Standard Chartered Bank Kenya Limited has announced a major leadership transition, with Birju Sanghrajka appointed as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 16 April 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
Sanghrajka will succeed Kariuki Ngari, who will retire after a distinguished 24-year career with Standard Chartered, including seven years as CEO since 2019.
Under Ngari’s leadership, the bank underwent a profound transformation, accelerating its digital shift to the point where over 90% of transactions across Wealth and Retail Banking and Corporate and Investment Banking are now conducted digitally. Shareholders benefited from consistent, resilient financial performance during his tenure.
Ngari also repositioned Wealth and Retail Banking from a traditional savings-focused operation into a leading wealth-led franchise, backed by world-class products and expertise. This is evidenced by significant growth in Assets under Management (AUM), which now match the bank’s deposit base.
Beyond financial results, Ngari placed sustainability and community impact at the core of the bank’s agenda, aligning initiatives with global Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards. Through flagship programmes in youth employment and entrepreneurship, the bank strengthened its role as a trusted community partner.
A highlight was the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, where participant numbers rose 78% and funds raised for the Futuremakers youth initiative grew 76% to a record KSh 76 million.
Sanghrajka, currently Head of Corporate and Investment Banking Coverage for Kenya and an Executive Director on the Board since July 2021, brings more than 26 years of experience with Standard Chartered. He has held senior roles in Corporate and Investment Banking across Kenya, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.
His proven strengths in building deep client relationships, delivering cross-border solutions, assembling high-performing teams, and driving sustained performance position him ideally to guide the bank’s next chapter of sustainable, value-driven growth.
Board Chairperson Kellen Kariuki said: “On behalf of the Board, we extend our deepest appreciation to Kariuki for his outstanding and transformative leadership. Under his stewardship, the bank has delivered strong financial outcomes, accelerated digital transformation, and deepened community impact. We congratulate Birju on his appointment and are confident he will successfully steer the bank through its next phase of growth.”
Reflecting on his departure, Kariuki Ngari said: “It has been a privilege to work at Standard Chartered with hundreds of colleagues, growing talent and serving clients. Together, we have transformed how we serve our clients. I have had a good run and depart with nothing but gratitude.”
Birju Sanghrajka commented: “I am honoured by the confidence the Board has placed in me and excited about the opportunity to lead our Kenya franchise. Kariuki leaves a strong legacy of performance and purpose, and I look forward to building on this by deepening client relationships, leveraging our global network, and continuing to invest in world-class solutions that support Kenya’s growth story.”
The leadership transition signals continuity alongside renewed momentum as Standard Chartered Bank Kenya advances digital innovation, wealth management, and sustainable finance in East Africa’s largest economy.
