LULE I. AYANA

Apr 10 , 2026.

Lule I. Ayana is deputy chief officer for strategy and marketing at Addis Bank, bringing more than a decade of experience in the banking industry. She holds a postgraduate degree in marketing management from Addis Abeba University College of Commerce and has built a strong track record in strategic and marketing leadership. Before taking up her current role, she served as director of research and business development and as director of marketing and communication at Berhan Bank. Her expertise ranges from corporate strategy formulation and execution to marketing and communications, and digital marketing. Committed to continuous professional development, she has pursued executive programmes at different stages of her career to strengthen her leadership and technical capabilities, equipping her to steer an evolving banking landscape.

Fortune: The finance sector remains a male-preserved space. How does it feel to be the one recalibrating that balance as you climb?

Lule I. Ayana: I see myself as part of a broader shift that is long overdue, rather than as “the one” recalibrating the balance. The financial sector has historically leaned towards male leadership, but in recent years that has been changing as more women step in, deliver results and lead with confidence. For me, it is about practising strong leadership, showing up fully and performing to the best of my abilities. I am mindful that representation matters, but I try not to let that pressure define me. Instead, I focus on building credibility, making thoughtful decisions and contributing in meaningful ways to the organisations I am part of. I want to be recognised not just as a female leader in the sector, but simply as a strong and effective leader.

Q: Beyond the statistics, why do you think this particular industry has stayed so stubbornly monochromatic for so long?

There are strong and influential women in our country and around the world who have made meaningful contributions to where we are today as a generation. However, in our local context, particularly in the financial sector, leadership remains largely male-dominated. I think part of this stems from the traditional view of women as wives, mothers, and caregivers. Those responsibilities, God-given and important for a healthy society, often limit women's opportunities to invest in their own growth, continue learning, and stay updated in ways that are critical for career advancement. At the same time, many women have not always been encouraged, or have not always encouraged themselves, to envision their place in leadership roles.

Q: What are the unwritten constraints you’ve had to clear as a woman to secure your seat at the executive table?

One of the key constraints I had to overcome was building the confidence to consistently voice my ideas and stand by my decisions. It required me to challenge my own internal doubts and fully recognise the value of my performance, insights and perspective. I am still working on that shift so I can show up with greater clarity, contribute more assertively, and take my place at the table with confidence, ultimately making a positive impact on the organisations I serve.

Q: Was there a sliding-doors moment, a specific turning point, that steered you towards the C-suite?

When I was offered a leadership position before my current role, I initially questioned whether I was the right person and if I could meet the expectations of the post. But I decided to take the opportunity and focus on developing myself, building my confidence, refining my leadership style and leveraging the knowledge I already had. It was not an overnight transformation but a gradual process. Yet the courage it took to confront my shortcomings and face reality prepared me to step into my current leadership role with greater confidence and clarity.

Q: There is a pervasive myth that a career in finance requires mathematical skill. How much of that is reality, and how much is just branding?

It does not necessarily require you to be a maths expert, but the industry does demand a range of skills. Maths is one part of it, but management, customer service, marketing, research, IT and strategic thinking are even more important. Success in finance often comes from combining skills such as analysing data, making informed decisions, and managing relationships, rather than relying on mathematics alone.

Q: If you could sit down with your 20-year-old self, what is the one piece of non-career advice you’d give her to make the journey easier?

I would tell her to nurture a balance between life and work. True happiness and fulfilment come from knowing who you are, listening to your heart and contributing positively to the world around you. When you align your actions with your values and spiritual sense, both your journey and your achievements feel more meaningful and peaceful.

Q: Whom do you credit most for the architecture of your success?

For who I am today and for my success, I give the credit first and foremost to my Lord Jesus Christ, for guiding me and blessing me with a strong support circle. I am also deeply grateful to my beloved husband, who has always stood by my side, and to my family and friends, whose encouragement and love are invaluable in my life.

Q: When was the last time you saw another woman in action and thought, "I want to be like her?" Who was this person?

There was a young woman who approached me after I gave an induction to new staff members in the organisation I am part of. I do not recall her name, but she told me she admired women like me and wanted to develop herself. Seeing her commitment and determination at such an early stage, I truly believe that if she continues with that dedication, she has the potential to surpass me, not just match me.

Q: Did you ever actually visualise yourself in this position, or was this a destination you discovered along the way?

No, I did not visualise myself in this exact leadership position 10 years ago, or even earlier. Yet I have always admired young women leaders and aspired to grow like them. Through diligence, commitment and God’s guidance, I gradually developed the skills, confidence and opportunities that brought me here today.

Q: Beyond your balance sheets and professional accolades, what would you secretly love to be famous for?

I have never really thought about it, but I would love to be remembered as someone who made a positive difference in people’s lives, encouraging growth, inspiring young women and leading with kindness and integrity. I would also like to be remembered as a devoted wife and loving mother, because that, to me, is part of the purpose I was created for.

Q: How do you effectively unplug and find your centre after a very busy day at the office?

I love spending quality time with my husband and playing with my three wonderful children - two boys and a girl. Family time is truly healing, especially after a hectic day at work. I also enjoy going for walks with my walking buddy, my sister, for exercise and conversation. I make time each day for personal spiritual reflection to recharge my spirit and find my centre.

Q: Which fashion trend from your youth do you look back on with the most regret? Would you let your children revive it?

I do not really consider myself much of a fashion person. I usually wear what is practical and affordable, while still keeping my style decent and presentable.

Q: If you could host a dinner party for any one person, past or present, who would you want to see sitting across from you?

My husband.

Q: What is your signature dish, the one you’re genuinely known for in the kitchen?

I was raised learning to cook all types of local dishes. My mother makes wonderful food, especially traditional cuisine, and I learned a great deal from her. If I had to pick one signature dish, I would say Gomen be Siga, which I make quite well. But I think my husband would be the right person to answer this.

Q: Is there a traditional holiday food you secretly despise but find yourself eating every year out of politeness or respect? Why do you hate it?

Q: What is your armour, the one piece of clothing that makes you feel invincible in a boardroom?

As long as I am wearing clean, professional and decent attire that fits the standards of the financial sector, I feel confident and ready to take on any boardroom challenge.

Q: What is the one holiday tradition you’ve kept since childhood that would surprise your colleagues?

Every holiday, I make sure to cook at least two special traditional dishes from my childhood to teach my children about our Ethiopian heritage and food culture. It is my way of keeping family and culture alive, even within a busy schedule.

Q: Which book or film has most accurately captured the reality of your world?

The Bible most accurately reflects the reality of my world, and I read it regularly for guidance, healing and empowerment. Outside a spiritual context, I would say "The Power of Forgiveness: Keep Your Heart Free" by Joyce Meyer. I read it about eight or nine years ago, and I still keep it because its lessons have stayed with me.

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