Standard Chartered to host Emiratisation open day

The event, which is expected to attract over 1,000 job seekers, underlines Standard Chartered's commitment to the retention, development and overall growth of its national workforce. Humaid Al Quatami, Secretary General of the Human Resources Development Committee will attend.

Ray Ferguson, Chief Executive, Standard Chartered Bank UAE, said: "Having a strong national workforce at an international institution like Standard Chartered makes good business sense. As one of the longest serving banks in the country, we are committed to the development of the economy and the national workforce is a vital element of this."

Dubai-based management and training consultancy X-Logic has been appointed to oversee the Emiratisation event and to implement a new HR scheme - 'Project Diversity'. This innovative project will ensure employees are given the opportunity to fully participate in creating business success and are valued for their distinctive skills, experiences and cultural perspectives.

"Project Diversity focuses on ensuring that all employees, regardless of gender, nationality, culture or religion, have access to a full range of opportunities within the bank," said Ferguson.

"We welcome and value the differences inherent in each individual and the unique perspectives which they can offer as a way of creating a better working environment and enable Standard Chartered to meet the varied needs of its customers."

Standard Chartered says a number of business benefits will result from a diversity programme: "These include reduced staff turnover and increased loyalty, while the positive working environment creates happier employees who, in turn, are able to provide better customer care," said Ferguson.

Standard Chartered believes a diverse workforce will also allow it to cater for niche markets, again benefiting the customer.

"Both 'Project Diversity' and the Emiratisation drive will ultimately benefit our customers and help the bank better prepare for the challenges ahead," explained Ferguson. "A structured diversity programme will help Standard Chartered tap into new market opportunities, while an increased local presence benefits the bank, its customers and the UAE as a whole."

While X-Logic has been appointed to help implement Project Diversity's initial phase, the programme is a long term initiative and expected to become part of everyday business at Standard Chartered Bank.

The Emiratisation Open day is at The Towers Rotana Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road on Monday 11th October from 10.00am to 8.00pm.