EQB Inc. Appoints Anilisa Sainani as New Chief Financial Officer
EQB Inc. Welcomes Anilisa Sainani as Chief Financial Officer
EQB Inc. has announced the appointment of Anilisa Sainani as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective August 28, 2025. This significant move signifies EQB's commitment to strengthening its leadership as it embarks on a new chapter of growth. Sainani’s extensive experience, particularly at the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), makes her a pivotal addition to the company's efforts to position itself as a leader in the Canadian banking landscape.
Anilisa Sainani has an impressive background, boasting over 20 years in the banking and finance sectors at renowned institutions. Before joining EQB, she held various senior roles at RBC, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer of the CFO Group. With a proven track record in delivering transformative strategic initiatives and driving operational efficiency, she is widely acknowledged in the industry, being named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40. Ms. Sainani is a CPA Fellow and has earned both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Accounting from the University of Waterloo.
In her new role, Sainani will be instrumental in guiding EQB's financial strategies, ensuring the company harnesses its resources effectively to fuel its ambitious growth plans. As stated by Chadwick Westlake, EQB's recently appointed President and CEO, Sainani's leadership skills and strategic insight will be critical in unlocking transformative opportunities for the bank.
"Anilisa is a force in Canadian banking with a uniquely impressive career trajectory. I’m delighted to welcome her to our ambitious challenger team," expressed Westlake. He emphasized the significance of her dual expertise in financial discipline and strategic direction, which will serve to accelerate EQB’s goals in both the short and long term. Sainani, reflecting on her new role, shared her enthusiasm, stating, "I'm honored to join Canada’s Challenger Bank at a pivotal moment in its story. This is not just an opportunity but a clear inflection point for growth."
In addition to Sainani's appointment, David Wilkes will transition into the role of SVP and Chief Strategy & Growth Officer. Since joining EQB in 2022, Wilkes has applied his background in banking and strategy effectively; he has previously enhanced the bank’s strategic initiatives during his tenure at McKinsey & Company. His broad experience in navigating transformational change will be essential as the organization strives for accelerated growth, both organically and through strategic partnerships.
As further reinforcement, Lemar Persaud will join EQB as VP and Head of Investor Relations to deepen relationships with stakeholders and solidify the bank's messaging in the financial landscape. He comes with a wealth of experience as an Institutional Equity Analyst at Cormark Securities.
About EQB Inc.
EQB Inc. operates as a leading digital financial services provider with a robust $134 billion in combined assets (as of April 30, 2025). The company’s banking services are primarily offered through Equitable Bank, the seventh largest bank in Canada by assets. EQB is dedicated to innovating Canadian banking to enrich customers' lives, leveraging technology for exceptional banking experiences. Its digital platform has been highlighted as one of Canada's best by Forbes World's Best Banks since 2021.
For more details, feel free to visit EQB’s investor relations page at eqb.investorroom.com.