From Profound Changes to Secret Coves – Islander Interview With Judy King, Country Manager of ORCO Bank
In todays islander highlight the spotlight is on Judy King, Country Manager of ORCO Bank. The acquisition of CIBC First Caribbean’s Curacao and Sint Maarten portfolio expanded the footprint of the bank in the region, making their logo directly more ubiquitous for residents and visitors alike. This is most visible on the bank’s largest branch near the Philipsburg boardwalk and cruise port.
But the bank is not new – at all. Founded in 1986, Orco Bank has been a full-service bank serving Curaçao, Bonaire, and Sint Maarten, known for its personal approach and commitment to local communities. Orco Bank is the sister Bank of Aruba Bank, the largest bank in Aruba, and has been active on St. Maarten for over a decade.
King: “Orco Bank continues to grow with purpose, focused on people, progress, and positive impact. In essence, Orco Bank is more than just a financial institution: it’s a community champion, a literacy advocate, a partner in innovation, and now, a growing regional banking player standing strong in the Dutch Caribbean.”
The literacy part is taken very serious under King’s leadership. “We’re passionate about this topic. From sponsoring reading festivals to hosting school storytelling sessions, the bank actively supports youth education.” Other initiatives she likes to support are innovation events like SMILE and programs for entrepreneurship support and local business growth.
Except for a career as long as ORCOs existence, what drives Judy through these profound changes in her sector? “I am a purpose-driven professional who brings a strong sense of integrity, accountability, and collaboration to everything I do. I try to keep a sharp eye for operational efficiency and have a deep commitment to client and regulatory expectations. My motto is that every challenge can be turned into an opportunity.”
Cosmopolitan and Caribbean Cultures
Outside of work, Judy is passionate about giving back and has been actively involved in volunteer initiatives that support youth and education. She also has a deep appreciation for the arts, particularly music and once held a role that involved organizing community cultural events.
What truly defines St. Maarten/St. Martin according to King is its welcoming spirit, with over 100 nationalities living on the island. “The island thrives on diversity, resilience, and a genuine sense of community. It’s this warmth, both cultural and personal that makes the island unforgettable.”
Of course, Caribbean culture defines the island the most. “Without a doubt, St. Maarten Carnival is my favorite event of the year. It’s a vibrant celebration of culture, music, food, and pure island joy. The energy is electric, from the colorful parades to the live concerts and endless local dishes. It brings the whole community together and reminds me just how alive and proud this island truly is. It’s the time of year when I put on my beautiful costume and fully enjoy the amazing music and vibes.”
If asked who in her affection for art and culture inspires her in her busy role at the helm of a now even larger bank than before: “I don’t have personal feelings or role models, however I admire figures who embody integrity, resilience, and compassion, those are traits that resonates with me.” There are islanders however that she respects for their efforts to make her beloved island a better place.
“Denicio Wyatte is a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and community development on St. Maarten. As the founder of Spaceless Gardens and the St. Maarten Agricultural Research and Development Center, he has dedicated himself to promoting local food security, environmental awareness, and youth education. Through initiatives like the “Cultural expression” newsletter and agro-ecology programs, Denicio is inspiring positive change and fostering a deeper connection between the community and the land.”
Blend Of Both Sides – And More
In her eyes, a visit to St. Maarten / St. Martin is not complete without taking a day to explore both the Dutch and French sides. “From lively Philipsburg (Day time) to charming Marigot, each stop offers a unique flavor of culture, cuisine, and scenery. You will discover hidden beaches, local markets, and unforgettable views. It is the best way to experience the island’s true spirit in just one day.”
King advises that a truly binational experience goes beyond just crossing the border.” One thing people often don’t realize about the island is how wonderfully diverse and vibrant its culture is, because the island is split between two countries, Dutch and French, it blends two very distinct ways of life, languages, and cuisines into one tiny paradise. What I love most about St. Maarten is that blend of contrasts and harmony the way two cultures, Dutch and French, coexist on one small island yet each side feels totally unique and different. From the lively, colorful markets and upbeat nightlife on the Dutch side to the chic, laid-back vibe, and gourmet cuisine on the French side, it’s like experiencing two worlds in one trip. The natural beauty, with turquoise waters, lush hills, and hidden coves make it a paradise for adventure and relaxation.”
