Kina Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Akino Wano as General Manager Branch Banking. Ms. Akino brings over 20 years of experience to Kina Bank, beginning her career in the banking industry with ANZ as a Proof Operator, now known as Kina Automated Transfer System (KATs) Officer, where she developed a strong foundation and passion for banking. Her early years were grounded in back-office functions, and customer support-nurturing a passion for serving customers and driving better outcomes across banking channels. She went on to take on human resource roles within ANZ and BSP, where she deepened her understanding of people, culture, and leadership within the banking sector. Her career then expanded into the oil and gas and FMCG industries, including freelance consulting with the office of Member for Moresby South, where she provided administrative, advisory and strategic support across the industries she got in contact with. In 2018, Akino returned to banking with Kina Bank and has since held key senior leadership roles including Senior Business Partner and Head of Employee Experience. Her deep knowledge of banking, people, and operations—combined with her commitment to customer service—makes her well-positioned to lead Kina’s Branch network into its next phase of growth. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Business from the University of Tasmania and a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial & Organizational Psychology from the University of Papua New Guinea. Kina Bank’s Executive General Manager – Business and Retail Banking, Rayeleene Elston, stated, “We are confident that Akino’s leadership, operational background, and passion for serving customers will drive our branch banking network to new heights.” “Kina Bank is focused on developing local talent in Papua New Guinea to grow into future leaders.” “By supporting our people and giving them opportunities to strengthen their capabilities, we aim to build a strong team that contributes meaningfully to nation building,” she added.