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Employee Stories

An exciting journey: Lana’s story

Lana Darwish

From pharmaceuticals to technology and operations — my journey has been defined by courage, reinvention, and purpose.

My career began in a world far from banking. Encouraged by my father, I started out in healthcare and qualified as a pharmacist. Even then, I felt a pull toward something broader — a space where I could blend business, strategy, innovation, and impact.

That curiosity led me to pursue a master’s degree in international business at Wollongong University. It was a turning point. Soon after graduating, I took my first role at a local bank, and very quickly moved through the ranks to become a Relationship Manager. Those early years gave me invaluable hands‑on experience and solidified my love for serving clients and transforming processes.

Then came a defining moment: while I was in the labour ward about to give birth to my first child, I received a call from Standard Chartered’s Talent Acquisition team. The timing couldn’t have been more intense, but the opportunity was too meaningful to let pass. Two weeks after bringing my baby home, I returned the call — and that’s how my journey with Standard Chartered began, as a Credit Analyst returning from maternity leave.

I joined the bank, excited by its reputation and international footprint — but I had no idea how many doors it would open for me or how profoundly it would shape me. Over the years, I embraced opportunities that took me across functions and regions. I moved from frontline banking into senior leadership roles across Retail Banking Operations, Wealth Management, and eventually Technology and Operations.

I was excited to join the bank because of its reputation and international footprint. But I didn't realise what other doors were going to be opened for me by doing so
Lana Darwish
Chief Operating Officer, WRB UAE & Europe Middle East Africa and Pakistan

I’ve had the privilege of serving in roles such as:

Each move expanded my perspective and pushed me to grow in new ways. My path has proven that you don’t need to be a programmer to excel in Technology and Operations — what you truly need is imagination, curiosity, and the courage to challenge the status quo. With the right mindset and support, you can move across functions and still create meaningful impact.

I’ve been fortunate to work with leaders who gave me clarity and guidance, and alongside talented colleagues who pushed me to continuously raise the bar. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been leading transformative initiatives that enhance client experience, strengthen operational resilience, and accelerate our innovation agenda across regions.

I have learned that real impact comes from staying true to three principles:

From pharmacy to banking to shaping strategies in Technology and Operations — my path has never been linear, but every chapter has added depth, resilience, and purpose. Today, I’m shaping the future of Wealth and Retail Banking across UAE and Europe Middle East Africa and Pakistan (EMEA), driving strategic growth and operational excellence while fostering a culture where people feel empowered to innovate, lead, and thrive.

My journey continues to be one of reinvention — and I’m more excited than ever about what comes next. Because if there is one thing my story proves, it’s this: Your path isn’t predetermined. With courage and conviction, you can create the future you imagine.