ANZ Bank Pacific has confirmed it will not be shutting down or selling its regional operations. Rabih Yazbek, the Country Head, clarified that only the Pacific Operations Reconciliation Unit will be closing, a decision communicated earlier this year. The 21 employees currently in that unit will be reassigned to different roles, with the reconciliation function being transferred to ANZ’s Global Centre of Excellence located offshore.
Yazbek emphasized, “We’ve done an internal reorganization and unfortunately that’s been re-characterized as ANZ leaving the Pacific. So it’s entirely incorrect and I can confirm for you we’re actually adding positions in Fiji.” ANZ has been a key player in the Pacific for around 25 years, actively serving ten markets, with Fiji remaining a critical hub that employs around 700 people across various banking functions.
The bank’s BPO operation is particularly noteworthy, being recognized as one of the most successful within the country, employing approximately 450 staff who manage regional banking services. Yazbek dismissed claims from an Opposition MP which suggested that ANZ was planning to sell its Pacific operations, affirming the bank’s commitment to its presence in the region.
The transition of the reconciliation function is part of a broader trend within ANZ to optimize operational efficiency while enhancing service delivery without negatively impacting customer support. Previous announcements indicated similar organizational changes and efforts to expand functionalities such as Know Your Customer processes, which signal a commitment to both employee retention and the introduction of new opportunities.
This decision reflects a positive outlook on ANZ’s operations in the Pacific, showcasing its adaptability in a rapidly evolving banking landscape, ensuring job security for employees, while also enhancing its regional services.
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