Sahar AbdulAziz Al-Rumaih made history in 2022 by becoming the first woman appointed as the deputy governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait, a significant milestone for gender representation in the Gulf’s financial sector. Her appointment highlights her exceptional leadership in the region and places her among other trailblazing women in Arab financial institutions.
A Career of Accomplishments
Al-Rumaih’s extensive banking career spans over 33 years. She began at the Commercial Bank of Kuwait in 1989 and served in various key roles, including deputy CEO from 2018 to 2021, where she led the corporate and international banking divisions. She was also the General Manager of the Corporate Credit Division, contributing to major infrastructure projects in Kuwait, and led the Retail Banking Division, enhancing customer experiences through innovative services.
She later served as deputy CEO for the Corporate Banking Division at Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait before her appointment as deputy governor.
Board Membership and Leadership Roles
Al-Rumaih has been an active contributor to external boards and committees, including the Kuwait Banking Association and the Capital Markets Authority. She also chaired a local capital investment company before her current role at the Central Bank.
Academic Credentials
Al-Rumaih earned a degree in Economics from Kuwait University in 1988 and pursued advanced training at institutions like Harvard Business School and IMD in Switzerland, further strengthening her expertise in banking and finance.
Women in Deputy Governor Positions Across the Arab World
Al-Rumaih’s appointment reflects a growing trend of women in leadership roles in Arab finance, joining a trail of influential figures like Kholoud Saqqaf, the first Arab woman deputy governor of the Central Bank of Jordan; Lobna Helal, the first female deputy governor of Egypt’s Central Bank; and Nadia Gamha, Tunisia’s first female deputy governor.
