Senior Management

Home » About » Senior Management

About
Directors
Executive Team
Senior Management
Organizational Structure
Milestone
ESG
Contact Us

About
Directors
Executive Team
Senior Management
Organizational Structure
Milestone
ESG
Contact Us

Zemen Bank Senior Management

Abdulkadir Wolela Sabir

Director - Interest Free Banking

Abdulkadir Wolela Sabir

Director - Interest Free Banking

Ato Abdulkadir brings over 22 years of expertise in banking and financial services, with the last 13 years dedicated to leading departments such as Electronic Channel, Interest-Free Banking (IFB), and IFB Customer Relationship Management. Previously, he served as Division Manager for Payment Card Banking, Mobile and Agent Banking, and held roles as a Senior Banking and Financial Services Consultant, Deposit Accounts Supervisor, and Merchant Service Officer. In addition to his extensive project management experience, Ato Abdulkadir has developed and refined strategic initiatives, implemented electronic channel services, adopted IFB services, and led CORE banking solution implementations. He holds a Master’s in Business Leadership (MBL) from Addis Ababa University School of Commerce (AAUSC), an MBA from St. Mary’s University, a BA in Marketing Management from AAUSC, a BA in Accounting Information Systems from MicroLink College, and a Diploma in Banking and Finance from AAUSC. Since march 11, 2024 he has been serving as Interest free Banking Department Director.

Abel Melaku Asfaw

Director - Treasury & Investment Department

Abel Melaku Asfaw

Director - Treasury & Investment Department

Ato Abel has held key roles at Zemen Bank, including Manager of Accounts & Share Management, Manager of Fund Management & Budget Control, and Senior Internal Auditor. Before joining Zemen Bank, he gained valuable experience in various roles at Dashen Bank, Awash International Bank, and Addis Credit & Saving Institute, where he built a solid foundation in auditing, banking operations, and financial management. Abel holds an MSc in Accounting and Finance from Addis Ababa University, along with a BA and Diploma in Accounting from the same institution, reflecting his strong academic background that complements his practical skills in the field. Since October 1, 2022, he has been serving as the Director of the Treasury & Investment Department.

Akalework Tamene Kebede

Director - Digital Transformation and Software Development.

Akalework Tamene Kebede

Director - Digital Transformation and Software Development.

Akalework Tamene joined Zemen Bank in October, 2022 and has over 10 years of experience in banking and technology-related fields. Prior to his current role, he held managerial positions in technology and systems development, where he contributed to the design and implementation of innovative banking solutions. He also served at Ethio Telecom, Information Network Security Administration, and Oromia International Bank. Akalework Tamene holds a B.Sc. Degree in Electrical Engineering from Haramaya University. Since August 1, 2025, he has been serving as the Director, Digital Transformation and Software Development.

Ayele Tibebu Bezabhi

Director - Procurement & Contract Management Department

Ayele Tibebu Bezabhi

Director - Procurement & Contract Management Department

Ato Ayele began his career at Zemen Bank as the Head of Logistics and Property Management and later served as the Manager of Logistics and Property Management. Previously he worked at Washera Broadview College and Abay Insurance. Ato Ayele holds Masters degree in Public Administration from Indira Gandhi National Open University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education from Addis Ababa University. Since July 1, 2023, he has been serving as the Director of the Procurement & Contract Management Department.

Birhanu Beyene Birhanu

Director - Legal Service Department

Birhanu Beyene Birhanu

Director - Legal Service Department

Ato Birhanu has held various positions at institutions such as the Federal First Instance Court, the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Jimma University, Nib International Bank, and the Bank of Abyssinia. He has made substantial contributions to legal scholarship through academic articles published in various law journals. Ato Birhanu graduated with an LL.M in International Business Law and Globalization from Utrecht University in the Netherlands and an LL.B from Addis Ababa University. Since October 1, 2022, he has been serving as the Director of the Legal Service Department.

Biruk Assefa Wondimagegnehu

Director - Business and SME Banking

Biruk Assefa Wondimagegnehu

Director - Business and SME Banking

Biruk Assefa is a Director of Business and SME Banking at Zemen Bank, where he has worked through progressive leadership roles since 2012. Starting as a Senior Business Development Officer, he has advanced through diverse functions, building deep expertise in banking, marketing, and sales. With nearly two decades of industry experience, Biruk has worked with local and international organizations, developing strategic insight and client-focused solutions. In his current role, he oversees a high-value portfolio and leads initiatives to strengthen SME access to finance. He holds a Master’s degree in Marketing Management from Mekelle University.

Demeke Gashaw Sisay

Director - Enterprise Applications Management

Demeke Gashaw Sisay

Director - Enterprise Applications Management

Demeke Gashaw is Director of Enterprise Applications Management at Zemen Bank S.C., appointed in December 2024. He brings over 14 years of experience in banking technology, core systems, and digital transformation, having previously served as Director of Core Systems & Data Analytics at Tsehay Bank and as Head of Core Banking Application Administration at Hibret Bank. Demeke began his career at Action Aid Ethiopia, building strong expertise in IT infrastructure and operations. He holds a Bsc Degree in Computer Science from Hawassa University, complemented by certifications in core banking and IT operations.

Eskatnaf Bayou Asmare

Director - Cyber & IT Security Department

Eskatnaf Bayou Asmare

Director - Cyber & IT Security Department

Ato Eskatnaf, since joining Zemen Bank in November 2010, has held various roles, including IT System Security Manager, Principal Officer specializing in Network and Datacenter Management, and Senior IT Infrastructure Officer. Before joining Zemen Bank, Eskatnaf worked as a Hardware and Networking Engineer at Silicon Computer and Communication PLC and as a Technical Specialist at Offshoring 2.0 Outsourcing, showcasing his robust background in IT management and cybersecurity. Ato Eskatnaf's expertise is backed by an MSc in Computer Science from HilCoE and a BSc in Computer Engineering from Microlink Information Technology College. His skills are further validated by international certifications such as COBIT Foundation, ITIL Foundation, Cisco CCNP, CCNA, CCNA Security, and Metasploit Pro Specialist. Since October 1, 2022, he has been serving as the Director of the Cyber & IT Security Department.

Fekadu Mihretu W/Gebriel

Director - Omni Channel Banking Department

Fekadu Mihretu W/Gebriel

Director - Omni Channel Banking Department

Ato Fekadu served as a Junior Branch Accounts Clerk, Branch Accounts Officer, Senior Branch Accounts Officer, Assistant Manager – Banking Center, Acting Manager – Banking Center, and Manager of a Banking Center at Zemen Bank. Before joining Zemen Bank, he worked at Ultimate Motors PLC as a Purchaser. He holds an MA in Public Management and Policy, and a BA in Business Administration and Information Systems from Addis Ababa University. Since October 1, 2022, he has been serving as the Director of the Omni Channel Banking Department.

Fikru Tabor Urgessa

Director - Risk and Compliance Management Department

Fikru Tabor Urgessa

Director - Risk and Compliance Management Department

Ato Fikru, since joining Zemen Bank in 2009, has held positions including Senior Risk Management Officer, Senior Credit Analyst, Credit Monitoring and Follow-up Manager, and Compliance Division Manager. He began his career at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia as a management trainee and progressed through roles such as Loan Officer, Corporate Credit Assessor, and Credit Analyst. Ato Fikru holds an MBA and a BA in Business Management from Addis Ababa University. He is also certified in Risk Management, Advanced Corporate Governance, High-Performance Leadership, Transformational Leadership, Corporate Customer Relationship Management, IFRS, and Problem Loan Management. Since March 1, 2021, he has been serving as the Director of the Risk and Compliance Management Department.

Girum Tariku Agonafer

Director - Marketing & Corporate Communication Department

Girum Tariku Agonafer

Director - Marketing & Corporate Communication Department

Ato Girum has held various roles in the industry, including Director of Marketing and Corporate Communication at Berhan Bank S.C. He has worked as communications consultant for UNDP and Program Manager, and Country Representative for Kinderhilfswerk Ethiopia. He has also worked as an English newscaster for ETV/EBC. He obtained MA in Policy Studies CSU and a BA in Educational Psychology from AAU. Since March 3, 2023, he has been serving as the Director of the Marketing & Corporate Communication Department.

