In a significant milestone for gender diversity in Saudi Arabia’s financial sector, Sheila Al-Rowaily, a former financier at Saudi Aramco, has been appointed as the first woman to join the board of directors of the Saudi Central Bank, also known as SAMA. This historic appointment was confirmed through a royal decree, marking a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusion in various sectors.Sheila Al-Rowaily has an impressive track record in the financial and investment sectors. She currently serves as the CEO of Wisayah Investment Co., a position she has held since 2019. In addition to her role at Wisayah, Al-Rowaily is a board member of Saudi Aramco Power Co. and Hassana Investment Co., further highlighting her extensive experience in the financial industry.Al-Rowaily’s journey to this prestigious position began in 1998 when she joined Saudi Aramco as a money market trader. Over the years, she steadily climbed the ranks within the organization, demonstrating her expertise in financial analysis and treasury management.
Her career at Saudi Aramco included various roles, such as financial analyst, treasurer in Houston, Texas, and head of portfolio management. Notably, from February 2009 to January 2019, Al-Rowaily served as the director of the investment management department at Aramco.Sheila Al-Rowaily’s commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in her educational background. In 2017-2018, she earned a prestigious Sloan Fellowship for an MBA in business from the MIT Sloan School of Management. Her academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in interior architecture from King Faisal University, followed by an MBA in finance from the American University of Beirut in 1997.The inclusion of Al-Rowaily on the board of the Saudi Central Bank is a significant step towards greater gender diversity and representation in Saudi Arabia’s financial institutions. Her appointment is a testament to her exceptional qualifications, expertise, and dedication to her field.This groundbreaking development aligns with broader efforts in Saudi Arabia to empower women in various sectors of the economy.
It reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to gender equality and the promotion of women to leadership positions in both the public and private sectors.As Saudi Arabia continues on its path of economic diversification and modernization under the Vision 2030 reform agenda, the inclusion of women in leadership roles is seen as a vital component of achieving these ambitious goals. Women like Sheila Al-Rowaily serve as role models and trailblazers, inspiring the next generation of female leaders in Saudi Arabia.The significance of this appointment extends beyond individual achievement; it symbolizes a broader societal shift towards recognizing and harnessing the talents and capabilities of women across all sectors.
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce is a crucial element of its vision for a prosperous and innovative future.In conclusion, Sheila Al-Rowaily’s appointment as the first female member of the Saudi Central Bank’s board of directors is a historic moment that highlights the ongoing efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in Saudi Arabia. Her impressive career trajectory and educational accomplishments exemplify the immense potential and talent that women bring to the country’s financial sector. This milestone marks a significant step forward in realizing the goals of Vision 2030 and advancing the Kingdom’s economic and social transformation.
