Filimoni Waqabaca has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Fiji Development Bank (FDB), a position he will officially assume on January 15, 2025. Waqabaca expressed his excitement about leading the bank and emphasized his commitment to achieving the institution’s goals, which include enhancing financial well-being and improving living standards across Fiji.
Having been selected for this role following a thorough search by KPMG, Waqabaca brings significant experience and insights to the bank. His extensive background in finance and management is expected to bolster the FDB’s operational effectiveness and drive its strategic initiatives.
Waqabaca has a strong foundation in the financial sector, having begun his career with the Fiji Financial Institutions in 1989, and he has held various significant positions including with the Reserve Bank of Fiji, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, and the International Monetary Fund. His educational credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Economics from the University of the South Pacific and a Master of Science in International Banking & Financial Studies from the University of Southampton in the UK.
In his previous roles, he has played a crucial part in several key initiatives, particularly in economic planning and compliance. Waqabaca’s leadership experience includes positions in strategic planning and development for the Ministry of Finance, where he oversaw multiple departments.
The FDB’s board of directors is optimistic about Waqabaca’s tenure, highlighting his risk management expertise and collaborative approach as critical components for the bank’s continued success. They believe that under his guidance, the bank will be able to achieve its objectives and enhance its service delivery across Fiji.
With Waqabaca’s appointment, there is a positive outlook for the FDB, as stakeholders anticipate advancements in financial services that can uplift communities and support economic growth.
This development signifies a new chapter for the Fiji Development Bank, reinforcing the importance of effective leadership in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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