The Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC) is "a Bahamian company", according to its non-executive chairman, and the appointment of its latest board member is a commitment to the country.

Adrian Collins told Guardian Business from the United Kingdom that bringing in Ross McDonald, a seasoned executive in The Bahamas, will provide much-needed "balance" to the board of directors. With a formal meeting once every quarter, this body is in constant contact with BPC executives to provide guidance on the direction of the company.

McDonald, most recently senior vice president and head of Caribbean Banking for Royal Bank of Canada, brings to the table decades of banking and finance experience, Collins added.

McDonald is also a director at Royal Fidelity Merchant Bank & Trust.

Collins told Guardian Business he will play a crucial role in many respects, including BPC's recent collaboration with RoyalFidelity Capital Markets to bring about a Bahamian Depository Receipt (BDR) and a Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) listing.

"At the end of the day, the listing is looking out for The Bahamas. It should be there. It should be listing there and people should be able to buy shares of the company as Bahamians. It's what we hope happens."

The Collins was uncertain when the listing would be completed.

In regard to McDonald's appointment, he explained that BPC was keen to incorporate someone with experience and strong roots in the country.

"It's a Bahamian company. We want to be seen that way. It provides balance for the board and if we can get everything done, it's a real game changer for The Bahamas. It's important to have Bahamians be part of that process."

McDonald is also currently a director of RBC Financial (Caribbean) Limited, RBC's group holding company in the Caribbean; RBC Royal Bank (Bahamas) Limited, RBC's commercial bank in The Bahamas; RBC FINCO and RBC's mortgage banking company in The Bahamas.

Collins noted that McDonald's considerable experience and the respect he has garnered in the country will assist BPC.

Dursley Stott, a non-executive director, will step down from the board at the end of this month.

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