Accion Microfinance Bank welcomes board chairman
Accion Microfinance Bank has made a pivotal appointment in its leadership, announcing Christian Ruehmer as its new board chairman, effective April 18, 2024. This strategic decision underscores the bank’s commitment to expanding its influence in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, further solidifying its position as a leader in providing financial services to underserved populations.
Christian Ruehmer, a globally recognized expert in risk management, investments, and treasury, brings a remarkable breadth of experience to his new role. With over 25 years of experience in shaping financial institutions in developing markets, Ruehmer has established a proven track record of building resilient and profitable organizations. His deep understanding of complex risk landscapes and the financial industry makes him the ideal candidate to guide Accion MfB’s strategic direction and ensure its long-term sustainability.
Ruehmer’s career is decorated with significant roles in major multinational financial institutions, including Deutsche Bank and WestLB. At Deutsche Bank, he served as Deputy Treasurer and Managing Director of a Structured Investment Unit, excelling in portfolio management, risk management, and workout/restructuring. His extensive career from 1989 to 2013 took him across various global financial hubs, including Frankfurt, Mexico City, Madrid, and New York.
Beyond his roles in these institutions, Ruehmer has dedicated himself to advising over 120 financial institutions, investees, and international organizations in developing countries, specializing in risk management, investments, and corporate and SME lending. His expertise extends to the impact investment sector, where he served as Head of Risk Management and Chief Investment Officer at Bamboo Capital Partners from 2013 to 2022, a fund manager specializing in debt and equity investments.
In addition to his corporate achievements, Ruehmer is the founding partner and CEO of Q-Lana, a digital loan and asset management platform solution with a focus on corporate and SME lending. The platform boasts numerous customers across Africa, reflecting Ruehmer’s commitment to enhancing financial access and sustainability in developing markets.
Ruehmer’s philanthropic efforts are also noteworthy. In 2004, he founded Proyecto Horizonte, a community development program in Bolivia that has grown to support over 3,000 children annually through various education, health, and community service initiatives. His dedication to social impact is in line with Accion MfB’s mission to empower Nigerian entrepreneurs and small businesses by providing them with accessible and affordable financial services.
Ruehmer’s academic credentials are equally impressive. He completed his studies at Frankfurt School in Germany, earning a Diploma in Banking and Finance. He also holds prestigious certifications as a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Financial Risk Manager (FRM), further establishing his expertise in the financial sector.
Accion MfB’s leadership is confident that Ruehmer’s appointment will strengthen the bank’s governance and risk management framework, positioning it at the forefront of innovation and excellence in Nigeria’s microfinance sector. “We are delighted to welcome Christian to the Accion MfB family,” the bank stated. “His passion for driving positive change, combined with his extensive experience, aligns perfectly with our vision to support economic growth and development in Nigeria.”
As Board Chairman, Ruehmer will represent Accion Africa-Asia Investment Company on the Board of Accion MfB. His leadership is expected to be instrumental in driving the bank’s mission to empower Nigerian entrepreneurs and small businesses, ensuring that they have the financial tools and resources they need to succeed.
Since its inception in 2006, Accion MfB has been a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, offering innovative financial solutions to underserved populations. The bank’s history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has significantly contributed to economic growth and development in the country. With Ruehmer at the helm, Accion MfB is poised to continue its trajectory of success, driving positive change and empowerment in Nigeria’s microfinance ecosystem.
Ruehmer’s vision for Accion MfB includes expanding its reach and impact, ensuring that even more Nigerians have access to the financial services they need to improve their lives and businesses. His experience in both the corporate and philanthropic sectors uniquely positions him to lead the bank as it enters this new chapter of growth and innovation.
As Accion MfB continues to evolve under Ruehmer’s leadership, the bank remains committed to its core values of integrity, excellence, and customer-centricity. With a focus on leveraging technology and innovation, Accion MfB is set to further enhance its service offerings, making a tangible difference in the lives of millions of Nigerians.
Christian Ruehmer’s appointment marks a significant milestone in Accion MfB’s journey, as the bank looks to the future with renewed optimism and determination. His leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the bank’s strategy and ensuring its continued success in Nigeria’s dynamic microfinance sector.
