Zenith Bank Plc has made a historic move by appointing Dr. Adaora Umeoji as the new Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), with her tenure commencing on June 1.
The announcement was relayed to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) by the bank’s Company Secretary, Mr. Michael Otu, who noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is yet to approve the appointment.
Dr. Umeoji will succeed Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose term as the bank’s Group Managing Director concludes on May 31. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to assume the role of GMD/CEO since the bank’s establishment.
Mr. Otu highlighted that Dr. Umeoji’s promotion aligns with Zenith Bank’s tradition of internal executive succession and its strategy to develop leadership from within its ranks.
Dr. Umeoji, who has been serving as the Deputy Managing Director since October 28, 2016, brings nearly three decades of banking expertise, with 26 of those years dedicated to Zenith Bank.
Her educational background is as impressive as her professional experience, boasting an Advanced Management Program (AMP) from Harvard Business School, a Certificate in Global Banking from Columbia Business School, and a diverse array of degrees including a Bachelor’s in Sociology, Accounting, and a First-Class Honors in Law.
She also holds a Master of Law, an MBA, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from prestigious institutions across the globe.
In addition to her academic accolades, Dr. Umeoji has enriched her knowledge through various management programs at top universities, including the MIT Sloan School of Management and Wharton Business School, and holds a certificate in Leading Global Business from Harvard Business School.
Her appointment is a testament to her exceptional leadership capabilities and Zenith Bank’s commitment to diversity and excellence.