Habte Reji Gizaw

Director - Database Management & Analytics Department

Habte Reji Gizaw

Director - Database Management & Analytics Department

Habte Reji joined Zemen Bank as the Director of the Database Management and Analytics Department. He has held leadership and managerial positions in various departments and has experience at Hibret Bank S.C., where he held roles such as Manager of the Core Banking Application Administration Division, Manager of the Office Automation Division, Head of the Programming and Interface Section, Senior Database Administrator, and Database Administrator II. He also worked as a Senior System Engineer at SS Communications Plc, a Programmer & Analyst at ABCON Plc, and has a background in teaching at Atlanta College. Habte holds an M.Sc. in Information Science, a B.Sc. in Information Systems, and a B.A. in Finance and Development Economics from Addis Ababa University. Since March 4, 2023, he has been serving as the Director of the Database Management & Analytics Department.

Tadesse Fikremarkos Leykun

A/Director- IT strategy & Enterprise Architecture Management.

Tadesse Fikremarkos Leykun

A/Director- IT strategy & Enterprise Architecture Management.

Kassahun Mereawi Asres

Director - Engineering & Building Mgt. Department

Kassahun Mereawi Asres

Director - Engineering & Building Mgt. Department

Ato Kassahun has previously held various positions in reputable organizations. His professional background includes construction head at Grace Engineering, project engineer at Tibeb Construction, project manager at Flintstone Engineering, senior building engineer at CBE, project coordination department head, project manager and operation Manager at Afrotsion Construction plc, Building Engineer at Coyne Joint Venture and program coordination Department manager at Teklebirhan Ambaye Construction. Kassahun holds Masters in Civil Engineering, BSc in Construction Technology and Management from AAU. Since October 01,2022 he has been serving as the Director of the Engineering & Building Mgt. Department.

Lemma Alemayehu Ayele

Director - Finance & Investor's Relations Department

Lemma Alemayehu Ayele

Director - Finance & Investor's Relations Department

Ato Lemma joined Zemen Bank as a Senior Accountant and has held various positions, including Head of General Accounts, Manager of the Accounts and Share Management Division, and Director of the Finance Department, eventually ascending to the position of Director of Finance and Investor Relations. Before joining Zemen Bank, he worked at Golden Valley International PLC as an Accountant and at the Bank of Abyssinia as a Bank Clerk. Ato Lemma holds an MSc in Accounting and Finance from Addis Ababa University, a BA in Accounting from Addis Ababa University College of Commerce. Since October 01,2022 he has been serving as the Director of the Finance & Investor's Relations Department.

Mahlet Girma Menkir

Acting Director - Corporate Banking

Mahlet Girma Menkir

Acting Director - Corporate Banking

Mahlet Girma began her career at Zemen Bank as a junior officer and steadily advanced through a series of roles in branch operations. She played a key role in establishing and managing two branches, demonstrating her operational expertise and commitment to excellence. Currently serving as the Acting Director of the Corporate Banking Department, Mahlet oversees strategic client relationships and drives tailored financial solutions that support business growth. She holds a Master’s degree in Marketing Management from Addis Ababa University. Known for her results-oriented mind-set and strong leadership, Mahlet is deeply committed to delivering value to clients while fostering a customer-centric culture. Her approach is grounded in integrity, inclusion, and sustainable growth, and she continues to play a vital role in strengthening the bank’s corporate banking portfolio and operational performance.

Martha GebreMeskel Meressa

Director - Fund Management and Remittance Department

Martha GebreMeskel Meressa

Director - Fund Management and Remittance Department

Martha Since joining Zemen Bank has held various senior roles, including Senior Officer Export Trade and Guarantee Services, Head Export Trade Service Section, Manager Export Trade & Foreign Guaranee Services Divison, Manager Forex Fund Management and Permit Division. Prior to Zemen Bank, she spent years at the Bank of Abyssinia, contributing to both the International Banking and Finance Departments. Martha holds an MBA in General Management from St. Mary’s University, a BA in Management from Addis Ababa University. Since October 01,2022 she has been serving as the Director - Fund Management and Remittance Department.

Mechal Bedada Heye

Director - Property & Logistics Management Department

Mechal Bedada Heye

Director - Property & Logistics Management Department

Ato Mechal served as Senior Division Manager of Public Relations and Manager of Promotion and Corporate Communication at Zemen Bank. He previously worked at Dashen and Awash Banks as head of promotion and manager of brands and Communication. Ato Mechal obtained Master of Commerce from Indira Gandhi National Open University and BA in Business Management from Alpha University College. Since July 1, 2023, he has been serving as the Director of the Property & Logistics Management Department.

