John Wight, the group chief executive officer of BF&M Limited, is to retire at the end of the month.

Mr Wight, who became president and CEO of BF&M in 2005, will be succeeded as group CEO by Abigail Clifford, with effect from September 1.

Ms Clifford was appointed president and group chief operating officer, and CEO-designate, of BF&M last October.

Mr Wight will continue in his role as chairman of the board of BF&M Limited.

Anthony Joaquin, deputy chairman of BF&M Limited, said: “On behalf of the board of the BF&M Group, I would like to thank John for his years of dedication to this company as CEO.

“He has led the organisation with a steady hand, not only achieving strong financial performance but also establishing BF&M as a dedicated community partner.”

Mr Joaquin added: “Abigail has the full support of the board as she begins a new chapter for the company as CEO. She is an exceptional leader and she is ready to implement her strategic vision.”

Mr Wight said: “On a personal note I have been honoured to serve as CEO and I am exceptionally proud of the work the team has accomplished. It is my ongoing pleasure to continue to serve as chair of the board.

“I am delighted to pass on the baton to Abby. She has a deep understanding of the business and cares deeply about our clients, our staff and the communities in which we operate.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Abby in her new role as CEO and I wish her every success.”

Mr Wight joined the company in 1992. He became CFO in 1995 and served in the role until 2005, at which time he assumed the role of chief executive officer.

During his tenure, Mr Wight oversaw the expansion of the company from operating in the jurisdiction of Bermuda to 16 jurisdictions across the Caribbean region, as he led the organisation through significant growth.

He has served on the BF&M Ltd board of directors since 2005, becoming group chairman in 2019.