Diversity is also what makes work at ORCO fun for King. “What makes my work truly enjoyable at Orco Bank is the dynamic mix of people, purpose, and progress. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to collaborate across teams, solve real problems, and improve the way we serve our clients. I especially enjoy being part of a forward-thinking organization where ideas are valued, and where even the smallest improvements can make a big difference. Whether it’s streamlining a process, supporting a colleague, or contributing to a meaningful project, there’s always a sense of purpose and that makes the work not just rewarding, but genuinely fun.”
Secret Coves, Tranquil Beaches
It’s been busy months for King. Apart from company expansion via the CIBC portfolio acquisition, the country went through a change in currency. The bank successfully transitioned from the Netherlands Antilles Guilder (ANG) to Caribbean guilders (XCG) in April 2025. Where does King go to wind down from these elaborate changes?
“There’s a quiet little cove on the island, tucked away just far enough from the usual buzz where the water is impossibly clear, the breeze is perfect, and time seems to slow down. It is where I go to reset, reflect, and just breathe. I won’t say exactly where it is (some things are sacred!), but let’s just say… if you take a wrong turn on purpose, you might just find it.”
Could Friar’s Bay be her undisclosed secret cove? “If I could choose a favorite spot to relax then I will choose Friar’s Bay on the French side. It’s a bit quieter and less touristy than some of the busier beaches, with soft sand, calm clear water, and a few beach bars where you can sip a fresh coconut or a tropical cocktail. The vibe there feels authentic and peaceful.”
Her favorite beach circumstances align with those of the quiet, hidden coves: “Mullet Bay Beach is calm, scenic, and has just the right energy, perfect for both a peaceful swim and catching the sunset. With 37 beaches to choose from, Mullet still wins my heart every time.”
Maho for Thrills
The love for tranquil and hidden beach retreats seems surprisingly at odds when asked for her St. Maarten area of choice. “I love the Maho area for its unique blend of excitement and relaxation. From the thrilling plane landings right overhead to the vibrant beach bars and restaurants, Maho captures the true energy of St. Maarten. It’s the perfect place to unwind, enjoy great food and drinks, and soak up the lively island atmosphere all in one spot.
This also applies when arriving over that worldwide famous beach itself from the air. “There’s something so magical about landing on Sint Maarten, with that breathtaking view of the turquoise water and the beach right under the plane’s wings. The approach at Princess Juliana Airport is legendary for being so close to the shore. You feel a sense of warmth as you touch down.”
The Maho area is also where you would find King on a “staycation”. “Sonesta Maho is an all-inclusive resort featuring multiple restaurants, bars, a casino, and a spa. Ideal for families and groups looking for a lively atmosphere with various amenities.”.
King’s Pointers for Visitors
A recommended restaurant to end a dual nation island day is La Palapa in Simpson Bay. ” A must-visit, tucked away in a cozy marina setting, offering creative cuisine, great cocktails, and a relaxed yet upscale vibe. It is the kind of place where you can enjoy a beautifully plated meal while soaking in the true spirit of St. Maarten. Perfect for date nights or dinner with friends!”
For something a bit different, close by La Palapa, she sees the Marketplace in Simpson Bay as “great for fresh local produce, spices, and Caribbean delicacies if you want to bring a taste of Sint Maarten home with you.”
For her favorite drink, she would move over to Philipsburg. “For a refreshing drink without the alcohol, I love a well-crafted mocktail,
When it comes to monuments, visiting Fort Amsterdam in her eyes is a must. “It is one of the oldest colonial forts in the Caribbean. It is not just about the ruins, but the view, the breeze, and the feeling of standing where so much of St. Maarten’s history unfolded. It’s a must see for anyone who wants to connect with the island’s roots while taking in one of the best panoramic views in the island.”
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