OUR FACULTY

Dr. Ahmed Elsharkawy is a certified banking expert, authorised investment advisor, specialised in financial insolvency and debt restructuring, in addition to his contributions in the Judicial Institute of UAE Ministry of Justice.

Ahmed is a technical trainer and has robust of financial industry knowledge & extensive managerial skills for over 25 years in local/global banking/investment/advisory/wealth management, demonstrated high proven track records in analytical problem solving, with consistent business growth across different segments, whether through the commercial or Islamic Sharia compliance solutions. 

He is a recognised Certified Investment Advisor by UEA’s Securities & Commodities Authorities (SCA) , and an Independent Financial/Banking Expert with Ministry of Justice/Abu Dhabi/RAK Judicial Departments.  As a specialised financial regularisation expert, he is listed with UAE's Ministry of Finance for insolvency, debt restructuring & financial regularisation professionals. 

Ali Almarzooqi is a seasoned advisor in strategy and performance management, with over 20 years of experience in public sector transformation, strategic planning, and service delivery across key government and semi-government entities. His leadership has guided several institutions, including Abu Dhabi Municipality, the Ministry of Economy, and Abu Dhabi Farmers Services Centre, where he has directed strategic planning, business development, and operational performance initiatives. 

Ali’s core strengths lie in strategic thinking, execution excellence, programme and project management, and stakeholder facilitation. 

As a certified executive coach and trainer, Ali has delivered over 100 hours of coaching and trained more than 120 government and non-government professionals. He is passionate about developing leadership capability, fostering innovation, and aligning organisational goals with national priorities. 

Ali holds two master’s degrees — one in Applied Research from Swiss Business School and another in International Business from the University of Wollongong. He is also a certified strategy development professional, financial literacy trainer, and an EFQM excellence assessor. 

A results-driven learning and development professional specialising in designing and delivering impactful programmes that foster continuous learning and organisational development. Adept at leveraging data analytics and AI-driven tools to optimise training effectiveness and align learning initiatives with strategic business objectives. Experienced in developing bespoke training content for diverse sectors, with a strong focus on leadership development, workforce skills enhancement, and knowledge management.

Aseel brings over 20 years of regional and international experience as a corporate and commercial lawyer, educator, and legal advisor. She has worked across the public and private sectors in legal practice, academia, and judicial reform—advising governments, leading court transformation initiatives, and training legal professionals in ethics, risk management, arbitration, and compliance. 

Fluent in English and Arabic, Aseel is qualified to practise law in New York and Jordan. She has served as legal counsel to ministries and judicial bodies, where she led strategic initiatives such as the digital transformation of courts and the creation of compliance frameworks aligned with FATF standards. Her expertise spans civil and commercial litigation, arbitration, mediation, and public policy. 

In parallel with her legal career, Aseel is a seasoned academic and trainer. She has lectured in law and business ethics at several universities and is experienced in curriculum design for undergraduate and professional development programmes. Aseel has contributed to international publications on arbitration, data protection, and legal culture, and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators’ Approved Faculty List. 

Dr. Ashish brings over 32 years of cross-industry experience in HRM, marketing, strategic management, and management consulting, with a strong focus on learning & levelopment and talent management. He has designed training content, built future-ready capabilities through AI and digitalisation, and delivered over 5,000 hours of executive training across industries. As a trainer and faculty member, he has taught MBA programmes in HR, finance, marketing, supply chain, strategy, operations, and project management, while also supervising Doctoral and MBA theses.

Throughout his career, Dr. Ashish has played a pivotal role in developing business competencies, fostering innovation, and driving organisational transformation. He has led numerous initiatives in digitalisation, automation, organisational development, and employee engagement, while strengthening leadership pipelines and building future-focused capabilities that enable sustainable growth.

Aziz is an experienced leadership and business excellence coach specialising in developing high-impact leadership skills and driving organisational growth. He supports programmes focused on enhancing leadership capabilities, fostering business excellence, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement. Aziz works closely with educational institutions to deliver tailored coaching that empowers future leaders and improves organisational performance.

