ASA International Group plc - Appointment of Chairman and Board Update

ASA International Group plc (LSE: ASAI), one of the world's largest international microfinance institutions, is today pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Charles Harman as Chairman and Non-Executive Director, effective 4 June 2026. Guy Dawson, Chairman, and Dirk Brouwer, Deputy Chairman, have also confirmed their intentions to step down from the Board.

Charles is a highly experienced investment banker and business leader with over 40 years in commercial and financial roles across global markets. He served as Vice Chairman of J.P. Morgan Cazenove where he advised senior leaders in financial services, mining, media, and industrial sectors. His career includes leadership roles at Credit Suisse First Boston and BXR Partners. Charles is an Independent Non-Executive Director of Ninety One, the London and Cape Town based global investment manager. He is also active in the not-for-profit and education sectors including serving as the external Deputy Chair of Council at the University of Oxford and as a trustee of The Big Give. Charles will stand for election by ASA International's shareholders at the 2027 AGM.

Upon appointment Charles will chair the Nomination Committee and the Independent Directors Committee of the Board as well as becoming a member of the Remuneration Committee.

On 4 June 2026, Dirk Brouwer will step down from the Board and his role as Deputy Chairman. ASA International extends sincere thanks to Dirk for his outstanding service as founder of the business and for 19 years of dedication. Dirk's vision and leadership were central to the creation and growth of ASA International and to establishing its mission‑driven culture. In recognition of his enduring contribution, Dirk will assume the role of Founder and Chair Emeritus, remaining associated with ASA International in an advisory capacity.

Upon Charles assuming the role of Chairman, Guy Dawson will revert to being an Independent Non-Executive Director and will provide support to Charles during a brief transition before stepping down from the Board on 16 July 2026. ASA International thanks Guy for his 13 years of service as a Board member, including his tenure as Chairman since ASA International's IPO in 2018. His leadership and stewardship over many years have been instrumental and greatly valued.

The Board expresses its deep appreciation to Dirk Brouwer and Guy Dawson for their significant contributions and looks forward to working with Charles Harman in his new role as Chairman.

This announcement is made pursuant to Listing Rule 6.4.6R. In accordance with LR 6.4.8R, the Company confirms that there is no information to be disclosed in terms of LR 6.4.8R (1) to LR 6.4.8R (6) inclusive in respect to Charles Harman.

Contact Details

ASA International Group plc

Investor Relations
Jonathan Berger
[email protected]

About ASA International Group plc

ASA International Group plc (LSE: ASAI) is one of the world's largest international microfinance institutions, with a strong commitment to financial inclusion and socioeconomic progress. The company provides small, socially responsible loans to low-income, financially underserved entrepreneurs, predominantly women, across South Asia, South East Asia, West and East Africa.

Disclaimer

'ASA International', the 'Company', the 'Group' all refer to ASA International Group plc and its subsidiaries.

This announcement does not constitute or form part of any offer or invitation to purchase, otherwise acquire, issue, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities, nor any solicitation of any offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, issue, subscribe for, sell, or otherwise dispose of any securities. The release, publication or distribution of this announcement in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law and therefore persons in such jurisdictions into which this announcement is released, published or distributed should inform themselves about and observe such restriction.