Niël Terblanché
Bank Windhoek has initiated the search for a new managing director as Baronice Hans, the bank’s first female and longest-serving MD in its 42-year history, prepares to step down at the end of June 2025.
Hans, who has led the bank since July 2016, has been praised for steering the institution through economic challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, according to the bank’s board chairperson, Johan Swanepoel.
“Her leadership has been praised for steering the bank through these turbulent times while achieving notable growth and success,” he said.
Under Hans’ stewardship, Bank Windhoek saw a 45% increase in loans and advances, a 60% increase in total funding, and a 63% increase in profit after tax.
Swanepoel said that the bank also achieved a commendable 8.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in profit after tax over the last eight years, excluding the pandemic period.
He expressed his gratitude for Hans’ leadership and announced the proactive steps the board is taking to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
“The recruitment process has been initiated to identify a suitable successor by February 2025 to appoint a Managing Director: Designate ahead of Hans’ departure,” he added.
Gerhard Fourie, Chairperson of Capricorn Group, echoed Swannpoel’s sentiments while pointing out some of Hans’ key achievements, including the launch of Southern Africa’s first green bond and sustainability bond.
Fourie added that Hans also led the bank’s digital transformation, introducing services such as Easy Wallet, E-Commerce, and integrated point-of-sale transacting systems, which have contributed to Bank Windhoek’s reputation as an innovative and customer-centric institution.
“Hans’ tenure has been defined by a strong sales culture, successful product innovation, and a forward-looking digital transformation strategy,” he added.
According to Fourie, her legacy will undoubtedly shape Bank Windhoek’s future trajectory as it seeks a successor.
Further announcements regarding the new appointment are expected as internal governance processes and regulatory approvals are completed.
Fourie said that the transition is a key moment for Bank Windhoek as the institution prepares to build on Hans’ solid foundation and continue its path of sustainable growth in Namibia’s competitive banking sector.
