Rabobank announces new Australian CEO

Oksana Patron

13 December 2022

Rabobank has announced the appointment of Mark Wiessing chief executive for Rabobank Australia and regional manager, Australia and New Zealand.

He would succeed Peter Knoblanche, who would retire in May next year after seven years in the role and 27 years with the bank.

Wiessing, who has served as regional manager South America and CEO Brazil for Rabobank for the past seven years, would commence in the position on May 1, 2023, subject to regulatory approval.

Wiessing joined Rabobank in 2006 and has more than 30 years’ experience in the financial sector, including postings in South America, Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe.

Prior to Rabobank, he served with other financial institutions, including Standard Bank of South Africa, Citibank and ING.

Announcing the appointment, Rabobank Australia chairman Henry paid tribute to “the outstanding contribution” of outgoing CEO Peter Knoblanche and said Wiessing’s extensive international banking experience – including his past 16 years within the international Rabobank network – made him “ideally suited to take over the role leading the global food and agribusiness bank’s fast-growing operations in the Australian and New Zealand region”.

“We’re delighted to have an international banking executive of Mark’s calibre and experience to oversee the bank’s operations in the region, following Peter Knoblanche’s retirement next year,” van der Heyden said.

“Mark’s experience in leading one of Rabobank’s key international franchises, serving the top food and agri corporates and farmers in South America, will also help provide a seamless transition at the helm of Rabobank Australia.”

“I am looking forward to relocating to Australia in the new year and continuing to support our clients in the region on their journey to sustainably build their businesses and also to build upon the strong culture across Rabobank’s Australia and New Zealand operations,” Wiessing commented on his appointment.