The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has announced the appointment of Sir Robert Igara as Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective 23 December 2025.
Sir Robert succeeds David Toua, whose term concluded in late 2025.
The Bank expressed its sincere appreciation to Mr Toua for his leadership and valuable contribution to the Board during his tenure.
Sir Robert brings more than four decades of experience in senior public service, diplomacy, and financial governance. A former Chief Secretary to the Government, his distinguished career includes diplomatic postings to Canberra and Suva. He also has an in-depth understanding of the Bank’s regulatory environment, having chaired the Independent Advisory Group that oversaw the 2021 and 2024 amendments to the Central Banking Act.
In addition to his role at BPNG, Sir Robert serves as Chancellor and Chairman of the Council of the University of Papua New Guinea and holds several key leadership positions within the PNG business community. He has been a member of the BPNG Board since early 2025, and previously served on the Board in 2005.
Sir Robert holds academic qualifications in Economics, International Law, and Business Administration, and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).
Commenting on the appointment, Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, Ms Elizabeth Genia, said:
“We are privileged to welcome Sir Robert as Chair. His extensive public sector experience and deep understanding of our legislative framework are invaluable as BPNG continues its modernisation journey. I look forward to working closely with Sir Robert, Mr Baker, and the Board to ensure the Bank remains a robust, transparent, and effective institution for the people of Papua New Guinea through 2026 and beyond.”