Leadership Transition at JN Bank

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A Statement from Hon. Earl Jarrett, OJ

Deputy Chairman and CEO, The Jamaica National Group

I have had the privilege of watching Leesa Kow lead and grow since she first became a member of the JN team. What I have observed over these years is not simply a talented executive. It is someone who understands what Jamaica National is about. JN exists for the Jamaican people. For the family sending money home. For the first time homebuyer. For the entrepreneur seeking their first business account. Leesa never lost sight of that.

She came in 2003 and, over two decades, touched several key areas of this Group: remittances, marketing, international operations, and, in time, the leadership of JN Bank itself. She did not merely occupy roles in those areas. She contributed to their transformation.

I also want to say something directly about this moment. I am aware that some will look for meaning in this transition beyond what is actually here. I want to be plain: Leesa’s departure is her decision, made on her own terms, at a time of her choosing. It is not a symptom of anything. It is the closure of a remarkable career at JN, handled with the same dignity and professionalism that has characterised everything Leesa has done.

Keith Levy

Jamaica National is an institution built for the long term. We have stood for more than a century and a half because we have always found the right people for the right roles. Keith Levy’s appointment as Interim Managing Director reflects that same principle, bringing depth, governance experience, and a thorough knowledge of the bank to a period of structured transition.

To Leesa: thank you. For everything you have given, everything you have built, and everything you have modelled for the next generation of leaders at JN and across this industry. We wish you well in all that lies ahead.

Hon. Earl Jarrett, OJ, CD, JP

Deputy Chairman and CEO, The Jamaica National Group