Women in the banking industry took a leap forward in 1903, with Maggie Lena Walker establishing a chartered bank in the US. Since then, women’s leadership has evolved to allow women leaders to shape financing, investment, and other banking services. Kim Thompson, Director of Corporate for Equity Bank Bahamas Limited, is one such exemplary women leader who has taken the banking business to a new height.
As The CEO Views recognized her outstanding contribution to shaping the future of Equity Bank Bahamas by awarding her as one of the “Most Inspiring Women Leaders to Watch 2025,” Kim joined us for a candid conversation to reflect on her leadership journey with the bank.
A Passion Shaping a Vision
Kim Thompson’s journey to entrepreneurship is highly inspired by her father’s journey into the financial industry. While she was finding her way to a promising career, Kim observed her father’s endeavors in the banking sector while pursuing his MBA and was captivated by his ambitious determination to win trust in the field as a prominent figure. Eventually, her father became a major shareholder of Equity Bahamas Limited. In Kim’s voice, “Although I yearned for my father’s mentorship, he never urged me to emulate him; instead, he encouraged me to pursue my passions.”
Her interest in children with special needs compelled her to pursue an undergraduate degree in Psychology. She commenced her professional journey as a welfare officer and diverted from the banking sector.
Although Kim followed her interest, she did not find fulfillment in her job. She extended her interest in the financial industry by working at Equity Bank’s administrative department alongside her father. With a background in psychology, she was exposed to corporate administration and human resources as her expertise facilitated her involvement in office administration and HR.
By shaping her vision to become a significant part of the banking industry, Kim ignited her passion for this sector and continued further training. As a result, she smoothly transitioned into trust and later became the CEO of a subsidiary bank, Equity Trust Bahamas Limited.
A Knowledge-Powered Leadership
Kim’s professional career is attributed to her tapestry of knowledge and expertise that shaped her leadership approach. Her education in psychology, pastoral counseling, and human resource management has equipped her communication ability, allowing her to communicate effectively with clients and employees. Advanced education in the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners empowered her to represent the trust and corporate sectors of the company.
Kim’s master’s and doctorate degrees in the conflict resolution analysis field proved advantageous for all facets of the business. While working at the junior level of the Equity Bank, she closely observed operations, and this helped her to work and serve clients worldwide.
Her journey from an administrator to a trust officer and later a member of senior management allowed her to appreciate each component as she climbed the corporate ladder to CEO of Equity Trust with a front office client service team. Now, Kim serves as the Director of Trust and Corporate and Human Resources; Senior Official 2, and Company Secretary for Equity Bank.
About Equity Bank Bahamas Limited
Equity has always focused on serving clients with professionalism, which includes confidence, strength, integrity, and independence. However, with the growing changes in the industry over the years, this banking business was nimble in transition with its regulatory requirements. Its strategy was not to serve clients but to gain their trust for its economy and expertise in the financial industry. In order to keep pace with the evolving industry, the company focused on transparency and accountability while delivering products and services. For example, during Hurricane Dorain in 2019, followed by COVID-19 in 2020, Equity opted for climate modification to bounce back from the devastating impacts of both.
Going Above and Beyond
Equity commenced its journey as a licensed specialized fiduciary company serving high-net-worth clients. Later, it broadened its offerings to include banking products, investment management services, fund administration, and fintech affiliates across the Bahamas and Switzerland. At present, the company serves international and domestic clients. It has also embraced technology to amplify client communication globally.
Recognizing transparency as the cornerstone of trust-building, Equity ensures clients recognize its identity and the individuals responsible for its products. The dedicated team fosters positive relationships and effectively communicates with each client to cater to their individual needs. “Maintaining loyal clients throughout the years of the company’s existence has showcased our capability to persuade,” shares Kim.
Inspiring Leaders and Empowering Women
As an inspiring leader, Kim emphasizes self-reflection as an imperative parameter for successful leaders to enhance their comprehension of interactions with others. In her view, integrity, compassion, and resilience are key to building a strong and good relationship. She also believes that leaders’ ability to communicate their vision and allow others to express themselves without being judged is crucial for trust-building.
Kim presumes that leaders must be competent enough to share their vision, letting others understand their roles and tasks involved in being led. As a transformational leader, she believes in living the talk and demonstrating a positive and empathetic attitude toward other women to let them follow.
Conquering the Future
Equity aspires to expand its products and services to enhance client satisfaction. Kim encourages the company to strive for progress to avoid the risk of falling behind. It aims to be prepared for any change in the future, be it on a global scale or within a domestic sphere, while demonstrating a positive attitude towards employees.
Beaconing Women Leadership
Kim proclaims that women aspiring to enter the realm of entrepreneurship must be confident and persistent in chasing their dreams. Envisioning goals and aspirations propel an individual toward a bright future. In her opinion, failure is a valuable learning tool rather than an option. Kim encourages aspiring women leaders to have no regrets in their endeavors.
The immediate goal is to ensure that employees are prepared to deliver quality services while also being adaptable to catering to the varied age groups. – Dr. Kim Thompson, CEO
