Access Bank Zambia has appointed Kalumbu Nyikosa-Kearns as its new Head of Marketing, marking a leadership shift as the bank moves from brand consolidation toward accelerated market growth.
Nyikosa-Kearns assumes the role after three years leading brand development efforts during a critical period for the bank, including its integration phase following a merger that reshaped the institution’s positioning in Zambia’s financial services market.
Her work during that period focused on building the bank’s marketing and communications architecture from the ground up — assembling a new team, navigating brand integration challenges, and establishing a cohesive market identity for the institution.
From brand launch to growth execution
The appointment reflects a broader strategic pivot within the bank. Having stabilised its brand presence post-integration, Access Bank Zambia is now focusing on sharpening marketing execution to support business expansion, customer engagement, and competitive positioning in the Zambian banking sector.
Nyikosa-Kearns described the transition as part of a strategic realignment aimed at strengthening the bank’s ability to execute its growth agenda.
During her tenure, the marketing transformation she led earned industry recognition, including Marketing Personality of the Year (2024) from the Zambia Institute of Marketing and the Positive Role Model – Southern Africa (2025) award at the Gender Mainstreaming Awards hosted by Business Engage Association in Johannesburg.
Leadership backing for the next phase
According to Nyikosa-Kearns, the next phase will focus on translating brand equity into measurable business impact — from customer acquisition and digital engagement to deeper market penetration.
She will work closely with Dr. Iheanyi Nwogu, Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank Zambia, as the institution pursues its broader ambition to scale its presence within Zambia’s banking landscape.
The move reflects a growing recognition across African financial institutions that marketing leadership is no longer limited to brand visibility. Instead, it is increasingly tied to growth strategy, customer experience, and competitive differentiation in a rapidly evolving banking environment.
