The Bhutanese Leading the way.
Dorji Namgyal Rinchhen has taken over as the Chief Executive Officer of Bhutan National Bank (BNB), assuming leadership of one of Bhutan’s established commercial banks as the financial sector undergoes rapid digital transformation and faces changing customer expectations.
Dorji Namgyal Rinchhen previously served as BNB’s Director of Customer Experience, a role that involved him closely in areas including customer service and the bank’s efforts to develop its services. BNB’s current management information lists him among the bank’s senior management.
Speaking about his priorities, Dorji said his focus as CEO would be to strengthen the way BNB serves the nation by combining modern banking technology with the trust customers have placed in the bank over the years.
He said technology and digital transformation will play an increasingly important role in making banking more accessible, efficient and convenient, while the bank’s growth will remain grounded in responsible banking and strong customer relationships.
He said BNB will continue to strengthen its digital capabilities, improve service standards and expand access to financial services as customer needs and Bhutan’s financial sector evolve. He added that the bank’s approach would be guided by prudent management, responsible decision-making and innovation, alongside continued investment in its employees and a culture of professionalism, accountability and service.
BNB’s emphasis on technology builds on a long history of introducing digital and technology-based banking services in Bhutan. The bank introduced ATM services in 2004 and internet banking in 2007, followed by mobile banking, payment and other digital services. It also introduced a micro-branch concept in 2010 to reach people who were underserved by conventional banking services.
BNB was established following the conversion of the Unit Trust of Bhutan into a commercial bank and became Bhutan’s second commercial bank. It also became the first financial institution in Bhutan to float an initial public offering in 1996, marking an important development in public ownership of financial institutions.
The bank describes its purpose as providing “financial choice through innovation” and says its development has been shaped by public ownership, technology and continued engagement with customers.
Dorji Namgyal Rinchhen said BNB’s role extends beyond providing financial services, with its support for individuals and businesses contributing to wider economic development.
He said the bank would continue to support the wellbeing of Bhutanese people, business growth and the national economy by responding to changing customer needs and providing reliable and accessible financial services.
“The purpose that has guided the bank since its founding will continue to guide every decision we make in the years ahead,” BNB CEO Dorji Namgyal Rinchhen said.
