Leading with Vision: Ruth Zaipuna, CEO of NMB Bank, Recognized as InstinctBusiness CEO of the Week

Ruth Zaipuna stands as a beacon of leadership in the Tanzanian financial landscape, embodying excellence and innovation as the Chief Executive Officer of NMB Bank Plc. Appointed to this role in August 2020, Ruth has transformed NMB Bank into one of the country’s largest and most esteemed financial institutions. Driven by her strategic vision and profound insights into the local market, she has positioned NMB as a leader in financial inclusion and digital transformation. Ruth’s unwavering commitment to these initiatives has significantly contributed to the economic empowerment of communities across Tanzania, making her a respected figure in the industry.

Ruth began her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in 2002, where she spent a decade specializing in the audit of banks and various financial institutions. Her exceptional professionalism and technical prowess propelled her through the ranks to the position of Associate Director. During her tenure at PwC, Ruth was entrusted to lead some of the firm’s most complex assignments, showcasing her expertise and commitment to excellence.

In August 2011, Ruth transitioned to Standard Chartered Bank, taking on the role of Executive Director of Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Her capabilities were further recognized in July 2017 when she combined her responsibilities in Tanzania with that of Business Finance Lead for the East African cluster, overseeing business finance activities across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. Ruth joined NMB Bank as Chief Financial Officer in June 2018, where her impact was swiftly felt, leading to her recent appointment as Acting Managing Director by the NMB Board of Directors.

Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Ruth is highly motivated and performs with a professional accountability marked by integrity. She leads the Tanzania Bankers Association (TBA) Tax Group and serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Tanzania Portland Cement Company Limited (TPCC), the leading cement producer in Tanzania. Additionally, she is an active member of the Legal Services Facility, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing access to justice for all, particularly for women.

Ruth holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance and a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree in Accounting, both from the University of Dar es Salaam. She is also an Associate Certified Public Accountant (ACPA (T)). Outside of her professional endeavors, Ruth is a proud mother of four boys.

Under her guidance, NMB Bank Plc was honored as a Top Employer in Tanzania by the renowned Top Employers Institute. This prestigious recognition underscores her commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and empowering workplace where employees can thrive. Ruth Zaipuna’s remarkable journey is a testament to her dedication to fostering a sustainable future and advancing a more accessible banking environment for all Tanzanians.

This recognition, from InstinctBusiness Magazine, celebrates top-performing executives globally, celebrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact across diverse industries.