Our primary objective is to outline the core purpose and scope of this role within the organization. The position is designed to support key operational and strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with broader business objectives. By executing responsibilities with precision and adaptability, the successful candidate will drive measurable outcomes while contributing to the overall success and growth of the team.
The Head of Institutional Banking will spearhead strategic direction and comprehensive management of the Bank’s Institutional Banking portfolio within Kenya, encompassing Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDS), State-Owned Enterprises (Parastatals), Development Finance Institutions (Dais), Multilateral Agencies, and other major public and institutional clients.
This position is tasked with fostering balance sheet expansion, cultivating critical partnerships, upholding regulatory standards, and achieving sustainable profitability in alignment with the Bank’s strategic goals.
Oversee a range of critical duties including planning, organizing, and directing operational activities to ensure alignment with organizational objectives, while also monitoring performance metrics to identify areas for improvement. Collaborate cross-functionally with teams to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and drive productivity across departments. Develop and implement strategic initiatives to foster innovation, optimize workflows, and support long-term growth. Conduct regular evaluations of team and individual performance to provide constructive feedback, set clear expectations, and cultivate a high-performing culture. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and best practices to mitigate risks and maintain operational integrity. Manage budgetary allocations, resource distribution, and financial reporting upholding fiscal responsibility and accountability. Lead training and professional development programs to empower employees and enhance skill sets aligned with evolving business needs.
Deliver strategic leadership to the Institutional Banking division, guaranteeing alignment with the Bank’s overarching strategy while accounting for Kenya’s macroeconomic conditions and regulatory landscape.
Manage institutional portfolios with an emphasis on fostering growth, maintaining stability, and achieving an optimal balance between assets and liabilities, all while prioritizing high-quality investments, risk-adjusted returns, and sustainable practices.
Facilitate the expansion of existing accounts, enhance collections and payment solutions, optimize escrow services, and strengthen wholesale deposit mobilization through strategic engagement with institutional clients.
Proactively cultivate and oversee strategic partnerships with Government Ministries, County governments, Parastatals, Development Agencies, and other institutional stakeholders to foster collaborative opportunities and drive mutual growth.
We analyze national and county government development plans, public sector projects, PPP initiatives, and donor-funded programs to pinpoint potential financing and transaction opportunities.
Develop and implement sophisticated institutional banking solutions, encompassing cash management, trade finance, structured lending, and advisory services, from inception through to execution.
Ensure ongoing, robust collaboration with the National Treasury, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), and other pertinent regulatory authorities to stay current with evolving policies and funding initiatives.
Cultivate and maintain enduring high-level connections with critical stakeholders spanning Government entities, Development Partners, and Institutional clients.
Deliver outstanding client satisfaction by proactively engaging with clients, providing solutions in a timely manner, and continuously enhancing service standards.
Serve as the primary escalation contact for key institutional clients, addressing high-level inquiries and resolving complex issues with expertise and efficiency.
Ensure strict compliance with all regulatory mandates set forth by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), internal credit policies, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) standards, and public sector governance frameworks.
Offer strategic direction for managing credit risk, assessing portfolio quality, and enforcing exposure limits pertaining to institutional clients.
Engage actively in pertinent management and credit committees, contributing well-informed perspectives on institutional banking risks and strategic opportunities.
Applicants must possess a relevant academic qualification, typically a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field pertinent to the role. Essential to this position is a strong educational background, complemented by specialized knowledge that aligns with the job’s demands. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development in their area of expertise.
A bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, or a closely related discipline is required.
A master’s degree, such as an MBA, Finance, or Strategy, is highly beneficial.
Qualified professionals should possess relevant certifications or affiliations with recognized industry organizations. Additionally, a strong record of published work or scholarly contributions in their field is highly valued.
Holds an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (ACID) qualification or an equivalent professional banking or finance credential, such as an Associate of the Chartered Banker (AKIN).
Formal education or certification in corporate/institutional lending, relationship management, or credit risk management is required.
Requires a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in a comparable role, demonstrating expertise and proficiency in the field. Candidates should have a proven track record of success, with at least one year of experience in a leadership or supervisory capacity. Additionally, prior involvement in project management or coordination is essential, along with hands-on experience in [specific industry/field, if applicable]. Familiarity with [specific tools, software, or methodologies] is strongly preferred.
A minimum of eight to ten years of professional experience in banking is required, including at least four to five years in senior or managerial positions within Institutional, Corporate, or Public Sector Banking.
Established expertise in overseeing engagements with Government entities, Parastatal organizations, or Development Finance Institutions within the Kenyan market is required.
Demonstrates a deep knowledge of Kenya’s banking sector, public sector financing frameworks, and the associated regulatory landscape.
Key Qualifications:
Proven expertise in [specific area, e.g., project management, data analysis, or leadership] is required. Candidates must demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex information and make data-driven decisions. Effective communication and interpersonal abilities are essential for collaborating across teams and stakeholders. Additionally, proficiency in [relevant software, tools, or methodologies] is a must. The ideal candidate will exhibit adaptability in dynamic environments, a commitment to continuous learning, and a results-oriented mindset. Prior experience in [industry, function, or role] is highly advantageous.
Exceptional leadership capabilities are required, encompassing the ability to inspire, guide, and develop teams toward achieving organizational objectives. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record of motivating individuals, fostering collaboration, and driving performance through clear vision and decisive action. Proficiency in conflict resolution, strategic planning, and talent cultivation is essential to ensure sustained growth and alignment with company goals.
Proven ability to exercise executive-level discretion and judgment in decision-making processes, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and compliance with established policies. Demonstrates a high degree of professionalism and strategic foresight in managing complex matters, while maintaining confidentiality and integrity in all actions. Requires a strong track record of leading initiatives with autonomy and accountability.
Maintain unwavering integrity in all professional interactions and decision-making processes.
Effective communication and strong interpersonal abilities are essential for this role.
Strong business and financial knowledge, strategic thinking, and a forward-thinking mindset are essential for this role. The ideal candidate will demonstrate sharp business acumen, practical financial insight, and the ability to innovate effectively in dynamic environments.
Demonstrated capability in formulating comprehensive, long-term operational strategies that align and integrate multiple functional areas seamlessly.
A comprehensive knowledge of the banking industry is required.
Demonstrated skill in cultivating and sustaining robust stakeholder connections.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 10 years
