OAB Launches ‘LEAD 2’ Development Program
Muscat, November 12, 2017: Highlighting its commitment to nurture and develop future leaders within the banking and finance sector, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) has announced the launch of the second edition of its talent development program entitled ‘Leadership Enhancement And Development’ (LEAD). As part of the announcement, the Bank also mentioned that 20 talented Omani staff members will undertake the intensive six-month training program, preparing them for future leadership positions within Oman Arab Bank.
Commenting on OAB’s LEAD program, Amin Al Husseini, Chief Executive Officer of OAB said, “LEAD is a unique and specialised leadership training program that aims to cultivate the talents of high potential Omanis with guidance from internationally renowned experts. The six month program has been designed to utilise best practices in order to empower participants with opportunity, managerial expertise, and high-level workplace solutions. The program has been divided into four, two-day modules with participants undergoing extensive leadership training to hone their expertise and develop the know-how required to spearhead their growth.”
Adil Al Rahbi, Head of the Human Resources Division added, “LEAD (1) was an incredible success for the Bank with every candidate completing the course with flying colours, and I expect the same with our 20 new candidates. One of the unique factors underpinning the success of the program is the fact that the selection process is carried out regardless of employee grade. The only requirement is for them to show true potential as leaders within their departments and to demonstrate a willingness to contribute beyond their normal role.”
The 20 new ‘LEAD’ candidates have been selected from across all employee rankings within the bank, and pinpointing our most talented staff members. Their acceptance into the leadership programme is preceded by a robust and constructive development centre. Participants will commence on their first training modules, where they will work side by side with some of the best motivational experts who are specialised in leadership development. As the course progresses, each of the candidates will be equipped with enhanced leadership skills and behaviours that will ensure effective people development in the coming years. LEAD (2) features an additional module on business innovation from Cass Business School and other activities related to team building in addition to group projects.
LEAD has been developed in line with the management’s strategy to ensure continuous development of OAB talent. Earlier this year, the HR Division kicked-off high-potential identification process which aims to identify the high potentials (HiPos) in various departments and disciplines across the Bank. These selections are made based on their qualifications, potential to grow and handle future key positions, and have the attributes required for progression to more senior levels. At the end of this process, various development options are considered for those spotted as high potentials; LEAD was the program that was at the top of the list.
“The program falls in line with our objective of building a pool of talented employees, and in turn preparing and supporting the Sultanate’s national workforce,” concluded Adil.
The ‘LEAD’ programme has been designed in cooperation with Inspirational Development Group (IDG), and is facilitated by a team from IDG, a globally renowned leadership and management performance consultancy. The company has channelled its long history of experience delivering high-quality and intensive work programs to some of the most prestigious organizations in the world. Closely affiliated with the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, IDG has worked with some of the most important public and private sector companies in the region from its Middle East office based in Muscat. Former and current clients include the King Abdullah II Fund for Development in Jordan, Shell Petroleum in Qatar, and the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority among others.
Oman Arab Bank is one of the first banks to be established in Oman, with a rich and proud history. Today, the bank operates a nationwide network of 65 branches and representative offices across and 148 ATMs spread across the Sultanate. OAB provides the complete range of financial products and services for personal banking, corporate and investment clients.
