Ernesto Leal, CEO of Banco Promerica Costa Rica, has been appointed as the new president of the Costa Rican Banking Association (ABC). The ABC brings together major financial institutions in Costa Rica and has worked to strengthen and develop the country’s banking system since its founding in December 1983.
Leal has over twenty years of experience in the financial sector. Throughout his career, he has held strategic roles that focused on institutional growth, organizational transformation, and developing financial solutions for individuals and businesses across Central America. As CEO of Banco Promerica Costa Rica, Leal leads a strategy centered on innovation, customer engagement, and reinforcing the role of the financial system in national economic development. He has also promoted technical exchange and collaboration among industry members through sector-wide initiatives.
His appointment comes at a time when coordination between financial entities, regulatory authorities, and other economic stakeholders is considered important for strengthening the institutional framework of the system amid ongoing changes in the industry.
Banco Promerica highlighted that this appointment reflects Leal’s professional background, deep understanding of the sector, and ability to foster constructive dialogue within Costa Rica’s financial community.
“It is an honor and a great responsibility to assume the presidency of the Costa Rican Banking Association. I firmly believe that the strength of the financial system depends on its actors’ ability to engage in dialogue, build consensus, and work with a national vision. Representation from both public and private banking is essential to maintain balanced and technical discussions. From this position I will promote collaborative work among member institutions while adhering to the principles established more than 42 years ago when this organization was founded,” said Ernesto Leal.
Banco Promerica reiterated its commitment to strengthening the national financial system by supporting initiatives aimed at economic development, sector stability, and building trust among all players in Costa Rica’s financial ecosystem.
The bank emphasized that a robust financial system benefits people and businesses by channeling savings into productive investment, facilitating access to credit, supporting business growth, and contributing to sustainable economic progress. Collaborative efforts among financial institutions remain crucial for fostering confidence and promoting development throughout Costa Rica.
