The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) recently made a pivotal announcement, unveiling its inaugural Board of Directors and the esteemed International Advisory Board. This marks a significant step for GFTN as it solidifies its leadership structure, aiming to champion innovation and foster robust financial ecosystems worldwide.
At its core, GFTN is driven by a powerful mission: to leverage cutting-edge technology and cultivate innovation through strategic global partnerships. The ultimate goal is to build financial ecosystems that are not only more efficient and resilient but also genuinely inclusive, benefiting a broader spectrum of society. The newly established Board of Directors will be the primary body responsible for the governance and oversight of these ambitious endeavors, ensuring GFTN stays true to its foundational principles and objectives.
Distinguished Leadership at the Helm
Leading this formidable group is Ravi Menon, renowned as the Ambassador (Climate Action) for Singapore and former Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). His extensive experience and visionary leadership are expected to guide GFTN effectively. Mr. Menon is supported by two highly capable Deputy Chairs:
- Leong Sing Chiong, who currently serves as the Deputy Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore, bringing deep regulatory and financial expertise.
- Neil Parekh, a Nominated Member of Parliament in Singapore and Non-Executive Chairman of Tikehau Capital, offering a blend of public service insight and private sector acumen.
The collective wisdom and diverse backgrounds of the Board members underscore GFTN's commitment to a holistic approach. Each member brings a unique perspective crucial for navigating the complexities of global finance and technology.
Meet the Board of Directors
The Board of Directors comprises a group of distinguished individuals, each bringing invaluable expertise to the network:
- Iqbal Jumabhoy, Chief Executive Officer of ProsperCap Corporation Limited, contributes significant corporate leadership and strategic investment knowledge.
- Professor Lam Khin Yong, Vice President (Industry) at Nanyang Technological University Singapore and Senior Advisor to the Hungarian Minister of Culture and Innovation, provides academic rigor and insights into technological advancements and innovation policy.
- Andrew Lim, a Partner at Allen & Gledhill, offers critical legal and governance expertise, essential for a global organization.
- Jessica Tan, Group Executive Vice President and President of Sunlife Canada, brings extensive experience in the financial services sector, particularly in insurance and wealth management.
- Sopnendu Mohanty, the Group Chief Executive Officer-Designate for GFTN and Chief FinTech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, is poised to drive the network's operational and strategic fintech initiatives.
This diverse composition of the Board, spanning academia, law, corporate leadership, and financial regulation, ensures a well-rounded and robust governance framework for GFTN.
The International Advisory Board: A Beacon of Global Expertise
Complementing the Board of Directors, GFTN will also benefit from the guidance of an International Advisory Board. This board is composed of eminent leaders from both public and private sectors, individuals who have consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to public interest and global progress. Their role is to provide strategic counsel and insights, helping GFTN navigate broader geopolitical and economic trends, and ensuring its initiatives remain impactful and globally relevant.
Distinguished Members of the International Advisory Board
The initial roster of the International Advisory Board is impressive, featuring figures recognized for their significant contributions on the world stage:
- Dominic Barton, Chairman of LeapFrog Investments and Rio Tinto, and former Global Managing Partner of McKinsey & Company, offers unparalleled strategic and global business leadership.
- Hon. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation for the Republic of Rwanda, provides a vital perspective on technology adoption and digital transformation in emerging economies.
- Eric Jing, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ant Group, and Chairman of Ant International, brings expertise from one of the world's leading fintech innovators.
- Dr Patrick Njoroge, former Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, offers deep insights into central banking, financial stability, and African financial markets.
- Dr Veerathai Santiprabhob, former Governor of the Bank of Thailand, contributes extensive experience in monetary policy and financial development in Southeast Asia.
- Dr Axel Weber, Advisor at Raisin, former Chairman of the Board at UBS Group AG, and former President of the Deutsche Bundesbank, brings vast experience from European banking and central monetary policy.
The caliber of these advisors underscores GFTN's ambition to draw upon the best global minds to shape its agenda and impact.
A Future Forged Through Collaboration and Innovation
In a statement regarding the appointments, Mr. Ravi Menon expressed his enthusiasm for the path ahead. "I am honoured to be joined by an outstanding group of individuals on the Board of Directors and International Advisory Board. I look forward to welcoming more members to both the Board of Directors and the International Advisory Board as we expand GFTN’s work in harnessing innovation in financial ecosystems to create economic opportunity, strengthen resilience, improve people’s lives, and secure a more inclusive and sustainable future for all," shared Mr. Menon.
This sentiment encapsulates GFTN's overarching vision: to act as a catalyst for positive change in the global financial landscape. By fostering innovation and forging strong partnerships, GFTN aims to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today. This includes leveraging fintech to enhance financial inclusion for underserved populations, building robust financial systems capable of withstanding economic shocks, and driving sustainable finance initiatives that align with global climate action goals. The combined expertise of its boards will be instrumental in identifying emerging trends, developing pragmatic solutions, and advocating for policies that support a future where finance and technology work in concert for the betterment of all.
The Global Finance & Technology Network, with its distinguished leadership and clear mission, is poised to play a transformative role in shaping a more dynamic, equitable, and sustainable global financial future. The announcement of its boards is not just a formal step but a strong declaration of intent to drive meaningful change through collective intelligence and concerted action.
