Dr. Adaora Umeoji: Meet Zenith Bank’s first female GMD/CEO
Zenith Bank Plc has appointed Dr. Adaora Umeoji as its Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, according to a notification sent to the Nigerian Exchange Ltd., NGX, by the bank’s Company Secretary, Michael Otu.
This appointment is subject to approval by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. Umeoji succeeds Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose successful five-year tenure ends on May 31. She becomes the first female GMD/CEO in the bank’s history.
Umeoji’s appointment aligns with the bank’s tradition of executive transition and succession plan, emphasizing internal leadership development.
Here’s what to know about Dr. Adaora Umeoji, the newly appointed GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc:
Professional Background: Adaora Umeoji has nearly 30 years of banking experience, with 26 years specifically at Zenith Bank, where she served as Deputy Managing Director before her appointment as GMD/CEO.
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Educational Achievements: She holds multiple degrees, including a Bachelor’s in Sociology, Accounting, and Law, a Master of Laws, an MBA, and a doctorate in Business Administration from various prestigious institutions worldwide.
Executive Education: Adaora Umeoji has attended several executive education programs at renowned institutions such as Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan School of Management, and Wharton Business School, among others.
Professional Affiliations: She is a fellow of several professional bodies, including the Chartered Banker Institute, UK, and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, among others.
Honors and Recognition: Umeoji was honored by the Federal Government of Nigeria with the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) award in 2022 for her contributions to nation-building. She is also a Peace Advocate of the United Nations (UN-POLAC).
Philanthropic Work: Umeoji is actively involved in philanthropic activities through her NGOs, the Pink Breathe Cancer Foundation and the Adorable Foundation. She founded the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN) to promote ethical banking and service to humanity.
Social Recognition: She is a Lady of the Order of Knights of St. John International (KSJI) and was awarded a Papal Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester by Pope Francis, reflecting her significant contributions to society and the banking industry.
