The Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA) and Bridges Financial Services (Bridges) have awarded Claire Mahady, Employee Experience Partner at Newcastle Greater Mutual Group, the 2026 COBA Emerging Leader Award.
Presented at the World Credit Union Conference in front of an audience of over 2,500 customer-owned banking professionals from around the world in Sydney this week, the award recognises rising leaders in the customer owned banking sector who are contributing beyond their roles to drive positive change within their organisations and across the sector more broadly.
Ms Mahady was acknowledged for her passion for people, commitment to continuous improvement, and ability to influence positive change across her organisation.
Ms Mahady will receive a $10,000AUD grant to support their professional development through further study, industry programs or attendance at domestic or international conferences.
The award is open to participants in COBA’s Emerging Leader Program, a professional development initiative for people under 40 working in customer-owned banks, with shortlisted candidates taking part in interviews with representatives from COBA and Bridges. In 2026, there were a total of 15 applications submitted.
Outgoing COBA CEO Michael Lawrence congratulated Claire and said the award shines a spotlight on the contribution of emerging talent across the sector.
“For more than 20 years, the COBA Emerging Leaders program has helped develop many of the leaders – including CEOs and board members – who shape our sector today. This program and award are not just about recognising talent; it’s about investing in the future of customer-owned banking.
“Claire’s outstanding work to date makes her a truly worthy winner of this award. We now look forward to following her career with keen interest as she continues to translate purpose-driven values into everyday decisions that deliver positive outcomes for people and communities.”
Bridges Financial Services CEO Nathan Stanton said Claire Mahady demonstrates how emerging talent is contributing to the sector through practical impact.
“For more than 20 years, Bridges has sponsored the Emerging Leader Award alongside our partnership with the customer owned banking sector.
“Over that time, we’ve seen how investment in people contributes to stronger organisations and better outcomes for customers, reflected in more confident decision-making, stronger engagement and a clearer focus on long-term financial outcomes.
“Congratulations to Claire for the positive change she’s driving within her organisation and for customers, a well-deserved recognition.”
Claire Mahady, Employee Experience Partner at NGM Group, said: “Being recognised as an Award Recipient of the Emerging Leaders Award is a privilege. As an Employee Experience Partner, I believe communication is at the heart of building trust, engagement and belonging. This recognition inspires me to continue creating experiences that empower people, strengthen culture, and make a lasting impact.”
The World Credit Union Conference marked its 21st year in 2026, and is the premier global gathering for credit unions, mutual banks, and other cooperative financial institutions. The conference took place at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney from 19-22 July 2026, jointly hosted by COBA and the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU). This marked the first time the international event has been held in the harbour city.
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For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact Mira Palomaki on 0459 954 035 media@coba.asn.au
The Customer Owned Banking Association is the industry body for mutual banks, credit unions and building societies. For almost 180 years our sector has put customers first, returning profits to more than 5 million Australians who put their trust in customer-owned banks.