Paul Russo named KCB Group CEO as Oigara exits

KCB Group has named Paul Russo as its new Group Chief Executive Officer.

Russo, who until his appointment was Managing Director of National Bank   a subsidiary of KCB takes over from Joshua Oigara who ends a stint of nearly a decade with the financial institution.

Oigara’s term at KCB was initially expected to run through to December 2022 after a one-year extension at the end of last year.

He is however expected to remain  at the helm of the bank until the end of the year to support the transition.

While confirming the changes, KCB Group board lauded Oigara for growing the lender to a regional leader in banking.

“The board acknowledges Joshua’s immense contribution in driving the Growth of the Group business over the decade. He has been instrumental in deepening financial inclusion and social impact across East Africa,” the bank noted.

During his term, Oigara oversaw KCB’s regional expansion which includes the acquisition of banks in Tanzania and Rwanda(Banque Populaire du Rwanda(BPR).

He also oversaw the acquisition of the National Bank of Kenya (NBK) that was struggling with bad debt. 

Russo has over 20 years of experience in executive roles including serving as Group HR Director.

He holds a Masters in Business Administration from Strathmore University Business School and a Bachelor’s in Business Management from Moi University.