The Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF), Ariff Ali, has officially appointed Caroline Pickering as the new Director of the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), with her term commencing on January 1, 2025. Pickering’s appointment comes upon the recommendation of the National Anti-Money Laundering Council.
Currently serving as the Manager of Policy and Compliance at the FIU, Pickering will succeed Razim Buksh, who retired from the position in 2023. In his statement, Ali expressed confidence in Pickering’s capabilities to lead the FIU during a crucial phase of growth, highlighting her extensive 25 years of professional experience and her strategic leadership skills. He noted that these qualities will be essential as the FIU navigates the challenges of an increasingly digital financial landscape and collaborates with various stakeholders in both the government and private sectors.
Pickering’s tenure with the FIU began in 2006, where she played a pivotal role in establishing Fiji’s regulatory framework aimed at combating money laundering and financial crimes. Her experience extends to working with a wide array of financial institutions and government bodies to implement regulatory safeguards critical for preventing and detecting financial malfeasance. Notably, she has also taken on the acting Director role on multiple occasions.
Before her contributions to the FIU, Pickering spent over nine years at the Office of the Auditor-General, occupying various audit and leadership positions. An alumnus of the University of the South Pacific, she earned her degree in accounting and economics and is a member of the Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Governor Ali congratulated Pickering on her new role, expressing eagerness for her efforts to enhance Fiji’s financial security and integrity, particularly in the ongoing fight against money laundering.
This appointment marks a significant step forward for the FIU as it continues to evolve in response to modern financial challenges. As Pickering steps into her new role, her wealth of experience and proven track record could lead to meaningful advancements in safeguarding Fiji’s financial systems.
In summary, with Pickering’s leadership, there is potential for strengthened resilience against financial crimes and enhanced cooperation between institutions, fostering a safer economic environment for all in Fiji.
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