Khaberni - Following the Board of Directors meeting held on December 14, 2025, ABC Bank announced the retirement of the Group CEO, Mr. Sail Al-Wa'ri, effective January 31, 2026.
This announcement comes after concluding discussions regarding Mr. Al-Wa'ri’s desire to retire, after spending over four decades contributing to the ABC Bank Group. Mr. Al-Wa'ri has led the bank through key phases of institutional transformation, digital advancement, financial position enhancement, and the consolidation of the group’s strategic stability.
The Board expressed its profound appreciation for Mr. Al-Wa'ri’s leadership, wishing him continued success and prosperity in the next phase.
The Board also decided to appoint Mr. Brandon Hopkins, Chief Financial Officer of the group, to the position of Acting Group CEO starting February 1, 2026. Mr. Hopkins is among the prominent leaders within the bank's senior management team, where he played a pivotal role in financial oversight, strategic planning, and implementing the institutional transformation agenda.
The transitional arrangements will continue for a limited period during which the Board will conduct its succession assessments and plans for a permanent appointment to the position. Mr. Al-Wa'ri will maintain his affiliation with the group, contributing to the support of the Board and providing support to Mr. Hopkins whenever necessary, to ensure business continuity and achieve a smooth and effective transition.
Commenting on this transition, the Chairman of the Board of ABC Bank, His Excellency Mr. Naji Bilqasim said, "On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to Mr. Sail for his long years of service and leadership at ABC Bank. During his career, he has made substantial contributions to the development of the group and advancing its strategic advancements, and we wish him all the best in the upcoming phase."
For his part, Mr. Sail Al-Wa'ri said, "It has been an honor and privilege for me to contribute to the journey of ABC Bank for more than 40 years, and to work alongside such a distinguished group of colleagues across the group. I would like to extend my gratitude to the Board of Directors, our clients, and the entire ABC Bank family for their trust and substantial support over the years. I am proud of what we have achieved together and I believe in the robust position of the bank and its future growth prospects."
