Media Release Appointment of Head of Human Resources Department

Today, the Reserve Bank of Australia welcomes back Ms Karlee Hughes, who has been appointed to Head of Human Resources Department. She replaces Michael Andersen, who has been appointed as Chief Representative Europe in the Reserve Bank's London office after four years as Head of Human Resources. Ms Hughes takes up the position on 17 January 2022.

Having previously held the role of Head of Business Engagement at the Reserve Bank, most recently Ms Hughes was Chief People Officer, Corporate and Institutional Bank, National Australia Bank. Ms Hughes will report to Dr Guy Debelle, Deputy Governor.

Throughout her career, Ms Hughes has successfully led large HR teams and developed strong expertise in HR transformation and cultural change. ‘The RBA is a great place to work, offering a strong, values driven culture and interesting and meaningful work,’ Ms Hughes said. ‘I am delighted to re-join the Bank today and am excited about the opportunity to lead the HR team through the next phase.’

The Bank's priorities in the area of Human Resources include: attracting and maintaining a high-quality and innovative workforce; strengthening leadership capabilities; ensuring systems support staff; and ensuring the work environment is safe and effective.

Prior to joining the Bank for the first time in 2019, Ms Hughes held positions at KPMG (Sydney and Global), and various roles in London, including Mitsubishi UFJ Securities International and Credit Suisse.

Ms Hughes has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern Queensland.

Background

Human Resources Department provides a range of people-related services to support the Reserve Bank in maintaining a productive and engaged workforce. This includes sourcing high-quality employees as well as implementing policies and programs that cover employment conditions, reward, development, diversity and workplace health and safety.

For more information about the Bank and its people, see the Reserve Bank of Australia Annual Report 2021.