Westpac plans to recruit 200 additional business bankers over the next three years to expand its support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Australia’s fastest-growing sectors.
The initiative could boost its business banker team by up to 40% by the end of 2027.
This hiring drive aligns with Westpac’s focus on SMEs, which are a cornerstone of its growth strategy. In FY24, the bank’s business and wealth division posted a 13% increase in net profit.
“Small businesses and SMEs are the engine room of the Australian economy, making up 98% of all businesses in this country. We’re here to support more great Australian success stories in the future,” Anthony Mathews (pictured above), national general manager of SME and small business at Westpac, said in a media release.
The new recruits will work with customers in industries such as technology and healthcare, as well as in emerging business hubs like Cabramatta in Sydney and Toowoomba in Queensland.
With more than 73,000 new businesses established in Australia in 2023-24, Mathews described the opportunity for growth as immense.
One of Westpac’s recent hires, Will Gentle, a business development manager for commercial clients in Sydney, shared his motivation for joining the bank.
“I already knew that Westpac put a big emphasis on long-term relationships, community, and small business, and that really resonated with me,” Gentle said.
Gentle works with a wide range of clients, from cafes to construction firms, helping them secure finance, manage cash flow, and refine business strategies. His success hinges on strong communication skills and a commitment to understanding his clients’ industries.
“You have to make sure that when you’re speaking to a small business owner, they know that they’re being heard and that you’ve put the time in to really understand their industry,” Gentle said.
Gentle acknowledged the current challenges SMEs face, such as skilled labor shortages and economic uncertainty tied to global events like the US election.
“Many are taking a cautious approach right now,” he said. “As bankers, it’s our job to guide them through uncertainty and be ready to assist when the economy improves and they’re ready to invest for growth.”
Westpac is ensuring its new hires are equipped for success through a comprehensive onboarding program and access to tools that support their work. The roles are open to both internal and external candidates, with a focus on fostering long-term client relationships and community engagement.
Visit the Westpac Careers Hub for more information.
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