The Banking Association South Africa (BASA), the body that represents interests of the banking sector, today announced the appointment of Bongiwe Kunene as its new managing director – replacing Cas Coovadia.
Kunene is currently a senior executive at Standard Bank and has previously worked at the national treasury.
BASA chairman, Mike Brown, who is also the CEO of Nedbank, said Kunene joins the association at a challenging time for the economy and the banking sector.
“We are confident that her skills and experience will serve BASA well as we build on the strengths of our financial services sector in these challenging times,” Brown said.
“Now more than ever we need BASA to respond effectively to evolving regulatory and other changes that affect the interests of banks and their customers, while maintaining the safety and soundness of the financial system.”
Kunene said banks have a unique responsibility in South Africa’s economy.
“I look forward to working with our members and industry stakeholders to help ensure the continued resilience of our banks in the service of our customers, shareholders and the development of our country,” Kunene said.
