The Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) has nominated Edward Ato Sarpong as its new Managing Director, following the resignation of Alhassan Yakubu Tali.
Mr. Sarpong, a Chartered Accountant and former Deputy Minister of Communications, will assume the leadership of the bank upon final regulatory approvals.
The majority shareholder of ADB put forward Mr. Sarpong’s nomination, which has already been approved by the bank’s Board of Directors. However, his appointment is subject to further endorsement from key financial regulators, including the Bank of Ghana, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE).
A formal introduction of Mr. Sarpong to ADB staff took place at a durbar, signaling the beginning of a transition in leadership. He is set to officially take over the position on Monday, February 10, 2025.
His appointment follows the resignation of Alhassan Yakubu Tali, who stepped down effective February 5, 2025. Mr. Tali served as ADB’s Managing Director from December 1, 2022, after previously holding the position of Deputy Managing Director since 2017.
A statement issued by the Board on February 6, 2025, confirmed the nomination, highlighting the bank’s confidence in Mr. Sarpong’s ability to drive ADB’s growth and innovation in Ghana’s banking sector.
Profile of Edward Ato Sarpong
Edward Ato Sarpong brings a wealth of experience in business leadership, banking, and communications. His extensive career spans both public and private sectors, making him a suitable choice for the leadership of ADB.
Mr. Sarpong has held several executive positions, including serving as the Managing Director of AfricaOnline and the Chief Operating Officer of K-Net between 2009 and 2011. His experience in corporate leadership extends to his role as a Business Consultant for the Multimedia Group Limited, one of Ghana’s largest media conglomerates, where he contributed to strategic business growth.
In 2014, he transitioned into public service as the Deputy Minister of Communications under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. His role in government enabled him to contribute to policy formulation and the digital transformation of Ghana’s communication sector.
As a Chartered Accountant, Mr. Sarpong is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana. His academic qualifications include a degree from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) and an Executive Master’s Degree in Entrepreneurship from the University of Ghana Business School. Additionally, he is an alumnus of the Manchester Business School Leadership Development Programme.
Apart from his corporate and governmental roles, Mr. Sarpong is an established business and leadership trainer, offering consultancy services through his own firm, Edge Capital Partners. He is also known for his work as a motivational speaker, sharing insights on business development and leadership.
ADB’s Journey and Future Under New Leadership
The Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) has played a significant role in Ghana’s banking industry, particularly in financing the agricultural sector. The bank successfully listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) on December 20, 2016, marking a milestone in its growth trajectory.
With Mr. Sarpong at the helm, ADB is expected to continue its transformation into a modern, technology-driven bank that caters to the needs of businesses and individuals alike. His background in corporate leadership and government policy development is anticipated to bring fresh strategic direction, focusing on digital banking, financial inclusion, and sustainable agricultural financing.
As he prepares to assume office, stakeholders in the banking industry and the broader business community will closely watch how his leadership shapes ADB’s future. With his expertise in finance, entrepreneurship, and strategic management, Mr. Sarpong’s tenure could mark a new phase of innovation and expansion for ADB.
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