Zubyr Soomro

After gaining his BSc (Hons) Degree from London School of Economics in 1970, Zubyr Soomro went on to complete his Masters' from School of African & Oriental Studies, University of London in 1971. In 1972, Zubyr started his banking career as Relationship Manager for Citibank Pakistan. His major part of career was working for Citibank at various locations in Pakistan, Middle East, Africa and part of Europe.

In between, Zubyr Soomro 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, Zubyr 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 United Bank Limited was 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, Zubyr 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 2008, Zubyr chaired the Task Force on microfinance, established by the Governor of State Bank of Pakistan. He is also serving as Chairman of KSE’s HR Committee.

In July 2009, the career banker of international repute, bringing with him 36 years of valuable experience spread across multiple boundaries, roles and business segments, set up a firm of financial services consultancy, along with other colleagues, namely, Hikmah Consulting. Zubyr actively supports and participates in several social enterprises engaged in education, microfinance, health, energy and water.

Zubyr Soomro 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.