Commercial Bank of Kuwait… A Journey of 50 Years
Social Responsibility is our Top Priority
Since its establishment on 19th June 1960, the CBK placed Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on the forefront of its priorities. In this regard, the Bank adopted a balanced policy targeted to mobilizing its potentials and capabilities to serve the community and contribute to sponsoring and supporting social activities. As such, the CBK is always keen to sponsor and participate in the conferences organized in Kuwait and abroad. The Bank provides also openhanded financial donations in support of the social, sporting and cultural activities for the benefit of all segments of the Kuwaiti society. Furthermore, the Bank pays a considerable attention to the people with special needs by providing all kinds of support and sponsorship to this group to help them take active roles with other society members; let alone the deductibles directed to the national labor account and the Bank contribution to both Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Science and Zakat House.
Contribution to Miscellaneous Awareness Campaigns
Within its endeavors to contribute to the social development, particularly underlining the detrimental effects of smoking on the Kuwaiti youth, the Bank lent support to the activities of the Kuwait Society for Combating Smoking and Cancer (KSCSC). The Bank prepared awareness printed materials distributed to various hospitals. Moreover, the Bank sponsored the Umra trip arranged by KSCSC for 40 patients who suffered from cancer as a result of smoking, to relieve from their sufferings and boost their morale which may help cure their illness. Furthermore, CBK had remarkable contributions to the security issues and society, in that the Bank sponsored the Unified GCC Traffic Week. On the other hand, the Bank endeavors to preserve and develop the environment. It has taken part with the Arab Towns Organization in its 42nd anniversary in a comprehensive campaign to spread greenery and plant trees in Kuwait for creation of a healthy environment, whereas the Bank planted an olive tree bearing the name of "Al-Tijari" in "Al Sadaqa and Al Salam" Garden in Shuwaikh.
Social Care
Based on its keenness to provide support and sponsorship to the humanitarian activities which serve all Kuwaiti community groups, the Bank supported "The Orphan Day" celebration, organized by the General Activities and Advertising Department/Social Care Homes Sector. Worth mentioning, the Bank contributions to these activities demonstrate its social role in Kuwait on the one hand and signify a humanitarian sentimental gesture from the Bank towards the dwellers of care homes. Further, the Bank usually celebrates Gergean Day with special needs children. The Banks' contribution and sponsorship to these humanitarian events are diversified, whereas the Bank gave support to Al-Noor School for the Blind, represented in the purchase of personal computers to the blind. The Bank lends support also to the charity fund for the education of the needy children and shares happy occasions with the dwellers of care homes, whereby the Banks' Advertising & Public Relations Team arranges a number of visits to people admitted in hospitals and the dwellers of care and elderly homes to draw the smile on their faces and bring happiness to their hearts.
Various News
Message from the Chairman
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Let me start to welcome you in this Newsletter, extending to you my best wishes, congratulate you on the new year, and pray to Almighty Allah to bestow blessings upon us and help us succeed in our course of action for the advancement of Al-Tijari and its prosperity. I would like also to extend my sincere thanks to you for the diligent efforts you expended during the past period. Such commendable efforts were culminated with our triumph over the adversities of the global financial crisis which has shaken most economies in the world.
While we live these spheres mingled with anticipation; yet fraught with optimism at the same time to keep away from the swirls of the global financial crisis, we are full of strong hopes for the economic conditions to rebound, following the signs of recession of this financial crisis. I am confident that all of us will expend further efforts and will work sincerely with due diligence for the Commercial Bank of Kuwait to assume its eminent position in the forefront of the banking and financial institutions in Kuwait, to provide best banking services to its customers, who placed their confidence in us, and to maximize interests of our shareholders who stood in support of the Bank and remained assured of Al-Tijari distinct position, for the service of the Kuwaiti economy and the advancement and prosperity of our beloved country.
My best wishes to you
Message from the Deputy Chairman
On behalf of the Board of Directors and myself, I would like to congratulate you on the advent of the New Year 2011. I would not miss here also to extend my deepest thanks to all of you for your sincere efforts and your continued dedication and persistence which helped the Bank triumph over all the challenges which obstructed the course of its advancement, specifically those brought up by the repercussions of the global financial crisis.
It goes without saying that the Bank is in the process of restructuring its business on all levels, owing to the impacts of the financial crisis. However, the Bank Board of Directors and staff should expend further efforts for the Bank to restore its previous eminent position as one of the major players in the Kuwaiti banking industry sector.
Certainly, such position can not be recaptured without your integrated efforts and working hand in hand with the Executive Management within the spirit of optimism and hope to maintain the Bank achievements and pursue further successes.
