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Strategic leader strengthens Standard Bank team

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A bank’s truly diverse team on the Isle of Man has been further strengthened by the relocation of a strategic leader to the Island.

Ian Kirkland, who has worked for the bank in South Africa for nearly eight years, will now head up the Banking Operational Team and Contact Centre based in Douglas. His appointment swells the ranks of Standard Bank IoM who he has worked alongside during previous visits to Manx shores.

‘Standard Bank prides itself on professionalism and integrity and the opportunity to become part of such a dedicated and ambitious team in such a progressive environment is one that excites me,’ he explained.

‘I was fortunate to travel here once or twice a year through work and very quickly fell in love with the Island. It clearly has a proud heritage and culture, full of natural beauty with hidden magical treasures and mystical charm so the chance to live and work here was appealing. I was particularly astounded to find out that there are wallabies in the countryside on the Island!

‘Yes, the joys of starting a new job 9,000 miles away from what has been home during the current pandemic have been a little demanding, but incredibly challenging and exciting, learning to adapt to new ways of work, or as we call it now “the new normal”.’

Ian’s role on the Island will be to drive operational initiatives and enhance digital experiences for global clients through operational excellence, while helping develop the local team.

‘I have been fortunate to see great collaboration and meet great people with real talent across the Standard Bank Group and it’s important to help ensure my new colleagues not only reach their full potential but have fun at the same time,’ he added.

‘This is all about people, both clients and staff, and the team is clearly committed to providing high standards of client service so it is an exciting time to be relocating here. I’m particularly attracted by the variety of work and the fantastic client base.’

Amidst the COVID-19 global pandemic, Ian is waiting to move to the Island with his wife and two children.

He continued: ‘I love the idea of continuing to work for a global corporate organisation while maintaining a positive work-life balance. I have always found the Manx community to be incredibly friendly, approachable and welcoming. We are all looking forward to getting to know the Island.’

Chief Executive, Standard Bank Isle of Man Chris Till, said: ‘I’m delighted to welcome Ian to our team. His range of expertise and the significant operational experience which he brings will be an excellent addition to the senior team on the island.

‘He is no stranger to us, of course, but Ian has a wealth of knowledge and I am confident he will quickly become a valuable member of the business in the Isle of Man.’

 

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