The Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX) has announced a leadership transition following the departure of its founding Chief Executive Officer, Tilahun Esmael Kassahun, after four and a half years at the helm.
The ESX Board of Directors has appointed Yodit Kassa as the exchange’s new chief executive officer. She is expected to lead the institution through its next phase of growth and market expansion.
Tilahun played a central role in transforming the securities exchange from an initial concept into a functioning institution. His tenure began with the establishment of the ESX Project Office in partnership with Ethiopian Investment Holdings and FSD Africa.
Under his leadership, the exchange achieved several milestones, including a major capital raise, the formation of key public-private partnerships, and the development of its regulatory, governance and technology frameworks.
The outgoing CEO described his time at ESX as a once-in-a-generation institution-building experience and the greatest privilege of his professional career.
“Building ESX from an idea into a functioning institution has been an extraordinary journey,” Tilahun said, reflecting on his departure. He expressed confidence in the exchange’s foundation and its future contribution to Ethiopia’s financial sector.
Yodit brings extensive institutional knowledge to the role. She has been involved with ESX since its early project phase and previously served as Chief Business Officer and Chief Operating Officer.
In those positions, she contributed to the exchange’s strategic development, business planning and operational framework. Her appointment is expected to provide continuity as ESX moves from institution-building into broader market development.
As CEO, Yodit will focus on expanding the exchange’s issuer and investor base, increasing participation in the capital market and introducing new products and market segments.
Her priorities will also include strengthening ESX’s core market infrastructure and positioning the exchange as a catalyst for investment, innovation and economic transformation.
The leadership change comes as Ethiopia seeks to deepen its financial markets and expand access to long-term capital. A functioning securities exchange is expected to provide companies with additional financing options while offering investors new avenues for investment and portfolio diversification.
ESX said Tilahun’s contribution had been instrumental in laying the groundwork for the exchange’s operations and long-term development. The board expressed appreciation for his leadership and service during the institution’s formative years.