FIBA Elects New Board of Directors Headed by President Roberto R. Muñoz

Goals include sustaining industry advocacy, and amplifying FIBA’s influence statewide

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Florida International Bankers Association (FIBA), a Florida based, globally connected trade association representing many of the world’s most prestigious financial institutions, has elected Roberto R. Muñoz, incoming President beginning July 1, 2014.

A senior banking executive with over 35 years of experience, Muñoz is currently South Florida Market President for BBVA Compass, the 20^th largest US bank. His long history with FIBA includes multiple terms on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, and positions as Treasurer in 2012 and First VP in 2013.

Establishing goals for FIBA in his acceptance speech, Muñoz focused on continuing FIBA’s state and national advocacy for the financial services industry, and regulatory concerns, including BASEL III, FACTA and Dodd Frank.

Muñoz intends to expand FIBA’s educational outreach within Florida, a state pivotal to international banking and trade activities.

He pointed out that viewed as a country, South Florida would tie with Hong Kong for 40^th place in the world based on GDP; just below 39^th ranked Chile. Per capita, South Florida would rank among the world’s top 15 countries, as would Miami-Dade County.

“As a country, Florida would rank nineteenth, one spot above Saudi Arabia,” said Muñoz. “In Latin America, only Brazil and Mexico have higher GDPs than Florida.”

Muñoz highlighted that FIBA, whose members are active in correspondent banking, trade finance and international wealth management/private banking services, has experienced significant success since its founding. “Thirty five years of history, achievement and leadership; thirty-five years of success, vision and teamwork; Thirty-five years of growth — and results. I plan to continue this trajectory with an emphasis on Florida.”

David Schwartz, CEO of FIBA, stated that Mr. Muñoz served with distinction during the last two years as Treasurer and First Vice President and was pleased to see him nominated as 2014/2015 President. This year’s Board of Directors includes senior members from some of the world’s largest international banks.