MENU

Group Chief Operations Officer

Ensuring Operational Excellence and Efficiency

The Group Chief Operations Officer (GCOO) at CFG-Holdings is responsible for optimizing the organization’s operations to ensure seamless service delivery and sustainable growth.

Group Chief Operations Officer

Eric RUTABANA

Eric RUTABANA is a Rwandan national and the former CEO of the Development Bank of Rwanda and Head of Corporate and Investment Banking at BPR Bank Rwanda, before becoming Deputy Group CEO of Milbridge UAE.

Role at CFG-Holdings

1. Operational Strategy Development
The GCOO designs and implements operational strategies that align with CFG-Holdings’ goals, ensuring the organization delivers on its mission to empower Africa’s financial ecosystem.

2. Process Optimization
The GCOO oversees the streamlining of workflows and operational processes to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery across all subsidiaries.

3. Resource Management
The GCOO ensures the effective allocation and utilization of resources, including technology, personnel, and infrastructure, to achieve strategic objectives.

4. Customer Experience Enhancement
By improving operational processes, the GCOO enhances customer satisfaction and ensures the delivery of high-quality services tailored to clients’ needs.

5. Risk Management and Compliance
The GCOO collaborates with the risk and compliance teams to identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring CFG-Holdings remains resilient and compliant with regulatory requirements.

6. Technology Integration
The GCOO works closely with the technology team to adopt innovative tools and systems that enhance efficiency and drive operational transformation.

7. Cross-Functional Collaboration
The GCOO facilitates coordination among CFG-Holdings’ subsidiaries and departments, ensuring that operational activities are cohesive, aligned, and supportive of the organization’s overall objectives.

Previous Work Experience

Eric Rutabana has over 18 years of experience in private equity, commercial banking, fund management, and investment banking. His key roles include:

  • Milbridge Group, Dubai, UAE (2020–Present)

    • Deputy Group CEO
      • Represented the group in East Africa, enhancing regional visibility and securing over $75M in funding for investments and working capital.
      • Revitalized underperforming portfolio businesses, attracting $36.1M in new equity investments.
      • Spearheaded the launch of multiple greenfield projects.
  • Citrine Financial Group Holdings (Jan 2024–Present)

    • Group Chief Operating Officer
      • Recently assumed the role, focusing on executing strategies in collaboration with stakeholders and financial partners.
  • Rwanda Development Bank (2017–2019)

    • Chief Executive Officer
      • Raised $115M in additional capital, enabling further debt financing of $61.5M from institutions like AfDB and EIB.
      • Reduced non-performing loans significantly, from 26% to 9.7%.
      • Implemented digital transformation through T24 core banking and Oracle systems.
      • Led impactful investments in sectors such as renewable energy, housing, infrastructure, and agriculture.
  • BPR – Part of Atlas Mara (2016–2017)

    • Country Head, Corporate and Investment Banking
      • Championed a 5-year strategy, positioning BPR as a market leader in corporate and SME banking.
      • Closed green debt transactions worth $34M and integrated digital finance solutions with key partners.
  • Business Partners International (BPI) Rwanda SME Fund (2011–2016)

    • Country Manager and Chief Investment Officer
      • Secured $35.7M in commitments for the East Africa SME Fund, surpassing the $30M target.
      • Established a strong market presence, driving investment success.
  • KCB Bank Rwanda Limited (2009–2011)

    • Head of Credit
      • Grew the loan portfolio to $54M within 2 years, maintaining non-performing loans below 1%.
      • Developed credit policies and infrastructure while fostering strong regulatory relationships.

Key Achievements

  • Fundraising and Investment:

    • Raised over $115M in shareholder capital and an additional $75M in funding for greenfield projects.
    • Attracted $36.1M in new equity for underperforming businesses through strategic governance and revenue growth.
  • Operational Efficiency and Innovation:

    • Successfully reduced non-performing loans at Rwanda Development Bank from 26% to 9.7%.
    • Implemented digital transformation projects, including T24 core banking systems and mobile money integrations.
  • Market Leadership:

    • Positioned institutions like BPR as leaders in corporate banking and SME services through strategic initiatives.
    • Negotiated partnerships with key organizations like MTN, EUCL, and WASAC to drive digital financial solutions.
  • Regional and Strategic Impact:

    • Strengthened the presence of organizations in East Africa, enabling investments in vital sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and agriculture.
    • Led the transformation of the BPI Rwanda SME Fund into the East Africa SME Fund with significant financial commitments.
  • Governance and Risk Management:

    • Championed corporate governance and compliance frameworks, enhancing operational efficiency across multiple roles.

Meet Our Board Members

Group Board Chairman
Visit Profile
Group Executive President
Visit Profile
Group CEO & MD
Visit Profile
Group Secretary General
Visit Profile
Group Chief Operations Officer
Visit Profile
Group Chief Finance Officer
Visit Profile
Group Chief Risk Oficer
Visit Profile
Shopping Basket