Vince Cook

Dr. Vince Cook brings over 30 years of executive leadership experience across the financial sector, spanning retail, corporate and commercial banking, investment banking, and wealth management. He was awarded an MBE in King Charles III's inaugural New Year's Honours list in recognition of his contributions to UK-UAE business relations and currently serves as a Senior Advisor at EMIR, an exclusive boutique advisory and research firm.

Cook led National Bank of Fujairah successfully for over 14 years, stepping down effective September 30th, 2024. During his tenure, Cook oversaw a comprehensive digital transformation, significantly expanded SME banking, trade finance, and Islamic finance services, and implemented a robust ESG strategy. His leadership has been pivotal in delivering strong financial performance and solidifying NBF's reputation in the banking sector.

Career history

• CEO, National Bank of Fujairah (nearly 15 years)
• Founder and CEO, Islamic Bank of Asia in Singapore
• General Manager, Qatar National Bank (corporate banking and capital markets)
• Managing Director for the Gulf, Barclays

Cook holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Liverpool and is a member of the UK's Institute of Directors. Beyond the financial sector, he is deeply engaged in corporate governance, education, and sustainability, serving as a board member of Dubai English Speaking Schools and previously as President of its Board of Trustees.

What Vince Cook could bring to banking leadership: Cook's demonstrated expertise in digital transformation, regional expansion into specialized finance segments (Islamic finance, trade finance, SME banking), and ESG strategy implementation positions him as a transformation-focused leader. His experience founding and scaling financial institutions from inception, combined with over 30 years in global banking across multiple regions, indicates strong capabilities in organizational restructuring and growth through evolving economic cycles.