Qatar National Bank (QNB) has established itself as a pacesetter through comprehensive diversity and inclusion policies and tangible outcomes. Through its initiatives, it has transformed workplace demographics and enabled meaningful access to financial services for underrepresented populations.
Women now account for 48% of QNB’s workforce across the group, with representation extending into decision-making levels – 25% of senior management and 20% of executive management positions are held by women as of end-2024. These figures reflect deliberate efforts to create pathways for female talent, evidenced by women receiving 39% of all promotions and constituting 53% of new hires during 2024.
QNB has advanced its commitment to national talent development, exceeding its Qatarisation target of 60% a full year ahead of schedule. Notably, women comprise 64% of Qatari employees, demonstrating the bank’s success in nurturing local female talent.
The bank’s approach to diversity extends itself to governance frameworks. QNB introduced its first-ever Human Rights and Whistleblowing Statements in 2024, establishing clear anti-discrimination and anti-harassment protocols across the group. This was reinforced through mandatory D&I training for all employees.
Regionally, QNB has taken significant steps to support female entrepreneurship
QNB Türkiye’s commitment was formalised by becoming a signatory to the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles and joining the 30% Club, which advocates for greater female representation in board and leadership positions.
The bank has effectively integrated inclusion into its business model through initiatives that expand financial access. QNB disbursed $34 million in microfinance loans, many directed toward women entrepreneurs, while also ensuring physical banking infrastructure accommodates customers with disabilities.
Regionally, QNB has taken significant steps to support female entrepreneurship. The Export Academy for Women in Türkiye has benefited over 600 women business owners through specialised training, mentorship and financial support. In Egypt, the Hayat Women in Business programme provides targeted solutions for women-owned enterprises.
QNB’s approach illustrates how financial institutions can advance diversity and inclusion through coordinated efforts spanning internal policies, talent development, governance structures and financial products.
