Academy Bank Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Academy Bank has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, finance, marketing, sales, and legal.

Driven by a commitment to community, Academy Bank provides comprehensive financial services for individuals and businesses, fostering economic growth through personalized banking solutions.

Leadership Roles at Academy Bank

  • Chief Executive Officer - Martin Oduor-Otieno
  • President, Chief Executive Officer - Larry Ellington
  • Joshua Oigara Group Chief Executive Officer and MD, Group - Kati Kati
  • Chief Financial Officer - Dennis Ambroske
  • Chief Operating Officer - Thomas Kientz
  • Chief Technology Officer - Doug Earp
  • Chief Information Officer - Shannon Gilley
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Cynthia Sheridan
  • Chief Sales Officer (CSO) - Teresa Ascencio
  • Chief Legal Officer - Jane Kress
  • Martin Oduor-Otieno - Chief Executive Officer

    Martin Oduor-Otieno, the Chief Executive Officer at Academy Bank, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the financial institution. This leadership role involves guiding the company's expansion into new markets and enhancing its service offerings for individuals, businesses, and commercial clients. Oduor-Otieno oversees the integration of innovative banking technologies and ensures alignment with regulatory requirements across all departments. By fostering a culture of excellence, Martin Oduor-Otieno drives the bank's mission to provide robust financial solutions and support community development. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include managing key stakeholder relationships and ensuring the long-term financial health and stability of Academy Bank.
    Martin Oduor-Otieno

    Larry Ellington - President, Chief Executive Officer

    Larry Ellington, the President, Chief Executive Officer at Academy Bank, spearheads the strategic direction and executive leadership of the organization. This dual role encompasses setting the overarching corporate strategy and ensuring its effective implementation across all business units. Ellington's purview includes driving growth initiatives, optimizing operational efficiency, and maintaining the bank's strong community focus. The President, Chief Executive Officer works closely with the board of directors to define long-term objectives and capital allocation strategies. By championing innovation and customer-centricity, Larry Ellington ensures Academy Bank remains a trusted financial partner for individuals and businesses. This leadership position is critical for navigating the evolving financial landscape and securing sustained market presence.

    Kati Kati - Joshua Oigara Group Chief Executive Officer and MD, Group

    Kati Kati, the Joshua Oigara Group Chief Executive Officer and MD, Group at Academy Bank, commands the strategic leadership and comprehensive management of the entire group's operations. This pivotal role involves defining the group's long-term vision, driving aggressive growth targets, and ensuring cohesive execution across all subsidiaries and business lines. Kati oversees the strategic allocation of capital, the development of new financial products, and the expansion into key geographic markets. The Joshua Oigara Group Chief Executive Officer and MD, Group is instrumental in fostering synergistic relationships between different entities within the group, maximizing operational efficiencies, and enhancing overall profitability. By championing a forward-thinking approach, Kati Kati ensures Academy Bank's group entities consistently deliver exceptional value to customers and stakeholders.

    Dennis Ambroske - Chief Financial Officer

    Dennis Ambroske, the Chief Financial Officer at Academy Bank, directs the bank's financial strategy, planning, and reporting functions. This executive role involves overseeing all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, capital management, and investor relations. Ambroske is responsible for ensuring the financial stability and profitability of the institution, managing risk, and optimizing financial performance. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in strategic decision-making, providing financial insights to guide business growth and operational improvements. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and compliance, Dennis Ambroske ensures Academy Bank adheres to all regulatory requirements and upholds its commitment to sound financial stewardship for its clients and stakeholders.

    Thomas Kientz - Chief Operating Officer

    Thomas Kientz, the Chief Operating Officer at Academy Bank, directs the day-to-day operational functions and ensures the seamless execution of business strategies. This leadership position involves optimizing internal processes, enhancing service delivery, and managing the bank's operational infrastructure to support growth and efficiency. Kientz oversees departments responsible for customer service, transaction processing, and risk management, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards. The Chief Operating Officer plays a crucial role in implementing technological advancements that streamline operations and improve customer experience. By focusing on operational excellence, Thomas Kientz drives the bank's ability to serve individuals, businesses, and commercial clients effectively and reliably across its service areas.

