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Employee Stories

Lana Darwish

An inspiring journey of leadership, purpose, and possibility

A portrait of Lana Darwish

With nearly 15 years of international banking and leadership experience, Lana serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Wealth and Retail Banking (WRB) across the UAE, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Pakistan at Standard Chartered Bank.

Lana is widely recognised as a transformative leader whose passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to client‑centric excellence and innovation have shaped teams, elevated operations, and inspired colleagues across regions. Her journey reflects not only deep professional expertise, but also the courage to embrace change, challenge conventions, and create opportunities for others to rise alongside her.

Tell us about your career journey so far

My career has been anything but linear and that’s what makes it meaningful. I began in healthcare, following my father’s encouragement, and qualifying as a pharmacist. Yet even then, I felt a spark – an entrepreneurial drive urging me to explore a world beyond what was familiar.

That instinct for growth led me to pursue a master’s degree in International Business. It became the gateway to my first banking role at a local institution, where I gained invaluable hands‑on experience. Soon after, Standard Chartered recognised my potential, inviting me to join their CIB team – a moment that marked the beginning of a profoundly fulfilling chapter.

Every step along the way has taught me that careers are not predetermined. We each have the power to redefine our path with courage, curiosity, and conviction.

What attracted you to joining Standard Chartered’s Technology and Operations team?

Over the past 15 years, I’ve held leadership roles across multiple banking segments. Each role offered learning and challenge, but Technology and Operations captured something truly unique – it’s unbeatable pace, it’s complexity, and it’s pivotal role in shaping the experience of every client.

Technology and Operations is where vision becomes reality. It’s where strategy transforms into impact. I felt energised by the opportunity to shape both the thinking and the doing, and to contribute to the Bank’s transformation from the inside out. Joining this team remains one of the most rewarding decisions of my career.

What are the responsibilities of your role?

As COO, I’m entrusted with co‑owning and delivering a seamless, empathetic, world‑class client experience across the region.

My responsibility extends beyond processes – it’s about empowering people, driving transformation, and ensuring that every client interaction reflects the excellence our Bank stands for. I have also led teams through periods of significant change, moments that required unity, creativity, and collective courage. I’m proud that we not only achieved ambitious goals, but also strengthened the foundations of how we operate.

What’s your proudest achievement since joining us?

My proudest achievements are deeply rooted in people – building teams that believe in themselves, in each other, and in the power of innovation. Some of the milestones closest to my heart include:

Each milestone represents not just success, but a shared journey of determination, creativity, and growth.

How would you describe the culture of your team?

Our team culture is built on trust, shared purpose, and an unwavering belief in one another’s potential. We collaborate deeply, embrace transparency, and face challenges with resolve and optimism.

It’s a space where people feel empowered to innovate, to stretch beyond their comfort zones, and to lead with confidence. That sense of unity – and the belief that every voice matters – is the heartbeat of our success.

What, professionally, are you most looking forward to this year?

This year, I’m energised by the opportunity to elevate our client experience even further through enhanced operational excellence. Equally important is my commitment to investing in our people – developing future leaders, nurturing ambition, and inspiring confidence across all levels of our organisation.

Because when people rise, organisations rise with them.