Former Absa bank Group boss Jeremy Awori has been appointed as the new Ecobank Group Chief Executive.
Awori takes over from Ade Ayeyemi who is set to retire upon hitting 60 years, in accordance with the Group’s policy.
Through a statement, Ecobank Group chairman Alain Nkontchou described Awori as a highly respected leader in the banking industry with significant achievements in his previous capacities.
“The Board of Directors strongly believes that his drive and strong focus on results will be vital in steering the Group in its next phase,” Nkontchou stated.
Responding to the announcement of his appointment, the incoming Group CEO said: “It is a great honour to be appointed Ecobank Group’s Chief Executive Officer. I look forward to consolidating the transformation of Ecobank, a truly pan-African institution full of talented people while innovating to create value for all Ecobank’s stakeholders. I am humbled by the opportunity to contribute to the continent’s economic development and financial integration with Ecobank Group.”
Awori is joining Ecobank Group following a twenty-five-year-long career in the banking industry, with almost a decade leading Absa Bank Kenya Plc as the CEO and Managing Director.
Before joining Absa, Jeremy held multiple leadership roles at Standard Chartered Bank across the Middle-East and Africa.
He brings a wealth of experience, skills, and industry know-how to the Ecobank Group.
Nkontchou thanked Ade for his immense contribution during his seven years at the helm of the Ecobank Group as Group CEO.
“Ade can be rightly proud of his success in leading the implementation of the Roadmap to Leadership strategy, navigating Ecobank through challenges, seizing opportunities, and positioning Ecobank for sustainable long-term growth. Ade’s deep knowledge, unrivaled vision, commitment, and infinite passion made all the difference. It has been a real pleasure working with him. I count on his continuous support to ensure a smooth transition as we onboard Jeremy Awori as the new Group CEO,” he added.
Ade expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Ecobank Group.
“It is a privilege to lead an amazing team of Ecobankers in bringing the Ecobank Group back to growth and continuing to realise our commendable pan-African mandate,” he said expressing his commitment to a smooth transition and onboarding of his successor.