Standard Chartered Bank Kenya has announced the upcoming retirement of its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kariuki Ngari, effective 16 April 2026, ending a distinguished 24-year career with the Bank.
Ngari, who was appointed MD & CEO in March 2019, has overseen significant transformation at the Bank, driving the shift to digital channels where over 90% of transactions are now completed digitally. He also repositioned the Wealth and Retail Banking segment from a traditional savings-focused operation to a leading wealth management platform, significantly increasing the Bank’s Assets Under Management (AUM) to match deposits held.
Beyond financial performance, Ngari championed sustainability and community initiatives aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Participation in the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon rose by 78%, helping the Bank raise a record KES 76 million for its Futuremakers program, supporting youth employment and entrepreneurship.
The Board expressed its gratitude, noting that Ngari’s leadership had a profound and lasting impact on both the Bank and the communities it serves.
Birju Sanghrajka Appointed Successor
The Board has appointed Birju Sanghrajka as the new MD & CEO, subject to regulatory approvals. Sanghrajka currently serves as Head of Corporate and Investment Banking Coverage in Kenya and has been an Executive Director on the Board since July 2021.
With over 26 years of experience across Standard Chartered operations in Kenya, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates, Sanghrajka brings extensive cross-border expertise, deep client relationships, and a proven track record in building high-performing teams and delivering innovative solutions.
He holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Business Economics and Finance from Loughborough University, UK. The Board expressed confidence in Sanghrajka’s ability to lead the Bank into its next phase of sustainable, value-driven growth.
