Veteran banker Frank Marangu Ireri dies at 63

Ireri died on Sunday, October 26, at Nairobi Hospital, where he was recuperating.

The banking guru was honoured for transforming financing models at Housing Finance (now HF Group) when he took over as MD in 2006.

When he took over, the commercial bank was only known for being a mortgage lender which was at pains to remain relevant in a fast-changing banking market dominated by aggressive commercial banks and new digital challengers.

By 2014, when the bank was named HF Group, Ireri had diversified lending and created new business arms to transform the lender into a full financial services company.

Under Ireri's leadership, HF expanded into retail banking, issued corporate bonds, and gained a reputation for being a bold player.

He quietly left the group in 2018 after he took medical leave for specialised treatment.

Ireri later chaired the board of Habitat for Humanity Kenya, an NGO that supports marginalised groups to get housing and even served as a director at Centum Real Estate, a real estate subsidiary of Centum Investment.

Centum said that his "leadership, kindness, and steady presence left an enduring impact".

Ireri's illustrious career saw him serve on the Flame Tree Group board ahead of the company's listing on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, worked as Africa Operations Director for Barclays Kenya.

He also held various other positions across a range of organizations, including Deloitte, Citibank, and the Kenya Bankers’ Association.

Former Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) chairperson Irungu Nyakera remembered Ireri's astute leadership when they worked together at HF.

"I was only 28 years old, but Frank believed in me and gave me a chance that shaped my career. His trust, mentorship, and leadership left a lasting mark. Rest well, Frank," Nyakera wrote on X.

Celebrated hotelier Mohammed Hersi said that Ireri was his loyal hotel guest when he was managing Sarova Whitesands and Heritage Hotels.

He said that Ireri showcased his brilliance during their time of partnership and remained ambitious to transform the lives of many young professionals.

"I recall one day, when he was still the Managing Director of Housing Finance, he said that his ultimate goal was to train one million young Kenyans to become professional artisans in the building industry—people who could offer their services as plumbers, masons (tile layers), and electricians. Getting quality workmanship in Kenya remains a significant challenge, but Frank was determined to make a difference," Hersi noted.

Ireri has left behind his wife Angie, and children Lian Waithera and Ella Gathoni.

A prayer service will be held at his home on Tuesday, 28th and Wednesday, 29th October, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The funeral service will be held at Karura Community Chapel on Friday, October 31, 2025, followed by cremation.