Caroline Pickering has made history by becoming the first woman to lead the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), stepping into the role of director on January 1, 2025. This appointment comes following the retirement of Razim Buksh, who served the organization for 17 years. Reserve Bank Governor Ariff Ali expressed his confidence in Pickering’s leadership abilities, emphasizing her extensive experience exceeding 25 years in the financial sector and her strategic skills that are essential for guiding the FIU through the evolving digital financial landscape.

Pickering joined the FIU in 2006 as the manager of Policy and Compliance, where she played a crucial role in developing Fiji’s regulatory framework designed to combat money laundering and financial crime. Her extensive experience encompasses working with diverse financial institutions and government entities to ensure effective safeguards against financial misconduct, which are vital for preserving the integrity of Fiji’s economy.

As the FIU, the primary agency that monitors financial transactions from 172 institutions, currently manages a database that recorded over 30 million transactions by the end of its 2023 annual report. This important oversight underscores the unit’s critical function in maintaining financial integrity within the nation.

The transition in leadership is seen as a forward step, not only for gender representation but also in enhancing Fiji’s regulatory landscape. Under Pickering’s guidance, there is optimism for innovative strategies that will enhance the effectiveness of the unit in combating contemporary financial crimes.

In summary, Caroline Pickering’s appointment represents a significant moment for the Fiji FIU, highlighting the nation’s commitment to creating a robust framework to combat financial crimes and reinforcing a hopeful outlook for financial integrity in Fiji’s future. Her leadership is expected to invigorate efforts in safeguarding the economy, ensuring a safer financial environment for all citizens. This historic appointment also reflects a broader movement towards inclusive leadership in the financial sector, demonstrating progress in addressing fundamental challenges such as financial crime.