Abena Osei-Poku stands as a towering figure in African banking, embodying the spirit of innovation, leadership, and perseverance. Her journey from a young economics graduate to one of the continent’s most influential corporate leaders is a testament to her exceptional skills, unwavering determination, and visionary approach to finance.
Early Life and Education
Born in Ghana around 1971, Abena Osei-Poku’s formative years were spent in her home country, where she completed her elementary and secondary education2. Her academic prowess became evident early on, leading her to the prestigious University of Ghana. In 1994, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Statistics, laying the foundation for her future in finance 2.
Recognizing the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly evolving global economy, Abena pursued further education. She obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, equipping herself with advanced business acumen and international perspective 1 2.
Career Milestones
Abena Osei-Poku’s career in banking spans over 25 years, marked by a series of impressive roles and achievements:
Early Career:
- Started as a private banker at First Atlantic Merchant Bank 3.
- Joined Standard Chartered Bank Ghana, progressing from Assistant Relationship Manager to Credit Manager for Multinational Corporates3.
Rise Through the Ranks:
- Headed the Group Special Assets Risk Management (SARM) department at Standard Chartered Bank Ghana from 2001 to 20023.
- Expanded her role to oversee West Africa and Central Africa regions 3.
- Became Director for Global Corporates in the Wholesale Bank division 3.
Leadership at Barclays and Absa:
- Appointed Executive Director for Commercial Banking at Barclays Bank Ghana in 2009 1.
- Served as Regional Head of Coverage for Corporate & Investment Banking for Rest of Africa at Barclays from 20171.
- Became Managing Director of Barclays Bank Ghana (later Absa Bank Ghana) in September 2018 2.
- Led the transformation of Barclays Bank Ghana to Absa Bank Ghana in February 2020 2.
Current Position:
- Appointed Managing Director of Ecobank Ghana and Regional Executive for the Anglophone West Africa (AWA) Region of the Ecobank Group in January 2024 1 2 3.
Overcoming Challenges
Throughout her career, Abena Osei-Poku has faced and overcome numerous challenges inherent in the banking sector and as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Her success in navigating complex corporate structures, managing risk, and driving change is evident in her rapid ascent through various leadership positions.
One of the most significant challenges she tackled was overseeing the transformation of Barclays Bank Ghana to Absa Bank Ghana in 20202. This rebranding exercise required not only strategic planning but also careful management of customer relationships and public perception.
Contributions and Impact
Abena Osei-Poku’s influence extends far beyond her immediate roles in banking:
Corporate Governance:
- Serves as Chairperson of the Ghana Stock Exchange 1 3.
- Chairs the Advisory Board of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Ghana 2 3.
Industry Leadership:
- Member of the executive councils of the Ghana Association of Banks and the National Banking College 2.
- Honorary Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana 2.
- Honorary Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers 2 3.
Recognition:
- Named one of Africa’s 50 Most Influential Female Corporate Leaders 8.
- Recognized as Marketing Woman of the Year 2021 7.
Legacy and Lessons
Abena Osei-Poku’s career offers several valuable lessons:
- Continuous Learning: Her pursuit of an MBA after starting her career demonstrates the importance of ongoing education.
- Adaptability: Her success across different banks and roles showcases the value of being adaptable in a changing industry.
- Leadership in Transformation: Her role in transitioning Barclays to Absa highlights the importance of strong leadership during organizational change.
- Giving Back: Her involvement in various boards and institutions shows the importance of contributing to the broader community and industry.
Abena Osei-Poku’s journey from a young graduate to a leading figure in African banking is an inspiration to aspiring professionals across the continent. Her story demonstrates that with determination, skill, and a commitment to excellence, it’s possible to reach the pinnacle of one’s field while also making a significant impact on society.
As she continues to shape the future of banking in Africa through her role at Ecobank Ghana, Abena Osei-Poku stands as a beacon of what’s possible for African women in finance and beyond. Her legacy is not just in the institutions she’s led, but in the paths she’s paved for future generations of African leaders.
Sources:
- [1] https://gh.linkedin.com/in/abena-osei-poku
- [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abena_Osei-Poku
- [3] https://citinewsroom.com/2024/01/abena-osei-poku-appointed-new-ecobank-md/
- [4] https://thedefinitivelist.africa.com/abena-osei-poku/
- [5] https://businessworldghana.com/abena-osei-poku/
- [6] https://x.com/abenaop
- [7] https://africanmarketingconfederation.org/amc-member-news-14/
- [8] https://mypublisher24.com/absa-bank-md-abena-osei-poku-recognised-as-one-of-africas-top-female-corporate-leaders/