Johannesburg, July 1, 2025 – GCR Ratings (GCR), the leading credit rating provider in Africa, has announced the appointment of Nicole Gibb as Group Head of Ratings and Research. This appointment marks a strategic milestone in the agency’s evolution, one year after its 100% acquisition by Moody’s Corporation. With over twenty years of experience in financial services, Nicole Gibb has held leadership positions at several renowned institutions, including Absa Group, Fitch Ratings, Rand Merchant Bank, and Commerzbank. Until recently, she was the Head of Credit for Non-Bank Financial Institutions at Absa, with broad responsibility for portfolios of banks, financial institutions, and large global corporations.
Her career demonstrates deep expertise in credit risk analysis, financial research, and strategic management. Operating in key markets across the continent – from Kenya to Mauritius, Uganda, Ghana, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Botswana – Nicole has developed a nuanced and contextualized understanding of credit dynamics in Africa.
Known for her analytical rigor and commitment to talent development, she has led high-performing teams by fostering a culture of excellence and integrity. Her leadership, combined with a clear strategic vision, is praised by industry professionals.
In her new role, Nicole Gibb will lead GCR’s Ratings and Research division. Her mission will be to strengthen methodological standards, oversee analyst teams, and drive new research initiatives in line with market needs.
“We are delighted to welcome Nicole to GCR,” said Marc Joffe, CEO of GCR Ratings. “Her strong expertise, analytical skills, and leadership qualities will enhance our presence on the continent and consolidate our role as a reference in credit risk assessment in Africa.”
With this appointment, GCR reaffirms its commitment to supporting the development of African capital markets by producing rigorous analyses accessible to all stakeholders.