Zenith Bank Plc has appointed Dr Adaora Umeoji as its new Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), making her the first female to occupy the position in the bank.
According to the statement issued by the bank’s secretary, Michael Otu, her appointment is in tune with the bank’s tradition and succession strategy of grooming leaders from within.
Zenith Bank in a statement at the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) on Tuesday said Umeoji’s appointment will take effect on June 1, 2024.
The bank said Adaora Umeoji will replace Ebenezer Onyeagwu whose five-year tenure as GMD/CEO ends on May 31.
Profile of Adaora Umeoji
Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji brings a wealth of experience and a rich academic background to her new position at Zenith Bank:
Educational Background
Harvard Business School: Completed the Advanced Management Program (AMP).
Columbia Business School: Earned a Certificate in Global Banking.
University of Jos: Graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology.
Baze University, Abuja: Achieved First-Class honors in Law.
University of Salford, UK: Holds a Master of Laws degree.
University of Calabar: Obtained a Master in Business Administration (MBA).
Apollos University, USA: Earned a doctorate in Business Administration.
MIT Sloan School of Management, USA: Completed a program in Economics for Business.
Wharton Business School, USA: Participated in strategic thinking and management programs.
Harvard Business School, USA: Completed an executive program in Strategic Management and a course in Leading Global Business.
Professional Achievements and Recognition
Fellowships: Member of several professional bodies, including the Chartered Banker Institute, UK, and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.
National Honor: Received the Officer of the Order of the Niger from the Federal Government of Nigeria.
UN Peace Advocate: Serves as a Peace Advocate of the United Nations (UN-POLAC).
Career and Contributions
Banking Experience: Over 20 years in banking and executive management.
Leadership and Research: Recognized for her work in inspirational leadership.
Academic Contributions: Served as a keynote speaker at various academic conferences, including the Zenith Global Economic Forum in New York City, USA.
Banking Industry Influence: Actively participated in high-level banking meetings, contributing to the industry and national economic growth.
Mentorship and Motivational Speaking: Engaged in mentoring youths and banking professionals.
Philanthropy: Supports healthcare programs and founded the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN) to promote ethical banking and service to humanity.
Papal Recognition: Awarded a Papal Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester by Pope Francis.