Absa Bank Kenya PLC has officially appointed Marion Gathoga-Mwangi as an Independent Non-Executive Director, effective October 2, 2024. With over 25 years of industry experience, Marion brings an exceptional wealth of knowledge and leadership to Absa Kenya’s Board of Directors. Her appointment is expected to further strengthen the bank’s strategic direction and empower its pursuit of sustainable growth.
Marion is no stranger to leadership, having held pivotal roles across various sectors in both local and international markets. She currently serves as the Group Chief Executive Officer of Standard Group PLC, where her vast executive acumen is driving organizational success. Previously, she held the position of Managing Director at BOC Kenya PLC, part of the Linde Group, as well as leadership roles at African Oxygen (Pty) Limited, another Linde subsidiary. Furthermore, Marion has served on multiple boards, including as a non-executive director at British American Tobacco Kenya PLC and BOC Kenya PLC.
Her extensive experience encompasses commercial operations, lean manufacturing, leadership and management, and trade and marketing. This makes her a powerful addition to Absa Kenya’s Board, bringing fresh insights that align with the bank’s mission of empowering Africa’s tomorrow.
In terms of education, Marion holds a Bachelor of Science degree in International Business Administration from United States International University – Africa (USIU-A). She has also completed a Practitioner Diploma in Executive Coaching from the Academy of Executive Coaches. Beyond her boardroom roles, Marion is committed to leadership development, contributing as adjunct faculty at Strathmore Business School, where she leads the Women in Leadership program.
Charles Muchene, Chairman of Absa Kenya, expressed his confidence in the appointment, stating, “We warmly welcome Marion to the board and look forward to benefiting from her extensive knowledge and experience. As we continue to lead the business in the pursuit of our purpose, we remain committed to empowering Africa’s future together, one step at a time.”
The appointment of Marion Gathoga-Mwangi is not only a boost for Absa Kenya’s leadership team but also highlights the growing role of women in corporate governance across the region. Her leadership journey serves as a beacon for future leaders, reinforcing the importance of diversity in boardrooms.
As Absa continues to strengthen its position in Kenya’s competitive banking landscape, Marion’s presence on the board is anticipated to contribute significantly to the bank’s vision of transforming financial services and promoting economic inclusion in Africa.
Stay tuned for more developments from Absa Kenya as they work towards building a more inclusive and sustainable financial ecosystem.
