THE National People’s Cooperative Bank (Ja) Limited (NPCB) has reappointed its national board of directors and, in a landmark achievement, announced the appointment of its first-ever female chairperson, Kemilee Mclymont.

“Ms Mclymont’s appointment represents a defining moment in the bank’s history and underscores the board’s commitment to progressive, forward-looking leadership as we chart the next chapter of growth and resilience,” said General Manager Donovan Cunningham.

The reappointed board has set a clear priority — strengthening the bank’s financial foundation. This includes reinforcing prudent risk management; enhancing governance, internal controls; and ensuring long-term sustainability.

“Our foremost responsibility is safeguarding the financial health and stability of this institution,” said Mclymont. “Every product we design and every service we deliver must rest on that solid foundation.”

Mclymont brings to the role her distinguished expertise as an attorney-at-law, businesswoman, and hotelier, coupled with over a decade of service to the bank as corporate secretary and, more recently, as director.

The board has outlined an ambitious agenda to modernise member engagement, including expanded outreach to reconnect with communities across Jamaica and raise awareness of the bank’s offerings; enhanced customer service, supported by staff training, digital tools, and streamlined processes to make banking faster, easier, and more personal; and a renewed member- first philosophy, rooted in cooperative values, ensuring every interaction reflects care, transparency, and respect.

“We are not simply refining what exists — we are reimagining how this bank serves its members,” Mclymont added. “That means listening closely to their needs and building solutions that truly improve their financial lives.”

The board expressed confidence in the bank’s management and staff, reaffirming its commitment to collaboration in achieving these goals. Updates on new initiatives, products, and services will be shared in the coming months.

Founded in 1905, NPCB remains dedicated to its cooperative principles of mutual support, shared prosperity, and service to the Jamaican people.

“The National People’s Cooperative Bank is 121 years old — a true Jamaican legacy of endurance, setbacks, and reinvention,” Mclymont stated. “It is now time for that legacy to shine, and with the unwavering support of our members that is exactly what we intend to do.”

NPCB has served Jamaican members and communities for generations, offering a range of banking products and services rooted in cooperation and mutual benefit. More than a bank, NPCB is on a mission to nurture growth and sow the seeds of success in rural communities across Jamaica.