COULD YOU SHARE SOME INSIGHTS GAINED FROM YOUR CAREER IN THE BANKING AND PAYMENTS SECTOR ON HOW TO BE AN EFFECTIVE LEADER?
My leadership style has been shaped by years of experience in the banking and payments industry and the guidance of exceptional mentors. Effective leadership, in my view, hinges on empowering teams, fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and promoting inclusion. By empowering team members, I believe we can unlock their potential, leading to increased motivation, productivity, and innovation. Building strong relationships and creating collaborative work environments is essential for driving transformative solutions. In the fast-paced payments industry, innovation is essential. I encourage creativity
and calculated risk-taking to advance solutions. I am committed to continuous learning and development, both personally and professionally. By fostering a diverse and inclusive team, I ensure that every perspective is valued, leading to more innovative and effective outcomes.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN THE FINTECH AND DIGITAL PAYMENT SECTOR, AND HOW HAS YOUR VISION EVOLVED DURING YOUR TIME AT AFS?
While my initial entry into the world of payments was unexpected, I’ve always been fascinated by technology’s potential to transform industries, especially finance. The fintech and digital payments sector, with its rapid innovation and transformative impact, has been a compelling draw. At AFS, I’ve been honored to lead the charge in driving digital transformation. My vision has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum of innovation, focusing on leveraging emerging technologies like AI and Open Banking to deliver smart and simplified payment solutions. I’m committed to positioning AFS as a leading fintech player, empowering businesses and individuals alike to thrive in this digital age.
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE RECENT LAUNCH OF AFS ONE AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE FOR THE F&B SECTOR IN BAHRAIN?
AFS One is a specialized POS app, designed to meet the unique requirements of the Bahrain F&B industry. This innovative solution streamlines operations, enhances customer experiences, and drives business growth. Key features of AFS One include streamlining operations through efficient order management, inventory control, and staff scheduling; enhancing customer experience through Seamless table-side ordering, split bills, and swift payment processing; and providing data-driven insights through real-time analytics to optimize business performance.
COULD YOU ELABORATE ON AFS’S ROLE IN SUPPORTING FINANCIAL LITERACY AND DIGITAL PAYMENT TOOLS FOR YOUTH WITH THE BPAY YOUTH CARD?
We believe it’s important to equip young people with the financial knowledge and skills they need to thrive. That’s why we launched the BPay Youth Card. This innovative tool allows young users to learn about money management in a safe and controlled environment. Parents can set spending limits, track transactions, and provide guidance, while young people can experience the thrill of making their own financial decisions, under the watchful eye of their parents. By providing the next generation with the opportunity to develop financial literacy, we’re empowering them for the future.
THE PARTNERSHIP WITH FILS SEEMS TO BE A SIGNIFICANT STEP FOR AFS. HOW WILL THIS COLLABORATION BENEFIT THE COMPANY AND ITS BANK CLIENTS IN THE MENA REGION?
Our strategic partnership with Fils is a great step forward. By combining their advanced technology with our deep-rooted expertise, we’re poised to drive sustainable innovation across the MENA region. Imagine a future where not only individuals but also every business, big or small, can contribute to a greener planet. With this partnership, we’re making that vision a reality. We’re not just building technology; we’re building a more sustainable future.
WHEN YOU CONSIDER AFS HAS DELIVERED 40 YEARS OF FINTECH INNOVATION, WHAT IS THE STANDOUT ACHIEVEMENT FOR THE COMPANY?
Reflecting on AFS’s 40-year journey is a humbling experience. We’ve witnessed the evolution of the payments industry firsthand, from traditional methods to cutting-edge digital solutions. While it’s challenging to pinpoint a single standout achievement, I’m particularly proud of our role in driving financial inclusion across the region. By pioneering digital payment solutions and empowering individuals and businesses, we’ve made a tangible difference in people’s lives. As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue leading the way in innovation and redefining the future of payments.
