The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has announced its new executive structure as part of its commitment to becoming a modern, digital, and trusted central bank under its recently developed “Vision 2050” strategy.
The announcement follows a detailed and extensive strategy development process over the past two years. Since its establishment in 1973, the Bank's role has evolved significantly, and the new structure is designed to meet the changing needs of Papua New Guinea’s people and the global economy.
With this, BPNG aims to leverage local expertise and strengthen the future development of the national banking system.
The Bank confirmed the following executive appointments:
Deputy Governor, Monetary Policy & Financial Operations: Mr. Jeffery Yabom -- Mr. Yabom has over 33 years of experience with the Bank. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Papua New Guinea, a Postgraduate Diploma in Economics, and a Master of Arts in Economics from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Assistant Governor for the Monetary and Economic Policy Group.
Assistant Governor, Currency Services and Branch Operations Group: Mr. Ron Sikar -- Mr. Sikar joined the Bank in 1988 and holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Banking from Massey University, New Zealand, and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Papua New Guinea. He was previously the Assistant Governor, Corporate Affairs.
Assistant Governor, Financial System Development & Innovation Group: Mr. George Awap -- With over 36 years of experience in Economics and Supervision, Mr. Awap holds a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of New England, Australia. He was formerly the Assistant Governor of the Financial System Stability Group.
Assistant Governor, Financial System Regulations & Supervision Group: Mrs. Sabina Deklin -- Mrs. Deklin has over 24 years of experience in Policy and Supervision with the Bank. She holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Torrens University, Australia. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Head of the Supervision Department and Acting Assistant Governor for the Financial System Regulations and Supervision Group.
Assistant Governor, Monetary & Economic Policy Group: Mrs. Williamina Hubert -- Mrs. Hubert holds a Master’s degree in International Development Economics from the Australian National University. With more than 23 years of work experience in Research and Economics, she was the Acting Assistant Governor for the Monetary and Economic Policy Group before her confirmation.
Assistant Governor, Financial Market Operations Group: Mr. Rowan Rupa -- Mr. Rupa has over 28 years of experience in Economics and Financial Markets. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Banking and Finance from Monash University, Australia, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Papua New Guinea. He was previously the Head of Financial Markets Department.
Assistant Governor, Payments & Banking Services Group: Mr. Alfred Napun -- Mr. Napun holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Central Queensland University, Australia. With more than 32 years of experience in Audit, Banking, and Payments Systems, he previously served as Manager of the Payments System Department.
Deputy Chief Operating Officer / Acting Chief Operating Officer: Mr. Mairi Mathew -- Mr. Mathew joined the Bank as a graduate in 2006 and has spent the majority of his 18-year career within the Operations group. He holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Torrens University, Australia. Prior to his current role, he was Manager of the Human Resources Department.
Future Executive Appointments
The Bank also announced that it is recruiting for additional executive roles, including a second Deputy Governor who will oversee Financial System Stability & Development and a permanent Chief Operating Officer.
New leadership positions such as Chief Risk Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Audit Officer will also be created to complement the new executive structure.
BPNG emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting the country's development through a robust financial system. Key priorities include strengthening financial inclusion, creating a modern and responsive payments system, and driving innovation and competition across the financial sector.
