MAS forms sustainability group to drive green finance agenda

Former chief sustainability officer of Thai Union Group is the head of MAS' new group.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has formed a new sustainability group to drive and coordinate the regulator’s green finance and sustainability agenda.

The new group is tasked with helping MAS strengthen the financial sector’s resilience against environmental risks; develop a vibrant green finance ecosystem to support Asia’s transition to a low-carbon future; identify strategic green finance collaborations with regional and international counterparts; and reduce MAS’ own carbon and environmental footprint.

Helming the new group is Dr. Darian McBain, who has over 20 years of experience in sustainability roles across various sectors. Most recently, McBain served as chief sustainability officer of the Thai Union Group, a seafood supplier conglomerate. She was also named as a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Pioneer for the environmental initiatives she has spearheaded.

McBain will assume the role of chief sustainability officer beginning 1 October and will report to Ho Hern Shin, deputy managing director (financial supervision), and Leong Sing Chiong, deputy managing director (markets and development). 

In her new role, McBain will also set the agenda for MAS’ Green Finance Steering Committee, chaired by Ravi Menon, managing director, MAS.

The formation of the sustainability group reflects MAS’ commitment to embed climate change and environmental sustainability across its roles as a financial regulator, as a promoter of the financial sector, and as an organisation, says Menon.

“Green finance and climate resilience are growing areas of priority for MAS and we are pleased to have Darian join us and lead our efforts in these areas,” Menon said.