Accion Microfinance Bank has announced the appointment of Christian Ruehmer as its new Board chairman, effective April 18th, 2024. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in the bank’s journey, as it continues to expand its footprint in Nigeria’s microfinance sector.
As a globally recognised expert in risk management, investments, and treasury, Ruehmer brings an unparalleled wealth of experience to the bank. With over two and a half decades of shaping financial institutions in developing markets, he has established a proven track record of building resilient and profitable organisations. His expertise in navigating complex risk landscapes, and his deep understanding of the financial industry, make him ideal to guide Accion MfB’s strategic direction and ensure its long-term sustainability.
Christian Ruehmer’s career includes significant roles in multinational financial institutions including Deutsche Bank and WestLB, where he served as Deputy Treasurer, Managing Director of a Structured Investment Unit, and excelled in Portfolio Management, Risk Management, and Workout/Restructuring.
Throughout his banking career, from 1989 until 2013, he worked in Frankfurt, Mexico City, Madrid, and New York. Since 2001, Christian has advised more than 120 Financial Institutions, investees, and international organisations in developing countries, specialising in Risk Management, Investments, and Corporate and SME Lending.
He has also held prominent positions such as Head of Risk Management (2013-2020) and chief investment officer (2020-2022) at Bamboo Capital Partners, a Fund Manager specialising in debt and equity investments in the impact space and for a fund manager in the impact investment sector.
He is also the founding Partner and CEO of Q-Lana, a digital loan/asset management platform solution with a focus on corporate/SME lending and fund management with numerous customers across Africa
In 2004, he founded Proyecto Horizonte, a community development program in Bolivia. This program has grown over the years and now helps over 3000 children annually through various initiatives in education, health, and community services.
He completed his studies at Frankfurt School in Germany, earning a Diploma in Banking and Finance.
Additionally, he holds prestigious certifications as a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Financial Risk Manager (FRM).
Ruehmer’s appointment is a testament to the bank’s commitment to strengthening its governance and risk management framework and remaining at the forefront of innovation and excellence in the microfinance sector. His leadership will be instrumental in driving Accion MfB’s mission to empower Nigerian entrepreneurs and small businesses, providing them with accessible and affordable financial services.
“We are delighted to welcome Christian to the Accion MfB family,” the statement said. “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.
Since its inception in 2006, Accion MfB has been a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions to underserved populations. The bank’s proven history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has contributed significantly to economic growth and development. With Mr. Ruehmer at the helm, Accion MfB is poised to continue its trajectory of success, driving positive change and empowerment in Nigeria’s microfinance ecosystem.