Profile of first female GRA boss, Julie Essiam

History has been made in the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), bolstering women’s aspirations for gender equality and empowerment.

This new leader’s credentials unequivocally demonstrate that women can attain leadership roles through high-quality education, perseverance, hard work, dedication, and resolve.

Suffice it to say that the narrative of men outnumbering women in leadership positions in the country is gradually fading out.

Meet Ms. Jullie Essiam, the woman who made history on March 27, 2024, as the first female boss of the GRA after serving as the Commissioner at the Support Services Division of the GRA for over four years.

Her appointment as Commissioner-General followed the exit of the outgoing boss, Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah.

Before joining GRA, Ms. Essiam served as the Group Executive at the Ecobank Group, where her influence extended across 40 countries spanning continents. Her tenure in this role saw her spearheading initiatives aimed at not just financial success but also at driving sustainable development and fostering community empowerment.

She also had stints at the erstwhile Chase Manhattan Bank and Citi Group, both in the United States, as Vice President and Director, respectively.

Ms. Essiam, 61, is a catalyst for change and a tireless advocate for the empowerment of others. Over the years, she has initiated several impactful community-based programmes, each designed to uplift and empower those in need to transform communities.

As part of her belief in investing in the next generation, she has dedicated fifteen years of her life to working with youth, guiding them, mentoring them, and supporting them as they navigate their respective life journeys. Through her efforts, she has helped shape the thinking of countless young minds, instilling in them a sense of purpose and a drive for excellence.

Being the founder of the Africans4Africa (A4A) concept is among Ms. Essiam’s greatest accomplishments in the field of African development. This development organisation, which is private sector-led, embodies a daring vision of prosperity, innovation, and cooperation for the continent’s future. A4A urges Africa’s leadership to come together in the goal of meaningful change towards a wealthy and thriving continent for all.

Her influence goes well beyond the purview of her occupations. She is an inspiration, a mentor, and a leader who exemplifies what can be accomplished with drive, tenacity, and a commitment to changing the world. Her story is an inspiration to all women who want to make the world a better place.

Ms. Julie Essiam brings a lot of expertise, a forward-thinking outlook, and an unshakable commitment to the ideals of sustainable change to her new position at the GRA.