Job Purpose:
The Head of Institutional Banking will spearhead the Bank’s Institutional Banking portfolio in Kenya, offering strategic direction and governance across Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDS), State-Owned Enterprises (Parastatals), Development Finance Institutions (Dais), Multilateral Agencies, and other major public and institutional entities.
This position is tasked with fostering balance sheet expansion, cultivating critical partnerships, upholding regulatory standards, and achieving consistent profitability in alignment with the Bank’s strategic goals.
Oversee and execute a comprehensive range of duties to ensure operational excellence, including managing project timelines, coordinating cross-functional teams, and delivering high-quality results within specified constraints. Analyze workflows to identify inefficiencies and implement strategic improvements that enhance productivity and efficiency. Serve as a primary point of contact for stakeholders, facilitating clear communication, resolving escalated issues, and aligning expectations to drive project success. Develop and maintain detailed documentation, reports, and performance metrics to track progress, measure outcomes, and support data-driven decision-making.
Formulate a cohesive strategic vision for the Institutional Banking division, ensuring seamless integration with the Bank’s overarching objectives while fully considering the Kenyan macroeconomic landscape and applicable regulatory frameworks.
Ensure the institutional portfolio achieves sustainable growth and stability by maintaining an optimal balance between assets and liabilities, while prioritizing high-quality investments, risk-adjusted returns, and long-term sustainability.
We aim to enhance the expansion of existing accounts, improve collections, streamline payment solutions, manage escrow services, and mobilize wholesale deposits from institutional clients.
Proactively cultivate and oversee strategic partnerships with Government Ministries, County Governments, Parastatals, Development Agencies, and other institutional stakeholders to foster collaboration and drive mutual objectives.
Monitor national and county government development plans, public sector initiatives, public-private partnership (PPP) projects, and donor-funded programs to uncover potential financing and transaction opportunities.
Craft and present sophisticated institutional banking solutions, encompassing cash management, trade finance, structured lending, and advisory services, with a focus on innovation and client-centric delivery.
Maintain consistent interaction with the National Treasury, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), and applicable regulatory authorities to ensure alignment with evolving policies and funding initiatives.
Develop and maintain enduring, high-level partnerships with critical stakeholders spanning Government entities, Development Partners, and Institutional clients.
Maintain exceptional client satisfaction by proactively engaging with clients, delivering solutions promptly, and continuously enhancing service standards.
Serve as the primary escalation resource for key institutional clients.
Ensure compliance with Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) regulations, internal credit policies, Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) mandates, and public sector governance standards.
Oversee credit risk management, evaluate portfolio quality, and enforce exposure limits for institutional clients to ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks.
Engage in pertinent management and credit committees, offering strategic perspectives on institutional banking risks and potential opportunities.
Academic Qualifications:
A relevant bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, with preference given to candidates holding an advanced degree such as a master’s or PhD. Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, including coursework or research pertinent to the position. Experience in teaching, publishing, or conducting specialized research is highly desirable. Additionally, familiarity with industry standards, methodologies, or technological advancements may be necessary, depending on the specific role.
A bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, or an equivalent discipline is required.
A master’s degree, particularly in fields such as MBA, Finance, or Strategy, would be considered a valuable asset.
Holds active memberships in relevant professional bodies and maintains current certifications where applicable. Demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development through adherence to industry standards and participation in accredited programs. Possesses a proven track record of contributing to professional literature, with published works or conference presentations that reflect expertise in the field.
A recognized qualification in banking or finance, such as AKIN, ACID, or an equivalent certification, is required.
Seeking a candidate with formal education or training in corporate/institutional lending, relationship management, or credit risk management.
A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in a related field is required for this position.
A minimum of eight to ten years of professional experience in the banking sector is required, including at least four to five years in senior or managerial capacities within Institutional, Corporate, or Public Sector Banking.
Established track record in overseeing engagements with Government, Parastatal, or Development Finance Institution partners within the Kenyan market.
Demonstrates a comprehensive grasp of Kenya’s banking sector, the frameworks governing public sector financing, and the applicable regulatory environment.
Proven proficiency in the following areas: Expertise in [specific skill or domain], demonstrated ability to [specific task or responsibility], and strong problem-solving capabilities. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the capacity to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely. Adept at [relevant skill], ensuring high-quality under tight deadlines. Collaborative mindset with a proven track record of working effectively in cross-functional teams. Leadership experience or potential, with a focus on driving results and fostering a positive work environment. Attention to detail and commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in all responsibilities. Technological fluency, particularly with [specific tools or software], to optimize workflow and enhance productivity.
Demonstrates exceptional leadership capabilities, guiding teams effectively with decisive action and strategic vision.
Executive disposition.
Exhibit unwavering integrity in all professional interactions and decision-making processes.
Proven ability to communicate effectively and build strong professional relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Possesses strong business and financial acumen, demonstrating sharp business savvy and a capacity for innovation.
Proven capability to design and execute comprehensive, cross-functional operational strategies with a long-term outlook.
A comprehensive knowledge of the banking industry is essential, including its regulations, practices, and evolving trends.
Skilled in fostering and sustaining robust stakeholder relationships.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 10 years
