What kind of education did you have when you were growing up?
I received an MBA from Leicester University and attended the Advanced Management Programme at Harvard Business School.
Who are your mentors?
I have two main mentors really: one is Mr John Wright, who used to be the CEO of Oman International Bank; and the other is Mr Yahya Al Jabri, who now heads the Duqum Authority.
How physically fit are you?
Reasonably fit. I used to play squash; now I jog and do brisk walking.
Ambition or talent: which matters more to success?
I think the most important factor that affects success is people and systems, with people ranking slightly higher. Throughout my career, I have been blessed with the ability to recognise the talents that people have and their possible contributions. If you have the talent and take appropriate actions then this will result in success.
What is the future of the Islamic financial services industry in Oman?
The potential for Islamic finance in Oman to grow is significant; however, the players have to clearly understand that just because they are Islamic, businesses will not flock to them. Islamic banks have to chase business just as would be done with any other commercial business looking to grow.
How committed are you to Islamic banking and finance?
Very committed. I hope I will be able to make a difference, not just in Islamic banking but also in the Islamic finance industry as a whole. Specifically, I want to contribute to developing Islamic funds such as zakat, waqf and hajj funds, and help increase their performance.
In what place are you happiest?
At home with my family, specifically my son, Sam. I can’t wait to be at home and have the chance to sit and partake in activities with him.
What was your hope for Meethaq?
Initially, the ambition was merely to grow the business in retail banking and to introduce new products that would cater to this niche market. Now, the ambition has developed to establishing an Islamic bank that is equal in size with current banks in Oman. But the bank should be highly efficient and with focus on not only providing products and services but also creating new markets. It should also engage with philanthropic activities including developing zakat and awqaf funds.
What drives you on?
The people around me. We have people throughout the organisation who are very passionate about what they do. It just keeps the cylinders pumping.
What is the greatest achievement of your life so far?
Building a retail banking division of Bank Muscat is one of my greatest achievements, and to start working in Islamic banking and see it growing in the way it has done so far is also another good achievement.
What has been your greatest disappointment?
I am very lucky that I don’t have many disappointments.
If your 20-year-old self could see you now, what would he think?
I think he would say that I am getting old quickly, and that I should slow down a bit.
If you had to rate your satisfaction with your life so far, out of 10, what would you score?
7 maybe.
