In a landmark leadership announcement, Standard Chartered, a leading London-based global banking institution has named Maria Ramos, a distinguished South African banking veteran, as its new Group Chair.
Ramos, who brings decades of experience in banking, government, and corporate leadership, will succeed José Viñals, who is retiring after a transformative nine-year tenure. This appointment marks a significant moment for StanChart as it navigates a challenging global economic landscape and seeks to strengthen its position in key markets.
A strategic appointment for a global leader
Maria Ramos, who joined StanChart’s board as an independent non-executive director in January 2021, was selected following an “extensive global search.”
Her appointment, effective after the annual general meeting on May 8, 2025, is subject to regulatory approval. Ramos is widely recognised for her leadership as CEO of Absa Group from 2009 to 2019, where she oversaw the lender’s separation from Barclays and led its transformation into a leading African financial services group.
Her career also includes a pivotal role as director-general of South Africa’s National Treasury under the late President Nelson Mandela, where she played a key role in shaping the country’s post-apartheid economic policies.
“Maria is a proven leader with deep industry experience and strategic vision,” said Standard Chartered’s chief executive Bill Winters. “There is significant momentum in the business, and I am confident that Maria will help lead us as we innovate and execute for greater value for our clients and other stakeholders.”
Navigating global challenges
Ramos steps into her new role at a critical juncture for the bank, which is grappling with rising global trade tensions, particularly between the US (now under President Donald Trump) and China, and the need to diversify its revenue streams amid declining lending income.
One of her immediate priorities will be overseeing the succession planning for CEO Bill Winters, who is nearing the end of his ten-year tenure, the longest among major UK bank chiefs.
Winters’ leadership has seen the bank through significant restructuring, including the decision to scale back retail banking operations to focus on its wealth management business.
Under Viñals’ stewardship, Standard Chartered weathered a turbulent period that included the COVID-19 pandemic and a sluggish share price performance, which at one point fueled rumors of a potential takeover.
However, the bank’s fortunes have since turned around, with its share price rallying nearly 80% over the past year, driven by improved performance across its business lines and increased returns to shareholders.
A step forward for diversity and inclusion
Ramos’ appointment also marks a significant step forward for gender diversity in the traditionally male-dominated upper echelons of European banking.
Her leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to StanChart’s governance and strategic direction. “Maria is an experienced Chair who benefits from a successful career across the private and public sectors. Her knowledge of the banking sector, as well as a deep understanding of the Group’s unique footprint stood out,” said Phil Rivett, Chair of the company’s Selection Panel.
Streamlining operations and expanding wealth management
The bank has been streamlining its operations in recent years, exiting underperforming markets in Africa while doubling its assets under management in its wealth management business on the continent.
This growth has been largely fueled by its operations in Kenya and Nigeria, where the bank has seen significant success.
In addition to her new role, Ramos will relocate to London and step down from her position on the board of luxury goods company Richemont. She will receive an annual salary of £1.3 million, reflecting the significant responsibilities she will undertake.
A new chapter for the bank
Ramos’ appointment is the latest in a series of leadership changes at StanChart, which has seen the arrival of a new Chief Financial Officer and the departure of its head of corporate, commercial, and institutional banking.
As the bank prepares for this new chapter, all eyes will be on Ramos to see how she leverages her extensive experience to drive the institution forward in an increasingly competitive and unpredictable global market.
“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at Standard Chartered at an important time in its continued transformation,” Ramos said. “I look forward to working closely with the Board, Bill, the Management Team and our global colleagues to deliver the next phase of the Group’s strategy and unlock the enormous opportunities and growth potential of our business.”
