Amhara Bank Names Yehinialem Aknaw as New Chief Executive

August 14, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Amhara Bank has appointed Yehinialem Aknaw as its new chief executive, bringing more than 25 years of banking experience to one of Ethiopia’s newer commercial lenders.

The appointment was approved by the National Bank of Ethiopia on Friday, following a selection process conducted by the bank’s board. Amhara Bank said the board assessed candidates against criteria covering professional qualifications, industry experience and leadership capacity.

Yehinialem’s career combines banking and financial expertise with information technology and management training. He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Addis Ababa University and later completed a master’s degree in information systems there in 2005.

He obtained an Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification in 2013 before completing an Executive MBA at Addis Ababa University’s School of Graduate Studies in 2014.

Amhara Bank said his experience in senior positions within the banking industry and his strategic management capabilities were key considerations in the board’s decision.

The appointment comes as Amhara Bank continues to establish itself in a banking industry that has expanded rapidly in recent years. The lender has also built one of the largest shareholder bases among Ethiopian banks, according to the bank.

Yehinialem takes charge as the sector undergoes significant changes, including regulatory reforms and increasing competition among commercial banks. His appointment gives the lender an executive with experience spanning banking, accounting, information systems and management.

Source: FSX Business News