Global Courant
In the world of business and leadership, there are a select few individuals whose impact transcends industries and leaves an indelible mark on the lives of many. Bernard Longe, a name revered in corporate boardrooms across Africa, is undeniably one of those extraordinary individuals.
A frontline business leader, Longe has built his career and reputation across a variety of levels and business streams, from banking, finance, FMCG and hospitality to innovation and invention. Each endeavor in his illustrious career has had a profound impact on the African economy, cementing its position as a driving force behind progress and development.
Bernard Longe started his professional journey at First Bank of Nigeria Plc. in 1969. Little did the world know that this young man would become a beacon of inspiration, revolutionizing the banking landscape and leaving a lasting legacy. From the very beginning, Mr. Longe demonstrated an exceptional aptitude for finance and a passion for transformative leadership.
During his tenure at First Bank, Mr. Longe rose through the ranks, constantly expanding his knowledge and expertise. In July 2000, he achieved a great achievement by taking on the role of Managing Director and CEO of First Bank. Under his visionary leadership, the bank experienced unprecedented growth and innovation.
There, Longe, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, led a series of pioneering initiatives that transformed the country’s financial sector, including the introduction and implementation of Nigeria’s first International Money Transfer System. His ability to navigate complex challenges with grace and wisdom has earned him the utmost respect from colleagues and competitors alike.
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Longe’s unwavering commitment to progress and development led him to draft and oversee the new Enterprise Transformation Project called “Century II”. This ambitious initiative was a testament to his ability to envision the future of banking and pave the way for transformative change.
Sharpening the benefits of this initiative, Longe continued to lead First Bank to new frontiers with the aptly titled “Century II: The New Frontier” project.
Mr. Longe’s exceptional contributions did not go unnoticed. In 2001, he was awarded an Officer of the Order of the Niger, OON, by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
However, Longe’s achievements extend far beyond the realm of banking. He has also made significant contributions as Chief Operating Officer of the Dangote Group of Companies and as Group Managing Director and CEO of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp).
In November 2017, Mr. Longe joined CDK Integrated Industries as MD/CEO, ushering in a new era of growth and prosperity for the company. Under his visionary leadership, CDK has witnessed a rapid rise in reputation and recognition.
The profound impact of Mr. Longe is evident in the numerous honors and awards received by CDK under his leadership. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation earned it the esteemed Porcelain Tiles Manufacturer of the Year award at the 16th Africa International Housing Show (AIHS). Longe was also honored with the Leadership Award for Product Quality and Innovation for his tremendous contribution to the tile industry through CDK.
In recent years, the company has transitioned from a proud Nigerian company to an internationally renowned brand known for producing world-class porcelain tiles.
In addition to his professional achievements, Bernard Longe is a man of integrity, known for his humility and unwavering devotion to his family, especially his beloved wife, Hawa, and their children. As he celebrates this occasion of his 72nd birthday, we express our deepest gratitude for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence that has inspired generations of entrepreneurs and innovators around the world.
We honor a man whose vision, tenacity and passion have propelled top companies, financial institutions, FMCG and manufacturing industries, and more recently CDK Integrated Industries in Nigeria, to unprecedented success. We wish him greater success and greatness in his new era and look forward to celebrating many more milestones and achievements in the future as his legacy continues to inspire and lead us to a brighter future.
