NIBAF Pakistan organized a specialized two-day executive leadership program titled “Women in Leadership” at its Lahore Campus from September 24 to 25, 2026. The program brought together female officers and executives from commercial banks and the State Bank of Pakistan Banking Services Corporation, with a focus on leadership development, strategic decision-making and professional growth within Pakistan’s financial sector.
The executive program was designed to provide participants with practical approaches to leadership and career development while addressing challenges faced by women progressing into senior roles. The sessions covered areas related to corporate governance, executive presence, professional networking and strategic decision-making. The program also focused on helping participants develop approaches for managing career barriers and contributing to institutional decision-making.
Dr. Irum Saba, Director of the IBA Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance, Founder of the Women Leadership Forum and Chief Executive Officer of MRM Consultancy, facilitated the program across both days. Her professional work includes leadership development and Islamic finance, while her involvement with the Women Leadership Forum is focused on supporting women in professional and leadership roles.
The program also featured guest speakers from different areas of Pakistan’s professional and financial landscape. Roshaneh Zafar, Managing Director of Kashf Foundation, participated as one of the guest speakers. Dr. Moneeba Iftikhar and Ayesha Khan also joined the program as guest speakers, contributing to discussions intended to provide participants with broader perspectives on leadership and professional development.
According to NIBAF Pakistan, the program addressed the importance of inclusive leadership and effective decision-making in strengthening diversity across financial institutions. Participants were provided with strategies for navigating corporate governance structures, building professional networks and developing an executive presence. These areas are particularly relevant for banking professionals seeking to take on greater responsibilities within their institutions.
The program also examined the role of women leaders in creating institutional impact. By bringing together female officers and executives from commercial banks and SBP Banking Services Corporation, the initiative provided a platform for participants to engage with leadership concepts and professional experiences relevant to the financial services sector.
NIBAF Pakistan said its leadership development activities are intended to support the professional development of banking personnel. The institution has also highlighted gender diversity and the development of emerging women leaders as part of its broader focus on strengthening human resources across the financial services industry.
The two-day Women in Leadership program concluded on September 25 at the NIBAF Pakistan Lahore Campus. Through its facilitators and guest speakers, the program combined leadership training with practical perspectives on corporate governance, career progression, professional networking and institutional leadership for women working in Pakistan’s banking sector.
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