Mike Hirst yesterday replaced stalwart Rob Hunt at the helm, and the 51-year-old is looking forward to the challenge.

“I enjoy thinking about what the possibilities might be and thinking broadly about what opportunities are, how the organisation fits into the economy at the moment and where it could go,” Mr Hirst said.

He firmly believes the bank is poised to take advantage of the global financial crisis.

“If history is anything to go by, there is going to be an opportunity rising out of this chaos.

“We are in a really strong position.

“The ability we have to engage with our customers and our communities really stood us in great stead over the last 18 months when there has been significant dislocation in financial markets globally.”

The new boss is passionate about the community ethos of Bendigo Bank and declares it will drive his leadership.

“I want to emphasise the point of difference we have, which is around community and customer service and the time is right to push really hard on that.”

But, like his predecessor, Mr Hirst is adamant that Australian banking needs a level playing field.

“The major banks have been given a free kick by the Government with the banking guarantee and the way that it is priced.”

With an imminent Senate inquiry into the banking sector, Mr Hirst said Bendigo Bank would be making a submission.

“We will be continuing to point out what we think is not good for the economy.”

However, Mr Hirst recognised that the banking guarantee did give Bendigo Bank access to new clients.

“People have always liked what we stood for as a bank, they like our style of banking and they always wanted to try it but never had a reason.

“Now they have a reason.”