Kenya: UBA appoints new CEO

UBA Kenya has appointed Mary Mulili as the new Managing Director and CEO effective January 19. This makes her the first female top executive at the lender, coinciding with UBA’s 15-year anniversary in Kenya.

Mary Mulili, an internal executive director, has been promoted to the position of Managing Director and CEO at UBA Kenya. The appointment, announced in a statement on Tuesday, is subject to regulatory approval.

UBA highlighted that Mary Mulili’s appointment signifies a noteworthy milestone in the UBA Group’s continuous dedication to fostering gender diversity and inclusivity.

Mary Mulili is succeeding Chike Isiuwe as the Managing Director and CEO of UBA Kenya. Chike Isiuwe, who has been in the role since August 2021, is transitioning to another position within the UBA Group.

“It is a great honour to be appointed to steer the strategic vision of UBA Kenya as a subsidiary of the UBA Group. I look forward to carrying on the growth trajectory of UBA Kenya,” said Ms Mulili.

Her appointment as the Managing Director and CEO of UBA Kenya marks a transition in leadership, making her the sixth CEO in 11 years for the Kenya unit, which includes individuals such as Kehinde Omirinde (interim), Emeke Iweriebor (interim), Isaac Mwige, and Tunji Adeniyi.

UBA Kenya chairperson Alphan Njeru said Ms Mulili is assuming the new role at a time the lender is set to embark on accelerating growth through regional trade opportunities, digital innovation, and small and medium-sized enterprises financing—all aligned with the broader vision of sustainable banking.

“We thank Chike Isiuwe, the outgoing Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer for his contribution to the Bank and wish him success as he takes up a new role at UBA Group,” said Mr Njeru.

Mary Mulili brings a strong educational background to her role, holding an MBA in Finance, a Bachelor’s degree in Education with a focus on Accounting and Economics, and a diploma in Business Management.

Her professional journey includes significant roles in commercial banks. She has previously served as the General Manager for Business Development at Bank of Africa – BMCE Group. Her experience also includes positions such as Head of Corporate Banking at GT Bank Kenya, Senior Corporate Relationship Manager at KCB, and similar roles at African Banking Corporation.

In addition to her role at UBA Kenya, Mary Mulili holds positions of influence and responsibility in various organizations. She serves as the Commissioner of the Kenya Meat Commission, where she chairs the audit committee. Furthermore, she is a board member of the Kenya Association of Women Business Owners and holds the position of vice-chair at the International Chamber of Commerce Kenya’s Banking Commission.