Executive Awards 2017

14 CORPORATE VISION / 2017 Executive Awards Sharjah Islamic Bank is the world’s first converted Bank from conventional to Islamic. Iqbal I. Karmally gives us an insight into his leadership as he is named Best Islamic Trade Financing Leader 2017 in theMiddle East. Sharjah Islamic Bank Sharjah Islamic Bank offers a wide range of Islamic Financial products to its diversified clientele. Its customers are the lifeline of the company, and irrespective of their religion, the team provide customers with the best possible service. Iqbal starts off by explaining his leadership style, mentioning how he ensures that there is a continued success of the company, including leading by example and hoping his staff will follow. “If I could summarise my leadership in a phrase, it would be hard on results, soft on people. I believe in understanding the needs of the stakeholders and then preparing the team to meet and exceed these expectations. Hence, we have stretch KPI’s for every function and team member. I want to act as a role model in living out our values, code and conduct and strategic plans. “On the people front, I am very friendly and encouraging as I believe that its happy people who deliver phenomenal results. I am also regularly scrutinizing my leadership style to improve my strengths and reduce my AFI’s.” Describing the internal culture within the Bank, Iqbal tells us how he equips his staff in order to guarantee clients are satisfied with the service they receive. He refers to the fact that all employees are people oriented meaning they are well placed to give great customer service. “Throughout all our staff, we have a strong people oriented culture rooted in the values of bonding and harmony. We have an open- door culture which stresses the importance of regular contact, two-way open communication and feedback. To equip our staff to deliver, we make sure that expectations are clear and regular feedback and trainings are provided.” Regarding what the future holds for Sharjah Islamic Bank and Iqbal personally, he comments on how he has felt continuous growth personally and this will continue. He also hints at what future plans there are for the bank. “Ultimately, I have been with Sharjah Islamic Bank for 12 years now and there has been constant and continuous personal growth for me in the Organisation. From a banking perspective, there are some important plans in the pipeline, including an Islamic mode of Discounting the Export Acceptance and Avalized Collections.” Company: Sharjah Islamic Bank Contact: Iqbal I. Karmally Contact Email: [email protected] Address: Trade Finance Division, Sharjah Islamic Bank Tower, Al Khan, Sharjah – P.O Box 4, UAE Phone: 009716-5999390 Website: www.sib.ae Best Islamic Trade Financing Leader 2017 - Middle East EA170013 ,