Patience Mutesi Gatera has been appointed as the Managing Director of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc. She replaces George Odhiambo, who was assigned new duties in KCB Group.
A statement announcing his appointment reads that Mutesi will assume duties effective 1st February 2023. She joins BPR Bank Rwanda after serving as the Country Director for Trademark East Africa since July 2016 where she oversaw a strategic trade facilitation programme, which contributed significantly towards increasing Rwanda’s trade, investments and jobs’ creation.
George Rubagumya, Chairman of BPR Bank Rwanda Board, said: “We are delighted to have Mutesi on board, and particularly pleased with the experience she will bring with her invaluable background in finance and trade development.”
On behalf of staff and Management, Rubagumya, also thanked Odhiambo, for his undivided commitment during his time as Managing Director, adding that the bank is in a strong financial position to foster its desired momentum in the coming years. “I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
Patience Mutesi Gatera expressed delight for the trust bestowed to her to lead the bank. “I am honored to be given this opportunity to lead this bank and thank the BPR Rwanda Board of Directors and KCB Group for their vote of confidence. As I embark on this journey, priority will be on enhancement of our customers’ experience in dealing with the bank,” she stated.
“I am confident that through the last digital developments, our customers will transition into best-in-class financial services. By increasing provision of capital to businesses for quality investment, we will also support Rwanda’s ambition to foster a private sector driven economy,” added Mutesi.
Mutesi was born in Kenya – to Rwandan refugee parents – but later moved to Uganda and lived there until she completed her Bachelor’s degree in 2004.
Ms. Mutesi holds an MBA in Finance from Maastricht School of Management in the Netherlands and a BSc. Honors in Quantitative Economics from Makerere University in Uganda. She is an Eisenhower Fellow and an alumni of the Swedish Institute Management Program.
Mutesi’s new employer, BPR Bank Rwanda, is the largest bank in Rwanda by branch network with 154 branches, playing a critical role in supporting a budding economy to drive financial inclusion in the country, focusing on inclusive growth, equality, financial opportunities, money management, investment initiatives and poverty reduction. (End)