Akef El-Maghraby, is the CEO and Managing Director of Suez Canal Bank, bringing over two decades of extensive experience in the banking and financial sectors across Egypt and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Known for his strategic vision and innovative approach, El Maghraby excels at integrating advanced technologies to drive economic growth through digital transformation. His leadership spans multiple geographies, having successfully led numerous mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within diverse institutional frameworks across the Middle East and Africa.

Executive Leadership at Suez Canal Bank:

Since being appointed as CEO of Suez Canal Bank in April 2024, El Maghraby has leveraged his expertise to lead a comprehensive transformation and expansion strategy. His focus remains on:

• Market Position: Enhancing the bank's market standing and capturing greater market share.
• Innovation: Launching a suite of innovative banking products, services, and solutions for both retail and corporate clients.
• Strategic Partnerships: Expanding the bank's network of strategic alliances with leading institutions across various sectors.
• Institutional Reform: Implementing a development plan that includes creating new departments to meet evolving market needs and rebranding the bank’s corporate identity.
• Human Capital: Investing in human resource development and strengthening operational and regulatory frameworks.

Key Milestones & Achievements:

• Market Ranking: Under his leadership, Suez Canal Bank entered the list of the Top 10 Banks in Egypt, rising from 23rd place in 2023.
• Stock Performance: The bank’s stock recorded growth of over 350% in approximately 1.5 years, representing the strongest performance in the Egyptian banking market.
• New Brand Identity: In December 2025, the bank launched its new brand identity under the slogan "Worlds. Connected," to deepen its connection with the personal and professional lives of its clients.
• Global Recognition: The bank has garnered over 55 awards from local and international institutions, including jumping 6 places on the "Forbes Middle East" list and 31 places on the "Financial Times" ranking of Africa’s fastest-growing companies.
• Digital Transformation & Innovation.

El Maghraby has a proven track record in leading digital initiatives. He played a pivotal role in establishing Egypt's first digital bank and has integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) into banking operations to enhance efficiency and customer experience.

Previous Professional Experience:

• Banque Misr (Vice Chairman, ~8 years): Played a key role in shaping the bank's strategic vision and expanding its international footprint. He oversaw core business areas including Corporate Banking, Treasury, International Business, Retail, SMEs, Investment, Islamic Finance, and Financial Inclusion. During his tenure, the bank doubled its asset portfolio and achieved significant revenue growth. Notably, he led the 94% acquisition of CI Capital, a landmark deal in the Egyptian financial sector.
• Citibank (16 years): Progressed rapidly to become the Head of Corporate and Investment Banking in Egypt. He executed financing deals across Egypt, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. Highlights include leading a $1.5 billion bond issuance for the Egyptian government (2015 "Deal of the Year") and managing a $3 billion portfolio for major entities such as SABIC, Aramco, and SAMA.

Education & Certifications:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): The American University in Cairo (AUC), Distinction with Honors.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Finance: The American University in Cairo (AUC), Distinction with Honors (Ranked 1st in class).
• Harvard Business School: Successfully completed the Executive Leadership Program in the USA.

Board Memberships & Affiliations:

El Maghraby serves on several boards, including:

• The Banking Sector Support and Development Fund (headed by the Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt).
• Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA).
• Credit Guarantee Company (CGC).
• Africa50 Infrastructure Investment Platform.
• Misr Insurance Holding Company.
• EgyptAir Holding Company.
• Abraj Misr.
• British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA).
• Telecom Egypt.
• Holding Company for Food Industries.
• Midor Electricity (Midelec).

Previously, he chaired Misr Digital Innovation and served on the boards of the Egyptian Banking Institute, National Training Academy (NTA), and Banque Misr Lebanon.