NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has a new chief executive, with Mrs Neikia Horton to assume the post effective February 1.
Horton succeeds Dr Tanya McCartney, who completed an eight-year tenure as BFSB’s CEO at the end of 2023. The announcement was made by LaTonia Symonette-Tinker, BFSB’s Chairman. Horton, an experienced senior executive with over two decades of experience in the financial services industry, has a strong background in governance, risk management, and accountancy. She has held senior positions at one of the world’s oldest and largest private banks. Horton has been a director for multiple investment and trust companies, developed and implemented policies and procedures on corporate governance, and overseen activities in various jurisdictions.
She previously served as Director and Deputy Chairperson of the Association of International Banks and Trusts (AIBT) and as a Director of the Bahamas Financial Services Board, having supported numerous industry initiatives and working groups.
Horton holds a Master’s in Business Administration with a minor in International Business from the University of Miami. She is a licensed Chartered Accountant (CA), Chartered Director (C. Dir), and a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). She is also a member of the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants.
“Niekia’s extensive experience in financial services, qualifications, and her tenure on the boards of both BFSB and AIBT position her well for success in her new role”, said Tinker in making the announcement.
“Her senior management background in various aspects of the financial services industry combined with her proven leadership and communications skills brings the experience and expertise that are required in the role of CEO. We are delighted Niekia has accepted the position and confident she will provide the strategic leadership expected from the industry and which is required to deal with the complex issues facing the industry both locally and internationally.”
Her career has seen Horton serve as a director for multiple investment and trust companies, develop and implement policies and procedures on corporate governance, and oversee activities in various jurisdictions. She has also earned multiple credentials, including Chartered Accountant, Senior Professional in Human Resources, and Certified Public Accountant.
Horton, upon accepting the position, stated: “I am truly honored to have been selected for the position and look forward to following in the footsteps and building on the legacies of the former BFSB CEOs in promoting The Bahamas as an international financial center and serving as an advocate for the industry.”
Apart from her professional accomplishments, Horton is passionate about education, reading, and supporting others in achieving their goals. She is a big fan of TED Talks and enjoys the exchange of ideas, as well as the challenge of turning a concept into reality. Horton is married and has three children.
