Windward Islands Bank Announces Leadership Change as Daisy Tyrol-Carolus Retires, Camillo Bakhuis Named Successor

GREAT BAY--MCB Group has announced a leadership transition at Windward Islands Bank (WIB) in St. Maarten, with longtime Country Head Daisy Tyrol-Carolus set to retire effective December 31, 2026, and experienced Caribbean banking executive Camillo Bakhuis appointed to succeed her.

Bakhuis will officially join WIB on November 1, 2026, as Country Head St. Maarten Designate, allowing for a two-month transition period before he assumes responsibility for the bank's operations following Tyrol-Carolus' retirement.

The announcement marks the conclusion of Tyrol-Carolus' longstanding career within MCB Group, including her leadership of Windward Islands Bank, one of St. Maarten's established financial institutions.

According to MCB Group, Tyrol-Carolus has played an important role in the bank's development, demonstrating leadership, extensive knowledge of the financial sector and a commitment to customers, employees and stakeholders.

The Group credited her experience and relationships within the St. Maarten community with helping strengthen WIB's position and laying the groundwork for its continued development.

Throughout her tenure, Tyrol-Carolus has contributed to the institution's operations and its engagement with the broader community. MCB Group expressed its appreciation for her years of service, acknowledging her contributions both locally and across the banking group.

Her successor, Camillo Bakhuis, brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the Caribbean financial services sector. His professional background includes senior management and executive responsibilities in banking operations, risk management, credit administration and organizational development.

Bakhuis has previously worked in St. Maarten and will return to the country with knowledge of its business environment and familiarity with the local community.

MCB Group said his regional banking experience, strategic perspective and understanding of financial operations will be important as he assumes responsibility for WIB's continued development.

The bank emphasized that the transition has been structured to ensure continuity, with Tyrol-Carolus and Bakhuis expected to work closely together during November and December.

This period will provide an opportunity to transfer institutional knowledge, maintain important business relationships and support a smooth change in leadership.

MCB Group expressed confidence in Bakhuis' ability to guide WIB into its next phase, pointing to his experience across several areas of financial services and organizational management.

The Group described the planned succession as part of its broader commitment to responsible governance, leadership development and the continued strengthening of its banking operations throughout the Caribbean.

Windward Islands Bank has served the St. Maarten community for more than 65 years and operates as part of MCB Group, which maintains banking and financial services operations across the Dutch Caribbean.

In addition to its banking services, WIB supports community initiatives focused on education, social development and sustainable economic growth under its longstanding commitment to being Your Partner in Progress.

MCB Group thanked Tyrol-Carolus for her dedication and contributions to the organization while welcoming Bakhuis back to St. Maarten to lead the bank through its next chapter.

The leadership change will formally take effect following Tyrol-Carolus' retirement at the end of December 2026.

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