Access Bank Kenya has ushered in a new chapter with the appointment of Ralph Chinedu Opara as its Country Managing Director, following approval from the Central Bank of Kenya. Opara takes over from Lillian Odhiambo, who provided capable acting leadership since 2024.
He arrives from a highly successful tenure as Group Head of Access Bank Group’s Commercial Banking Division, which he transformed into the group’s largest commercial business, boasting a balance sheet of over Sh155.40 billion (1.2 billion USD) and risk assets exceeding Sh168.35 billion (1.3 billion USD).
A seasoned banker and Senior Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Opara brings extensive experience, supported by advanced degrees and executive training from institutions including Harvard, Wharton, IMD, and Cranfield.
His track record includes driving major growth, managing large portfolios, and leading complex transformation initiatives across Africa. He led the Commercial Banking work-stream for the merger of Access and Diamond Bank and played a key role in expanding Access Bank internationally through partnerships with global development finance institutions. His leadership also ensured Access Bank became the first in Nigeria to meet new Central Bank capital requirements in 2024.
According to Barbara Barungi, chairperson of Access Bank Kenya’s board, Opara’s operational expertise and leadership, combined with the local team’s deep market knowledge, will help elevate the business in Kenya and the wider region.
This leadership transition comes at a significant time for Access Bank Kenya, which is currently in the process of merging with the National Bank of Kenya. In this role, Opara will work closely with the leadership teams of both institutions to guide the Integration Management Office in delivering a stronger, future-ready financial institution.
The goal is to establish a bank that merges local trust with pan-African reach, promoting inclusive growth, supporting regional trade, and accelerating Kenya’s economic transformation for the benefit of customers and stakeholders.
