The SME Development Finance Corporation (SDFC) has announced the appointment of Fathimath Farihath Waheed as its new Operations Director, a key leadership role overseeing the company’s core operational functions.

Under her new portfolio, Farihath will guide administration, procurement, human resources, marketing, business development, and information systems, shaping the strategic direction of SDFC’s daily operations.

Farihath brings nearly two decades of experience in banking and financial services. She joins SDFC from the Bank of Maldives (BML), where she most recently served as Head of Card Networks and Strategic Partnerships, and previously held senior positions including Head of Card Payments and Governance and Head of Strategy and Change.

Her appointment follows recent leadership changes at SDFC after it became a subsidiary of BML. Earlier this year, the Government transferred its stake in SDFC to the national bank, positioning SDFC as a dedicated Islamic digital bank focused on supporting small and medium enterprises.

With a Master’s in International Business from Monash University Malaysia and a chartered banker qualification from the Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers, Farihath is expected to play a key role as SDFC expands its Islamic financing solutions and digital services.

SDFC has outlined plans to prioritise financing for start-ups, women-led businesses, fishermen, farmers, agribusinesses, sustainable ventures, and e-commerce enterprises, strengthening opportunities for SMEs across the Maldives.