ANZ Names Sohaib Mahmood Fiji Country Head in Pacific Leadership Push

ANZ has announced the appointment of Sohaib Mahmood as its new Country Head for Fiji, pending regulatory approvals. Mahmood will take on this new role while continuing his responsibilities as Head of Commercial Banking for the Pacific region.

This appointment underscores ANZ’s dedication to maintaining leadership continuity and leveraging regional expertise as the bank expands its presence throughout the Pacific. Mahmood, who has been living and working in the Pacific since 2013, brings over two decades of international banking experience to the position.

His career has included roles in major financial hubs, including London, Singapore, and Melbourne, as well as senior leadership positions in Samoa, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, where he previously served as Country Head. Currently, he leads a regional team of more than 200 staff members who provide assistance to corporate, commercial, government, and institutional clients across the Pacific, making him well-equipped to lead ANZ’s operations in Fiji.

Sarah Stubbings, ANZ’s Regional Executive for the Pacific, expressed that Mahmood’s appointment reflects the bank’s commitment to a deep understanding of the region and building strong stakeholder relationships. She highlighted Mahmood’s strong passion for financial inclusion and economic development, which she believes will greatly benefit ANZ as it continues to foster growth in Fiji.

Mahmood expressed his honor in assuming this leadership position, recognizing Fiji’s significance within ANZ’s Pacific network. In the transition period ahead, he will collaborate closely with the outgoing Country Head Rabih Yazbek, who is set to assume a new role as Head of Client Coverage for the United Kingdom and Europe at the start of April.

ANZ remains devoted to Fiji’s long-term development, building on a legacy of over 140 years of service in the Pacific region. This steadfast commitment to regional growth and leadership positions the bank favorably for future opportunities within Fiji’s dynamic financial landscape.