Meheret Asmare Wubye

Director - Security Services Department

Meheret Asmare Wubye

Director - Security Services Department

Ato Meheret served as Manager and Acting Director of Security Services Department at Zemen Bank. Before joining Zemen Bank he worked as Assistant Chief of Security at Radisson Blu International Hotel, Marketing Inspector in the Division at National Tobacco Enterprise, and held key positions in the Federal Police, including Division Head of Crime Prevention and Head of the Legal Main Division. Ato Meheret has also worked as a UN Police Advisor in South Sudan and held roles in Immigration and Refugee Affairs. He holds an LL.B. in Law from Ethiopian Civil Service University and certifications in Police Science, Border Intelligence, and UN Police Training from China and South Sudan. Since July 1, 2023, he has been serving as the Director of the Security Services Department.

Mesfin Berhan Dessalegn

Director - Trade Service Dep't

Mesfin Berhan Dessalegn

Director - Trade Service Dep't

Ato Mesfin started at Zemen Bank as a Teller and then worked in various positions, including Foreign Exchange Permit Officer, Senior Officer for Foreign Transfer & Cheque Service, and Customer Relationship Manager. He holds an MBA in Business Management from St. Mary’s University and a BA in Management from Unity University. Since April 19, 2023 he has been serving as the Director of the Credit Appraisal Department.

Mitku Bitew Mengesha

Director - IT Infrastructure Management Department

Mitku Bitew Mengesha

Director - IT Infrastructure Management Department

Mitku joined Zemen Bank in 2016, bringing with him about eight years of experience as a Senior Network Engineer, Network Engineer, and Junior Network Engineer at the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority. Since joining Zemen Bank, he has held the roles of Head of Network Support Section and Manager of Network Administration Division before assuming his current position as Director of the IT Infrastructure Management Department. As Manager of Network Administration, he led various IT infrastructure projects, implemented emerging technologies, and conducted testing. During his tenure as Head of Network Support, he oversaw the technical implementation of the Tier III Data Center project, managed the migration of both Main and Disaster Recovery Data Centers, contributed as a key member of the PCI DSS project, and supported other technology initiatives. Additionally, Ato Mitku actively participated in preparing the Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) and Business Continuity Plan (BCP). He holds a Certified Data Center Management Professional (CDCMP) certification, a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Bahir Dar University, and an MSc in Information Systems from Debre Berhan University.

Yonas Merawi Dirirsa

Director - Strategy Implementation & Change Management Department

Yonas Merawi Dirirsa

Director - Strategy Implementation & Change Management Department

Tesfaye Birru W/Tsadik

Director - Ethics & Anticorruption Dep't

Tesfaye Birru W/Tsadik

Director - Ethics & Anticorruption Dep't

Ato Tesfaye has held several roles at the National Bank of Ethiopia, including Head of the Back Office Section, Acting Forex Market Chief Dealer, Chief Dealer for Reserve Management, Senior Price and Data Analyst, and Acting and Chief Dealer for the Interbank Forex Market. He also served as the Director of Risk Management and Compliance, Director of Marketing, Planning, and Performance Evaluation, and Director of Planning and Business Development at Debub Global Bank. Tesfaye holds a Master’s in International Business Operations and a Master’s in Commerce from Indira Gandhi National Open University, as well as a BA in Marketing and Economics from Addis Ababa University. Since October 01,2022 he has been serving as the Executive Assistant to the President.

Nuru Mustefa Ahmed

Director - Performance Management and Employee Services Department

Nuru Mustefa Ahmed

Director - Performance Management and Employee Services Department

Ato Nuru has held several key roles at Zemen Bank, these includes Manager of the Human Resource Management Division, Head of Recruitment and Personnel Administration, Senior HR Administration Officer, Kiosk Supervisor, and Personal Banker. His certifications include Strategic HR Leadership Development from Dubai, High Performance Team Development from Frankfurt, Job Evaluation and Salary Scale Construction, and HR Planning and Talent Management. Nuru is a prospective MBA graduate from Mekelle University, holds a BA in Accounting from Addis Ababa University. Since May 1, 2023, he has been serving as the Director of the Performance Management and Employee Services Department.

