Shaikha Al-Bahar is a highly respected financial leader and motivational speaker, best known for her role as the Deputy Group CEO of the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) Group. With decades of experience in banking and finance, she has been instrumental in shaping NBK’s growth and expansion, solidifying its reputation as a leading regional institution. As a speaker, she inspires audiences with her insights on leadership, financial acumen, and the importance of strategic vision. She is particularly recognised for her advocacy of digital transformation, sustainability, and female empowerment, making her a sought-after voice in global business forums.
Her career began with a strong academic foundation, earning a degree in International Marketing with a minor in Statistics, followed by executive management training at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, INSEAD, and Wharton. She steadily climbed the ranks in NBK, proving her expertise in commercial and investment banking, corporate finance, and strategic planning. From 2010 to 2013, she began serving as CEO of NBK-Kuwait, where she consistently played her part in over 70% of the Group’s profits. Her leadership and ability to execute landmark transactions on sovereign and institutional levels helped transform NBK into a dominant financial entity with operations in 13 countries.
In recent years, she has been a driving force behind NBK’s digital transformation, overseeing the launch of Kuwait’s first digital bank. Her strategic vision has positioned the Group as a leader in financial technology, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency. She has also played a crucial role in NBK’s sustainability initiatives, reinforcing corporate social responsibility and environmental consciousness in business practices. Her influence extends beyond banking, as she was a member of Kuwait’s Supreme Council for Planning and Development from 2017 to 2021 and has been recognised among Forbes Middle East’s 100 Most Powerful Arab Women.
Shaikha Al-Bahar is in high demand as a motivational speaker for her ability to translate her vast experience into actionable insights. Whether addressing corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, or aspiring professionals, she emphasises the importance of strategic foresight, adaptability, and sustainable leadership. Her track record in financial innovation, institutional growth, and female empowerment makes her an invaluable speaker for organisations looking to inspire their teams and drive meaningful progress.
