Leadership Redefined: The Mark Robinson Approach to Banking

Mark Robinson, who has been the CEO of Commercial Bank International (CBI) since October 2014. With decades of experience and working across continents, Mark has left a lasting impression in the financial sector by bringing CBI into a new era of growth and innovation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Mark Robinson had his initial banking experience with Citibank, where he held multiple regional CEO roles, operating in India, Russia/CIS, Turkey, and Central Europe. Until 2010, the time at Citibank was foundational to his expertise in handling complex markets and diverse economies. After Citibank, Mark became the Regional CEO of ANZ Bank, based in London and overseeing operations in Europe, North America, the Middle East, and India. This role further helped him hone his leadership ability to manage large-scale operations and cross-border financial strategies.

Mark’s educational background is as impressive as his professional career. He graduated with a BA from The College at the University of Chicago and later earned an MBA from the university’s prestigious Booth School of Business. These credentials equipped him with the analytical and leadership skills necessary for a career at the forefront of global banking.

Commercial Bank International was founded in 1991 as a leading player in the UAE banking industry. Shareholders include Qatar National Bank (QNB) with a 40% shareholding, as well as several UAE entities and individuals. When Mark Robinson became CEO in 2014, the bank was at a crossroads, and the new leader needed to be visionary enough to drive the bank through the increasingly changing financial landscape. Mark brought a strategic focus to CBI, emphasizing customer-centric banking, digital transformation, and sustainable growth. Under his guidance, the bank has enhanced its offerings to cater to retail, corporate, and institutional clients, aligning with the UAE’s vision of becoming a global financial hub.

Mark Robinson understands how digital technology has the capability to transform banking. Leadership under Mark has ensured CBI embraced new digital alternatives that improve the experience of the customer and enhance its operations. From mobile applications for bank services to AI-based support for customers, CBI under Mark’s leadership was a forward-thinking institution within the region. This use of technology, in fact, enhances the satisfaction levels of customers but also works towards operational efficiency, enabling CBI to compete with banks that are more sizeable and well-established.

Sustainability is one of the core principles guiding Mark Robinson’s leadership. Through his efforts, CBI has been transformed into practices that ensure long-term value creation for shareholders and society. By lending responsibly and assisting local businesses, CBI will help achieve the UAE’s economic development goals. Mark’s leadership resonates with a philosophy of financial inclusion, seeing that banking services reach more customers, particularly small and medium enterprises that form the backbone of the UAE’s economy.

While Mark Robinson’s career is well-documented, it is his personal life that adds another dimension to the story. He is married to Lesley, with whom he has four children. Mark balances his demanding career life with his personal life; he is a model for leadership and commitment in every aspect of his life.

Mark Robinson’s career, from Citibank to ANZ Bank and finally to Commercial Bank International, has been a career of resilience, adaptability, and innovation. His ability to blend global insights with local strategies has positioned CBI as a significant player in the UAE’s banking sector.