The Export-Import Bank of Pakistan (EXIM Bank) has appointed a veteran international financier, Shahbaz H. Syed, as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, signaling a strategic move to aggressively advance the nation’s trade and export development agenda. The appointment comes at a crucial time, with expectations high for the new chief to leverage his global expertise to empower Pakistani exporters and improve the country’s trade balance.
A welcome ceremony was held at the bank’s headquarters in Islamabad on Monday to officially mark his assumption of the new role. Mr. Syed brings a formidable portfolio to the position, with over three decades of distinguished experience in international trade finance, risk management, and investment banking.
A certified Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Financial Risk Manager (FRM), his extensive career includes senior leadership positions at prominent global institutions such as the Saudi EXIM Bank, Export Development Canada, the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).
Recognized for his innovative strategies, Mr. Syed has spearheaded initiatives in FinTech and InsureTech. His background also includes managing Shariah-compliant equity and real estate funds and implementing robust enterprise-wide risk management frameworks that were instrumental in his previous organizations achieving top-tier institutional credit ratings.
Prior to this appointment, he held the position of Senior Executive Advisor and Director General at Saudi EXIM Bank. His proficiency in political and credit risk insurance, project finance, and Islamic banking is anticipated to significantly fortify EXIM Bank’s function as Pakistan’s official export credit agency.
In his welcome address, Mr. Syed expressed his commitment to the national cause. “I am honoured to serve Pakistan by leading its official Export Credit Agency,” he stated. “Together with Team EXIM, we will develop sustainable financial solutions that empower Pakistani exporters and contribute to a positive trade balance. Just as we all belong to Pakistan, we must also build a shared sense of belonging to this institution and pursue its mission with pride and national spirit.”
The Board and management of EXIM Bank conveyed their full confidence in Mr. Syed’s capabilities, reaffirming their support as he prepares to guide the institution into a new period of innovation and expansion.