Absa Bank Kenya appoints Yusuf Omari as new managing director and CEO
Absa Bank Kenya Managing Director and Chief Executive Office, Yusuf Omari.
Absa Bank Kenya has appointed Yusuf Omari as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, taking over the leadership of the bank with immediate effect.
The appointment follows receipt of all required regulatory and internal approvals, with Omari having served as the bank’s Interim Managing Director and CEO since July 1, 2026.
He previously served as Absa Bank Kenya’s Chief Financial Officer, a position he held since 2009. Omari brings more than two decades of leadership experience spanning finance, treasury, risk management, governance, sustainability, strategy, transformation and executive management.
Omari brings two decades of banking experience
During his tenure as Chief Financial Officer, Omari played a key role in strengthening the bank’s financial performance, improving its cost-to-income ratio and optimising capital.
He also supported the growth of Absa Kenya’s Corporate and Investment Banking, Business Banking and Consumer Banking businesses.
The new CEO further championed strategic initiatives in digital transformation, ecosystem banking and sustainability.
Absa Bank Kenya Chairman Mohammed Nyaoga said Omari’s appointment reflected his proven ability to lead, deliver sustainable growth and create long-term value.
“Yusuf’s appointment reflects his proven ability to lead, deliver sustainable growth and create long-term value,” Nyaoga said, adding that his experience and understanding of the Kenyan market positioned him strongly to lead the bank.
Absa Group backs new CEO
Absa Group Regional Executive for East Africa Saviour Chibiya described Omari as a highly accomplished leader who had made a significant contribution to the business.
“We have every confidence in Yusuf as he takes on the leadership of Absa Bank Kenya and wish him every success in this important role,” Chibiya said.
Omari said he was honoured by the confidence placed in him by the board and Absa Group, pledging to build on the bank’s existing foundation.
Focus on customers and sustainable growth
“My focus will be on building on this foundation, deepening our relationships with customers, accelerating sustainable growth, strengthening our competitiveness and investing in our people and capabilities,” he said.
Omari holds a degree in Economics and a Master of Business Administration. He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (FCPA) and a graduate of the Advanced Management Programme delivered by Strathmore and IESE Business School.
Absa Bank Kenya is part of Absa Group Limited, which operates across 12 African markets
