Ms. Sarah Al-Suhaimi is a trailblazer in the financial world, holding the esteemed position of Chairperson of the Board of Directors at Tadawul, the largest stock market in the Middle East. With a career spanning two decades, her journey to the top is marked by significant achievements and recognition.
Previously serving as the Chief Investment Officer at Jadwa Investment, a prominent Saudi asset management boutique, Ms. Al-Suhaimi joined in 2007 and swiftly climbed the ranks, eventually leading the portfolio management division. Her commitment to excellence garnered global attention, earning her a spot on the World Economic Forum’s 100 Young Global Leaders in 2018 and recognition as one of Bloomberg BusinessWeek’s “50 people to watch” in December 2017.
In 2019, Ms. Al-Suhaimi’s influence extended to the global financial realm as she was appointed as a Trustee of the IFRS Foundation. Her academic prowess, graduating with the highest honors from King Saud University’s Accounting program, was complemented by her completion of the General Management Program at Harvard Business School in 2015.
Being named one of Forbes’ most powerful businesswomen underscores Ms. Al-Suhaimi’s impact. Her strategic leadership has left an indelible mark on various organizations, including her role as CEO of Saudi National Bank Capital (SNB Capital). During her tenure from 2014 to 2021, assets under management (AUMs) skyrocketed, brokerage market share surged, and the bank achieved league table status in debt capital markets (DCM) and mergers and acquisitions (M&A).
In 2022, Ms. Al-Suhaimi assumed the position of Chair of Lazard’s financial advisory business for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), showcasing her expanding influence on a global scale. Her role as Chairperson of the Saudi Tadawul Group has been instrumental in fostering collaboration, exemplified by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Boursa Kuwait in December 2022, exploring opportunities in Fintech, ESG sustainability, and product collaboration.
Notably, Ms. Al-Suhaimi stands out as the first Saudi woman to chair Tadawul, spearheading efforts to align the Saudi capital market with global standards, in line with Vision 2030. Beyond finance, she contributes to boards of Saudi Airlines and Saudi Telecom, showcasing her commitment to diverse sectors.
As an advocate for women’s empowerment, Ms. Al-Suhaimi has played a pivotal role in challenging gender norms. Her leadership positions and recognition as a We-Fi Leadership Champion underscore her dedication to advancing women in the professional sphere.
In the Boardroom and Beyond: The Leadership Legacy of Sarah Al-Suhaimi
The story of Ms. Sarah Al-Suhaimi is one of resilience, competence, and transformative leadership. Her rise to become the Chairperson of the Board of Directors at Tadawul, the largest stock market in the Middle East, is a testament to her exceptional skills and commitment to excellence.
Ms. Al-Suhaimi’s journey began at the Saudi American Bank, where, despite facing initial skepticism due to her family background, she emerged as a standout performer. Her perseverance and dedication led her to ascend the ranks, eventually joining Jadwa Investment, where she became the Chief Investment Officer.
In 2014, she assumed the challenging role of CEO at NCB Capital, tasked with revitalizing the business and boosting morale within a disenchanted workforce. Her strategic acumen was evident as she crafted a new business strategy focused on stability and growth. Ms. Al-Suhaimi shifted the firm’s focus from volatile revenues to a more dependable asset management model, leading to a remarkable turnaround.
However, her impact extends beyond financial metrics. Ms. Al-Suhaimi prioritized rebuilding trust within the organization, fostering open communication, and inspiring a sense of purpose. Town hall meetings and personal visits to branch offices became instruments of change, rekindling motivation among employees.
Under her leadership, NCB Capital not only recovered but thrived, achieving a profit of $86 million within the first year and continuing to lead the sector in subsequent years. Her leadership philosophy, grounded in technical and managerial competence, became a beacon for others seeking to transform their organizations.
In 2022, Ms. Al-Suhaimi took on the role of Chair of Lazard’s financial advisory business for MENA, solidifying her standing as a global financial leader. Her appointment as Chairperson of the Saudi Tadawul Group, once again in 2023, highlights the ongoing trust and confidence placed in her capabilities.
Ms. Al-Suhaimi’s commitment to gender equality is evident in her advocacy for women in leadership roles. As the first Saudi woman to chair Tadawul, she pioneers a path for others to follow. Her recognition as one of Forbes’ most powerful businesswomen and a We-Fi Leadership Champion reflects her dedication to advancing women in the workplace.
In addition to her financial roles, Ms. Al-Suhaimi’s involvement in diverse boards, including Saudi Airlines and Saudi Telecom, showcases her holistic approach to leadership. A trustee of the IFRS Foundation since 2019, she contributes to global financial standards and governance.
Ms. Sarah Al-Suhaimi’s leadership legacy is characterized by her ability to navigate challenges, inspire trust, and drive transformative change. Whether in the boardroom or beyond, she continues to shape the narrative of women’s success in the professional realm.