Shehab Zeidan Named Best Digital Transformation Leader in Egypt 2026 by Global Business Magazine
Shehab Zidan, Deputy CEO and Managing Director of Suez Canal Bank, has been awarded the title of Best Digital Transformation Leader in Egypt 2026 by Global Business Magazine.
The recognition highlights Mr. Zidan’s leading role in driving the bank’s digital transformation agenda and advancing its technological infrastructure in line with global banking standards.
It also reflects the success of Suez Canal Bank’s strategy in promoting innovation and delivering advanced banking solutions that enhance customer experience and support the transition toward a digital economy.
Since assuming his current role, Mr. Zidan has spearheaded a series of major digital transformation initiatives at Suez Canal Bank.
These include building high-performing digital teams and establishing the bank’s first Digital Factory, which serves as a hub for developing and launching innovative digital products and services for both retail and corporate clients.
The bank has also continued to invest in upgrading its technological infrastructure, expanding digital channels, and adopting artificial intelligence and process automation technologies.
These efforts have improved operational efficiency, strengthened internal processes, enhanced service quality, and reinforced cybersecurity frameworks in line with local and international regulations, while supporting Egypt Vision 2030 and the Central Bank of Egypt’s strategic direction.
Among the key milestones in the bank’s digital transformation journey are the enhancement of its retail mobile banking application, the launch of internet banking services for corporate clients, and the rollout of advanced SME solutions, including the “Click” application, a digital financing platform designed for small businesses.
The bank is also preparing to launch a Corporate Mobile Application as part of its expanding digital ecosystem.
Commenting on the award, Mr. Zidan expressed his pride in the recognition, noting that Suez Canal Bank’s digital transformation journey has been guided by a clear vision that balances service expansion with strong governance and control frameworks.
He emphasized that this approach ensures a secure and seamless banking experience that meets evolving customer expectations.
He added that building strong teams and attracting top talent have been central to the bank’s success in digital transformation, alongside fostering an organizational culture that supports innovation and accelerates execution.
Mr. Zidan further noted that digital transformation is no longer optional in the banking sector but a strategic necessity.
He highlighted the shift in customer behavior, particularly among younger generations, who now expect seamless, intuitive digital experiences comparable to leading social media platforms.
He also pointed out that Egypt’s market presents strong fundamentals for digital adoption, driven by high smartphone penetration, rapid fintech growth, and increasing reliance on digital financial services across daily life.
Mr. Zidan brings over 25 years of experience in the banking sector, having held senior leadership roles at Banque Misr, Barclays Bank, Arab African International Bank (AAIB), and Commercial International Bank (CIB).
His expertise spans corporate banking, correspondent banking, credit, banking products, and digital transformation.
Prior to his current role, he served as Head of Digital Transformation and Data Analytics, as well as Head of Corporate Banking Products at Banque Misr, where he led major transformation initiatives and established the bank’s first Global Banking Products team and Digital Transformation Division.
Earlier in his career, he held senior positions at Barclays Bank, including Head of Large Corporate Finance and Regional Head of Banking Products, where he managed cash management, trade finance, and working capital solutions across multiple African markets.
Mr. Zidan also serves and has served on the boards of several institutions, including Fawry, Misr Digital Innovation Company, BM Leasing, International Leasing Company (Incolease), and Anchors Urban Development & Investment Company.
He holds a Master’s degree in International Business Administration from ESLSCA University, completed the Executive Leadership Program at Harvard University, earned the International Certificate in Finance from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), UK, and completed the “Transformational Leadership in the Age of AI” program at London Business School, along with other internationally recognized certifications.
