#25
BETH WANJIRU THUO
DIRECTOR – CONSUMER BANKING, SBM BANK KENYA
“A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. But the search to find that voice can be remarkably difficult.” – Melinda Gates. Few embody this journey as powerfully as Beth Wanjiru Thuo, a trailblazer in the financial sector with over 22 years of experience. As Director of Consumer Banking at SBM Bank Kenya, Beth has carved out a legacy of transformative leadership, championing financial inclusivity and strategic banking innovations.
A graduate in Business and Information Technology (IT) from the United States International University – Africa (USIU-A), Beth combined her technical expertise with business acumen, allowing her to excel in the banking sector. She further expanded her leadership knowledge as a member of the Fast Forward Leadership Program since 2013, an initiative that has propelled her towards innovative and transformative leadership.
Beth’s career progression is a testament to her resilience and expertise. She began at CFC Bank in IT operations before transitioning into Hire Purchase and Asset Finance, laying the foundation for a dynamic journey ahead. Her tenure at Chase Bank saw her quickly ascend through multiple roles, including Branch Manager, Head of Business Development, and Assistant General Manager for Branch Business. Under her steadfast leadership, Chase Bank expanded its branch network from six to 62 branches and grew its retail assets and liabilities significantly. When Beth joined SBM Bank Kenya in 2018 as Vice President of Consumer Banking, she brought with her an extensive understanding of financial services and strategic leadership. Her transition to Director of Consumer Banking cemented her status as a force in the industry, steering SBM Bank toward profitability and enhanced customer-focused banking solutions.
Beth has been instrumental in SBM Bank’s digital transformation agenda, working alongside Gartner Consulting to redefine the future of banking through innovative technology. Her leadership has driven 2.5 times growth in the bank’s consumer business over four years, turning 75 percent of branches profitable and steering SBM toward customer-centric, technology-driven solutions. With her expertise in retail strategy, women’s banking, and financial inclusion, she has solidified her position as a trendsetter in the financial industry.
Among Beth’s most defining achievements is her dedication to financial inclusivity, particularly for women in business. She spearheads the Women Markets Program at SBM Bank, a flagship initiative aimed at providing tailored financial solutions and empowering female entrepreneurs. Her leadership in this space has earned the bank several prestigious accolades, including: Most Preferred Women Banker in Kenya (Financial Inclusion Awards, 2019); Marketing Realignment Through COVID-19 – What Women Want Campaign (MSK Awards, 2020); and Best Bank in Women Banking Kenya (World Economic Magazine, 2021). These recognitions highlight her unwavering commitment to ensuring that women have access to financial resources and opportunities to scale their businesses.
Beth’s expertise and influence extend beyond her banking role. She has been invited to speak at prestigious global forums, sharing insights on financial inclusion and gender-responsive banking. Notable appearances include: UN Global Compact Leaders’ Summit Africa Regional Session (2022), where she spoke on accelerating change in African supply chains through inclusive procurement; and African Union (Ethiopia, 2019), where she addressed the importance of financial inclusivity and gender-responsive procurement in Africa. Her contributions in these discussions underscore her status as a thought leader shaping the future of financial services on the continent.
Beyond banking, Beth is a dedicated art enthusiast and a member of the Circle Art Gallery. Her appreciation for fine art reflects her creative approach to leadership, blending strategy with innovation. Additionally, she is actively involved in community service, serving in the Quest Ministry as a Sunday School Teacher at Nairobi Chapel and engaging with Kenya Women Business Owners (KAWBO), a platform that supports and mentors female entrepreneurs.
While Beth has built a formidable career in banking, she also values personal fulfillment. She is a golf enthusiast, a sport that mirrors her strategic thinking and resilience in leadership. She is a member of Limuru Golf Club and Wadi Degla Club, where she enjoys unwinding and networking with industry peers.
As Beth continues leading Consumer Banking at SBM Bank Kenya, she stands out as a rising star shaping the future of banking in 2025. Her visionary leadership, commitment to financial empowerment, and ability to drive industry-changing strategies make her one of the most impactful C-Suite executives.
AUTHOR: MARILENE MERCY
EDITOR: MARTIN O’NEIL
