In the realm of banking and finance, leadership prowess is a defining factor in shaping the trajectory of institutions. Hana Al Rostamani, the Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), is a pioneer in the banking industry. With over 25 years of experience, she has made significant contributions to the financial sector, breaking barriers and driving positive change.
Growing up, Hana Al Rostamani’s journey was marked by a blend of determination and academic excellence. With a childhood rooted in the vibrant culture of the UAE, she pursued her education with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master’s in Information Management from George Washington University in the United States. Her academic foundation has undoubtedly contributed to her strategic thinking and ability to navigate complex financial landscapes.
Breaking Barriers in Banking
Hana etched her name in history as the first female CEO of a U.A.E.-based bank, marking a pivotal moment for gender diversity in the financial world. Her appointment as the group CEO of FAB in January 2021 heralded a new era of leadership. From the outset, Al Rostamani’s tenure has been defined by innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to sustainable growth.
Assuming the role of Group CEO in 2021, Al Rostamani embarked on a transformative journey at FAB, charting a course toward unprecedented heights. Under her astute stewardship, FAB witnessed a series of remarkable financial achievements, solidifying its position as a global banking leader.
Driving Profitability and Sustainability
Under Al Rostamani’s guidance, FAB didn’t just achieve impressive financial results; it surpassed expectations. In the first nine months of 2023 alone, the bank recorded profits amounting to $3.4 billion.
However, Al Rostamani’s vision transcends mere financial gains. During COP28, FAB made a significant announcement, pledging its commitment to sustainable and transitional financing. The bank aims to lend, invest, and facilitate over $135 billion by 2030, demonstrating a proactive approach towards environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
Hana’s leadership extends far beyond boardroom profits; she is a driving force behind FAB’s sustainability initiatives. As the chair of the Global Council on the Sustainable Development Goals, she amplifies her commitment to creating a positive impact on a global scale. Her dedication to sustainability is evident in every facet of FAB’s operations, reflecting her unwavering resolve to foster a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.
Hana Al Rostamani’s Resilience and Strategic Leadership at FAB
Throughout Hana’s journey, she encountered numerous obstacles, ranging from industry shifts to economic downturns and global crises. However, her resilience and adaptability have always been her defining traits, enabling her to not only navigate but thrive amidst turbulent times. With a customer-centric approach and a digital-first mindset, Hana Al Rostamani has played a pivotal role in steering FAB through these challenges, emerging stronger each time.
In a strategic move in 2021, FAB agreed to acquire the Egyptian unit of Lebanon’s Bank Audi, thereby expanding its presence in the region. With total assets amounting to $250 billion and a net profit of $2.9 billion in 2020, FAB’s financial standing underlines the efficacy of Al Rostamani’s strategic vision. Her leadership positions FAB for sustained success and continued growth in the ever-evolving banking landscape.
Al Rostamani’s Global Impact: Beyond Banking and Across Industries
In addition to her pivotal position at FAB, Hana Al Rostamani’s engagement with various boards highlights her dedication to fostering positive change beyond the boundaries of banking. Her active involvement in these organizations serves as a testament to her broader impact on the global stage.
As a board member of the AW Rostamani Group, chairperson of FAB Private Bank Suisse, and a member of the MasterCard Advisory, Al Rostamani’s multifaceted roles underscore her unwavering commitment to excellence. Her diverse portfolio reflects her dedication to driving positive change and her remarkable ability to influence and innovate across different industries.
Shaping the Future of Banking
Under Hana Al Rostamani’s adept leadership, FAB has consistently achieved remarkable financial results, solidifying its stature as a global banking powerhouse. Her strategic foresight and decisive actions have propelled the institution towards sustained growth and profitability, cementing its position as a dominant player in the global financial arena.
As Hana Al Rostamani assumes the role of group CEO, she continues to chart the course for the future of banking. Her unwavering focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity underscores her commitment to ensuring that FAB maintains its status as a frontrunner in the ever-evolving financial landscape.
Hana Al Rostamani’s journey exemplifies leadership, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference. Her impact extends far beyond the boardroom, inspiring a new generation of leaders to break barriers and create lasting change.
