Mr Johnston has worked at Suncorp for close to 14 years and has most recently been acting group chief executive.
Prior to this he was group chief financial officer and responsible for financial reporting and management.
Chairman Christine McLoughlin said the board’s decision to appointment Mr Johnston followed a competitive global recruitment process.
“Steve was the outstanding candidate. He has a clear vision for Suncorp’s future, a deep understanding of Australia and New Zealand’s financial services industry and the organisation, as well as high regard and confidence from his colleagues,” she said.
Ms McLoughlin said this was an important juncture in Suncorp’s history and Mr Johnston was best placed to lead the group in this new environment.
“Steve’s vision for our company leverages our strong digital foundations, embraces an innovation mindset, builds on our customer-centric culture and invests in the capability of our people,” she said.
Mr Johnston said it was a privilege to be appointed group chief executive of Suncorp and took immense pride in the role.
“Having worked for Suncorp for nearly 14 years, I have acquired a deep understanding of our banking, wealth and insurance operations, and have immense pride and passion for Suncorp and our people,” he said.
Mr Johnston said he had seen first-hand the group’s response to natural disasters, including the recent bushfires impacting areas of Queensland and NSW.
“I’m committed to ensuring that every Australian has access to affordable, relevant and valuable financial services products, while balancing the needs of customers, communities and shareholders,” he said.
“I look forward to working closely with the board and our people to take Suncorp to a new level of performance.”
Deputy chief financial officer Jeremy Robson will continue in the acting group CFO role while a recruitment process is undertaken.
