Hamad Alsaeed

Accomplished Senior Banking Executive with over 20 years of experience within the Bahraini and regional financial sectors, specializing in Trade Finance operations, risk management, and structured transaction execution. Expert in managing complex trade instruments—including Letters of Credit (LCs), Bank Guarantees, Bills of Collection, and Structured Trade Finance—while maintaining strict adherence to Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) regulatory frameworks and international governing rules (UCP 600, URC, URR, URDG, ISBP). Strong background in corporate client relationship management, credit proposals, and cross-functional collaboration across Risk, Legal, Compliance, and Operations teams.

Head of Trade Finance Operations at AL BARAKA ISLAMIC BANK (2012-01 – Present)

• Transaction Structuring & Execution: Structure, review, authorize, and execute complex trade finance instruments within approved credit limits and institutional risk guidelines.
• Client & Stakeholder Advisory: Provide technical and commercial guidance to corporate clients, financial institutions, and internal stakeholders on complex trade structures and legal discrepancies.
• Credit & Risk Governance: Oversee operational risk management, ensuring compliance with CBB regulations, AML/KYC screening standards, and internal risk limits.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Risk, Legal, Compliance, and Business Development teams to support credit proposals and ensure smooth transaction execution.
• AI & Digital Innovation: Championed the integration of AI-driven trade finance solutions (OCR and automated compliance screening) to significantly reduce turnaround times.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Direct and mentor line supervisors and specialists while driving succession planning and team development.

Operations Supervisor at THE ARAB INVESTMENT COMPANY (2008-06 – 2011-06)

• Supervised daily trade banking operations, ensuring seamless transaction execution and full compliance with internal risk boundaries.
• Coordinated with cross-functional units to optimize operational turnaround times for high-volume corporate transactions.

Global Trade Services Specialist at BMI BANK (2006-10 – 2008-06)

• Handled processing and verification of standard import/export documentation, ensuring adherence to ICC rules and trade standards.

Senior Clerk – Trade Finance Operations at AHLI UNITED BANK (2002-12 – 2006-10)

• Executed high-volume data entry, primary documentation verification, and client support across foundational trade products.

B.Sc. in Banking & Finance – University of Bahrain (2008-07)

Associate Diploma in Banking & Finance – University of Bahrain (2002)