William Mason has been named the new director general of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission upon Nik van Leuven’s retirement.
Mason previously held the role of head of risk at the Central Bank of Ireland, where he led the development and implementation of its PRISM supervisory methodology. Prior to this role Mason worked for the UK Financial Services Authority.
Commissioner Chairman Cees Schrauwers, who led the selection process, said: “There was substantial interest in the role and the search for the right candidate has been rigorous. The commission appointed a UK executive search company, Hanson Green, and a long list of 16 was drawn up from applicants arising from a candidate pool of some 150 people, with four making the final interview shortlist.”
“The recruitment specialist consulted widely with representatives of Guernsey’s financial services industry and other relevant parties before commencing with the process.”
Commenting on his new appointment, Mason said: “Guernsey is a mature and highly regarded financial services jurisdiction. I very much look forward to leading the commission at a time when global financial services and markets continue to face many pressures and challenges.”
Van Leuven said: “I have come to know Mason recently through our consulting him on the PRISM project being undertaken for the Central Bank of Ireland. I am certain his knowledge and experience will be of great value to the commission in these times of threat and change.”
