards of both Rabobank Australia and Rabobank New Zealand, have been truly remarkable,” Kamphof said.

“We greatly appreciate Henry’s invaluable contribution and strong leadership, and his legacy will continue to hold the bank in good stead in Australia as we move forward.”

Reflecting on his time as chair, Sir Henry said it had been enormously rewarding to serve in the role, working with the bank to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Australia’s vital food and agribusiness industries.

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Fazzino said he was honoured to be taking on the role of chair of Rabobank Australia Limited.

“Henry has led with distinction and dedication for many years and I look forward to building on the strong foundation he has laid, contributing to the growth and success of the food and agricultural sectors,” he said.

“This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an industry that is not only thriving but also pivotal to our future.”

Other members of Rabobank Australia Limited’s board are Jillian Segal AO, Christine Feldmanis, Geerten Battjes, Lara Yocarini and Rabobank Australia CEO, Mark Wiessing.