SMBC Group Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

SMBC Group has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, and portfolio management.

Driven by a commitment to financial excellence, SMBC Group provides comprehensive banking and financial solutions globally, impacting markets across Asia, Europe, North America, and the Middle East through its extensive international network and digital service offerings.

Leadership Roles at SMBC Group

  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Nizar Faisal
  • Chief Financial Officer V, Smbc Aero Engine Lease B - Koji Ueda
  • Chief Operating Officer - Gregory Keeley
  • Chief Operating Officer, Cash Management - Ravi Balani
  • To The Corporate & Infrastructure Technology Ctos Chief of Staff - Stephen Scheremeta
  • Division Structured Debt Chief of Staff (Americas) - Favio Hernandez
  • PresidentnPortfolio - James Briggs
  • Nizar Faisal - Deputy Chief Executive Officer

    Nizar Faisal, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at SMBC Group, directs overarching strategic initiatives and operational frameworks that support the company's global financial services provision. Overseeing critical business segments, Faisal ensures alignment with SMBC Group's mission to deliver comprehensive banking and investment solutions across Asia, Europe, North America, and the Middle East. This leadership position involves guiding cross-functional teams to enhance market penetration and client engagement through both traditional and digital banking channels. Nizar Faisal drives the execution of long-term growth strategies, focusing on optimizing the extensive international network and reinforcing the company's position as a major player in the global banking industry. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer's role is pivotal in navigating complex financial landscapes and ensuring sustained operational excellence across all regions of operation.

    Koji Ueda - Chief Financial Officer V, Smbc Aero Engine Lease B

    Koji Ueda, the Chief Financial Officer V, Smbc Aero Engine Lease B at SMBC Group, manages the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for specialized aviation leasing operations. Overseeing the financial architecture of this critical division, Ueda ensures robust capital management and profitability aligned with SMBC Group's broader financial services objectives. This position involves detailed financial analysis, investment strategy, and risk assessment pertinent to the aviation sector across global markets. Koji Ueda drives financial performance by optimizing asset utilization and securing favorable financing structures, contributing significantly to the company's comprehensive financial solutions. The Chief Financial Officer V's expertise is essential for navigating the complexities of international aviation finance and supporting SMBC Group's diverse portfolio.

    Gregory Keeley - Chief Operating Officer

    Gregory Keeley, the Chief Operating Officer at SMBC Group, architects and executes the operational strategies that underpin the company's extensive global banking and financial services. Overseeing day-to-day operations across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, Keeley ensures seamless delivery of mobile banking applications and digital financial services alongside traditional banking functions. This role involves optimizing internal processes and resource allocation to support SMBC Group's broad market reach. Gregory Keeley drives efficiency improvements and risk management protocols, directly impacting the company's ability to provide comprehensive solutions to businesses and individuals. The Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on enhancing operational scalability and maintaining the integrity of financial services delivered through the company's international network.
    Gregory Keeley

    Ravi Balani - Chief Operating Officer, Cash Management

    Ravi Balani, the Chief Operating Officer, Cash Management at SMBC Group, directs the operational execution and strategic development of cash management services for corporate clients. Overseeing the intricate processes involved in liquidity management and payment systems, Balani ensures the efficient and secure delivery of these critical financial solutions across SMBC Group's international network. This role focuses on enhancing service delivery, leveraging digital platforms, and expanding the reach of cash management offerings in key regions like Asia, Europe, and North America. Ravi Balani drives innovation in treasury solutions, aiming to optimize client financial operations and strengthen SMBC Group's position in the competitive banking landscape. The Chief Operating Officer's leadership ensures the seamless integration of cash management services with the company's broader financial offerings.

    Stephen Scheremeta - To The Corporate & Infrastructure Technology Ctos Chief of Staff

    Stephen Scheremeta, the To The Corporate & Infrastructure Technology Ctos Chief of Staff at SMBC Group, facilitates strategic alignment and operational execution for the company's core technology infrastructure. Overseeing key technology initiatives and cross-departmental coordination, Scheremeta ensures that technology roadmaps directly support SMBC Group's global banking and financial services objectives. This role involves translating strategic technology visions into actionable plans, managing project portfolios, and enhancing communication between technology leadership and business units across North America, Europe, and Asia. Stephen Scheremeta drives efficiency in technology deployment and infrastructure management, critical for delivering advanced digital financial services. The Chief of Staff's contribution is vital for maintaining a robust and scalable technology backbone that supports SMBC Group's extensive international operations.

    Favio Hernandez - Division Structured Debt Chief of Staff (Americas)

    Favio Hernandez, the Division Structured Debt Chief of Staff (Americas) at SMBC Group, spearheads strategic initiatives and operational coordination within the structured debt division for the Americas region. Overseeing the execution of complex debt financing strategies, Hernandez ensures seamless integration of these specialized financial solutions with SMBC Group's broader corporate and investment banking services. This position involves managing deal pipelines, enhancing client relationships, and driving operational efficiency across the structured debt portfolio in North America. Favio Hernandez focuses on optimizing deal structuring and execution, contributing directly to the company's ability to provide tailored financial solutions to businesses. The Chief of Staff's role is crucial in navigating the dynamic financial markets of the Americas and supporting SMBC Group's growth objectives.

    James Briggs - PresidentnPortfolio

    James Briggs, the PresidentnPortfolio at SMBC Group, directs the strategic management and performance optimization of the company's diverse investment portfolio. Overseeing key investment activities and asset allocation across global markets, Briggs ensures that portfolio strategies align with SMBC Group's overarching financial objectives and risk appetite. This leadership role involves identifying new investment opportunities, managing existing assets, and driving value creation within the portfolio, impacting regions across Asia, Europe, and North America. James Briggs focuses on enhancing returns and ensuring the long-term financial stability of the company's investments. The PresidentnPortfolio's expertise is critical for navigating complex financial landscapes and maximizing the impact of SMBC Group's capital deployment.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SMBC Group Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SMBC Group?
    SMBC Group is led by Nizar Faisal (Deputy Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Koji Ueda (Chief Financial Officer V, Smbc Aero Engine Lease B) and Gregory Keeley (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of SMBC Group’s executive team?
    The executive team of SMBC Group includes leaders such as Nizar Faisal (Deputy Chief Executive Officer), Koji Ueda (Chief Financial Officer V, Smbc Aero Engine Lease B), Gregory Keeley (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SMBC Group have?
    SMBC Group has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SMBC Group’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SMBC Group includes roles such as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer V, Smbc Aero Engine Lease B, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Cash Management, To The Corporate & Infrastructure Technology Ctos Chief of Staff.