Sacco Chief Executive Officer at Co-operative Bank of Kenya

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and performance of the SACCO. The role is accountable for delivering sustained growth in membership, deposits, and loan portfolio, while ensuring financial soundness, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.

Performance Expectations

The CEO will be expected to deliver measurable outcomes, including:

• Sustained growth in membership, deposits, and loan portfolio
• Maintenance of a high-quality credit portfolio and prudent risk profile
• Strong financial performance, including profitability, liquidity, and capital adequacy
• Improved operational efficiency and cost management
• Expansion of revenue streams and product uptake
• Strengthened governance, compliance, and stakeholder confidence
• Progressive enhancement of digital capability and service delivery

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Execution

• Lead the development, refinement, and execution of the SACCO’s corporate strategy
• Translate strategic priorities into actionable plans with clear performance targets
• Provide informed strategic advice to the Board on business opportunities and risks
• Monitor and report on strategy execution and institutional performance

Business Growth and Market Development

• Drive growth in membership, deposits, and loan portfolio in line with assigned targets
• Oversee development and continuous improvement of products and services
• Strengthen market positioning and enhance member value proposition
• Promote cross-selling and deepen member relationships
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities and partnerships

Financial Management and Performance

• Deliver financial results in line with approved budgets and strategic plans
• Ensure sound management of liquidity, capital, and asset quality
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes
• Monitor financial performance and implement corrective measures where necessary

Risk Management and Compliance

• Establish and maintain a robust enterprise risk management framework
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including SASRA guidelines
• Oversee internal audit, internal controls, and risk mitigation processes
• Monitor key risk indicators and ensure timely intervention where required
• Promote a risk-aware culture across the organization

Operational Effectiveness

• Ensure efficient and effective operations supported by appropriate systems and processes
• Drive continuous improvement in service delivery and turnaround times
• Oversee integration and utilization of technology to enhance efficiency
• Ensure alignment between operational capacity and business growth objectives

Governance and Stakeholder Management

• Maintain effective engagement with the Board, regulators, and key stakeholders
• Ensure timely, accurate, and transparent reporting
• Uphold high standards of corporate governance and institutional integrity

Leadership and Organizational Development

• Provide leadership to the executive management team and staff
• Build institutional capacity aligned to strategic priorities
• Promote a performance-driven culture with clear accountability
• Oversee talent management, succession planning, and leadership development

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Finance, Commerce, Cooperative Management, or a related field from a reputable institution
• A master’s degree in a relevant field will be an added advantage
• Relevant professional qualification (e.g., CPA (K), ACCA, or equivalent) and membership in good standing with a recognized professional body
• At least 10 years of relevant experience, including a minimum of 5 years in a senior management or executive leadership role
• Past work experience in the Sacco subsector will be an added advantage

Key Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to deliver business growth and financial performance
• Strong financial management and credit risk expertise
• Knowledge of SACCO operations and regulatory requirements
• Strategic planning and execution capability
• Leadership and organizational management skills
• Stakeholder engagement and communication capability
• Proficiency in digital systems and technology-enabled operations