In its latest Caribbean Community Report, the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) has documented the positive impact it makes in The Bahamas, showcasing:
• 750 employees, representing some $30.5 million in compensation and benefits during 2006;
• 88% of Bahamian staff participate in share ownership programmes;
• $106,053 spent on training programmes during 2006;
• In 2006, the bank’s purchase of goods and services in The Bahamas exceeded $10.8 million;
• Some 150,000 Bahamians as clients (50% of its customer base for the Caribbean region).
RBC’s regional head office is in The Bahamas, and Country Head Nathaniel Beneby says the largest percentage of the institution’s business in the Caribbean region is here. He cites the proximity, the level of technological know-how, knowledge and information as other factors that influenced the decision. The Bahamas also represents the oldest market for RBC in the region.
Mr. Beneby also points out that Bahamians have been able to achieve regional leadership – including PR, Marketing, Compliance and Human Resources roles at this level. Additionally, the CFO-Caribbean is from The Bahamas, and a Bahamian is Country Head for St. Kitts.