EQB Names Vivian Abdelmessih to Board, Succeeding Kishore Kapoor as Risk Chair

EQB Inc. Appointed Vivian Abdelmessih to its board of directors and as chair of the board's Risk & Capital Committee, effective immediately, the company said on October 16, 2026. She succeeds Kishore Kapoor, who has served 10 years on the board and will step down effective January 1, 2027. The announcement was distributed by PR Newswire.

Abdelmessih's Risk and Governance Background

Abdelmessih is a risk management and financial services executive with experience in enterprise risk management, capital oversight, regulatory compliance and corporate governance, according to the announcement. She currently serves on the First Capital Real Estate Investment Trust board and the Scientific Games board, and she chairs the Export Development Canada board. She is also the incoming president and CEO of the Global Risk Institute.

Mike Pedersen, chair of the EQB board, said: "Vivian brings deep expertise in risk governance and a proven track record of leadership in highly regulated financial institutions." Pedersen said her experience and insight will complement the board's existing strengths as EQB executes its growth strategy while maintaining its commitment to prudent risk management.

Kapoor most recently served as chair of the Risk & Capital Committee and previously chaired the Audit Committee. Chadwick Westlake, president and CEO of EQB, said Kapoor "has been a tremendous partner to management and has helped shape the strong risk culture that exists at EQB today." The company said Kapoor remains a committed shareholder and chose to step down in January 2027, believing the time is right for an orderly succession.

Board Changes at Chetwood Bank and Averin Capital

Chetwood Bank appointed Melanie Czarra as non-executive director and chair of the board risk committee, Finextra reported on October 15, 2026. Czarra brings more than 30 years of global investment banking and corporate finance experience, and will replace Duncan Martin, who steps down in December after six years.

Averin Capital announced Mary Szela's resignation from the board and committee roles, effective October 16, 2026, TradingView reported. Graeme Bell was appointed chair of the Compensation Committee and Akiko Moni Miyashita to the Audit Committee to fill the vacancy.

Kapoor's January 2027 Departure Date

Kapoor will step down from the EQB board effective January 1, 2027, the company said. Abdelmessih's appointment to the board and as chair of the Risk & Capital Committee took effect immediately.