As part of its ongoing brand refresh and people-first transformation agenda, Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) has appointed Mrs Daphne Oppong as Head of Human Capital.

The appointment forms a strategic pillar in UMB’s broader leadership realignment and brand repositioning journey, which seeks to redefine the bank’s impact across Ghana’s financial services sector.

Mrs Oppong, a seasoned Human Resources executive with vast experience in both banking and manufacturing across emerging markets, brings to the role a Pan-African orientation and deep expertise in aligning people strategies with institutional transformation. Her professional strengths span Organisational Design and Execution, Culture and Change Management, Policy Development, and Talent Management.

Dr Philip Oti-Mensah, Chief Executive Officer of UMB, said the appointment reflects the bank’s renewed focus on cultivating a values-driven internal culture. “Welcoming Daphne to our leadership team marks a pivotal step forward in our commitment to building a culture that reflects the values of the communities we serve,” he stated. “As we reimagine our brand, our people remain at the centre of everything we do. Daphne’s purpose-led leadership will help shape a workplace that reflects our mission.”

The announcement comes on the back of a series of strategic leadership changes geared towards long-term growth, digital innovation, and enhanced community engagement. UMB’s brand refresh, expected to roll out in the coming months, will align its visual identity, service experience, and corporate culture with its renewed purpose.

Commenting on her appointment, Daphne Oppong said: “I am honoured to join Universal Merchant Bank at such a transformative time. It’s a privilege to be part of a team committed to redefining banking while honouring our indigenous identity and advancing inclusive growth. I look forward to driving a people-first culture rooted in purpose and performance.”

Daphne holds an Executive MBA in Human Resource Management from the Paris Graduate School of Management, a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Cape Coast, and a Stanford LEAD Professional Certificate from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. She is also a Certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHRI) from the Human Capital Institute.
In her new role, she will spearhead HR transformation initiatives aimed at enhancing employee engagement and unlocking the full potential of UMB’s workforce.

About UMB

Established on 15 March 1972, Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) is a full-service Ghanaian financial institution recognised for its innovative banking solutions and entrepreneurial spirit. With 35 branches, three UMB Centres for Businesses, a PPP Incubator Centre, and a robust ATM network, the bank continues to pioneer technology-driven financial services. UMB is ISO 27001 and PCI DSS certified and offers a full suite of digital banking solutions, including its UMB SpeedApp mobile platform.