United Arab Bank sets benchmarks for employing more Emiratis at executive level

UAB has consistently offered a platform to talented banking professionals from the local population. Following on from the appointment of the first UAE Female Banking Director earlier this year, the bank has recently appointed Yusra Abdul Ghaffar and Faisal Al Najjar to the strategic roles of Head of Branches & Islamic Banking and Head of Liabilities respectively and has also appointed eight new local branch managers in 2012.

Paul Trowbridge, Chief Executive Officer of United Arab Bank, said: "United Arab Bank offers an avenue for talented nationals to consolidate their expertise in managerial positions. This approach falls in line with the stated goals of the UAE Government's declaration of 2013 as the year of Emiratisation; which the authorities intend to achieve through joining forces and uniting energies of like-minded organizations like UAB as well as other private and public sector enterprises. The bank intends to open 10 more branches next year, all of which will be managed by UAE nationals."

Tom Smith, Executive Vice-President & Group Head of Retail Banking, said: "UAB has always gone beyond the remit of token Emiratisation within the banking sector. We have consciously created a work environment that not only offers to foster the spirit of enterprise, but also spotlights talented Emirati managers who could provide mentorship to compatriots as well as serve as role models. We see Yusra and Faisal's appointments as integral to this goal."

The bank's sustained results and achievements have also served as a beacon for Emirati managerial aspirants to make it an Employer of Choice in the banking sector. Now operating with 19 branches throughout UAE, the bank is committed to adopting international best practices in the banking sector and developing shared services and product offerings.