Westpac deputy chairman John Curtis will retire from the board in April.

Chairman Lindsay Maxsted says Mr Curtis’ business acumen and financial services knowledge has been invaluable during the past six years when he joined the board following a merger with the St George Bank.

Mr Curtis, 63, played a key role in the merger. He was chairman and board member of St George Bank before becoming the deputy chairman and chairman of the Board Remuneration Committee at Westpac.

“John has played an important role in key strategic initiatives during his tenure, including the smooth transition through the St George merger, guiding the Westpac Group through the global financial crisis, and helping build a strong portfolio of brands,” Mr Maxsted said.

Mr Curtis will retire from the board on April 25.

He said he’ll leave knowing that the Westpac and St George merger has been an outstanding success.

“It has brought substantial benefits to all shareholders and customers … and provided excellent opportunities for employees to be part of the larger and stronger Westpac Group,” he said.