From Humble Beginnings to Corporate Excellence

The Remarkable Journey

A remarkable path from rural Kenya to the helm of East Africa's financial sector.

1976 Early Years

Born in Laisamis, Marsabit County. Attended local primary school, dreaming of working at KCB Marsabit branch one day.

1991 - 1994 Mang'u High School

Overcame financial challenges with help from Food for the Hungry International. Father sold his flock, brother sacrificed education to support him.

1996 Moi University

Bachelor of Business Management. Financially clawed his way through university, showing the resilience that would define his career.

2000 - 2014 Building Excellence

Started at Kenya Breweries, then moved through Barclays, K-Rep Bank, PwC, gathering experience across 5 countries.

2014 - 2019 KCB Transformation

Joined KCB as Group HR Director. Led NBK turnaround from loss-making to profitable. Managed Chase Bank receivership.

May 2022 Present

Appointed Group CEO of KCB Group PLC. Leading the transformation into East Africa's undisputed financial leader.

Leadership.
Vision

Pillars of transformation driving meaningful change in society

People First

"People don't just matter, they are everything. The future of leadership is about people. We must drive meaningful change in society."

Technology Innovation

Digitalizing banking services to serve 30+ million customers. Leading the digital transformation across 8 countries.

Strategic Partnerships

Building alliances that create lasting impact. From UN sustainability goals to local community empowerment.

Sustainability Growth

Target: 25% green portfolio by 2025. Cut carbon footprint by 11.25%. Net Zero emissions by 2050.

Excellent Culture

"We must challenge the status quo, take deliberate steps outside our comfort zone to create lasting impact."

Community Impact

KES 150 billion annually to MSMEs. Transforming lives and lifting households to prosperity.

Driving Kenya to the Global Stage

WRC Safari Rally Championship

As Steering Committee member for WRC Safari Rally, Paul has positioned KCB as Kenya's largest motorsport sponsor. His passion extends beyond business - he's putting Kenya on the global motorsport map while developing local talent.

Total Investment

KES 2.3B

Historical commitment

2025 Sponsorship

KES 209M

Continued support

Legacy

20+ Years

Rally support

2025 Drivers

4 Drivers

Sponsored in 2025

app

"The WRC Safari Rally is more than just a motorsport event. We see it as a platform to showcase Kenya's potential on the global stage."

-Paul Russo

Awards & Recognition

A testament to exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence in financial services.

Elder of the Burning Spear

State commendation by President for contribution to financial services.

African Business Leader 2024

Recognized for driving KCB's growth and transforming East Africa's financial sector.

UNEP-FI Leadership Council

Global leader in sustainable finance transformation.

Harvard Business School

Senior Executive Program for Africa Certificate.

KBA Chairperson 2025

Leading Kenya's banking industry transformation

Top 40 Under 40

Recognized as one of Africa's most influential young leaders

Beyond
Business

A leader who balances professional excellence with personal values and community commitment

Father of 4

A dedicated family man

Farmer

Camel, goat and chicken farmer

Motorsport

WRC Safari Rally Steering Committee

Community

“People don’t just matter, they are everything”

Connect with Paul's Vision

Ask about KCB, Leadership or Personal Insights.