Tewodros Beyene Belew

Director - Research & Business Development Department

Tewodros Beyene Belew

Director - Research & Business Development Department

Ato Tewodros has held various positions at Zemen Bank, including principal credit relationship manager, innovation and change management division manager. He began his career at the Development Bank of Ethiopia and later worked as an Assistant Branch Manager at United insuramce and credit Analyst at Wegagen Bank S.C. Ato Tewodros has an MA in Development Studies from the University of Leeds and a BA in Economics from Addis Ababa University. Since October 01,2022 he has been serving as the Director of Research & Business Development Department.

Thomas Getachew W/Mariam

Director - Talent Acquisition, Development, and Management Department

Thomas Getachew W/Mariam

Director - Talent Acquisition, Development, and Management Department

Ato Thomas has held key roles, including HRD and HRM Division Manager, at Zemen Bank. Before joining Zemen Bank, he worked in branch coordination and customer service, General Services Administration, and as Head of Recruitment and Placement, as well as in senior HR roles across various firms. Ato Thomas holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management, an MBA, a BA in Management, and a BA in Political Science & International Relations from both local and international universities. Since October 01,2022 he has been serving as the Director of Talent Acquisition, Development, and Management Department.

Tigist Wondimagegnehu Tilahun

Director - Credit Portfolio Management Department

Tigist Wondimagegnehu Tilahun

Director - Credit Portfolio Management Department

Wro Tigist has held key roles, including Division Manager for Credit Follow-up and Monitoring, Operational and Compliance Manager, and Mortgage and Consumer Manager. Before joining Zemen, she worked as a Senior Risk Officer at United Bank and as a Loan Supervisor at CBB. Additionally, she served as a Research Supervisor at Oxford Research. Tigist holds a Master’s degree in Business Leadership from the University of South Africa and a BA in Management and Business Administration from Addis Ababa University. Since October 01,2022 he has been serving as the Director of Credit Portfolio Management Department.

Yohannes Getachew Kassahun

Director - Internal Audit

Yohannes Getachew Kassahun

Director - Internal Audit

Ato Yohannes Getachew joined Zemen Bank in December 2012, bringing with him a decade of experience in customer service and auditing across various banks. Previously, he held roles as Inspector-II at United Bank S.C. and Customer Service Officer and Senior Branch Auditor at Awash Bank. He is a certified Risk-Based Auditor with a strong foundation in audit practices. Academically, Ato Yohannes holds an MSc in Accounting and Finance from Unity University, a BA in Business Administration and Information Systems (BAIS), and a Diploma in Accounting from Addis Ababa University Commercial College. Currently, Ato Yohannes serves as the Director of Internal Audit at Zemen Bank S.C., where he continues to strengthen the bank’s audit and risk management functions.

Yonas Mengesha Yilma

Director - Branch Management Department

Yonas Mengesha Yilma

Director - Branch Management Department

With Over two decades of extensive work experience, Yonas has demonstrated remarkable leadership and expertise in the industry. Before joining Zemen, he has served at united Bank S.C in various capacities, gaining valuable insights and skills across multiple roles.At Zemen, Yonas has held several Managerial roles showing his ability to lead teams and manages different assignments. Yonas holds an MBA in general management from St. Merry University and BA in Accounting from AAU School of Commerce. Additionally, he has earned educational certificates from several renowned institutions, reflecting his commitment to continuous professional development.

Zewdu Ayenew Dires

Director- Program management Office

Zewdu Ayenew Dires

Director- Program management Office

Zewdu Ayenew has a diverse experience at Dashen Bank S.C. and progressing through various roles, including system administrator, senior system administrator, principal system administrator, and head of the system operation section. He obtained MSc in Information Science and a BSc in Information Systems from Addis Ababa University.

Bantegize Ambaw Enyew

Director - Credit Appraisal Dep't

Bantegize Ambaw Enyew

Director - Credit Appraisal Dep't

Banking Services

Digital Services

Children/ Parent

Diaspora

Digital savvy

Job Applicant

Youth

Explorer

Media

Investor Relations

Banking Service

Digital Banking

Children/ Parent

Diaspora

Individual

Job Applicant

Youth

Explorer

Media and News

Investor Relations

Senior Management

Zemen Bank Senior Management

ZEMEETAA

6500