NOVA Bank embarks on digital transformation with new leadership team

Joy Agwunobi

NOVA Bank has taken steps toward actualising its mission to revolutionise banking in Nigeria by strengthening its leadership team with the appointments of David Isiavwe as executive director of operations and information technology, and Chinwe Iloghalu as executive director of institutional and commercial banking.

These appointments reflect the bank’s  vision of blending cutting-edge technology with human-centred banking, a strategy embodied in its innovative phygital  model where physical and digital services come together to provide seamless customer interactions.

The move follows the bank’s recent transition from a  merchant  bank to a forward-thinking national player in Nigeria’s competitive banking sector as both executives bring extensive expertise that will drive NOVA’s vision forward, blending cutting-edge digital solutions with personalised customer service.

According to the Bank, David Isiavwe brings over 30 years of experience from both domestic and international banking, positioning him as a key force in NOVA’s digital transformation. Known for his expertise in cybersecurity and governance, Isiavwe holds a Ph.D. in Accounting and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), as well as the Compliance Institute of Nigeria (FCIN).

He boasts several high-level certifications in information systems security and enterprise IT management, including the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).

Having participated in leadership programs at Harvard, MIT, and Oxford University, Isiavwe is well-equipped to lead NOVA’s efforts in enhancing its phygital model, which is built around delivering seamless services through a mix of cutting-edge technology and human interaction. Additionally, Isiavwe serves as the President and Chairman of the Information Security Society of Africa, Nigeria (ISSAN) and holds positions on several key financial governance boards.

On the other hand, Chinwe Iloghalu, with nearly three decades of banking experience, joins as executive director of Institutional and Commercial Banking. Her career, marked by excellence in business development and relationship management, has seen her excel in sectors such as energy, corporate, and digital banking. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA), holding an MSc in Media and Communications alongside an MBA.

Chinwe’s vast experience will be central to driving the Bank’s commercial banking rollout, ensuring that NOVA’s strategic objectives are met across key business segments. With a track record of delivering results, Her career has also included executive programs at Harvard Business School, Wharton, and Said Business School, Oxford.

Commenting on these appointments, Phillips Oduoza, chairman of NOVA Bank, stated: “The addition of David Isiavwe and Chinwe Iloghalu is a critical point in constituting the management team that will lead NOVA into its next phase of growth. David’s expertise in technology will be key in enhancing our phygital model, while Chinwe’s strong business drive and relationship management will be instrumental in achieving our strategic intent to become a formidable player in the banking industry.”