ANZ has named Sohaib Mahmood as the new country head of its Fiji office, pending necessary regulatory approvals. Mahmood, who currently serves as Head of Commercial Banking for the Pacific, brings over two decades of international banking expertise to his new role, having worked in key financial hubs such as London, Singapore, and Melbourne.
Since 2013, Mahmood has been based in the Pacific, significantly contributing to ANZ’s business operations across the region. Sarah Stubbings, ANZ’s regional executive Pacific, emphasized that Mahmood’s appointment underlines the bank’s dedication to continuity and harnessing deep regional knowledge.
“His extensive experience, along with strong relationships with government and development partners, makes him the ideal leader for this next chapter,” Stubbings remarked. She pointed out that Mahmood’s commitment to financial inclusion and economic development will be crucial as ANZ works to bolster Fiji’s economic growth.
Mahmood’s diverse leadership background extends to various roles in Samoa, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, where he previously held the position of country head. Currently, he oversees a regional team of over 200 staff members that supports corporate, commercial, government, and institutional clients throughout the Pacific.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new position, Mahmood stated, “Fiji plays a vital role in ANZ’s Pacific network, and I’m humbled by the opportunity to lead our business here.” He conveyed his eagerness to collaborate with customers, regulators, partners, and communities to advance Fiji’s economic goals.
In the coming weeks, Mahmood will work alongside outgoing country head Rabih Yazbek to ensure a seamless transition. Yazbek is set to assume his new role as head of Client Coverage for the United Kingdom and Europe starting in April. This leadership change signifies a continued commitment by ANZ to foster growth and stability in the region.