Standard Bank Wealth International has made three senior appointments to its Executive Committee team. Marina Buckley, Mia Canavan and Gemma Steele have joined the senior leadership team which guides the business strategy and manages the day to day operations. All three take their appointments in recognition of their expertise in their respective fields.
Standard Bank Wealth International is 100% owned by Standard Bank Group, the largest bank in Africa by assets, which has key offices in Jersey, Isle of Man, Mauritius, London and South Africa; each appointment covers the pan-island operations.
The appointment of three additional women to the Executive Committee underscores the bank’s commitment to diversity at all levels. As a Group, Standard Bank supports HeforShe, a movement which looks to advance gender equity. By 2021 the Group aims to increase the representation of women on their Boards from 22 to 33%.
Marina Buckley was recently appointed as Chief Operating Officer, Wealth International. Marina has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services sector and before her appointment was Chief Operating Officer for the Investment & Fiduciary Services part of the business.
Marina said: “I am delighted to be appointed into this position and also to be joining the Executive Committee. Standard Bank Wealth International is on a very exciting journey and I am pleased to be part of the Executive & Management team where I can play a greater role in the strategy of the business.”
Mia Canavan joins the Committee as part of her new role at the Bank, having been appointed as Head of Compliance for Standard Bank Wealth International at the start of the year. Prior to working at the Bank, Mia worked in a number of offshore jurisdictions both in senior compliance positions and as Managing Director of international corporate, fiduciary and fund service providers.
Mia said: “I am thoroughly enjoying my role here at Standard Bank. Women play a key role across all levels of the bank, not only in the Executive Committee, but throughout the organisation. It is a very gender-neutral environment based on merit and suitability to the role. There are so many initiatives and substantial investment in learning and development which encourages women to excel and reach their full potential. In my view, Compliance is no more or less female centric than any other department, it is fully integrated in the business and is intrinsic to the collaborative and inclusive culture within the bank.”
Alongside her role at Standard Bank, Mia is also Treasurer of the Committee of the Jersey Compliance Officers Association, playing an integral role in developing best working practices for the industry and their implementation on the Island.
Gemma Steele, Head of Marketing also joins the Committee. Standard Bank has been an excellent platform for Gemma to thrive, providing her with a fast-paced and challenging global role.
Gemma said: “I am very proud to be taking a seat on the Executive Committee. This is a huge personal achievement and a great step forward in ensuring that the marketing has the right focus in the business strategy.
Chief Executive Officer, Will Thorp, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Marina, Mia and Gemma to the Executive Committee, which is a recognition of their talent and hard work, and evidence that they are experts in their fields. At Standard Bank we are really proud of the diverse range of people we have working for us. Varied backgrounds, cultural experiences and different key strengths all play a part in driving our business forward and ensuring that we provide our customers with the very best service.”
