Bangkok Bank chairman Chatri Sophonpanich dies

Bank of Bangkok Bank chairman Chatri Sophonpanic passed away at Bamrungrad hospital on Sunday.  He was 85.

Mr Chatri was born in Thailand on February 28, 1933, as the second son of Mr Chin Sophonpanich.  He began working as assistant manager for accountancy of Asia Trust Company in 1958 and later joined Bangkok Bank the following year as assistant manager for accountancy.

He became managing director of the bank in 1980 and, throughout the 12 years under his stewardship, Bangkok Bank grew rapidly with outstanding performance and taking the lead in technology and becoming the first bank that introduced online banking system in Thailand.

Mr Chatri was named president of the Thai Bankers Association three times.  He was president of Asean Bankers Association and an honorary advisor of the Federation of Thai Industries and was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award from Asia-Pacific Bankers Congress for his determination to strive for the development and improvement of the banking sector and for bringing fame and recognition to the Bangkok Bank as one of the best quality bank in Asia.