KPME Transforming Talent for a Leading Saudi Bank
The Background
Saudi Arabia’s banking sector is undergoing significant improvements driven by higher customer expectations, digital advancements, and the emergence of digital banks and fintech companies.
In order to achieve Vision 2030, the banking sector is expected to play a crucial role, as stated by Asad Ahmed, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal Middle East. Consequently, banks in Saudi Arabia are actively looking to innovate and enhance their services.
Our client ranks among the largest banks operating in the Middle East and Saudi Arabia, boasting over six decades of expertise in banking and trade. With a network of over 500 branches, it holds a strong presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Challenge
To take a step towards innovation and advancement, they aimed to empower their employees to excel in their roles, driving organisational success while maintaining trust and credibility with clients and stakeholders.
The bank recognized the necessity to upskill its workforce. In order to meet these objectives and keep up with the evolving banking sector, the client partnered with Kaplan Professional to design a program aimed at enhancing the finance and leadership skills of their employees.
The program was tailored to cultivate participants’ abilities in communication, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Equally significant was its focus on enhancing proficiency in finance, specifically in corporate banking, investment banking, and wealth management products.
The Solution
Emotional intelligence, communication skills, and critical thinking skills have a significant impact on customer relationships and enhance leadership effectiveness. Morever, proficiency in finance and business skills empowers banking professionals to instill trust and confidence in clients and become indispensable advisors capable of delivering significant value to their organisation.
Collaborating closely with the client, Kaplan developed a customized five-day program known as Relationship Managers Program. This comprehensive initiative amalgamates Finance and Business Skills with Leadership and Behavioral Development modules.
The training program covered a spectrum of essential topics spanning leadership skills and finance domains. It commenced by exploring interpersonal communication dynamics and the benefits of emotional intelligence in the workplace. Subsequently, it delves into core thinking skills highlighting the correlation between critical thinking and data-driven decision-making.
Throughout the program, participants engaged in hands-on activities, equipping them with practical skills to identify suitable banking and investment products tailored to diverse client needs in both corporate and wealth management spheres. This fostered informed decision-making and financial efficacy.
Additionally, the program addresses the intricacies of capital markets, risk-return profiles of asset classes, and core credit analysis topics. By the end of the program, participants possessed a well-rounded understanding of financial management practices, ready to apply their newfound knowledge and skills in their roles.
With our robust support systems, meticulous reporting, rigorous quality management, and centralized points of contact and our commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes have ensured that this training program has been immensely beneficial for all participants.
The Impact
With an impressive overall satisfaction rate of 91%, participants found the program to be remarkably positive. The trainer’s expertise was particularly highlighted with an outstanding rating of 96%, while the course material earned a commendable rating of 90%.
They gained valuable insight into effective communication, learning to tailor their approach to different personalities and message types. The program emphasized client interaction skills, focusing on relationship-building and adaptability to customer behavior. Moreover, the program developed self-awareness and problem-solving abilities, recognizing the importance of communication nuances.
Through engaging practical exercises, participants learned to navigate diverse client scenarios with sensitivity and confidence. The program also fostered assertiveness, empowering participants to express opinions while respecting others’ perspectives.
Covering topics such as capital markets, credit analysis techniques, margin trading, and risk management strategies, the program provided a profound understanding of banking, investment, and wealth management principles. By the program’s conclusion, participants were equipped with a comprehensive toolkit necessary to drive organisational success and cultivate stronger relationships with their colleagues.
