March 2009
Mr. Eisa M. Al-Eisa, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Samba Financial, has been named "Best CEO in Banking and Financial Institutions Sector in Saudi Arabia for 2009" by CEO Middle East magazine, a member of the ITP Executive Publishing Group. Al Eisa received the award on Sunday 22nd March during a ceremony at the Intercontinental Hotel in Riyadh. The event was attended by over 250 prominent figures, including decision-makers, CEOs and financial experts from a number of private and public institutions. The award had been organized for the first time in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in order to honor business leaders who have played a significant role in the development of various sectors within the country.

Upon receiving the award, Al-Eisa extended his deep gratitude and appreciation to CEO Middle East magazine, labeling it an extremely professional institution. "This accolade is a testimony to Samba's clear, consistent vision and well-aligned strategy, which enable the bank to proceed unwaveringly and confidently with its high levels of performance" said Al Eisa. He went on to add: "It is another feather in the cap for Samba Financial Group, as our proven track record places us in a premier position amongst all Saudi Arabian and Middle Eastern banks".

Al Eisa started his career with Samba in 1980. His appointment as Managing Director and CEO in 2003 coincided with Samba's de-merger from Citi Group, where he steered the bank's transition to full Saudi management in just 37 days.