Bank Windhoek has announced the appointment of James Chapman as Managing Director Designate, effective 1 February 2025.
Chapman will succeed the current Managing Director, Baronice Hans, who will conclude her tenure at the end of June 2025.
Hans, who has served as the bank’s first female and longest-serving Managing Director since July 2016, has been credited with leading the institution through challenging economic and social conditions with resilience and dedication.
James Chapman, a Chartered Accountant, holds a Bachelor of Accounting (BAcc) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PDA) from the University of Stellenbosch.
With over a decade of experience at Bank Windhoek and its parent company, Capricorn Group, Chapman has held several executive roles, including a four-year tenure as Chief Financial Officer of Bank Windhoek and, most recently, as Executive Officer for Retail Banking Services and Specialist Finance.
He also serves as a director on various boards within the Capricorn Group, including Santam Namibia Ltd.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, Management, and Staff of Bank Windhoek and the Capricorn Group, I congratulate James Chapman on his appointment. With his strong leadership, business acumen, and proven track record of delivering growth and implementing change, we are confident he will lead Bank Windhoek successfully into the future.” Bank Windhoek Chairperson, Johan Swanepoel said on the appointment.
Chapman expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am extremely honoured by the trust the Board has placed in me to lead Bank Windhoek, a truly Namibian bank with a rich history and legacy of service excellence. I look forward to collaborating with our talented team and embracing innovation to drive sustainable growth and deliver value to our clients, stakeholders, and the broader Namibian economy.”
To ensure a smooth transition, Chapman will work closely with Hans during the leadership handover process starting in February 2025.
He will officially assume the role of Managing Director on 1 July 2025.
