05 May 2026
After many years of dedicated service, Guy Dawson and Dirk Brouwer will both step down from the Board and their respective roles as Chairman and Deputy Chairman.
Dirk will step down from the Board on 4 June 2026, and will remain associated with ASA International in his new role as Founder and Chair Emeritus. At the same time, ASA International is pleased to welcome Charles Harman as incoming Chairman, effective 4 June 2026. Guy will remain on the Board until 16 July 2026 to support a smooth and orderly transition.
Guy and Dirk have played a pivotal role in shaping ASA International into the purpose-driven organisation it is today, supporting millions of clients across its markets. The Board extends its sincere thanks for their leadership, partnership and lasting contributions.
Welcoming new Chairman Charles Harman
Charles Harman brings extensive international and emerging markets experience, alongside a strong track record across financial services and global markets.
“I am delighted to be joining ASA International as Chairman at such an important point in its journey. ASA International has a strong track record of delivering responsible financial services in underserved markets. I look forward to working with the Board, management team and staff to build on this record for the benefit of all our stakeholders.
Drawing on my experience across global financial services and in the emerging markets, I hope to contribute to the Group’s continued growth, disciplined governance and long-term value creation, while supporting its mission to expand financial inclusion in the communities it serves.”
Reflections from the outgoing Chairman Guy Dawson
“It has been a true honour to serve ASA International for the past 13 years, and I am immensely proud of what we have built together — a business with a clear purpose, strong values and a meaningful impact in the markets we serve.
It has been a particular pleasure to work alongside Dirk, whose vision and commitment have been central to the Group's success, as well as with my fellow Board members and the wider management team over so many years. I am grateful for their dedication, insight and partnership.
As I prepare to step down in July, I remain fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition by supporting Charles when he joins, and I know that ASA International will be in excellent hands. I leave confident in ASA International’s future and in the strength of the team that will continue to guide its next phase of growth.”
A message from the Deputy Chairman Dirk Brouwer
“Looking back on 19 years with ASA International, I do so with great pride as well as gratitude. During this time, ASA International has developed into a strong, purpose-led organisation that has navigated many challenges and successes, always guided by a clear mission and the commitment of its people.
I would like to recognise my late co-founder, Shafiq, whose vision and partnership were fundamental in shaping ASA International’s unique model and enduring values. I am also deeply grateful to Guy for his dedicated leadership and stewardship of the Company over many years.
It is immensely rewarding to see what ASA International has become today and the real difference it is making in people’s lives. Experiencing that first-hand will always remain my most cherished memory. I step down from the Board confident that the Company is in very capable hands with Rob, the wider management team and the Board, and I wish them every success as they continue into the next chapter of growth. I look forward to contributing going forward in my new role as Founder and Chair Emeritus.”
Looking ahead
As ASA International enters its next phase, the Board looks forward to working with Charles Harman to continue strengthening the business, maintaining disciplined governance, and delivering on its mission to expand financial inclusion responsibly across its markets.