Deputy banking ombudsman appointed

Banking ombudsman Deborah Battell said she was pleased to have attracted someone of Sladden's calibre and experience.

"Nicola brings 12 years experience in dispute resolution to the scheme, as well as strong legal and management skills. Her commitment to high quality investigation, to giving everyone a fair hearing and to ensuring all parties are able to learn from their experience fits well without vision for the scheme."

Sladden, previously chief legal advisor for the office of the Health and Disability Commissioner, is due to take up her new role on January 31.