Stanbic Bank Kenya has formally appointed Michael Mutiga as its new chief executive officer after receiving approval from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).

The lender announced the appointment on Tuesday, saying Mr. Mutiga will take charge of the bank as it advances its strategic priorities and seeks to deepen relationships with customers.

“We are pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Mutiga as Chief Executive, Stanbic Bank Kenya, following approval from the Central Bank of Kenya,” the bank said in a statement.

Mr. Mutiga brings more than two decades of experience spanning banking, telecommunications and digital financial services, with a career focused on strategy, business growth and transformation.

Stanbic Bank said his diverse experience would strengthen its leadership as the lender works to deliver sustainable value to customers and other stakeholders.

“We look forward to his leadership as we continue creating long-term value for our clients, people and stakeholders,” the bank said.

The appointment marks Mr. Mutiga’s return to mainstream banking after about four years at Safaricom Plc, where he served as Chief Business Development and Strategy Officer.

At Safaricom, he was involved in developing and executing strategy as well as driving business growth initiatives, adding experience in one of the country’s leading telecommunications and digital financial services businesses.

Before joining Safaricom, Mr. Mutiga spent about 15 years at Citibank, where he held senior positions at both local and regional levels. He rose to become Managing Director and Head of Corporate Finance for Sub-Saharan Africa, based in Johannesburg.

Before Citibank, he worked at Barclays, where he served as Regional Coverage Head for Investment Banking in East Africa.

His career in financial services has earned him several industry accolades, including five Corporate Banker of the Year awards, underscoring his track record in the sector.

Mr. Mutiga holds a Master of Laws degree (LLM) from Temple University and a Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB, Honours) from the University of Nairobi.