Catherine began her career in sales before moving into management, where she gained hands-on experience in organisational behavior, business development, strategic planning, and human resource management. She later transitioned into consultancy, specialising in group training and management coaching for both local and international companies. Her expertise in change management and ability to navigate cultural differences have made her a sought-after advisor in the region.

Recognised for her tenacity and analytical approach, Catherine combines strong coaching skills with articulate communication and diplomacy. She is known for delivering engaging training sessions and fostering collaboration, consistently motivating teams to achieve their best. With a commitment to the highest professional standards, she brings measurable business impact and remains an influential presence in the field of coaching and leadership development.

Denise specialises in career coaching and training with a focus on empowering students and professionals through personalised career strategies and skills development. She delivers soft skills and leadership programmes designed to enhance career readiness, including CV writing, interview preparation, and career planning. Denise’s experience spans educational institutions and workplace training environments, with proven success in supporting Emirati professional graduates and senior high school students. 

Dondi is an experienced banker with more than thirty years in corporate relationship management, wholesale product governance, credit risk policy and process, and enterprise risk governance. He has held senior roles at Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) as Vice-President and Head of Corporate Credit and Risk Policy, and at Standard Chartered Bank as Global Wholesale Banking Vice-President for Credit Risk Policy, overseeing governance across 62 countries.

His expertise spans risk appetite development, credit and risk policy formulation, cross-border risk management, structured trade finance, and Islamic finance policy and product development. As a faculty member of the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF) in the MENA region and a member of the Chartered Bankers Institute Expert Panel in the UK, Dondi has designed and delivered training in over 60 countries, covering credit and risk governance, corporate banking, trade finance, ESG, and Islamic finance.

Dr. Elias Abu Al-Haija brings more than 20 years of banking leadership experience and over 13 years in academia. His expertise covers Accounting, Finance, Banking, Risk Management, and Islamic Finance, where he combines scholarly depth with industry practice. He holds a Doctorate in Economics and Banking from Yarmouk University, Jordan, and has published extensively in Scopus-indexed international journals.

Elias’s career reflects a strong blend of academic research, industry practice, and professional training delivery. He has served as Director of Risk Management for over two decades and continues to work as a consultant in the development of Islamic Finance. As a trainer, he has delivered specialised programmes across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, designing and presenting courses in Finance, Risk, and Islamic Banking that respond directly to market needs. 

At ADGM Academy, his training programmes are designed to be practical, industry-relevant, and aligned with Abu Dhabi’s role as a global financial hub. The Academy distinguishes itself by connecting international standards with regional requirements, equipping participants with both technical mastery and strategic skills.

With over 25 years of experience, Fadi brings a strong foundation in strategy, innovation, and investment. His career began with a fast-tracked 9-year tenure at Ernst & Young, followed by executive roles in investment firms managing assets exceeding $4 billion. He co-founded an investment management practice that now operates under Willie Nicholson & Associates, managing a portfolio of more than $30 million. 

Fadi is currently involved in various leadership and advisory capacities, including higher education innovation, venture capital, and AI-driven solutions in the construction industry. He has served on advisory and audit committees, contributed to the global crypto community through CryptoValley, and was previously part of the executive committee of the Institute of Internal Auditors. He is actively engaged in academic delivery and curriculum design in areas such as finance, strategy, and entrepreneurship. 

He holds an Executive MBA from Imperial College Business School, London. 

Farah is a seasoned compliance professional and capacity-building consultant with over 17 years of experience in the financial sector. Her expertise spans Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF), Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC). She holds an MSc in Finance and Banking and is a Certified Compliance Manager, AML Specialist, GRC Professional, as well as CISI-certified and FinTech-certified by Harvard University.

Previously serving as MLRO for leading UAE banks, Farah is accredited by both ESCA and the Central Bank of the UAE.

Haneen is a certified Executive Coach, psychometric assessor, and facilitator with over a decade of experience in learning and development across public and private sectors. She has worked with government entities, police forces, and ministries, contributing to national transformation initiatives through leadership training, talent development, and coaching. 

With a strong academic foundation including a Master’s degree in Business Administration and multiple psychometric certifications (including Hogan and MBTI), Haneen brings an evidence-based approach to training and coaching. She designs and delivers bespoke learning experiences in areas such as mental toughness, emotional intelligence, executive presence, and behavioural transformation. 

