Zubyr Soomro

Mr. Zubyr Soomro is a career banker of international repute, bringing with him 36 years of valuable experience spread across multiple boundaries, roles and business segments. He has a proven track record in turning around unprofitable organizations. Due to this attribute among many, he simultaneously has extensive experience in working and dealing with regulators and governments and he is often approached by top financial managers representing the government for his expert advice.

Mr. Soomro received his Masters' Degree from School of African & Oriental Studies, University of London in 1971 after completing his B.Sc (Hons) programme from London School of Economics in 1970.

The major part of Mr. Soomro's career was working for Citibank at various locations in Pakistan, Middle East, Africa and part of Europe. His association with Citibank dates back to 1972 when he started his career as Relationship Manager for Citibank Pakistan. In between, he was moved to Saudi American Bank (SAMBA) - an affiliate of Citibank. For SAMBA, he worked for 2 years as Contracting Division Head in Saudi Arabia (1987 - 1989) and 3 years as General Manager in Turkey (1989 - 1992). Then, he was positioned at Citibank UK, London as Private Banking Head for UK/Channel Islands covering Middle East and Africa and as Global Market Manager for Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria until 1997.

From 1997 to 2000, Mr. Soomro served as President and Chairman of United Bank Limited (UBL) on special appointment by the Prime Minister, with a view to restructure and revive the Bank and to position it for privatization. Under his leadership, UBL transformed into a vibrant and competitive entity. In February 2000, he resumed working for Citibank and was appointed as Managing Director and Country Head of Citibank Pakistan from where he retired in March 2008.

During his career in banking, Mr. Soomro has also been associated with relevant industry forums and professional bodies such as Pakistan Banks Association, American Business Council and Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industry where he has served as Chairman/President during various terms.

In July 2009, Mr. Soomro set up a firm of financial services consultancy, along with other colleagues, namely, Hikmah Consulting.

Mr. Soomro actively supports and participates in several social enterprises engaged in education, microfinance, health, energy and water. In 2008, he also chaired the Task Force on microfinance, established by the Governor of State Bank of Pakistan.

Besides being the Chairman of the Board, he is also serving as Chairman of KSE's HR Committee.