This role is designed to fulfill a strategic function within the organization, focusing on achieving key business objectives through a series of specialized tasks. The primary responsibility involves overseeing and executing projects that enhance operational efficiency, drive growth, and ensure alignment with overarching company goals. Candidates must possess a proven track record in leadership, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, combined with at least five years of progressive experience in a similar capacity, is required. The successful applicant will be expected to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing business needs, and deliver measurable results in a fast-paced environment.
The Head of Institutional Banking will spearhead the strategic direction and management of the Bank’s Institutional Banking portfolio in Kenya, encompassing Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDS), State-Owned Enterprises (Parastatals), Development Finance Institutions (Dais), Multilateral Agencies, and other substantial public and institutional entities.
This position will focus on expanding the balance sheet, cultivating critical partnerships, maintaining adherence to regulatory standards, and achieving sustainable profitability in alignment with the Bank’s strategic goals.
Key Accountabilities: Oversee and execute critical tasks to ensure operational efficiency and alignment with organizational objectives. Manage project timelines, allocate resources effectively, and maintain clear communication channels with stakeholders. Conduct performance evaluations, identify areas for improvement, and implement strategic initiatives to enhance productivity and team collaboration. Ensure adherence to company policies, industry regulations, and quality standards while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous development.
Drive the strategic vision for the Institutional Banking division, aligning its objectives with the Bank’s broader goals while ensuring responsiveness to Kenya’s macroeconomic landscape and regulatory frameworks.
Manage the institutional portfolio’s asset and liability composition to ensure growth, stability, and an optimal balance while prioritizing high-quality investments, risk-adjusted returns, and sustainable growth.
Expand the portfolio of existing accounts, enhance collections strategies, innovate payment solutions, manage escrow services, and boost wholesale deposit acquisition from institutional clients.
Proactively cultivate and sustain robust partnerships with Government Ministries, County governments, Parastatals, Development Agencies, and other institutional stakeholders.
Monitor national and county government development plans, public sector initiatives, public-private partnership (PPP) schemes, and donor-funded programs to pinpoint potential financing and transaction prospects.
Develop, organize, and execute sophisticated institutional banking solutions, such as cash management, trade finance, structured lending, and advisory services.
Engage proactively with the National Treasury, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), and other pertinent regulatory authorities to ensure alignment with evolving policies and funding initiatives.
Develop and maintain high-level, enduring partnerships with essential stakeholders, including governmental entities, development collaborators, and institutional clients.
Deliver exceptional client experiences by actively engaging with them, providing solutions promptly, and consistently elevating service standards to exceed expectations.
Serve as the primary escalation contact for key institutional clients, addressing and resolving their strategic concerns and inquiries.
Ensure strict compliance with Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) regulations, internal credit policies, Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) mandates, and public sector governance frameworks.
Oversee credit risk management, maintain portfolio quality standards, and enforce exposure limits for institutional clients.
Engage in essential management and credit committees, offering strategic perspectives on institutional banking risks and potential opportunities.
Academic Qualifications: Candidates must possess a relevant bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as education, psychology, or social work. A master’s degree or higher is strongly preferred for advanced positions. Professional certifications in specialized areas, including special education or instructional design, are advantageous. Additionally, familiarity with educational technology and data analysis tools may be required or beneficial, depending on the role.
A bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, finance, or a closely related discipline is required for this position.
A Master’s degree, such as an MBA, Finance, or Strategy, would be advantageous.
Professional qualifications, affiliations with recognized professional bodies, and a record of scholarly publications are required.
Professional banking or finance qualifications such as AKIN, ACID, or equivalent credentials are required.
Professional expertise in corporate or institutional lending, relationship management, or credit risk assessment is required.
Minimum three years of relevant work experience is required for this position.
A candidate must possess a minimum of eight to ten years of professional experience in banking, including at least four to five years in senior or managerial positions within Institutional, Corporate, or Public Sector Banking.
Demonstrated success in overseeing engagements with Government entities, Parastatals, or Development Finance Institutions within the Kenyan market.
Demonstrates a robust knowledge of Kenya’s banking industry, government funding mechanisms, and the applicable regulatory frameworks.
Key Qualifications: The ideal candidate must demonstrate proficiency in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Adaptability, creativity, and a proactive approach to challenges are highly valued.
Exceptional ability to guide and inspire teams with visionary direction and decisive action.
Executive disposition encompasses strategic leadership, decisive action, and the ability to drive organizational success through visionary thinking and effective decision-making. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record of high-level management, including leading cross-functional teams, optimizing processes, and achieving measurable business outcomes. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for fostering collaboration, managing stakeholder relationships, and inspiring teams to perform at an elite level. Additionally, the role requires exceptional communication abilities, adaptability to dynamic business environments, and a commitment to fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Uphold unwavering ethical standards and maintain absolute honesty in all professional interactions and decision-making processes.
Proven ability to communicate effectively and collaborate seamlessly with diverse teams and stakeholders.
Demonstrates strong business and financial insight, strategic thinking, and a capacity for innovation.
Proven capability to devise and execute comprehensive, long-term operational strategies that align various functional areas across the organization.
A comprehensive grasp of the banking industry is essential, including its operations, regulations, and market dynamics.
Establishes and nurtures robust alliances with key stakeholders to ensure alignment and mutual understanding.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 10 years
