As part of its comprehensive brand refresh strategy and renewed commitment to people-centered transformation, Universal Merchant Bank Ltd (UMB), a leading indigenous bank, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Daphne Oppong as Head of Human Capital.

This appointment is a key element of the Bank’s broader leadership evolution and brand transformation journey, aimed at redefining its impact and presence in the financial services landscape.

Daphne Oppong is a distinguished Human Resources leader with extensive experience in both the banking and manufacturing industries. With a strong Pan-African orientation and a proven track record across emerging and developing markets, she possesses a deep understanding of aligning people strategies with corporate transformation.

Her areas of expertise include Organizational Design and Execution, Culture and Change Management, Human Resource Management, Policy Development, and Talent Management.

Dr. Philip Oti-Mensah, CEO of UMB, stated, “Welcoming Daphne to our leadership team marks an important step forward in our commitment to building a culture that reflects the values of the communities we serve. As we continue to refresh and reimagine our brand, our people are at the heart of everything we do, and Daphne’s experience and passion for purpose-driven leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of our workplace.”

This appointment follows a series of strategic leadership additions aimed at UMB’s long-term growth, digital innovation, and deeper community engagement strategy. The brand refresh initiative, set to launch over the coming months, will align the bank’s visual identity, service experience, and internal culture with its renewed mission and values.

In her remarks, Daphne Oppong expressed, “I am honored to join Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) at such a transformative time. It is a privilege to be part of a team that is not only redefining banking but also honoring an indigenous identity, empowerment, and inclusive growth. I look forward to championing a people-first approach and helping cultivate a workplace that celebrates our shared purpose.”

Mrs. Oppong holds a Stanford LEAD Professional Certificate from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, is a Certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHRI) from the Human Capital Institute (HCI), and has earned an EMBA in Human Resource Management from the Paris Graduate School of Management. She also holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Cape Coast.

In her new role, Daphne will spearhead HR transformation initiatives, driving employee engagement and organizational performance to unlock the full potential of UMB staff. Her appointment reflects UMB's commitment to building a high-performing, inclusive, and future-ready organization—one that places people at the center of growth.