NBB scouts for new CEO as Usman Ahmed resigns

01/10/2026 05:48 AST

The board of National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) is well advanced in its search for a new group chief executive to lead its next phase of growth and strategic development.

The move comes as part of long-term succession planning and efforts to support the bank's expansion ambitions, including the proposed merger with Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK).

Over recent months, the board has been assessing future leadership requirements through an external review and market mapping process, supported by an independent global executive search firm.

As part of this transition, current group chief executive Usman Ahmed has decided to step down after four successful years in the role to pursue a new professional opportunity.

Mr Ahmed will continue to lead NBB during an agreed transition period, working closely with the board and executive management to ensure a smooth handover.

His final day with the bank will be December 31, 2026. The board expects to announce a successor in due course, subject to regulatory approvals.

Commenting, NBB chairperson Hala Yateem said: "NBB has real momentum and the ambition to match. Our objective is to appoint an experienced leader able to build on our recent success, deliver our long-term strategy and lead the bank through its growth and transformation to cement our status at home and in the wider GCC as Bahrain's national champion bank.

"On behalf of the board, I want to thank Usman for his leadership over the past almost four years. He leaves the bank stronger, more focussed and ready for what comes next, and we are grateful for his commitment to a seamless transition."

NBB confirmed that the proposed merger with BBK continues to progress on its own timeline, noting that today's announcement does not alter the status or timeframe of the transaction. The bank added that it will keep the market updated on key developments in line with regulatory obligations.

GDN Online