    Doug Earp - Chief Technology Officer

    Doug Earp, the Chief Technology Officer at Academy Bank, architects and oversees the bank's entire technology infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives. This critical role involves developing and implementing innovative technology strategies that support business objectives, enhance customer engagement, and ensure robust data security. Earp leads the IT department in managing all aspects of hardware, software, network systems, and cybersecurity protocols. The Chief Technology Officer is responsible for evaluating emerging technologies and integrating them to improve operational efficiency and competitive positioning. By driving technological advancement, Doug Earp ensures Academy Bank maintains a secure, scalable, and modern digital platform to serve its diverse client base effectively.

    Shannon Gilley - Chief Information Officer

    Shannon Gilley, the Chief Information Officer at Academy Bank, manages the bank's information systems and ensures the integrity, security, and accessibility of its data assets. This role focuses on aligning IT strategy with business goals, overseeing the implementation of information management policies, and driving digital initiatives that enhance operational capabilities. Gilley directs the IT operations team, ensuring the reliable functioning of all information technology infrastructure and support services. The Chief Information Officer is pivotal in safeguarding sensitive customer and corporate data against cyber threats and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. Through strategic information management, Shannon Gilley supports Academy Bank's commitment to providing secure and efficient financial services.
    Shannon Gilley

    Cynthia Sheridan - Chief Marketing Officer

    Cynthia Sheridan, the Chief Marketing Officer at Academy Bank, leads the development and execution of comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and customer acquisition. This role involves overseeing all marketing initiatives, including digital marketing, advertising, public relations, and brand management, to effectively communicate the bank's value proposition. Sheridan directs market research efforts to identify customer needs and emerging trends, informing product development and service enhancements. The Chief Marketing Officer is responsible for driving customer engagement and loyalty through targeted campaigns and strategic communications. By championing innovative marketing approaches, Cynthia Sheridan ensures Academy Bank strengthens its market position and connects meaningfully with individuals and businesses.

    Teresa Ascencio - Chief Sales Officer (CSO)

    Teresa Ascencio, the Chief Sales Officer (CSO) at Academy Bank, drives the bank's sales performance and revenue generation across all client segments. This leadership position involves developing and implementing effective sales strategies, managing the sales team, and fostering strong client relationships to achieve ambitious growth targets. Ascencio oversees the entire sales cycle, from lead generation and qualification to closing deals and ensuring customer satisfaction. The Chief Sales Officer (CSO) works closely with marketing and product development teams to align sales efforts with market opportunities and customer needs. By cultivating a high-performance sales culture, Teresa Ascencio ensures Academy Bank consistently meets and exceeds its revenue objectives for individual, business, and commercial banking services.
    Teresa Ascencio
    Jane Kress, the Chief Legal Officer at Academy Bank, provides expert legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the organization. This critical role involves managing regulatory compliance, mitigating legal risks, and ensuring adherence to all applicable laws and industry standards. Kress directs the legal department in handling contracts, litigation, corporate governance, and intellectual property matters. The Chief Legal Officer advises the executive team and the board of directors on legal implications of business decisions and strategic initiatives. By maintaining a strong legal framework, Jane Kress safeguards Academy Bank's interests and supports its mission to operate with integrity and transparency in all its financial dealings.
    Jane Kress

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Academy Bank Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Academy Bank?
    Academy Bank is led by Martin Oduor-Otieno (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Larry Ellington (President, Chief Executive Officer) and Kati Kati (Joshua Oigara Group Chief Executive Officer and MD, Group).
    Who is part of Academy Bank’s executive team?
    The executive team of Academy Bank includes leaders such as Martin Oduor-Otieno (Chief Executive Officer), Larry Ellington (President, Chief Executive Officer), Kati Kati (Joshua Oigara Group Chief Executive Officer and MD, Group) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Academy Bank have?
    Academy Bank has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Academy Bank’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Academy Bank includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Executive Officer, Joshua Oigara Group Chief Executive Officer and MD, Group, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer.