Asya Al-Balushi is one of Oman’s foremost women leaders in the financial services sector, renowned for her strategic oversight and operational excellence in complex banking operations. Currently serving as Head of Financing and Securities Services Operations at Standard Chartered Bank Oman, Asya brings over 17 years of diverse expertise across securities services, fund operations, custody, market infrastructure, and risk management. Icons Oman proudly recognizes her pivotal role in strengthening Oman’s financial ecosystem and driving innovation in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.

Strategic Leadership in Securities Services and Custody

In her current role since April 2025, Asya leads end-to-end operations for financing, custody, clearing and settlement, fund services, and transfer agency. She ensures robust governance, regulatory compliance, and operational resilience while spearheading digital transformation initiatives and enhancing client servicing for both local and international markets. Previously, as Senior Manager FSS Oman and Head of Securities Services, she has built a reputation for strategic execution that supports business growth and market development.

Her leadership at Standard Chartered for nearly 13 years demonstrates her ability to manage high-stakes operations with precision, fostering strong relationships with regulators, auditors, market infrastructures, and senior stakeholders.

A Proven Track Record Across International Banking

Asya’s career began with foundational roles that honed her expertise in credit risk and securities services. At HSBC Oman, she worked in HSBC Securities Services (HSS) before advancing to Credit Risk Control Officer, where she managed risk frameworks and operational controls. Earlier, at Bank Saderat Iran, she served as Credit Facility Assistant, gaining early insights into credit operations.

Her progressive journey reflects a strategic mindset, strong execution, and contributions to cybersecurity risk, retail banking operations, and operational risk, making her a trusted custodian head in securities services.

Academic Excellence and Professional Development

Asya holds an MSc in Fraud and Risk Management from The University of Salford, specializing in fraud risk management activities that enhance her strategic capabilities. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Staffordshire University. Additional certifications, including CPR for Adults, Children & Infants, underscore her commitment to comprehensive professional development.

Her top skills, leadership, problem-solving, critical thinking, self-confidence, and time management, have been instrumental in her success across vendor management, people leadership, and project execution.

Empowering Oman’s Financial Future

Asya’s work directly supports Oman Vision 2040 by strengthening financial infrastructure, promoting digital transformation, and ensuring resilient operations in securities and custody services. Her focus on risk management and compliance bolsters Oman’s position as a trusted hub for international finance, contributing to economic diversification and sustainable growth.

Icons Oman Honors a Banking Powerhouse

Asya Al-Balushi exemplifies the pinnacle of Omani women in leadership, blending deep operational knowledge with visionary strategy to drive sectoral advancement. Icons Oman celebrates her 17+ years of excellence and her role in elevating Oman’s global financial standing.

Icons Oman. Celebrating women leaders powering Oman’s financial innovation and resilience.