National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has launched a unique internal training program, designed to groom some of its high-performing talents into vital drivers of NBB’s strategy and potential candidates for the Bank’s future leadership. Titled ‘RISE’, this initiative is in line with NBB’s efforts to continuously invest in the professional development of its employees to optimise their capabilities and nurture the next generation of industry experts.
The RISE program, rolled out in partnership with international training consultants EMIC Training, aims to develop the soft and hard skills of the Bank’s young and upcoming Bahraini employees who have demonstrated tremendous passion, commitment and capabilities, grooming them into the next generation of NBB’s leadership.
The program has kicked off with its first batch of RISE candidates, who were shortlisted from over sixty nominees following a series of assessments, personality and aptitude tests as well as panel interviews conducted by the Bank’s Executive Management. The twenty-one finalists, who represent a cross-function of the organization, will be given exclusive training, coaching and exposure to real projects aligned to the Bank’s strategy, accelerating their career growth and development into executive level positions.
Commenting on this initiative, Jean-Christophe Durand, Chief Executive Officer of NBB, stated: “At NBB we are vested in recognising and developing our people because we truly believe in the potential of each and every one of our employees. Our Bank holds some of the best talent in the industry and it is our duty as one of the largest national employers, to train, coach and mentor this talent, to unleash its potential, ultimately empowering the next generation of banking experts who will pave the way for new industry standards. I applaud all RISE participants for their drive, enthusiasm, and ambition; and I commend the finalists for their perseverance and goal-oriented focus. They still have a long way ahead of them but I am confident they will go above and beyond our expectations.”
The RISE finalists will commit to a year-long program consisting of specific modules that combine technical and soft skill training. They will also be required to undertake special assignments outside of their assigned roles and responsibilities, while undergoing continuous monitoring and assessment to ensure continuity of their successful performance.
Speaking about the program Dana Buheji, Chief Human Resources Officer at NBB said: “The RISE program has been tailored to meet NBB’s strategic needs for high caliber leaders who will not only help take the Bank forward but can also contribute to the betterment of the industry at large. All the RISE candidates will go through a journey of self-discovery, and will be exposed to the Bank’s multiple functions, providing them with a holistic understanding of the institution and the industry and opening the door for them to pursue career paths both vertically and horizontally within the Bank. At NBB we continuously strive to deliver on our promise as Employer of Choice by opening up access to growth and development opportunities that inspire our people to go above and beyond and strive for the highest achievements.”