The Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana, Dr. Edward Nartey Botchway, has shared invaluable career advancement insights, offering eight essential tips for climbing the corporate ladder. 

Speaking at the 2025 edition of PCH Hangouts, held on March 26, 2025, at ICGC The New Wine Temple, East Legon, Dr. Botchway emphasized the importance of strategic planning, skill-building, and personal branding in achieving professional success.

The event, themed "Climbing the Corporate Ladder: Understanding The Seven Mountains," brought together professionals seeking mentorship and networking opportunities. 

Dr. Botchway, an accomplished banker with over 20 years of experience in finance, strategy, and leadership, reflected on his career journey, sharing lessons that have shaped his rise to the top.

1. Excel in your current role, but prepare for the next

Dr. Botchway stressed the need to balance proficiency in one’s current role with preparation for future opportunities.

"You must be good at your current role, but it is important also to build the skills required for your dream role," he advised. 

According to him, demonstrating competence in the present is not enough; professionals must actively develop skills needed for higher responsibilities.

2. Take charge of your career plan

The Absa MD cautioned against leaving career progression in the hands of HR managers or supervisors.

"Have a plan for yourself. Don't rely on HR to have a plan for you," he stated. He recounted how he transitioned from credit to finance by proactively seeking out responsibilities beyond his designated role.

3. Break stereotypes and challenge labels

Dr. Botchway urged professionals to avoid being boxed into specific roles based on their backgrounds.

"Do not allow anybody to determine what you can do and what you cannot do," he emphasized. Despite being labeled a "numbers guy," he successfully transitioned from finance to managing a business, proving that adaptability and competence can defy stereotypes.

4. Build meaningful relationships

Networking and mentorship were highlighted as crucial elements for career growth.

"Having a mentor is extremely important, but don't limit it to just one person," Dr. Botchway advised. 
He encouraged professionals to build a broad network that includes mentors, peers, and subordinates, as key opportunities often arise from within one's professional circle.

5. Develop a strong personal brand

The MD stressed the importance of consistency and credibility in personal branding.

"Deliberate about it, consistency—a little here, a little there—going at it again and again to the point where when your name is mentioned, people know what it stands for," he said.

6. Be strategic in career moves

Career progression, according to Dr. Botchway, should be guided by long-term goals rather than short-term incentives like salary increments.

"Building a career is not like using Google Maps, where you can easily recalculate after a wrong turn. Sometimes, a bad career move can set you back for years," he warned. He encouraged professionals to assess job transitions beyond immediate financial benefits, considering how each move contributes to their ultimate career vision.

7. Have faith

Dr. Botchway emphasized the role of faith in career success. While hard work, strategy, and networking are critical, he noted that belief in oneself and divine guidance can provide an added edge in career progression.

8. Just do it!

Encouraging a proactive attitude, Dr. Botchway urged professionals to step out of their comfort zones.

"Sometimes, we overthink and hesitate too much. If you believe in it, just do it," he concluded.

Inspiring journey

Dr. Botchway’s rise to becoming the MD of Absa Bank Ghana in July 2024 is a testament to his principles. With a Doctorate in Business Administration from the Swiss Business School and membership in ACCA (UK) and ICA Ghana, his career has spanned roles at Ecobank, GCB Bank PLC, and Citi Savings and Loans.

His insights resonated with attendees, many of whom left the event motivated to take charge of their professional growth. 

The session, which was livestreamed on GraphicOnline platforms, reinforced the significance of self-driven career development and strategic decision-making in today’s corporate world.