TymeBank, the digital-first banking platform, has announced the appointment of Cheslyn Jacobs as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2026. The appointment has been officially approved by the South African Reserve Bank’s Prudential Authority.
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Jacobs will succeed Karl Westvig, who has been part of TymeBank’s leadership since 2023. Westvig will remain closely involved, transitioning to an advisory capacity and working alongside Jacobs for the first three months of the new year to ensure a smooth transition.
TymeBank emphasized that Jacobs, a founding team member of the bank, brings essential institutional knowledge and leadership experience to the role. His internal promotion reflects the company’s strong internal leadership bench and commitment to continuity.
TymeBank Chairman Thabani Jali stated that Jacobs’ “deep understanding of the bank’s customers, strategy, and people uniquely positions him to lead the company.” His tenure is expected to mark an “accelerated focus on innovation, customer experience, and sustainable growth” as the bank moves into its next chapter.
Jacobs, who holds a BCom and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management, joined the company in 2012 when it was still TymeCapital. He progressed steadily through the ranks, becoming Head of Sales and Services in 2019 (the year TymeBank officially launched) and most recently serving as Chief Commercial Officer since 2022, where he was responsible for driving business growth and revenue generation.
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“TymeBank has always been about challenging convention and making banking more accessible for all South Africans,” Jacobs said. “I’m excited to build on the incredible foundation our team has created with an even sharper focus on customer experience.”
The bank acknowledged the significant contributions of the outgoing CEO, Karl Westvig. Chairman Jali noted that Westvig was key in strengthening TymeBank’s commercial offering, building its small business focus (particularly by integrating the Retail Capital Business into the Tyme ecosystem), and bolstering the overall customer base. “His leadership has been integral to building a strong foundation for TymeBank’s future success,” Jali concluded.
