BAB Human Capital Committee Holds a Workshop on Advancing Human Resources Development in the Financial Sector

The Human Capital Committee of the Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB) convened a strategy workshop as part of its plan to establish a two-year strategic roadmap to advance human capital development within Bahrain’s financial sector.

The workshop focused on three key priority areas: leadership succession planning across the financial sector, developing leadership capabilities, and addressing critical skills gaps. Discussions were complemented by interactive working sessions that identified high-impact focus areas and shaped preliminary performance indicators, ensuring that proposed initiatives are measurable, sustainable, and fully aligned with the broader strategic objectives of the Bahrain Association of Banks.

Commenting on the workshop, Mrs. Zeeba Askar, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Association of Banks, stated: “The development of this strategy underscores the Association’s commitment to strengthening the role of its Committees and positioning them as key drivers in delivering its mandate. We firmly believe that human capital is the cornerstone of competitiveness in Bahrain’s financial sector, and this strategic roadmap will play a pivotal role in advancing practical, outcome-driven solutions that further reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a leading regional financial hub.”

Mrs Afnan Saleh, Chairperson of BAB’s Human Capital Committee and Chief Human Resources Officer at Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB), highlighted the value of the workshop’s outcomes, stating: “The workshop featured constructive discussions focused on defining priorities that address the evolving needs of member institutions. Through this roadmap, we aim to transform today’s talent management challenges into tangible opportunities, while ensuring that Bahrain’s human capital remains a strategic contributor in achieving national economic objectives.”

Mrs. Muna Al Balooshi‏, Vice Chair of BAB’s Human Capital Committee and Chief Human Resources Officer at Al Salam Bank, added: “Effective leadership succession planning is no longer an administrative exercise; it is a strategic imperative to ensure business continuity, sustain growth, and safeguard the achievements of Bahrain’s banking and financial sector.”