Absa Group Limited has announced the appointment of Kenny Fihla as its new Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 17 June 2025, subject to regulatory approval.
Fihla, a seasoned financial services executive with nearly 20 years of leadership experience in banking, will take over from Interim Group CEO Charles Russon.
Absa Board Chairman Sello Moloko expressed confidence in Fihla’s ability to steer the bank forward.
“Kenny is a recognised leader with substantial Pan-African banking experience, strong relationships across the financial ecosystem, and a proven track record of delivering results in complex environments," Moloko said.
"The Board is confident that his leadership will further enhance Absa’s positive momentum and our ability to deliver meaningful value to our clients and stakeholders."
Moloko also commended Russon for his leadership over the past six months, noting his strategic focus and steady guidance in a challenging operating climate.
Russon will continue in his role as Interim CEO until 16 June 2025 before transitioning into a key senior role within the Group Executive Committee.
Fihla, who previously held executive roles at Standard Bank Group, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Absa.
“I am honoured to join and lead a team dedicated to making a positive impact across the continent. I look forward to working with Absa’s talented teams to build on the Group’s foundation. Together, we will drive forward-thinking strategies that meet our clients’ needs, empower our communities, and ensure long-term growth and success for the Group,” he said.
Fihla’s banking career began at Standard Bank Group in 2006, where he held several senior positions.
He was appointed to the Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) executive committee in 2007, became Head of Transactional Products and Services in 2008, and later rose to Executive and Head of Client Coverage in 2012.
In 2016, he was named Deputy Chief Executive of CIB before assuming the role of CEO of CIB in 2017, a position he held until August 2024.
In September 2024, he was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Standard Bank Group and Chief Executive Officer of Standard Bank South Africa.
In this capacity, he was also responsible for overseeing Standard Bank’s subsidiaries outside South Africa.