Caroline Pickering has made history as the first woman appointed to lead the Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), taking on the role of director effective January 1, 2025. Her appointment follows the retirement of Razim Buksh after 17 years in the position. Reserve Bank Governor Ariff Ali expressed his strong confidence in Pickering’s abilities, emphasizing her extensive experience of over 25 years in the financial sector and her strategic leadership skills essential for guiding the FIU through an increasingly digital financial landscape.

Pickering has been with the FIU since 2006, originally serving as the manager of policy and compliance. During her tenure, she has played a vital role in developing Fiji’s regulatory framework dedicated to combating money laundering and financial crime. Her extensive background includes collaboration with various financial institutions and government agencies to implement effective safeguards against financial misconduct, underscoring her commitment to maintaining the integrity of Fiji’s financial systems.

The FIU acts as the national agency monitoring financial transactions across 172 institutions, currently overseeing a database that includes over 30 million transactions, as noted in its most recent annual report. This immense oversight confirms the pivotal role the FIU plays in protecting the financial infrastructure of Fiji.

The transition to Pickering’s leadership is viewed positively, not only as a significant step for gender representation in Fiji’s financial regulatory landscape but also a reflection of the country’s commitment to enhancing its oversight mechanisms. Under her guidance, there is optimism for the development of innovative strategies to effectively combat contemporary financial challenges.

In summary, Caroline Pickering’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the FIU and reflects Fiji’s dedication to fostering strong governance and financial integrity. Her leadership is anticipated to invigorate efforts against financial crime, ensuring a secure economic environment for all citizens. This development symbolizes progress towards a more inclusive and robust regulatory framework, highlighting the importance of diverse leadership in addressing complex financial issues.