FREHIWOT ALEMAYEHU

Apr 10 , 2026.

Frehiwot Alemayehu, an insurance executive with more than 15 years of experience, has built a career across multiple lines of the industry, with roles spanning operations, governance and strategy. She serves as vice-president of the board of Ethiopian Reinsurance Co. and sits on the board of Awash International Bank. Recognised as one of the most influential African Women in 2024, she is also an advocate for inclusion and a mentor to emerging professionals in finance and insurance.

Fortune: What is your observation on diversity and inclusion in the finance sector today? And where do you see the greatest opportunity for improvement?

Frehiwot Alemayehu: Progress is visible, but it remains uneven. More women are entering finance, yet senior leadership is still dominated by men. In insurance, only four of 19 companies are led by women CEOs. The biggest opportunity is not only recruitment but also advancement through sponsorship, fair promotion systems, leadership development, and more flexible workplaces.

Q: The finance industry has historically been male-dominated. What has it been like to advance and help shape the sector as you have?

It has not always been easy. At times, I had to prove myself more and work harder to be taken seriously. But those experiences built confidence and strengthened my sense of purpose.

Q: What have been the most significant professional obstacles you have faced in the finance sector, and how did you navigate them?

The biggest obstacles were proving myself in male-dominated spaces and learning to speak up with confidence. I navigated them by building competence, delivering results and relying on mentors and support networks.

Q: What is a dish or recipe you are known for making, and what makes it meaningful for you?

Doro wot is special because it is tied to holidays, family gatherings and the traditions that bring us together.

Q: Is there one traditional holiday food that you personally don't enjoy but still participate in eating? What is it about the dish that you find unappealing?

I generally enjoy traditional holiday foods, or at least do not mind trying them.

Q: If you could have dinner with any person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

Afework Tekle. He embodied Ethiopian identity, creativity and pride, and I would want to understand what shaped his vision and legacy.

Q: Early in your career, was there a particular personal style or professional image you intentionally cultivated? Looking back, how do you view that choice today, and would you encourage the next generation to approach it the same way?

Early exposure to the professionalism of a branch at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) left a strong impression on me. I still value professional presence, but today I would urge young people to focus as much on competence, confidence and authenticity.

Q: If you could go back and give your 20-year-old self one piece of non-career advice, what would it be?

Slow down. Do not rush to have life figured out, do not compare yourself to others, and make time to enjoy the people and moments around you.

Q: After a particularly long and stressful workday, what do you do to disconnect and recharge?

I listen to music and spend time with my family.

Q: Outside of your professional achievements, what would you most like to be known or remembered for?

For being kind, fair and supportive, and for helping uplift others, especially women.

Q: Did you always envision yourself in the kind of leadership role within finance?

I did not begin with a fixed leadership ambition. I grew into it over time through experience, challenges and growing confidence.

Q: There is a common stereotype that people in finance are naturally strong at mathematics. How accurate has that perception been in your own experience and observation?

Only partly. Comfort with numbers matters, but finance also depends on judgment, communication, critical thinking and the ability to see the bigger picture.

Q: When was the last time someone’s leadership achievement or approach made you think "I want to model an aspect of what they do"?

Recently, I watched a leader handle a difficult situation with calm, patience and clarity. That reinforced for me the value of listening well and leading thoughtfully.

Q: Who or what has been most instrumental to your success?

A mix of mentors, supportive leaders, family and friends. In particular, Tsegaye Kemsi, the first CEO of Awash Insurance, gave me trust and room to grow.

Q: What was the crucial moment or turning point in your career that most directly led to your current position?

It came when I accepted a role beyond my comfort zone. That forced me to grow, take ownership and see myself differently.

Q: What is the biggest personal or life challenge you are managing now, and how do you approach it?

Stepping into the CEO role while staying present for my family. I manage it by being deliberate with my time, focusing on priorities and trusting my team.

Q: How have you approached balancing motherhood with the demands of a senior career in finance? What support systems have been most helpful to you?

As a mother of four, I have found that balance requires planning, adjustment, and strong support at home. My husband’s support has been especially important in making that possible.

Q: What message or advice would you give to women in finance who are mothers and currently working their way up the career ladder?

You do not have to choose between motherhood and a successful career. Build a support system, be intentional with your time, keep learning and trust your own strength.

PUBLISHED ON Apr 10,2026 [ VOL 27 , NO 1354]