The Reserve Bank Board comprises four(4) members:
- Andrew Kauisiama
Mr. Andrew Kausiama became Chairman of the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu Board of Directors in 2020, previously serving as Governor of RBV from 1998 to 2003. He held various positions within the Vanuatu government, including First Political Advisor and First Political Secretary to the Prime Minister's Office, and First Secretary roles in the Ministry of Trade and Ministry of Finance. Earlier in his career, he served as a Planning and Development Officer at the University of the South Pacific's Laucala Campus.
Mr. Kausiama's extensive board experience includes chairing the RBV Board of Directors, serving on the boards of Air Vanuatu and Vanuatu Terminal Services, chairing the National Housing Corporation Board, and acting as Vice Chairman of the Censorship Board. He also held research positions at the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu, including Research Officer, Senior Research Officer, Principal Research Officer, and Acting Director of Research.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Political History from the University of the South Pacific and a Master's degree in Commerce with a focus on Economics from the University of Wollongong, Australia.
2. August Letlet
Mr. August Letlet - Governor of the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu
Mr. August Letlet has been appointed as the new Governor of the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu. Prior to this role, he served as the Director General under the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management. In this capacity, he was responsible for financial and economic policy development and implementation, engaging in rigorous policy analysis, and formulating policy recommendations for government officials. His leadership involved preparing the national budget, allocating resources, and managing public finances, demonstrating his effective leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
Governor Letlet brings extensive experience and expertise in public finance, economics, financial management, policy analysis, international economics and finance, statistical analysis, legal and regulatory frameworks, and a deep understanding of financial principles. His proven leadership in the government financial sector and the banking community, as well as his strategic planning abilities, have enabled him to drive targeted economic policies and investment strategies both domestically and internationally.
Mr. Letlet's financial dexterity in managing public funds and making informed decisions will be crucial as the Reserve Bank pursues its established mandates and strategic priorities in the coming years. His competent understanding of key sectoral knowledge in the economy will undoubtedly contribute to the Bank's mission of fostering economic stability and growth.
3. Serah Obed
Mrs. Serah Obed joined the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu Board of Directors in 2020 and currently serves as CEO of VANWODS MFI, alongside other consultancy engagements. Previously, she held the role of Deputy Commissioner at the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC) for 19 years until 2019. During her tenure, Mrs. Obed specialized in anti-money laundering regulation, supervising non-bank entities and designated non-financial businesses and professions, and gained expertise in taxation and audit.
Before her work at the VFSC, Mrs. Obed served as a Senior Auditor and Principal Auditor at the Auditor General’s Office. She possesses extensive knowledge in financial and forensic accounting, financial analysis, company financial statements, and financial performance evaluation.
Mrs. Obed holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Studies with a focus on Accounting from the University of New England, Lismore, NSW. She furthered her education with a Bachelor of Management and a Masters of Business Administration from Revans University.
4.Steven Tahi
Mr. Steven Tahi was appointed to the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu Board of Directors in 2021. With extensive experience in land management and reforms, he held principal roles in the Ministry of Lands for 14 years before transitioning to a 15-year private consultancy practice. As a qualified valuer, Mr. Tahi offers expertise on market development and trends.
Additionally, Mr. Tahi is well-versed in Vanuatu's legislation, practicing law as a recognized associate of a local law firm in Vanuatu.