Dedicated to driving Bank Windhoek’s success

Appointed in 2023, Elisse Mire Christof is Bank Windhoek’s regional manager for the far-north. She oversees the operations and performance of multiple branches and agencies within the designated area. Her role drives business growth, ensures exceptional customer service and maintains regulatory compliance.

Christof was born and raised at her grandparents’ house in Oshitayi village in Ondonga in the Oshana Region. She also attended primary school there. After that, she went to Oluno Secondary School in Ondangwa, now known as Andimba Toivo Ya Toivo Secondary School, until Grade 10. Her first job was in March 1994, when she worked for Edutech in Windhoek as a sales representative, going door to door to sell encyclopaedia sets.

Christof began her banking career in December 1995 as an inquiry clerk at a local bank. Thriving in the industry, she spent 27 years at that bank, 18 of which were in managerial roles.

As Bank Windhoek’s far-north regional manager, her role can sometimes be challenging, she narrated. She starts the day by reviewing daily performance to identify trends and areas that require attention. After that, she attends to tasks that include conference calls, meetings, branch visits, problem-solving and client engagement.

When appointed, Christof said she challenged herself with learning experiences and approached it as if it was her first job: Ready to take the bull by the horns and keep service at the top of her priorities.

Challenges and accomplishments

She highlighted that the challenges in her role include staying ahead of competitors, ensuring clear communication between the regional offices and branches, and avoiding misunderstandings and information gaps.

While serving in this position, Christof said the most positive aspect of her job is the ability to lead and develop multiple teams while driving the success of the entire region.

She said her leadership style involves inspiring others, encouraging innovation developing and motivating her team and setting high standards. To ensure success, she remains optimistic in her professional approaches, ensures that she hits favourable revenue numbers, has happy staff and clients, and does many other things.

Christof loves to empower youth to become both joyful and prosperous. “Concentrate on involvement and not attainment. Devote yourself to your expansion. Invest in your most important affairs and foster a soul of thankfulness," she said.

Importance of education

The regional manager further highlighted the importance of education and training, networking, staying informed from online resources, regulatory updates and peer learning to keep abreast of the latest developments in this field.

Christof emphasised her dedication to driving success and fostering a culture of excellence within the far northern region.

“By continuously striving for innovation, supporting our team and maintaining strong relationships with our customers and stakeholders, I am committed to achieving our strategic objectives and contributing to the overall growth of Bank Windhoek,” she said.

Among her hobbies, Christof enjoys watching soccer, Formula One and the Olympic Games while she also finds joy in listening to motivational talks and watching movies. Her favourite music genres are Latin and gospel. She also enjoys traditional cuisine and Cuban dishes.