JOB WELL DONE!

NO longer is Republic Bank (Barbados) Limited viewed as the bank of last resort. Rather, it is one to be reckoned with in the market, and the first choice when anyone thinks of banking.

This is according to Sharon Zephirin, who was speaking at a retirement function on Saturday night for Ian De Souza, who has called it a day after 40 years with Republic Bank – the last five of which were spent in Barbados.

Anthony Clarke, an experienced banker, will be the new man at the helm of Republic Bank (Barbados Limited).

Ms. Zephirin, General Manager – Retail Banking, said that the bank, under the guidance of De Souza, who served as Managing Director and CEO, has emerged as a major player in the local banking sector

Presenting one of a series of tributes to De Souza, Ms. Zephirin said that his contribution to the Barbados bank since assuming its leadership in 2013 has been nothing short of revolutionary, having built on the foundation laid before his sojourn.

According to her, his exemplary leadership is what has enabled Republic Bank (Barbados) Limited to be seen in a big way today.

“It is he who transformed Republic Bank (Barbados) Limited into what it is today,” Zephirin declared.

She revealed that some of his achievements include the consistent improvement in the delivery of customer service; a record of employee engagement; and the attainment of the Banker of the Year award in 2016.

These, she emphasised, were backed by sustained and improved financial performances year on year.

“Indeed we are a strong and solid organisation, the bank of choice for employees, bank of choice for the customers, bank of choice for stakeholders due to your astute and transformational leadership,” she said in reference to De Souza.

Noting, as they bid him farewell, that there should be no tears at his departure, Ms. Zephirin suggested that instead “we must smile because you came and that is something to celebrate.

“Actually, I see myself and my colleagues as lucky to have worked under your leadership,” she added.