Majid Al Mutawaa – My life in the UAE

Majid Al Mutawaa is a passionate and enthusiastic UAE National who joined the Bank in 2013, he tells us what it's like to work at Standard Chartered

I have worked in Financial Markets since joining Standard Chartered straight out of university. I have three young children that take up the rest of my waking hours. As a family we enjoy the outdoors and can often be found (or not) camping around the UAE.  

I have been with SCB for a little over 7 years. I joined the International Graduate Programme straight out of university and have worked in the dealing room since then trading G10 rates where I focus on USD swaps and treasuries. 

The International Graduate Programme was an incredible experience. One of the key elements for me was having the opportunity to build a network across all geographies and functions within the bank. It is this network of people that I can often rely on when in need of support or just to discuss markets and ideas.  

What has been your proudest moment so far at Standard Chartered?  

 It is always amazing to see trades that we execute in the press the following day – especially the trades which are significant within the UAE such as Mohamed Bin Rashid Solar Park and ADNOC Gas Pipeline. 

How do you manage your life work balance? 

 I have struggled – as I am sure many have – over the years with striking the right balance. However, when personal matters got difficult the bank was able to support me in taking the time off needed to work on resolving those issues. 

 How have you overcome challenges in the workplace?  

Trusting in my own abilities, having a strong network across the bank and support of management has always seen me through. Primarily, I think “Leading by example” is best. After that, trust and empowerment of colleagues/subordinates is key.  

How would your colleagues describe you?  

I would hope “confident, astute, sociable”. Though more recently it’s probably “still on mute”. 

How do you define success?  

Success for me is continuous growth. Being the best version of yourself in everything that you do. 

And finally what advice would you give to your peers (other UAENs)? 

 Learn from anything you do or anyone you encounter. There will always been something valuable to take away even if it might not be immediately apparent. 

Being left in the comfort zone doesn’t lead to progress, people should be put in situations where they need to grow.

Majid Al Mutawaa