Windhoek
Bank Windhoek announced yesterday that following a period of five months in the position of managing director: designate, Baronice Hans has officially taken over from Christo de Vries as managing director of Bank Windhoek as of July 1.
This makes Hans the first female managing director of a local commercial bank. During the past five months she has worked closely with previous MD Christo de Vries and the executive management of the bank, to ensure a smooth transition.
“On behalf of the board of directors, management and staff of Bank Windhoek and the entire Capricorn Investment Holdings group, I would like to wish Baronice the very best for success as she officially takes over the reins as managing director. In the short period that she has been with Bank Windhoek, she has already made a very positive contribution to the bank. Baronice is a seasoned and respected Namibian banker and I am confident that she will add tremendous value and build on the success achieved under the leadership of Christo de Vries and his predecessors,” said Koos Brandt, chairman of the board.
Commenting on this, Hans said that she looks forward to lead the highly regarded staff of the bank. “I would like to thank Christo and the executive team for all their support that has ensured a smooth transition.
“Christo has built a strong foundation. I am excited about the opportunities that exist for Bank Windhoek going forward.”
“On behalf of the board of directors, management and staff of Bank Windhoek and the entire CIH group, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Christo de Vries for his contribution to the success of the bank and the group over the past five years.
“He has led the group through a highly successful repositioning and the listing of Bank Windhoek Holdings on the NSX, delivering excellent results for the bank in the process,” Brandt added.
In response, De Vries said: “What was achieved over the past five years is thanks to the guidance and support provided by the Board of Directors as well as the unwavering commitment and dedication of the management team and all staff, immaterial of which roles assigned to them.
“Whilst being grateful for what has been achieved, there is always unfinished business and I am very excited about the appointment of Baronice Hans and wish her the best of luck in steering the bank into the future.
“I have enjoyed working for the company and am grateful to the Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to have played a role in this great organisation. I wish the company every success in all its future endeavours.’’