Successful people often say that, following their rise, they want to “give back” to society. This is not an uncommon notion, but not everyone truly follows through with the idea. Ever Obi embodies the drive and desire to give back to the people in the best way possible, and with his particular expertise, he truly knows the best way.
Being in the business of risk management, Obi has trained himself to see the bigger picture in each scenario and scrutinize the finer details, as risk could arise from practically anywhere. This particular perspective has allowed him to materialize his dreams of giving back by finding ways to bridge the massive credit gap in Africa, an entire continent associated with deep-seated financial poverty.
Leading Financial Inclusion
Ever Obi’s career, spanning over 12 years, reveals his commitment to financial progress and accessibility. At Zedvance Finance, where he served as managing director and chief risk officer, Obi led initiatives that would become the cornerstone of his legacy. Under his guidance, the company not only weathered the ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic but powered right through it, earning the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Award for Best Automated Loan Origination and Processing Company of 2020.
“The success of our efforts at Zedvance shows a deep understanding of the market’s needs and a desire to innovate,” Obi notes. This understanding translated into tangible results, with Zedvance lending over $90 million within 18 months.
Obi’s accomplishments extended beyond traditional financial services. As managing director of Rank Capital (Moni Africa), a YC-backed company, he pushed the boundaries of financial inclusion. “Our goal is to create community-driven finance solutions that empower those left behind by traditional banking systems,” Obi explains. This vision has earned Moni Africa a coveted spot in the Visa Accelerator Programme, further validating Obi’s stellar approach to using technology for social impact.
Balancing Growth and Sustainability
Ever Obi’s unique ability to balance business growth with risk management has set him apart in an industry often criticized for prioritizing profits over stability. His master’s degree and certification as a Chartered Risk Manager gave him the tools and vision to design robust frameworks that protect organizational health while expanding credit access.
“Risk management isn’t about avoiding risk; it’s about understanding and mitigating it to create sustainable growth,” Obi asserts. His strategic vision has been pivotal in Zedcrest Capital’s recognition as the fifth fastest-growing company in Africa by the Financial Times.
A Vision for Sustainable Finance
Ever Obi’s impact is felt beyond the balance sheets. In 2023, he was part of a team that developed the Green Future Reclamation Fund, a remarkable economic solution addressing mine reclamation in developing countries. This project earned him a finalist spot at the Kellogg-Morgan Stanley Sustainable Investing Challenge.
“The future of finance is inextricably linked to the future of our planet,” Obi states emphatically. “We are responsible for creating financial models that not only drive economic growth but also contribute to sustainable development.”
Ever Obi also has published works, including op-eds and articles advocating for responsible business practices that contribute to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. His book, “Letters to a Young Risk Manager,” shares practical guidance on navigating today’s finance and leadership.
Despite the numerous accolades and distinctions he has already received, Obi is not showing any signs of stopping or even slowing down in his efforts. He treats the 2024 Global Recognition he received as both an honor and a call to action, saying, “It reminds us that our work in creating a more inclusive and sustainable financial future is far from over. We’re just getting started.”
