GraceKennedy Limited (GK) is setting the stage for a transformational leadership shift within its financial services division, appointing Margaret Campbell as CEO of GraceKennedy Money Services (GKMS) and Steven Whittingham as CEO of GraceKennedy Financial Group (GKFG). These strategic moves come as part of a broader effort to enhance GK’s position in the Caribbean’s evolving financial landscape.
Margaret Campbell to Lead GKMS
Effective April 1, 2025, Margaret Campbell will assume leadership of GKMS, replacing outgoing CEO Grace Burnett, who is set to retire later this year. Campbell, currently serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO), brings nearly 30 years of experience in financial management and operations. Her previous roles include Financial Controller, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Country Manager for GKMS Jamaica.
As the President of the Jamaica Money Remitters Association and a Fellow Certified Chartered Accountant, Campbell has played a key role in strengthening regulatory compliance, driving regional expansion, and improving operational efficiency. Under her leadership, GKMS is expected to accelerate its digital transformation and expand its remittance and financial service offerings across the region.
Steven Whittingham to Take Helm at GKFG
Meanwhile, Steven Whittingham has been tapped as the next CEO of GraceKennedy Financial Group (GKFG), a transition set to take effect in August 2025. Whittingham has been a driving force behind GK’s growth through mergers, acquisitions, and fintech innovations. His leadership will be crucial as GKFG looks to navigate increasing competition in the Caribbean’s financial services sector.
With a strong background in investment management and digital banking, Whittingham is expected to focus on expanding GKFG’s footprint in insurance, banking, and payment solutions, reinforcing the company’s commitment to financial inclusion.
Lee-Anne Bruce Appointed as New COO of GKMS
Accompanying these executive shifts, Lee-Anne Bruce has been appointed as the new COO of GKMS, effective April 1, 2025. Bruce, currently Chief Audit Executive at GraceKennedy, has been with the company for over 20 years, previously serving as Group Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Risk Officer.
Bruce holds a business degree from Hofstra University’s Frank G. Zarb School of Business and is a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist, making her well-equipped to strengthen GKMS’s compliance framework and operational efficiency.
A Strategic Leadership Overhaul
These leadership changes come amid a larger corporate transition at GraceKennedy, following the recent appointment of Frank James as Group CEO. James took over from Don Wehby, whose tenure saw GK’s revenue surge from $58 billion in 2011 to $155 billion in 2023.
As GK sharpens its focus on digital banking, remittances, and regional financial expansion, these appointments reflect a strategic realignment aimed at sustaining growth and competitiveness in an increasingly digital and interconnected financial landscape.
With Campbell, Whittingham, and Bruce at the helm, GraceKennedy’s financial services arm is poised for a new era of innovation, stability, and market expansion heading into 2025 and beyond.
