NCB Financial Group Limited (NCBFG) advises that the Honourable Michael Lee-Chin, OJ has indicated that he is taking a leave of absence effective immediately from the Boards of NCBFG, National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCBJ) and Guardian Holdings Limited (GHL) to allow him to focus on certain pressing business and personal matters. He anticipates these taking approximately three months.

I understand that the recent announcement that our Board Chairman has decided take a temporary leave of absence may have caused some concerns and questions. I want to address these directly and reassure you that your confidence in us remains our utmost priority.

The Honourable Michael Lee-Chin, OJ, has communicated that the decision to take this leave of absence will allow him to focus on certain personal and business matters, which he anticipates will take approximately three months. He has stated publicly that his decision does not arise from any health issues and that he is in good health. He has also shared some information regarding the business matters, speaking to the need for him to give more attention to his business in Canada as well as to ventures in precision oncology and clean energy.

In the interim, the seasoned and respected Professor the Honourable Alvin Wint, OJ, CD, has been appointed to chair the Board of NCB Financial Group Limited. Our robust corporate governance framework assures the seamless continuity of our leadership and operations, and we are confident in our ability to deliver the superior service you expect.

In addition to the strength of our Board of Directors, our executive team responsible for strategic direction and execution remains strong. As President and Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), with a financial services career spanning over 35 years, I have successfully guided and managed the NCB Group for nearly two decades. All our major subsidiaries have well qualified leaders. Our experienced and diverse executive team remains fully committed to delivering on our strategic initiatives for the benefit of our customers, employees, shareholders, and other key stakeholders.

Our operations remain robust and uninterrupted, and our unwavering commitment to you, our valued customer, remains strong. We continue to meet all regulatory capital requirements across the region and maintain the confidence of international creditors and ratings agencies.

yes indeed, all Caribbean people should be justifiably proud of his success.