A significant leadership transition has taken place at the National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) Pakistan, as Ms. Lubna Farooq Malik has officially assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer effective August 27, 2025. This marks a new chapter for the country’s premier banking and finance training institute, which plays a vital role in building capacity for financial professionals across Pakistan.
The appointment of Ms. Malik comes at a crucial time when Pakistan’s financial sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technology adoption, regulatory reforms, and the growing need for capacity-building initiatives. Her leadership is widely expected to bring fresh energy, a forward-looking vision, and stronger institutional development to NIBAF, aligning with the evolving demands of the banking ecosystem.
Ms. Malik’s extensive experience in financial sector leadership positions her well to navigate this next phase. Known for her strategic thinking and commitment to excellence, she is expected to spearhead innovation in training programs, strengthen partnerships with industry stakeholders, and introduce initiatives that equip financial professionals with skills tailored for a digital-first economy.
NIBAF, which operates under the State Bank of Pakistan, has long been a cornerstone institution for providing specialized training in banking, finance, and capacity building. With Ms. Malik at the helm, the institute is set to enhance its outreach, further digitalize learning methods, and expand its influence both nationally and internationally. The focus will be on equipping banking professionals with tools to respond to emerging challenges such as fintech disruption, cybersecurity threats, and sustainable finance.
At the same time, this leadership transition also acknowledges the contributions of Mr. Riaz Nazarali Chunara, who has completed his tenure as CEO. His service and guidance were instrumental in steering NIBAF through pivotal years of expansion and transformation. Under his leadership, the institute strengthened its institutional framework, expanded its training programs, and reinforced its reputation as a hub of excellence for banking professionals in Pakistan.
The leadership handover has been welcomed by stakeholders across the banking and finance community. Industry experts believe that Ms. Malik’s appointment will pave the way for greater innovation and resilience within the financial sector, while ensuring NIBAF continues to play its central role in developing human capital for the country’s economic growth.
NIBAF has historically trained thousands of professionals from banks, microfinance institutions, and regulatory bodies, equipping them with the knowledge required to adapt to evolving market realities. With Pakistan’s financial ecosystem becoming increasingly interconnected with global practices, the need for cutting-edge training and leadership has never been more pressing.
As Ms. Malik begins her tenure, the focus is likely to shift toward building new collaborations, modernizing training tools, and integrating global best practices into NIBAF’s offerings. Stakeholders are optimistic that her leadership will further strengthen Pakistan’s financial sector, ensuring it remains competitive, innovative, and capable of addressing future challenges.
The announcement of her appointment has been met with anticipation and encouragement, reflecting the sector’s expectations for a new era of growth and excellence under her stewardship.
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