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Message from the Acting CEO
It is my pleasure to welcome you in this issue of Al-Tijari News and congratulate all of you on the beginning of the new year, wishing you and the Bank all success and prosperity. While we are on the threshold of the new year, glad tidings have appeared for termination of the global financial crisis, which have shaken up all the world economies over the past three years and entailed spheres of economic recession that hit most world countries. Undoubtedly, these good-omen tidings created a wait-and-see approach and cast a state of optimism for the crisis to come to an end and that the economic and financial conditions will rebound. In this context, banking and financial institutions endeavor to take advantage of the return of the economic boom, and seize the opportunities of growth.
As such, they enter into competition for providing their best banking and financial services and products and rendering new innovative products to their customers. Our Bank endeavors to re-take up its pioneering role among banking institutions in Kuwait, by enhancing its business strategy pillared on the team work spirit on the one hand, and due diligence and dedication for achieving further advancements of which the Commercial Bank of Kuwait will be proud, on the other hand. Let us work together hand in hand as a team to realize our objectives, so that our Bank will remain at its customers good will and gain its shareholders trust. We are full of strong hopes that the Bank staff shall expend their best efforts for the advancement and prosperity of Al-Tijari.
Al Tijari Participates in Sponsoring the 2nd Kuwait Financial Forum
The Bank participated in the 2nd Kuwait Financial Forum held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al Mohammad Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, the Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait in presence of a group of elite economists and banking experts in Kuwait and the Arab World. The Forum was organized by Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal Group in collaboration with the Central Bank of Kuwait and Kuwait Banking Association. On this occasion, the Bank set up a special booth where Mr. Ali Al Awadi - Deputy Chairman and Ms. Elham Mahfouz - the Acting CEO and a number of executives received Mr. Ahmad Al Haroun, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Ali Thunian Al Ghanim, Head of Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Hamad Al Marzuq, Chairman of the Kuwait Banking Association and Mr. Ra'ouf Abu Zaki, Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal Group CEO.
The Bank booth presented its advances and achievements throughout the past years by highlighting the most significant events and developments through a set of photographic images. The Bank booth was highly commended by the visitors who hailed the publicity campaign of the Bank's 50th anniversary.
Participation in Two Employment Opportunities Fairs
Emphasizing its ongoing endeavors in supporting and qualifying Kuwaiti personnel for working in the banking sector, the Bank participated in the 7th Employment Opportunities Fair organized by the Manpower and Government Restructuring Program (MGRP) of Kuwait and also sponsored another Employment Opportunities Fair in Gulf University for Sciences and Technology.
Al-Tijari Sponsors the Soccer Tournament of the Public Authority for Industry Staff
In its endeavors to encourage the sport activities, CBK sponsored the Soccer Tournament of the Public Authority for Industry (PAI) staff organized by the State Audit Bureau under the patronage of Dr. Ali Fahad Al Madhaf, General Manager, the Public Authority for Industry. This sponsorship by the Bank confirms magnitude of sport and underscores the continued presence of the Bank and its support of these activities; on the one hand, and to enhance the relationship between the Bank and the Public Authority for Industry on the other hand, along with the Bank conviction of the role of sports for better health.
CBK Presents its Banking Services to College of Technological Studies' Students
In the context of the Bank expansion plan aimed to enhance the continued relation with youth in all institutes and universities, the Sales Team reporting to the Marketing and Research Department visited the College of Technological Studies to familiarize the students with the benefits of the youth related account @Tijari in addition to the miscellaneous services provided to the young men and women.
CBK Honors its Top-Performing Staff
The Bank has successfully completed the prepaid cards campaign launched in cooperation with International Visa Company. In this regard, Al-Tijari lends support and encourage to its outstanding performing staff and honored two staff members in recognition of their commendable efforts in the prepaid visa cards campaign and their distinct performance in customers service.
Open Day For "My First Account" Customers in Aqua Park
Al-Tijari organized end of summer festival for "My First Account" customers tailored for kids to spend a whole day with their families in Aqua Park to enjoy all water and sporting activities as well as the fun activities particularly arranged for this occasion, including cartoon characters and a magic show. Additionally, valuable and free offers have been presented by a number of "My First Account" partners. The festival was highly attended by hundreds of kids with their families who spent a joyful day.
Ms Elham Mahfouz, One of the most 50 Efficient CEOs
The Arabian Business Magazine published a report on the Gulf's 50 Most Efficient CEOs in Gulf Cooperation Council Countries within all economic sectors, and Ms Elham Mahfouz, our Acting CEO was listed in the 46th position.
On this occasion, we all congratulate Ms Elham on this eminent position she occupied among the most efficient CEOs in the GCC countries and wish her all success and further progress.
