ANZ has officially appointed Sohaib Mahmood as the new Country Head for Fiji, pending necessary regulatory approvals. With a tenure in the Pacific dating back to 2013, Mahmood brings over 20 years of international banking experience to the role.
In addition to his new position, Mahmood will continue his responsibilities as the Head of Commercial Banking for the Pacific region. His extensive career includes significant leadership experience across various Pacific nations, including Samoa, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, as well as previous roles in London, Singapore, and Melbourne.
Mahmood expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, acknowledging Fiji’s critical importance within ANZ’s Pacific network. He stated, “I’m humbled by the opportunity to lead our business here,” adding that he looks forward to collaborating closely with customers, regulators, partners, and communities to support Fiji’s economic ambitions. He emphasized the strength of the team in Fiji and their commitment to delivering optimal outcomes for customers and the national economy.
Sarah Stubbings, Regional Executive for the Pacific at ANZ, highlighted Mahmood’s appointment as a testament to the bank’s focus on continuity and regional expertise. She noted his decade-long history of strengthening ANZ’s business across the Pacific, underscoring his understanding of the local regulatory environment and his relationships with government and development partners.
Mahmood is recognized for his passion for financial inclusion and economic development, attributes that will be essential as ANZ continues to aspire toward supporting Fiji’s economic growth. Stubbings is confident that he will maintain stability, manage risks prudently, and engage effectively with the Reserve Bank of Fiji.
In the upcoming weeks, Mahmood will work closely with the outgoing Country Head, Rabih Yazbek, to ensure a seamless transition. ANZ remains dedicated to Fiji’s long-term development, with a legacy of over 140 years of service in the Pacific region, affirming its commitment to fostering economic progress.
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