The Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments today announced the appointment of David Agnew as Ombudsman and CEO, effective August 1.

“We are delighted that David Agnew is joining the team. His strong record of leadership in financial services, government and international development makes him the ideal choice to take the organization into the future,” says Dr. Peggy-Anne Brown, chairwoman of the Ombudsman’s board of directors.

Formerly the executive vp of Credit Union Central of Ontario and the Secretary of Cabinet (head of the civil service) of the Government of Ontario, Agnew is well suited to the task of impartially resolving complaints brought by customers of deposit-taking institutions, securities dealers and mutual fund companies. Currently Agnew is President and CEO of UNICEF Canada.

Agnew was born in Sherbrooke, Que. has worked in Edmonton, Ottawa and St. John’s, and now lives in Toronto. His responsibilities with UNICEF and in government have given him a national perspective and an appreciation of the diversity of Canada.

The Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments is an independent, third-party dispute-resolution body that investigates unresolved customer complaints related to financial-service providers including banks and other deposit-taking institutions, investment dealers, mutual fund dealers and mutual fund companies. The service is free to consumers and is funded by industry.

Agnew replaces founding Ombudsman Michael Lauber, who retires June 30.