John Gachora, The Storytelling CEO

In Kenya’s banking sector, few figures stand out quite like John Gachora, the CEO of NCBA Bank. I met him today, January 24, 2025, at the NCBA 2025 Education Cheque Handover event, within the historic charm of the Nairobi Railways Museum, where attendees buzzed with anticipation.

Amidst the sea of formal attire, humans in suits despite the scorching sun, there he was—John Gachora—eschewing the conventional executive armor of tailored suits. Instead, he donned his signature ensemble: well-fitted jeans, sleek high-end sneakers, and an NCBA-branded T-shirt. It’s as if he’s saying, “Why blend in when you can stand out?”

Gachora’s sartorial choices are more than just a fashion statement; they reflect a philosophy. In Kenya’s corporate world where CEOs often cloak themselves in formality, Gachora opts for authenticity. His approachable demeanor allows him to seamlessly mingle with attendees, breaking down the invisible barriers that often separate leadership from the masses.

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Now, let’s talk stature. Gachora may not tower physically—he’s no Goliath wa Bungoma—but his presence is undeniably commanding. Imagine walking down Kenyatta Avenue, lost in thought about the day’s tasks, when you pass a man who, at first glance, seems like any other Nairobian hustling through the day. Yet, when Gachora steps onto the stage, the atmosphere shifts. He doesn’t demand attention through grandiosity; instead, it’s his genuine engagement and the warmth of his storytelling that draw people in.

Ah, storytelling—a craft Gachora has honed to perfection. He often begins his speeches with vivid recollections of his school days, transporting listeners to a time when teachers ruled with iron fists, and speaking in one’s mother tongue could earn a swift reprimand. These anecdotes aren’t mere nostalgia; they’re bridges connecting his past to the present, illustrating the journey from humble beginnings to corporate leadership.

During his address at the cheque handover event, Gachora might have recounted a tale from his youth—perhaps about a teacher who, despite the strictness, ignited a passion for learning in him. He wanted to be an Engineer. He’d then seamlessly tie this memory to the day’s theme, emphasizing the transformative power of education and how it shapes futures. It’s this ability to weave personal narratives into broader messages that makes his speeches resonate deeply.

Interestingly, Gachora never introduces himself with the typical corporate preamble. There’s no “My name is John Gachora, and I am the CEO of NCBA Bank.” Why? Because his reputation precedes him. His actions, words and the respect he commands make such formalities redundant. In essence, he embodies the very spirit of NCBA, making the brand and the man indistinguishable.

For entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders, Gachora’s approach offers invaluable lessons:

1. Master the Art of Storytelling: Facts and figures inform, but stories inspire. By sharing personal experiences, you create connections that transcend the transactional nature of business.

2. Authenticity Over Pretense: In a world rife with facades, being genuine is refreshing. Embrace who you are, and let that authenticity permeate your professional interactions.

3. Embrace Lifelong Learning: Gachora often acknowledges the gaps in his knowledge and celebrates the learning opportunities each event provides. This humility not only endears him to others but also fosters continuous growth.

4. Honor Your Roots: Reflecting on one’s origins isn’t about dwelling in the past but understanding the journey. Your history is a reservoir of lessons and motivations that can guide your future endeavors.

That is John Gachora, a man of few words with striking tales of stories.

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