RMB Namibia has appointed Jason Shikalepo Head of Investment Banking Division (IBD), replacing Borg Sauber.
Shikalepo, a long-serving member of the RMB management team, brings a wealth of experience in investment banking, finance and various sectors, including financial services, fast-moving consumer goods, mining, infrastructure, energy and transport logistics.
“I have assumed this leadership role to help deliver RMB’s vision of developing Namibia’s capital markets, which is part of the FirstRand Group’s purpose to create a globally competitive Namibia,” said Shikalepo.
“My role entails developing and executing strategy, resourcing the division, and ensuring that we have globally competitive talent that is liberated to deliver world-leading solutions for our clients. I will also continue to partner with clients in our quest to proactively exceed their expectations.”
Shikalepo added that success in the investment banking space is centred around collaborations that produce innovative solutions.
“Looking back, originating, structuring, and executing some of our new-to-market solutions in the resources and energy sectors certainly gives me a sense of meaningful impact. RMB has a longstanding track-record in solving some of the most complex, yet impactful commercial cases on the continent,” he said.
Shikalepo is passionate about capital and social value creation and has over the years implemented business strategies and solutions to support local economic development.
“We have the responsibility to deepen and broaden the Namibian capital market as part of our vision. I would like to see the IBD scale its current activity portfolios, lead green and transition finance, broaden debt and equity capital markets, and collaborate effectively with government and the broader society,” he said.
RMB Namibia CEO Philip Chapman commenting on the appointment, said “Jason is a seasoned corporate strategist and investment banker. After joining RMB in 2017 to, initially, spearhead the bank’s strategy towards unlocking potential growth opportunities in the trade & working capital space and sponsor new-to-market structured solutions, he has executed a host of landmark transactions and contributed to the bank’s strategic initiatives. I wish him much success in his new role.”