Interview: Mana bin Mohamed Al Khamsan, CEO, The Financial Academy, on workforce upskilling, global standards and ethical growth
How is the role of financial professional training evolving, particularly in the context of Vision 2030 and the Financial Sector Development Programme?
MANA BIN MOHAMED AL KHAMSAN: As the financial industry evolves, professionals must continuously upskill and reskill to keep pace with emerging trends, regulatory changes and the increasing role of technology. There is a growing demand for specialists who understand not only evolving regulations and risk management, but also innovative financial instruments. Training institutions must proactively equip professionals with both technical knowledge and practical skills to remain competitive. The emphasis should be on bridging skill gaps, promoting a culture of lifelong learning and ensuring financial professionals have the right tools to navigate an increasingly digital and complex financial environment.
In what ways can innovative approaches ensure the development of technical skills and a culture of ethical decision-making and long-term sustainability?
AL KHAMSAN: Developing technical skills and supporting ethical decision-making require a multi-dimensional approach. Ethical finance and corporate governance should be integrated into training programmes to ensure professionals realise the long-term impact of their decisions. Risk management, environmental, social and governance investing, disaster recovery planning and sustainability should be included in financial education. Digital innovation plays a role: training models led by artificial intelligence (AI), virtual simulations and gamification enhance practical learning. Professionals need hands-on experience to apply ethical principles in real-world scenarios; these technologies provide a platform for immersive learning. Another opportunity lies in encouraging a culture of professional development. Ethical decision-making is not a static concept – this evolves as regulations and societal expectations shift. Encouraging lifelong learning and integrating these principles into corporate strategies ensures financial professionals are equipped to uphold integrity and long-term sustainability standards.
What role is technology playing in increasing both access to and the effectiveness of financial professional training across different demographics?
AL KHAMSAN: Coaching models using AI allow individuals to interact with virtual mentors, receive feedback and develop competencies at their own pace. Adaptive learning platforms assess skill levels and tailor training, ensuring a customised learning experience. Digital platforms are also used for real-time performance tracking, competency assessments and career development planning. Classrooms are evolving too – traditional materials are being replaced with digital content and virtual environments. These tools enhance engagement while also aligning financial professional training with domestic digital transformation goals. The goal is to create flexible, data-driven learning environments that better prepare professionals for real-world challenges.
With the increasing globalisation of finance, how can the workforce remain competitive in terms of international professional standards?
AL KHAMSAN: Strategic partnerships with globally recognised institutions such as the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute, the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and other leading bodies play a key role. These collaborations provide professionals with access to world-class certifications that benchmark their skills against international standards. At the same time, it is essential to localise knowledge. While professionals must meet global competencies, they also need a deep understanding of the domestic regulatory framework and market dynamics. Some training programmes are developed internally to reflect local requirements, while others adhere to international frameworks to ensure a seamless integration with global financial systems.
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