Caroline Pickering has made history by being appointed as the first woman to lead the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), with her tenure starting on January 1, 2025. She takes over from Razim Buksh, who retired after a commendable 17-year service in the position. Her appointment was announced by Reserve Bank Governor Ariff Ali, who expressed strong confidence in her extensive capabilities, noting that she is well-suited to guide the FIU through its next phase of growth amid a rapidly evolving digital financial landscape.
With over 25 years of professional experience, Pickering joined the FIU in 2006 as the manager of policy and compliance. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in shaping Fiji’s regulatory and supervisory framework aimed at combating money laundering and financial crimes. Her extensive background includes collaboration with various financial institutions and government agencies to establish safeguards that protect against financial misconduct.
The FIU acts as Fiji’s central agency monitoring financial transactions across 172 financial institutions, overseeing a database of more than 30 million transactions as per the most recent annual report. This significant responsibility underscores the importance of the unit in maintaining the integrity of Fiji’s financial systems.
Governor Ali’s remarks highlight a hopeful outlook for the FIU under Pickering’s leadership. As she steps into this crucial role, it is anticipated that she will drive forward innovative strategies to enhance the effectiveness of the unit in tackling contemporary financial crimes. Her proven track record and strategic insights are expected to foster collaboration across sectors, benefiting regulatory efforts nationwide.
In summary, Caroline Pickering’s historic appointment signifies a commitment not only to advancing gender representation in leadership but also to strengthening Fiji’s defenses against financial crime. With her expertise at the helm, Fiji can look forward to a more secure financial future bolstered by a robust regulatory framework. This transition marks a positive step for the FIU and the country’s ongoing fight for financial integrity.
Leave a comment