1. Tell us about your career journey and how you came to serve on a board.

I began my career in corporate banking, dedicating 14 years to the field, starting as a financial analyst and progressing to the role of senior relationship manager. After achieving significant milestones in the banking sector, I recognized an opportunity to redirect my experience toward alternative dispute resolution and so I became a certified mediator and arbitrator. My goal was to provide a platform for businesses in Saudi Arabia to navigate disputes effectively.

In 2015, I established my practice, ‘TASWEA,’ with the mission of advocating for alternative dispute resolution within the legal, business and academic communities in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region. I engaged with universities, corporations, and spoke at conferences to raise awareness about the effectiveness of mediation and arbitration.

In 2017, I was honored to be invited to serve as a board member on the International Chamber of Commerce's (ICC) national committee in Saudi Arabia at the Federation of Saudi Chambers, marking my initial foray into board governance. Following this, I accepted positions on several other boards across diverse sectors, including fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), education, and an international arbitration institute in Saudi. In 2023, I was appointed as the Chair of the ICC Arbitration & ADR Committee in Saudi Arabia, a role that allows me to contribute to the development of arbitration at both national and international levels.

Most recently, in 2024, I was appointed as a court member at the International Arbitration Court of the ICC to represent Saudi Arabia 

2. What are you most proud of and why?

I take great pride in the impact I have made throughout my journey, which began from the ground up and ultimately led to the esteemed privilege of representing Saudi Arabia on the International Arbitration Court of the ICC. This appointment is a significant milestone in my career. Achieving this milestone necessitated a steadfast commitment to investing in my education and expanding my professional network within the business and legal sectors. I dedicated substantial time to professional development, earning certifications in board directorship, a fellowship diploma in International Arbitration, and a law degree specializing in International Dispute Resolution. These achievements have been instrumental in enhancing my knowledge and expertise while establishing a robust reputation in the field.

3. What are your professional areas of expertise and what skills do you bring to the boardroom?

My professional areas of expertise are Financial Analysis and Alternative Dispute Resolution.

I possess a strong background in financial and market analysis, allowing me to assess complex data and derive actionable insights that inform strategic decision- making. With a deep understanding of financial metrics, I can effectively evaluate performance and identify growth opportunities within competitive landscape.

In addition, I have a proven track record in negotiation, mastering the art of navigating complex discussions to achieve favorable outcomes for all parties. My experience includes helping parties to a negotiation craft a mutually beneficial agreements, fostering collaboration, and building consensus among diverse stakeholders.

As a certified mediator, I specialize in facilitating constructive dialogue to amicably resolve disputes. My mediation skills are instrumental in creating a cooperative atmosphere, ensuring that all perspectives are considered and that resolutions not only preserve relationships but also enhance organizational cohesion.

Furthermore, I have developed and implemented effective strategies for conflict management and prevention, emphasizing early intervention and proactive communication. My ability to identify potential sources of conflict and address them before escalation contributes to a harmonious and productive boardroom environment.

Overall, my blend of analytical acumen, negotiation expertise, mediation proficiency, and conflict management strategies uniquely positions me to add significant value to the boardroom. I aim to facilitate effective governance, foster collaborative discussions, and drive the organization toward its strategic objectives.

4. What are the benefits that diversity can bring to the boardroom, including women on boards?

Diversity in the boardroom, particularly the inclusion of women and individuals from varied expertise, age groups and race, yields numerous benefits that enhance organizational effectiveness and decision-making.

One significant advantage is the introduction of new perspectives. Diverse board members bring a variety of experiences, insights, and viewpoints to the table, which can lead to more innovative solutions and strategies. This variety enriches discussions, encourages creative problem-solving, and minimizes the risk of groupthink, where conformity can stifle new ideas.

Additionally, diversity fosters a deeper understanding of diverse markets and customers. Women, for instance, represent a significant portion of consumers, and their presence on boards can provide valuable insights into female consumer behavior and preferences. This understanding can help organizations tailor their products and services more effectively, thereby enhancing competitiveness in the marketplace.

Ultimately, embracing diversity not only enhances the boardroom dynamic but also positions the organization to better navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in an increasingly complex and global business environment.

5. What is your advice for women who are aspiring to leadership and board positions?