Dear Colleagues,
As we advance into the second half of the year, I reflect on our progress and the journey so far as CEO. I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to LaTonia Symonette-Tinker, Chairperson; Antoine Bastian, Deputy Chairman; and Dr. Tanya McCartney, former BFSB CEO, for their unwavering support and guidance during my transition. Transitions are not easy, and I am blessed to have been championed by them throughout this process.
My acclimation has been even smoother because of BFSB’s dedicated team: Fredericka Bowe, Office Manager; Jasmine Turnquest, Office Assistant; Rianna Sobiech, Marketing and Special Projects Associate; and Tonesa Munnings, the newest addition as Legal and Policy Officer. I am deeply grateful for their patience and support during this period.
The first half of the year presented its challenges, including a demanding marketing calendar and key industry reforms; these experiences provided valuable insights and a deeper understanding of BFSB’s objectives and environment. Our commitment remains steadfast as we take proactive measures to support its growth and sustainability.
At this six-month mark, we wish to take the opportunity to provide an update on our activities. The Board’s mandate focuses on three core areas: Marketing and Promotion, Industry Development, and Advocacy. These pillars drive our efforts as we work to advance the industry. We invite you to take a moment to discover what we have been up to.
As I settle more fully into my role and look to the future, we recognize the need for a strategic marketing plan to address the new landscape of the financial services industry. The pressures of international competition, the cost of doing business, and regulatory changes require us to act intentionally as we shape the journey ahead.
In the coming weeks, we will engage with our members through various channels to inform our strategic planning. Our industry is at an inflection point, and your support and input are critical as we reimagine financial services in The Bahamas. We aim to identify key themes, target markets, and opportunities to develop a comprehensive marketing plan and industry development program. Our goal is to optimize our resources and enhance the value we provide to our members.
As we move forward together, I remain committed to leading BFSB with dedication and a collaborative spirit. Let us work together to build a stronger, more resilient financial services industry for The Bahamas.