Access Bank appoints new MD

Access Bank (Ghana) Plc has announced the appointment of Pearl Nkrumah as its new Managing Director, effective October 1, 2025. Her confirmation, approved by both the bank’s Board of Directors and the Bank of Ghana, marks a historic milestone as she becomes the institution’s first female MD since its entry into the Ghanaian market.

She takes over from Olumide Olatunji, who has served in the role since 2018 and will be moving to a new executive position with the parent company, Access Bank Plc, in Nigeria.

Career Profile

Nkrumah joined Access Bank in 2022 as Executive Director for Retail and Digital Banking in Ghana. She also oversaw retail operations for Access Africa subsidiaries outside Nigeria, driving strategy across 15 markets. In addition, she chaired the Council of the Ghana Stock Exchange on behalf of listed companies.

Her 27-year banking journey began at Standard Chartered Bank, where she worked from 1998 to 2012, before moving to Stanbic Bank, where she held senior roles in commercial and business banking. She is widely recognised for her expertise in retail and transactional banking, risk management, commercial banking, and digital transformation.

Leadership Recognition

Board Chairperson, Ama Bawuah, described her appointment as a strong signal of Access Bank’s commitment to diversity and inclusive leadership. “Working with Pearl over the last three years has shown her remarkable capabilities. We are confident she will continue to strengthen the bank and inspire the next generation of women leaders,” she said.

She also expressed gratitude to outgoing MD Olatunji, applauding his role in transforming Access Bank Ghana into a formidable player in the industry.

Incoming MD’s Vision

In her response, Nkrumah said she felt honoured to lead the bank at this critical period. “Together with the board, management, and our dedicated employees, we will deliver superior value to customers, shareholders, and the communities we serve. Our focus is to cement Access Bank’s position as Ghana’s leading growth catalyst and a true partner in national progress,” she noted.

Continuity and Confidence

The bank highlighted that Nkrumah’s appointment aligns with its succession planning strategy and broader diversity goals. Under Olatunji’s leadership, Access Bank Ghana saw significant growth in its share price, balance sheet, and customer deposits, alongside partnerships with institutions such as IFC, MasterCard, and Norfund.

Olatunji expressed full confidence in his successor, saying, “I have no doubt Pearl will continue to strengthen the bank’s position and take it to greater heights. I am proud to hand over to her, knowing the institution is in capable hands.”

With this transition, Access Bank Ghana enters a new chapter of leadership aimed at sustaining growth while promoting inclusion and innovation in the banking sector.