Shane Smith, the chief executive officer of Westpac Fiji, has been appointed chairman of the Association of Banks in Fiji (ABIF). He began his impressive 40-year career in banking as an 18-year-old customer service officer at the Westpac Suva branch and has since ascended through various senior roles across Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, and Australia.
Notably, in 2022, Smith made history by becoming the first local chief executive officer of Westpac Fiji in over a century, a significant milestone that underscores the bank’s commitment to fostering local talent. His leadership has been marked by a strong advocacy for financial inclusion and community empowerment, driving initiatives such as the Westpac Women and Girls Education Grant, which supports educational opportunities for girls and women across Fiji.
In addition to Smith’s leadership, the board of ABIF announced the appointment of Udesh Kumar as deputy chairman. Kumar, who recently took the role of chief executive officer at Bank of Baroda Fiji, has a wealth of experience, having held various key positions within the banking sector for 26 years, including assignments in Tanzania.
The appointments, effective March 5, 2025, reflect a growing trend of local professionals stepping into leadership roles within Fiji’s banking sector, signifying a positive shift towards enhancing community engagement and innovation in the industry.
This positive trend not only supports local talent but also bolsters economic growth in Fiji, fostering a brighter future through enhanced banking services and community-focused initiatives.
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