CEO Insights Magazine

A CTO plays a crucial role in aligning technology initiatives with the overall business strategy, ensuring that the bank remains technologically competitive, secure, and efficient. They are responsible for driving innovation, managing IT infrastructure, implementing cutting-edge solutions, and mitigating cyber threats. Amin Manji, the Chief Technology Officer and Group Chief of Information Technology at the National Bank of Pakistan, exemplifies the qualities and expertise expected of a CTO in the banking sector.

With a career spanning more than three decades, Amin has demonstrated a strong foundation in technology, a commitment to innovation, strategic proficiency, and an unwavering dedication to continuous learning and excellence. Amin's journey began with a BS in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University in '89. His early career in software development at Telstra in Australia laid the groundwork for his transition into Investment Banking IT, where he contributed to major financial institutions such as Deutsche Bank in Tokyo, Credit Suisse, Citi Bank, and Standard Chartered Bank across Tokyo and Singapore. During this period, he furthered his education with a Master’s in Applied Finance from MacQuarie University, Sydney in 2010.

In 2015, Amin's entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch IKAREER, an online platform utilizing psychometrics, AI, and Predictive Analytics to build personality profiles of individuals based on their online activity. His venture successfully exited in 2019, showcasing his ability to navigate the dynamic landscape of technology and business. Since October 2019, Amin has been serving as the Global Head of IT at the National Bank of Pakistan. His leadership is marked by a motivation to face challenges, viewing them as opportunities for learning and growth.

Amin's intrinsic satisfaction in the work itself, coupled with a profound sense of fulfillment derived from discovering joy in the process and meaning in his work, reflects his passion for the technological advancement of the banking sector. As the CTO, he continues to drive innovation and ensure the National Bank of Pakistan remains at the forefront of technological excellence in the financial industry. Let’s hear from him.

With over three decades of experience, can you share the journey that led to your success and unveil the guiding principles that have shaped your path?

To me, success is an internal concept, not merely a public acknowledgment or accolade. It is rooted in personal satisfaction and the sense of accomplishment derived from the endeavor itself, transcending the outcome.

Reflecting on my professional journey, it has been exceptionally fulfilling. The continuous learning has exceeded my initial expectations. I actively embrace challenges, driven by an innate curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. My natural inclination towards being unrelenting, persistent, and resilient fuels my pursuit of understanding and growth. In the words of JFK, I choose challenges not because they are easy, but because they are hard, pushing the boundaries of my energies, experiences, and perspectives. The invigorating nature of challenges motivates me to take them on willingly.

How would you define National Bank of Pakistan as an organization and its current position in the market?

National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), predominantly owned by the Government, is the nation's leading bank with a broad range of services across Retail, Commercial, Investment, Consumer, Corporate, and Treasury sectors. Positioned as the backbone of Pakistan's banking system, NBP boasts a robust Digital Banking & Payments infrastructure, supported by 1600 branches and 1700 ATMs. Amid global banking industry transformations, NBP embraces an agile work culture, adapting to technological shifts and regulatory changes. The bank promotes cross-functional collaboration, shorter development cycles, and swift decision making, fostering strategic partnerships to integrate cutting-edge technologies like AI, RPA, Big Data, and APIs/Micro services to meet evolving market demands.

Share insights into your leadership philosophy. What principles or methodologies guide your approach to leadership?

Having evolved over time, my leadership style is inherently adaptable and flexible, incorporating various elements such as transformational, democratic, adaptive, collaborative, servant, transactional, and laissez-faire styles. While an autocratic style is occasionally employed, it's not my preferred approach.

Central to my leadership is the conviction that team members, as specialists in their domains, are best suited to guide the organization in decision-making. Key principles include fostering inclusivity, granting autonomy, nurturing resilience and agility, encouraging collective problem-solving and shared decision-making, and promoting transparency and self-awareness. In tandem, I prioritize cultivating authentic connections with my team.

How do you stay informed about industry trends to guide your organization's future direction?

Remaining current with ongoing industry trends is crucial for a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in steering their organization towards the future. Given the rapid emergence of new trends and technologies, staying comprehensively updated can be challenging. I prioritize focusing on major trends while vigilantly monitoring emerging ones to avoid surprises. A significant part of my professional commitment involves attending conferences and events, collaborating with global peers, participating in continuous learning through webinars and podcasts, and regularly immersing myself in technology blogs, news websites, and forums. This multifaceted approach ensures I am well-informed about the latest trends, products, and industry discussions.

Where is your journey leading you in the future?

To me, the journey itself is the destination a pursuit of challenges that I willingly confront, fostering continuous learning and growth. I count myself fortunate for the opportunities that have unfolded in my career, accompanied by invaluable experiences. Collaborating with remarkable individuals has not only enriched my professional life but also cultivated enduring friendships, for which I am genuinely grateful. Despite the inevitable trials and tribulations along the way, I wouldn't trade this journey for anything.

Amin Manji, Group Chief IT & CTO, National Bank of Pakistan

Amin Manji, Group Chief IT & CTO at National Bank of Pakistan, boasts over three decades of experience in technology and leadership. His journey spans software development in major banks, an entrepreneurial venture, and leading IT globally. Amin's commitment to challenges, continuous learning, and passion for meaningful work propels his role in advancing the bank's technological landscape.