SME Bank Group President and CEO Datuk Dr Aria Putera Ismail to Step Down, Datuk Dr Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim to Take Over as Acting CEO
SME Bank CEO Datuk Dr Aria Putera Ismail Steps Down, Successor Named
KUALA LUMPUR: After six years of dedicated leadership, SME Bank group president and CEO Datuk Dr Aria Putera Ismail has announced his departure to pursue new opportunities. His successor, group chief corporate strategy officer Datuk Dr Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, will take over as the acting group president and CEO, effective September 3, 2024.
During his tenure, Aria’s visionary leadership has led SME Bank to new heights in supporting and developing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. Under his guidance, the bank redefined its vision, mission, and introduced its S.M.I.L.E core values. Aria’s strategic initiatives, including the Two-Year Accelerated Programme, focused on sustainable developmental goals, asset quality, comprehensive SME ecosystem, digitalization, and talent development, resulting in a profit before tax (PBT) of RM213.9 million in 2019.
In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Aria spearheaded multiple relief programs from October 2020 to September 2022, providing support to over 5000 companies with a total financing of RM9.12 billion. His dedication to helping SMEs navigate through challenging times has been commendable.
As for Mohammad Hardee, he brings over 20 years of extensive experience in the financial services industry, with a specialization in business banking and strategic management. Having served in various roles at SME Bank, including treasury, corporate finance, business banking, and corporate strategy, Mohammad Hardee is well-equipped to lead the bank forward.
SME Bank expressed gratitude for the contributions of both Aria and Mohammad Hardee in shaping the bank’s aspirations to drive the country’s economic growth through financial assistance, training, and development programs for SMEs. Their efforts align with the Madani Economy Framework, promoting overall business growth and prosperity in Malaysia.