Access Financial Services Limited has announced the appointment of its founder, Marcus James as Executive Chairman of the company effective June 3, 2021.

He takes over the role of Chairman from Christopher Williams, who remains a director of the microfinance company. Consequent on these changes, James Morrison an independent, non-executive director has been appointed Lead Independent Director.

James, who founded Access Financial in 2000, headed the company as CEO from its inception until 2019 when he took on the role of Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with the acquisition of Embassy Loans Inc.; a wholly-owned subsidiary located in Florida. James has skillfully guided the growth and expansion of Access Financial, which is regarded as one of the leading microfinance institutions in the Caribbean.

With his vast wealth of experience and knowledge, the Board of Access Financial is confident in James’ ability to provide strong leadership and direction of the Board and Management.

Frederick Williams promoted CEO

With James’ appointment, Frederick Williams has been promoted to CEO with direct responsibility for the execution of expansion and acquisition strategies and maximizing synergies across the Access Financial Services Group. The Board of Directors has thanked Williams, who is the CEO of Proven Group, for his diligence as Chairman and looks forward to his continued sage advice and counsel to the management of the company.

Access Financial is a leading microfinance institution in Jamaica with an islandwide presence, offering a wide range of business and personal loans to the microfinance sector; a sector which contributes significantly to economic growth. Access Financial was incorporated in 2000 and was the first company to list on the Junior Market of the Jamaica Stock Exchange in 2009.

Access Financial Services declares dividend

Access Financial has advised that their Board of Directors approved a dividend payment to its ordinary shareholders at the board meeting held on June 3, 2021. The dividend payment is outlined below:
• Dividend per share – $0.20
• Record Date – June 18, 2021
• Payment Date – July 2, 2021, The ex-dividend date is June 17, 2021.