CBK Presents its Banking Services and Products to Employees of Kuwait Gulf Oil Company and Ministry of Interior
In the framework of enhancing the relation with customers under an integrated marketing scheme which was set up for customers to get acquainted with the Bank diversified products and services, the Sales Unit staff paid a visit to Kuwait Gulf Oil Company's headquarters. This visit comes in continuation of the visits program made by the Sales Unit at the Marketing and Research Department.
Furthermore, the Sales Unit staff explained the new offer to the Ministry of Interior staff workers and the public who wish to transfer their salaries to the Bank. The Sales Unit staff presented also a number of offers on Al-Najma prize Account, My First Account for kids and the distinctive marketing offers for the Bank credit cards.
Supporting Rumaithiya Co-op Society's Activities
In keeping with its strong commitment and ongoing efforts towards the community service, and in support of the various social events, CBK offered financial contribution to support Rumaithiya Co-op Society's activities.
Public Relations
Customers Service Center Honors its Top-Performing Staff
As a token of appreciation, CBK has honored an elite of its top-performing employees for the 3rd quarter 2010 in recognition of their proven performance and role in developing customers service in line with the advanced banking standards. This honoring comes out of the Bank ongoing endeavors in supporting and encouraging its distinguished staff in the area of customers service, and as a gesture of recognition of their consolidated efforts towards customers service. The first positions have been obtained by Mr. Rakan Al Ajran who came in the first place, Ms. Montaha Al Khashram who was ranked the second and Ms. Noora Al Kandari who won the third position. Furthermore, Call Center honored Mr. Omar Al Awadhi for his efforts in managing the work shifts and Mr. Ahmad Ismail for his innovative idea in preparing a system which facilitates the calculation of loans by the Call Center agent in an effective and accurate manner. On this occasion, Mr. Munther Al Saleh, Manager - Call Center extended a word of thanks to all Call Center staff for their significant role towards customers service pointing out the importance of expending more efforts for customers full satisfaction. Mr. Munther added that CBK continues its policy in appreciating and motivating its top-performing staff in all departments and divisions to best serve the Bank customers.
Al Tijari Releases 2011 Calendar
In keeping pace with its policy aimed at reviving the old Kuwaiti heritage, Commercial Bank of Kuwait always endeavors, in issuing its annual calendar, to quote scenes and portraits from this traditional heritage. The Bank assumes this responsibility since long time, a mandate that is as significant as the exposition of the aspects of the recent renaissance and modern life in Kuwait. Drawing upon this consideration, the Advertising and Public Relations Department has issued 2011 Calendar which the CBK customers and non-customers await for long.
On this occasion, Sheikha Nouf Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah, Head of the Advertising and Public Relations Department said that the Bank continues its commitment towards reviving the old Kuwaiti heritage through its distinctive issues which serve as a point of communication between the old, present and the future generations and also as an inexhaustible spring of the genuine heritage milestones.
CBK shares with the Autism School Children the Joy of Eid Al-Adha
Within the Bank's ongoing participation in humanitarian and social activities and its effective interaction with all segments of society, the Advertising & Public Relations Team visited the Autism School to celebrate and rejoice Eid Al-Adha with the children by giving them the Eid gifts. On this occasion, the children wore the garments of pilgrimage (Ihram) and made Maquette of the Kaaba to imitate the pilgrims when performing the rituals of pilgrimage (Hajj). The children further presented various activities commended by the attendants.
CBK Wins the Best Technical Award
Commercial Bank of Kuwait received the Banking Website Award (BWA) competition held in Beirut at Phoenicia Intercontinental Hotel in the presence of a number of representatives from Kuwait and the Arab Region.
On this occasion, CBK has been awarded a commemorative shield and a certificate of appreciation from the organizing committee, where the Bank website www.cbk.com won the Best Technical Award in Kuwait for Commercial and Corporate Banks.
Miscellaneous
Tijari Stars
John Bahij Al Ibrahim
Could you introduce yourself in brief (when did you join the Bank and at which department you are presently working and what are your academic qualifications?)
I joined the Commercial Bank of Kuwait on 5/10/2008 in Sales Unit. I graduated from Aleppo University / College of Commerce & Economy - Bachelor of Business Administration.
Do you believe that marketing and keeping in direct contact with the public is difficult?
I think it is easy but needs flexibility and experience in dealing with customers and meeting their requirements which are different from one to another. Hence, this requires further awareness and understanding of the customers' needs and ideas to enhance their trust in our services and products.
We knew that you realize substantial sales to the Unit, can you tell us about this issue and the percentage of your sales?
