The story of Emrie Brown RMB CEO is one of resilience, skill, and determination. After briefly leaving Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) to start a family, Brown returned within six months and went on to make history as the institution’s first female chief executive in 2022.
Key Milestones in Brown’s Career
Brown studied accounting at the University of Pretoria and graduated cum laude as a Chartered Accountant. After roles at KPMG and Nedbank, she joined RMB in 2001. Rising quickly, she led leveraged finance, headed the Western Cape investment banking team, and later became co-head, then sole head, of the Investment Banking Division by 2019. Under her leadership, the division won multiple awards and drove significant growth.
Appointment as RMB CEO
In October 2022, Brown was officially appointed as RMB CEO, succeeding James Formby. She described the role as both an honour and a challenge to build on the bank’s strong foundation while shaping its next phase of growth. Her appointment also marked a breakthrough moment for gender diversity in South African banking leadership.
Financial Performance Under Brown’s Leadership
RMB’s latest results show profit before tax rising 9% to R6.7 billion in the second half of 2024. The South African unit grew 11%, while African operations rose 12% in local currencies. Although return on equity dipped to 18.3%, investment banking remained a strong performer. Net interest income grew by 9% on core advances, while deposits delivered double-digit growth. Lower credit impairments, down 17% to R516 million, added further resilience.
Outlook for RMB Under Brown
As Emrie Brown RMB CEO, she faces the task of guiding the bank through a difficult global and local economic climate while expanding across Africa and maintaining international ties through offices in the UK, US, India, and China. Her journey — from leaving RMB to returning and becoming its first female chief executive — reflects resilience, leadership, and a renewed vision for the bank’s futur
