|
Scotiabank officially opened its first branch in St. Maarten on November 2nd 1969, at 59 Back Street, directly across from where the Philipsburg branch is currently located. A journey through documents from back then revealed that the financial institution started off with 8 employees. The doors were officially opened by Paul MacDonald, Scotias first Manager in St. Maarten and Peter Van Laren, who was the first Accountant (Operations Manager).
The historical act back then signified Scotias unwavering faithfulness to the island and the Caribbean; Scotiabanks relationship with the region was written in stone in 1889 when it opened its Jamaica branch; the first Canadian bank to establish presence in the region.
On September 10th, 1983 a new 8,000 square foot head office across the street from the initial building on Back Street was opened with much fanfare. Lt. Governor Ralph Richardson and Scotiabanks Regional Manager Gorden Tattrie were among the dignitaries who joined then Scotiabank St.Maarten Manager W.G. Carson at the event. At that time Scotiabank employed 30 people.
Five years later, the building was expanded: a testimony of Scotiabanks growth potential in St.Maarten. In the 90s the building was expanded yet another time. Branches had also opened at Carib Lumber Park, and in Simpson Bay (1982). The number of staff had grown as well to more than 60 people. The Country Manager was Peter van Schie.
Scotiabank St.Maarten offered the people of St. Maarten a new way of banking with the introduction of checking accounts with statements. The bank was also the first to introduce promotional products encouraging customers to buy into its new and innovative services.
Since opening its doors in 1969, management always recognized the importance of supporting the community. There was always room for support to charitable organizations and foundations, education, health and sporting activities, and numerous Government initiatives.
|