I realized sales at approximately 60% of the Unit's sales due to the ongoing endeavors for increasing the Bank sales and providing its distinct services and offers. Undoubtedly, this requires further persistence and knowledge of the market requirements and the peer banks' offers and services along with presenting the Bank's privileges precisely for customers satisfaction with a view to reflect the Bank corporate image. Accordingly, if the customer was satisfied with the Bank's products, he would market for the Bank in direct or indirect manner based on his conviction.
What are your future aspirations and ambitions?
I am looking forward to increase the Bank sales, promote its service standards, enhance on-the-job experience in dealing with customers and to best serve the Bank going further ahead under the support of the Bank Management.
CBK Rewards its Staff By Crediting One Day to Their Leave Balance
On the occasion of the Bank announcement of its profits for the nine months ending 30th September 2010, the Bank Management decided to grant all the Bank staff one day credited to their existing leave balance, in appreciation of their sincere efforts and dedication at work.
Farewell… Ali Al Mudaiheem
On the occasion of his retirement, the Bank Management organized a farewell party to Mr. Ali Al Mudaiheem, former General Manager - Retail Banking Division. Commemorative gifts were presented to Mr. Ali Al Mudaiheem in recognition of his dedication and sincere efforts during his years of service with the Bank. The party ended with everyone wishing Mr. Ali Al Mudaiheem every success and prosperity.
Offers
Mezzan Pharma
Offer valid from today till 7/11/2011
For further queries and reservations, please call: Tel: 90089853 - 24310176
New Smile Dental Spa
Salmiya - Amro Bin Al Aas Street- Towards the Gulf Arabian Road
Offer valid from today till 26/09/2011
For further queries and reservations, please call: Tel: 25710333
OSAKA (Japanese Restaurant)
• 15% Discount
Al Shaab Al Bahry-Block 8-Ibn Al Khatib St.
Offer valid from today till October 2011
For further queries and reservations, please contact: 22637331
Biosphere Spa
Sharq behind Holiday Inn
Down Town - Block 13- Bin Mousbah St. - Building 1 - Floor 2
Offer valid from today till 13/12/2011
For more information: Tel: 22478326 / 28 / 29 / 99695055 / 99695056
Balsam Dental Care Centre
Salmiya- Salem Al Mubarak Street opposite to the American University
Offer valid from today till 12/10/2011
For further queries and reservations, please call: Salmiya Branch 25755737
Jleeb Al Shuyoukh 24335060
Hajj
Salah Ali Al Kandari - Legal & Remedial
Hashem Abdul Mutaleb Al Kazemi - Operations Division
Saleh Yousef Khalaf - Ardhiya Branch
Suad Hassan Dashti - Treasury Division
Ibrahim Emad Al Nejada - Khaldiya Branch
Shaikha Saad Al Munaifi - Trade Services
Fatma Abdullah Al Mohammed - Fahed Al Salem Branch
Shaimaa Mejbil Al Doussari - International Banking Division
Faisal Salah Al Othman - Corporate Credit Division
Mohammad Jumaa Abdulrazzaq - Internal Audit
Fatma Hassan Jamal - Labour Unit Branch
Zainab Bader Al Fares - Sabah Al Salem Branch
Areej Mohammad Neemeh - Ardhiya Branch
Yaqoub Abdul Ameer Sadeq - Ministries Complex Branch
Bashayer Abdulmajeed Ahmad - Souk Al Salmiya Branch
Ali Hussain Al Saffar - Al Andalus Branch
Salem Baderuldin Shehaab - Dasma Branch
Fatemah Fareed Al Saleh - Sharq Branch
Bader Kamal Al Abdul Al Mohsen - Call Center
Hisham Shmaitelly - Corporate Credit Division
New Births
Omar Ahmed El Hassanen - Chairman's Office - Girl
Athari Jassim Ali - Legal & Remedial - Girl
Shaima'a Mohammed Al Mutawa - Salwa Branch - Boy
Jumana Ahmed Al Boloushi - Salwa Branch - Girl
Shaimaa Mahdi Abbas - Khaldiya Branch - Boy
Abir Moufid Al Halabi - Operations Division - Girl
Abdullah Mohammed Shahzad - Financial Planning & Control - Girl
New Marriages & Engagements
Dalal Bader Al Thukair - Operations Division
Sara Saleh Al Ateeqi - Fahed Al Salem Branch
Haifa'a Salem Al Bader - South Surra Branch
Abdullah Hassan Haje Mohammad - Dahiyat Abdulla Mubarak Branch
Maryam Ali Hasan - Abu Halifa Branch
Waleed Kazim Malallah - Jabriya Branch
Mohammed Mubarak Al Sulaihem - Retail Banking Division
Congratulations
