SICO’s Board of Directors unanimously endorsed the CEO’s recommendation for Al Shirawi’s promotion.
“The creation of this new position is in line with SICO’s adherence to corporate governance global best practice. As Deputy CEO, Al-Shirawi will add depth and continuity to the Bank’s management team, and play an even closer role in the evolving strategic development of SICO across the GCC region,” the bank’s Chairman, Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa, said.
The promotion highlights the Bank’s continuous commitment to strengthening its senior management team and enhancing its corporate structure; and also its succession planning in preparation for a time when the baton is transferred to a younger generation. Al Shirawi is currently Chief Operating Officer, responsible for managing the bank’s day-to-day operations. She will retain her existing role alongside her new position as Deputy CEO.
Al Shirawi has over 16 years’ investment banking experience. One of SICO’s longest-serving employees, joining the Bank in 1997, she held the posts of Head of Asset Management and Head of Investments and Treasury prior to her promotion to Chief Operating Officer in December 2006.
“During her long tenure with SICO, Najla has made a very significant contribution to the growth of the Bank, in terms of both core business activities and support operations,” SICO Chief Executive Officer Tony Mallis said.
“Her well-deserved appointment to Deputy CEO reflects her professional attitude, disciplined intelligence, solid management skills and hands-on approach, and her loyalty to SICO; not to mention the successful and very agreeable working relationship between us for the past 12 years,” Mallis, added.