TheAstou Rose Gaye is that of a woman who combined patience, determination and excellence to climb the ladder in a sector dominated by men. The first woman to head the Banque de l'Habitat du Senegal (BHS), she has become a key figure in the Senegalese banking world.
Her rise within this institution is a model of perseverance that inspires not only women, but a whole generation of young people aspiring to success. A look back at the exemplary career of a passionate leader who has turned her dreams into reality, while changing the lives of thousands of Senegalese.
From KPMG to BHS: a career marked by excellence
After a solid training in Audit and Review, Astou Rose Gaye began his professional career in Tunisiaat the prestigious firm KPMG. Her time with this international company enabled her to acquire cutting-edge management and auditing skills, while forging an important network. She became familiar with the rigor and precision required by the auditing profession, qualities she would develop and put to good use throughout her career.
Back in Senegal, she joined the Cabinet Mayoro Wadeone of the leading names in auditing consultancy. However, just as she was destined to become a chartered accountant, her life took an unexpected turn that would redefine her future. In 1997, she found herself propelled into the banking world, not in the auditing sector as she had planned, but in a commercial role at Banque de l'Habitat du Sénégal. It was here that her professional adventure in the world of banking really began, an adventure she had not anticipated, but which she embraced with passion and determination.
A personal commitment: helping Senegalese people find a home
Astou Rose Gaye never saw banking as a career. She has found it to be a life mission: to help the people of Senegal obtain a decent home, at an affordable cost. This motivation is rooted in her own personal journey, marked by the absence of a stable home during her childhood.
" Helping the Senegalese to have what I missed most in my childhood: a stable home and decent, affordable accommodation. "she confides.
This vocation was coupled with a natural curiosity for the inner workings of the bank. She quickly climbed the ranks, gaining responsibility in the commercial field. Her ability to forge solid relationships with real estate developers and housing cooperatives, which are at the heart of the bank's business, was a key factor in her success. BHSThis has earned him growing recognition within the institution. His human skills and commitment to improving the living conditions of the Senegalese people reinforce his influence within the bank.
2016 : A pivotal year for increased responsibility
In 2016, the career ofAstou Rose Gaye is experiencing a real acceleration. She is appointed Director of Operations, a strategic position that gives her responsibility for relations with the main players in the real estate and housing cooperatives sector. This key position is at the heart of her business. BHSthe historic institution that finances housing construction in Senegal.
Her appointment to this position was no accident. In addition to having a clear vision of the needs of the real estate market, she has in-depth expertise in structuring projects and partnerships, areas in which she excels. At the same time, she is committed to training the next generation within the bank, an effort that testifies to her desire to pass on her know-how and contribute to the institution's longevity.
The first woman to head the BHS
The growth ofAstou Rose Gaye within the BHS doesn't stop there. On the strength of her years of experience and her many successes, she was first promoted to Mission Director. Then, as Advisor to the Managing Director, she was put in charge of Partnerships and Structuring Projects. Her effectiveness in these areas propelled her to a new level of leadership.
In 2020, she made history by becoming the first woman to be appointed Managing Director of the bank. Banque de l'Habitat du Sénégal. Her appointment crowns an exceptional career and makes her a model of success for all women in the world of finance in Senegal and beyond. Her appointment also symbolizes a new era for the BHSwith a renewed commitment to supporting housing development and providing more Senegalese with access to quality housing.
Today, Astou Rose Gaye is much more than a company director. She embodies success through hard work and commitment. Her journey is a source of inspiration for young people, especially girls and women who aspire to break through the glass ceiling in sectors historically dominated by men. Her story shows that it is possible to reach great heights, even when the paths seem unforeseen.
Under his leadership BHS continues to play a central role in theeconomy Senegal, notably by supporting large-scale real estate projects that meet the needs of the local population. With a clear vision, assertive leadership and in-depth knowledge of his sector, Astou Rose Gaye shows that perseverance and dedication can turn dreams into lasting realities.