The Pakistan Banks Association (PBA) has announced the appointment of Mir Nejib Rahman as its new Secretary, marking a significant addition to the leadership team of the country’s key banking industry body. Bringing with him over three decades of expertise in banking, digital finance, and development finance across both domestic and international markets, Rahman is widely recognized for his instrumental role in advancing Pakistan’s financial ecosystem.
Over the course of his career, Rahman has played a central role in shaping financial inclusion strategies, modernizing payment infrastructures, and driving digital transformation initiatives. Notably, he served as one of the founding architects behind Pakistan’s 1LINK Payment Switch, a critical element in enabling the country’s interbank electronic transactions and expanding access to secure, real-time payment solutions. His efforts have directly contributed to making financial services more accessible to underserved segments of society, aligning with national goals for inclusive economic growth.
Rahman’s leadership journey spans senior positions in premier banks, where he successfully led operational, technological, and strategic transformations. In addition to his corporate leadership roles, he has been actively involved in advising on high-impact national programs designed to modernize Pakistan’s financial infrastructure. His contributions have not only enhanced operational efficiency but have also helped introduce innovative products and services that align with evolving consumer and business needs.
As Secretary of PBA, Rahman will work closely with member banks to advance the association’s mission of fostering collaboration within the industry, advocating for policy reforms, and strengthening the banking sector’s ability to support sustainable economic development. He is expected to play a pivotal role in engaging with regulatory authorities, shaping industry-wide initiatives, and ensuring that Pakistan’s banking sector remains competitive in an increasingly digital and interconnected global economy.
Rahman’s appointment comes at a time when Pakistan’s financial sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by advancements in digital banking, mobile payments, and fintech innovation. With cyber security, compliance, and financial inclusion high on the industry’s agenda, his strategic vision and technical expertise will be crucial in addressing emerging challenges and capitalizing on new opportunities.
In his new role, Rahman is set to prioritize initiatives that enhance digital capabilities across banks, promote standardized practices, and foster greater consumer trust in financial services. His experience in building and scaling digital payment systems positions him well to lead efforts that align with the State Bank of Pakistan’s vision for a more inclusive, secure, and efficient financial ecosystem.
The PBA, representing Pakistan’s banking sector, serves as a unified voice in policy discussions, regulatory engagements, and industry development efforts. With Rahman at the helm as Secretary, the association aims to strengthen its influence and deliver impactful reforms that support economic resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth.