HOME Building Society chairman Bernard Wright has retired after 23 years of service to the institution, including 16 years at its helm.
The 74 year old businessman was instrumental in transforming the mutual society into a publicly listed company.
Deputy chairman Brian Sierakowski said Mr Wright would be missed by staff.
"He was integral to introducing women to the board, fought GIO’s takeover bid in 1996 and focused on responding to market needs with services such as financial planning," Mr Sierakowski said.