Former HSBC Malta CEO Mark Watkinson retires from Bank One and plans return to Malta

Mark Watkinson, a formerly well-known figure in Malta’s corporate world, has announced his retirement after a successful four-and-a-half-year tenure as CEO of Bank One, based in Mauritius. Mr Watkinson, who previously served as CEO of HSBC Malta between 2011 and 2015, revealed his decision through a LinkedIn post, where he also shared his plans to relocate to Malta in early 2025.

Reflecting on his time at Bank One, Mr Watkinson described his experience as an "amazing journey" that allowed him to unlock significant opportunities for the business across Sub-Saharan Africa. During his tenure, he played a key role in leading the bank's expansion and growth initiatives, which cemented its position in the region.

In addition to his leadership at Bank One, Mr Watkinson also served as Chair of the Mauritius Bankers Association and the Mauritius Institution of Directors, highlighting his influence within the financial sector of Mauritius. He also held a 33-year career as a banker with the HSBC Group, during which time he held senior leadership roles in 10 countries in North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Mr Watkinson's return to Malta has been welcomed by some noteworthy names in the local business community. Commenting on Mr Watkinson’s LinkedIn announcement, Bank of Valletta CEO Kenneth Farrugia, iMovo Managing Director Pierre Mallia, former Malta Financial Services Authority Head of Comms Franco Aloisio and Director of Hudson Holdings George Amato all congratulated Mr Watkinson for his retirement and look forward to his return to the island.

Indeed, locally he was a well-known figure during his years at HSBC Malta. His relocation to the island is expected to be completed in early 2025, as he embarks on the next chapter of his life post-retirement.