Filimone Waqabaca has officially taken the helm as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Fiji Development Bank (FDB), following an orientation at the bank’s headquarters in Suva this week. The appointment is seen as a pivotal moment for the bank, which plays a significant role in Fiji’s financial landscape. Board Chair Damend Gounder highlighted the bank’s capacity to embrace innovation as crucial for its future success, expressing confidence in Waqabaca’s ability to lead this effort.

In his first address as CEO, Waqabaca shared his vision to position FDB as a key institution driving national development. He emphasized the importance of supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and improving community well-being. Waqabaca called on the FDB team to actively engage in initiatives that promote growth and help turn business aspirations into reality.

With over thirty years of experience in the financial sector, including significant roles at the Reserve Bank of Fiji and the International Monetary Fund, Waqabaca is well-equipped to guide FDB through its next growth phase. He holds a Bachelor’s in Management and Economics from the University of the South Pacific and a Master’s in International Banking and Financial Studies from the University of Southampton.

Gounder also expressed gratitude to the executive team and Acting CEO Titilia Vakaoca Kamil for their leadership during the transition period prior to Waqabaca’s appointment. The optimism surrounding Waqabaca’s leadership stems from the expectation that he will enhance the bank’s financial services, support community initiatives, and cultivate a positive workplace culture, ultimately making FDB an attractive employer for recent graduates.

In summary, Waqabaca’s leadership signals a hopeful and transformative phase for the Fiji Development Bank, with strong potential to foster entrepreneurship and contribute to Fiji’s economic growth. His strategic vision and extensive experience instill confidence in a future where FDB plays a vital role in improving the livelihoods of the communities it serves.