In the fast-evolving world of finance, few leaders have shaped their nation’s economic trajectory as profoundly as Ahmed Al Musalmi. Renowned for his visionary mindset and human-centered approach, Al Musalmi has become synonymous with sustainable transformation in Oman’s banking industry. His journey from revitalizing major banks to steering national monetary policy is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and resilience.
A Defining Moment: Leading Through Change
When Ahmed Al Musalmi was appointed CEO of Sohar International Bank (SIB) in 2018, Oman’s financial sector was at a crossroads. The market was demanding innovation, customers sought more agile services, and the nation’s economic ambitions required bold leadership. Al Musalmi’s response was immediate and decisive—he set out to transform SIB into the fastest-growing financial institution in Oman, navigating complex markets and evolving customer needs with strategic clarity and a collaborative spirit.
Foundations of Excellence: Education and Early Career
Al Musalmi’s ascent is rooted in a world-class education and a passion for continuous learning. An alumnus of Harvard Business School, he also holds an MBA with distinction from the University of Bedfordshire, UK, and an International Diploma in Financial Services. His credentials as a Chartered Market Analyst, Chartered Portfolio Manager, and Chartered Wealth Manager are complemented by advanced programs at IMD Switzerland and Stanford Graduate School of Business.
These academic achievements laid the groundwork for a career defined by strategic foresight and operational excellence. Before joining SIB, Al Musalmi engineered a remarkable turnaround at the National Bank of Oman, demonstrating his knack for revitalizing organizations and inspiring high-performance cultures.
Trailblazing Achievements: From Bank CEO to Central Bank Governor
During his tenure at Sohar International Bank, Al Musalmi led the institution through a period of unprecedented growth and transformation. Among his most notable achievements:
- Oman’s Largest Banking Merger: He orchestrated the landmark merger between Sohar International and HSBC Bank Oman, setting a new benchmark for consolidation and synergy in the region.
- Regional Expansion: Under his leadership, SIB established its first overseas branch in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, expanding Oman’s banking footprint in the GCC.
- Innovation Ecosystem: Al Musalmi fostered a culture of innovation, integrating financial and non-financial services to reshape Oman’s financial landscape.
His impact did not go unnoticed. Al Musalmi is a five-time recipient of the “CEO of the Year – Oman” award, most recently in 2024, and is celebrated for his ability to blend analytical rigor with a collaborative, people-first leadership style.
A Human-Centered Leadership Philosophy
Ahmed Al Musalmi’s leadership is defined by empathy, inclusivity, and a steadfast belief in the power of people. He is known for inspiring his teams through trust, empowerment, and open communication, driving organizational excellence while nurturing future leaders. His approach to transformation is holistic—balancing financial performance with employee well-being, customer satisfaction, and social responsibility.
Impact Beyond the Boardroom
Al Musalmi’s influence extends far beyond his executive roles. As a board member and chairman of several critical committees—including the Monetary Policy Committee and the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing—he has played a pivotal role in shaping Oman’s regulatory and financial stability frameworks. His contributions as Deputy Chairman of the Financial Services Authority and ASYAD Group, and his involvement with the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, underscore his commitment to national and international economic advancement.
Signature Quote
“True transformation is not just about numbers; it’s about empowering people, building trust, and creating sustainable value for generations to come.” — Ahmed Al Musalmi
Looking Forward: Stewardship as Central Bank Governor
In January 2025, Ahmed Al Musalmi’s appointment as Governor of the Central Bank of Oman by Royal Decree marked a new chapter in his illustrious career. Now, at the helm of Oman’s monetary policy and financial sector governance, he is focused on driving fiscal sustainability, enhancing national competitiveness, and safeguarding financial stability in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
His legacy is already one of innovation, resilience, and unwavering dedication to Oman’s economic prosperity. As he continues to lead with vision and integrity, Ahmed Al Musalmi stands as a beacon for the next generation of leaders—proving that sustainable growth is best achieved through a human-centered, future-focused approach.
Ahmed Al Musalmi’s journey is a masterclass in transformational leadership—where vision, values, and action converge to redefine the future of finance in Oman and beyond.
