CIBC Caribbean Appoints First Caribbean National, Monique French, as Chief Risk Officer

Monique French’s Appointment as CIBC Caribbean CRO: A Landmark Achievement for Caribbean Banking and Women in Leadership

The Caribbean banking industry witnessed a historic moment on May 1, 2025, with the appointment of Monique French, CFA, FRM, MBA, as Chief Risk Officer (CRO) of CIBC Caribbean. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as French becomes the first Caribbean national to hold this prestigious position within the institution. Her selection, announced by CIBC Caribbean CEO Mark St. Hill, recognizes French’s exceptional qualifications, extensive experience, and proven track record of success within the financial sector. St. Hill lauded French as "eminently qualified," emphasizing the significance of her appointment not only for CIBC Caribbean but also for the entire region. This groundbreaking appointment underscores the growing recognition of Caribbean talent and expertise on the global financial stage, setting a precedent for future leadership appointments within the region.

French’s journey to the C-suite is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and leadership within the financial industry. With over two decades of experience, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional capabilities in various senior executive roles. Before her promotion to CRO, French served as Chief Credit Officer at CIBC Caribbean, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the bank’s credit policies, managing portfolio risk appetite, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Her strategic oversight of credit structuring and monitoring significantly contributed to the bank’s robust performance and resilience across diverse markets. As CRO, French assumes responsibility for enterprise-wide risk management, a critical function that will directly influence CIBC Caribbean’s overall risk posture and long-term stability. Her leadership in this crucial area will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the financial landscape and ensuring the bank’s continued success.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Monique French is a recognized advocate for women in leadership. She actively champions gender diversity within the financial sector, leading CIBC Caribbean’s Women’s Network. This platform provides mentorship, professional development opportunities, and networking avenues for women across the bank’s Caribbean footprint. French’s commitment to empowering women in finance is further exemplified by her recognition in the prestigious WeQual Awards in 2021. She was among only eight women across the Americas to receive this accolade, which celebrates female executives poised for top leadership positions. French’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and promoting gender equality makes her a role model for aspiring female leaders within the financial industry.

French’s distinguished academic background and professional credentials solidify her position as a leading figure in Caribbean finance. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of the West Indies and an MBA in Finance from the prestigious Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario in Canada. Furthermore, she has earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Financial Risk Manager (FRM) designations, demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence and expertise in financial analysis and risk management. Currently, she serves as Vice President of the CFA Society of Jamaica, contributing to the development and advancement of the financial profession within the region. These credentials underscore her deep understanding of financial markets and her ability to navigate the complex challenges facing the banking industry.

French’s appointment as CRO has been met with widespread acclaim throughout the Caribbean, signaling a significant step forward for the region’s representation in global banking. Industry insiders and regional leaders alike have celebrated her achievement as a powerful symbol of Caribbean excellence and a testament to the progress being made in gender diversity within the financial sector. Her rise to the C-suite is not just a personal victory but a resounding affirmation that Caribbean women have the talent, expertise, and leadership qualities to excel in the highest echelons of the global financial industry. This appointment serves as an inspiration to aspiring professionals and reinforces the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and success within the banking sector.

Monique French’s story is one of dedication, perseverance, and breaking barriers. Her journey from the Caribbean to the C-suite is an inspiration to aspiring professionals, particularly women, across the region. Her appointment as CRO of CIBC Caribbean is a testament to her exceptional capabilities, unwavering commitment to excellence, and her passion for empowering women in finance. This historic moment underscores the growing recognition of Caribbean talent on the global stage and signifies a significant step towards greater diversity and inclusion in the financial industry. French’s leadership is poised to shape the future of risk management at CIBC Caribbean and inspire a new generation of leaders in the region.