Aijaz Shalla has been appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer at SBM Bank Kenya, bringing with him extensive experience and a distinguished track record in the banking sector. Aijaz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics & Communications and an MBA in Banking & Finance, where he was recognized as a Gold Medalist. His career spans over 23 years, including significant roles across various industries such as banking, steel, and power sectors.
Throughout his career, Aijaz Shalla has held notable positions in various banks, including Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) and I&M Bank. At DTB, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of Diamond Trust Bank Uganda, where he played a crucial role in driving the bank’s operational efficiency and technological transformation. His experience at DTB highlights his ability to lead complex banking operations and implement innovative technology solutions, setting the stage for continued growth and improvement within the institution.
Aijaz’s contributions to I&M Bank were also significant, as the bank has undergone considerable expansion and transformation during his tenure. I&M Bank has grown its network to include 40 branches across Kenya, demonstrating a strong commitment to providing accessible banking services. Aijaz’s involvement in these strategic initiatives underscores his expertise in scaling operations and managing large-scale projects within the financial sector.
Before his roles in banking, Aijaz started his career in the steel industry and later moved into the power sector, where he managed multi-million-dollar transformation programs. His diverse background in technology and banking provides him with a unique perspective on operational efficiency and technological innovation, making him an ideal fit for his new role at SBM Bank Kenya.
At J&K Bank, Aijaz was instrumental in implementing core banking solutions and digital channels, helping the bank modernize its services and meet the evolving needs of its customers. His leadership in projects covering integrated treasury management, card systems, data warehousing, and ERP solutions highlights his deep understanding of banking technology and his ability to drive digital transformation initiatives.
Aijaz Shalla’s appointment as COO of SBM Bank Kenya is expected to bring fresh insights and operational improvements, further positioning the bank as a leader in Kenya’s competitive banking landscape. His broad experience, from managing core banking systems to enhancing customer experience through digital innovation, aligns with SBM’s vision of providing reliable and efficient banking services.
With this new chapter at SBM Bank Kenya, Aijaz aims to leverage his extensive expertise to streamline operations, foster innovation, and contribute to the bank’s continued success in serving its customers and stakeholders.