San Pedro’s Gladys Urbina elected new president of the Belize Financial Industry Association

Gladys Urbina was elected President of the Belize Financial Industry Association (BFIA) during its annual general meeting on December 11, 2024. This transition signifies a notable change from its previous name, the Belize International Financial Services Association (BIFSA), reflecting a broader focus on the financial sector in Belize. BFIA is a corporate entity composed of professionals from Belize’s International Financial Services industry, managed by a management committee.

In addition to promoting self-regulation within the private sector of this industry, the President of the BFIA also holds a seat on the Financial Services Commission, the official government body responsible for supervising and regulating the activities of the International Financial Services sector in Belize. Urbina brings extensive experience to her new role, having served as the Director of BIFSA since 2023. She has a strong background in the banking industry, demonstrating expertise in risk management, customer service, and strategic planning.



Currently, Urbina holds the position of Chief Operations Officer at Caye International Bank , where she has gained significant knowledge of international banking regulations and compliance standards. Urbina’s academic credentials significantly add to her qualifications. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Galen University and has earned the Anti-Money Laundering Certified Associate (AMLCA) certification.

Additionally, she has obtained a Correspondent Banking certification from Florida International University in collaboration with the Financial and International Business Association (FIBA). Urbina is also an Executive Committee Member of the Belize Bankers Association. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development is reflected in her certifications.

As President, Urbina plans to boost the association’s role in promoting Belize as a competitive financial services hub. She emphasizes adapting to global financial trends and innovations, particularly in digital banking and fintech solutions. Her vision includes fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders to create a robust regulatory framework that supports sustainable growth within the financial sector.

Urbina’s leadership style is characterized by her focus on building strong teams and encouraging professional development among her colleagues. She believes empowering individuals within the industry will improve service delivery and greater customer satisfaction. Her election as president of BFIA comes at a crucial time for Belize’s financial services industry, which faces challenges such as regulatory changes and increasing competition from international markets.

Under her leadership, the BFIA is expected to advocate for policies that enhance operational efficiency and attract foreign investment. Furthermore, Urbina’s commitment to ethical standards and compliance will be vital in maintaining the integrity of Belize’s financial services sector. She aims to ensure BFIA members adhere to best practices, enhancing Belize’s reputation as a reliable financial jurisdiction.

Urbina’s presidency signifies a proactive approach to navigating the complexities of Belize’s financial landscape. Her extensive experience, strong educational background, and dedication to ethical practices position her well to lead the association into a new era focused on innovation and collaboration within the industry. As she embarks on this new chapter, Urbina’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of Belize’s financial services sector.

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