Absa confirmed the appointment of former Standard Bank deputy Kenny Fihla as its new chief executive (CEO), following his shock resignation from Standard Bank over the weekend.
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Swapping blue for red, Standard Bank’s former deputy chief executive Kenny Fihla has been appointed as ABSA’s chief executive officer, saying he is honoured to take up the new role.
"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 strong 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," Fihla said.
Absa confirmed Fihla's move following his surprise resignation from Standard Bank over the weekend.
The bank said Fihla was selected after an "extensive selection process" and will officially assume his role on June 17, 2025, pending regulatory approval.
"Following an extensive selection process, Kenny Fihla has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer and executive director of Absa Group and Absa Bank, effective 17 June 2025, subject to regulatory approval," Absa said in a statement.
Fihla brings extensive experience in the banking sector, having joined Standard Bank Group in 2006. Over the years, he has held several senior roles, including Chief Executive Officer of Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB), Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Standard Bank Group, and Chief Executive Officer of Standard Bank South Africa. As Deputy CEO, he was also responsible for Standard Bank’s subsidiaries outside South Africa.
Absa expressed confidence in Fihla’s leadership, describing him as a "recognized leader with substantial Pan-African banking experience and a proven track record."
“Kenny is a recognised leader with substantial Pan-African banking experience, strong relationships across the financial ecosystem, and a proven ability to drive results in complex environments. 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,” said Absa Board Chairman Sello Moloko.
Fihla joined us in 2006 as an executive in the Financial Asset Services business of Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB). He held a variety of roles in CIB including Head of Transactional Products & Services, Head of Client Coverage and Deputy Chief Executive, before being appointed as its Chief Executive in June 2017.
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