Alongside her corporate training work, Haneen is the founder of JoyActivate, where she integrates advanced modalities such as breathwork and Rapid Transformational Therapy to help individuals and teams unlock their authentic potential. She supports clients through individual coaching, assessment centres, and experiential learning interventions that empower lasting change.

Hussam is a seasoned consultant and trainer specialising in financial crime prevention, compliance, and risk management. His expertise covers Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT), fraud prevention, anti-bribery and corruption, cybersecurity, cybercrime, and regulatory compliance. 

With extensive experience addressing the unique challenges of the GCC and MENA regions, Hussam delivers tailored training programmes for front-office staff, operations teams, senior management, and board members. He also provides advanced sessions for compliance and AML/CFT professionals, supporting their preparation for leading industry certifications such as CAMS, CGSS, and CKYCA. 

Known for his engaging and interactive training style, Hussam incorporates real-world case studies and group exercises to foster participant involvement. Since 1997, he has trained a broad spectrum of institutions across the region, including financial and non-financial institutions, regulatory bodies, law enforcement agencies, and professional service providers. 

Hussam is also a frequent speaker at regional and international conferences, sharing practical insights and expertise. 

Marcello Zanardo is a seasoned executive and financial strategist with over twenty-five years of experience across global banking, investment, and education sectors. His career spans Europe and the Middle East, where he has held senior leadership positions within leading financial institutions and academic organisations. 

Marcello has successfully led investment management, portfolio strategy, and financial training initiatives, guiding organisations towards operational excellence. His expertise combines strategic vision with analytical precision, enabling institutions to build long-term financial resilience. As a senior executive and educator, Marcello is passionate about bridging industry and academia to nurture the next generation of financial professionals. He has advised numerous clients, mentored emerging leaders, and contributed to the advancement of professional education in finance. 

Marcello holds a degree in Economics and Finance from the Catholic University of Milan and has completed executive programmes in financial leadership and management. 

Mehmet brings over 20 years of experience combining deep technical expertise with strategic business development and entrepreneurial mentorship across the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey. His extensive knowledge spans technology consulting, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and driving growth within tech startups. 

As founder of Yassi Ventures and a strategic advisor for a Silicon Valley-based stealth startup, Mehmet has been instrumental in guiding startups through market validation, securing investment, and scaling operations. His unique ability to bridge technical solutions and business challenges helps organisations achieve sustained innovation and competitive advantage. 

Mehmet has held senior roles in sales and presales across leading technology firms, delivering successful business development and go-to-market strategies, particularly in the META region. His technical background, combined with business acumen, enables him to design effective strategies for digital adoption and investment readiness.

Mohamed brings extensive experience in delivering impactful training programmes tailored to the financial sector, focusing on enhancing skills and performance for continuous growth. His expertise includes a wide range of topics such as international trade finance, retail and digital banking, risk and project management, strategic planning, and personal branding. Mohamed applies adult learning principles to design engaging and learner-centred content, supporting graduates and professionals from mid to senior levels.

Mohammad El Medawar is a certified Microsoft Trainer and seasoned training professional with extensive experience delivering high-impact technical and soft skills training across the Middle East. Mohammad specialises in developing and executing customised training programmes that empower individuals and organisations to maximise their Microsoft technology investments. 

With a strong background in consulting and instructional design, he combines technical expertise with practical insights to ensure effective knowledge transfer and learner engagement. Mohammad is committed to fostering continuous professional development through innovative learning solutions tailored to diverse industry needs.

Dynamic and versatile professional with over 25 years of cross-functional experience in financial markets, compliance, and learning & development. Certified by the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI, UK) and the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS). Skilled in portfolio management, securities trading, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance with expertise across equities, fixed income, derivatives, and alternative investments. 

Experienced in designing and delivering accredited training programmes in AML, leadership, financial market regulations, and investment strategies. Facilitates engaging virtual and face-to-face sessions tailored to adult learners, ensuring alignment with national standards and professional development goals. 

Specialises in competency-based assessment, coaching, and mentoring, with a strong focus on fostering inclusive, supportive learning environments. Collaborates closely with internal teams and external clients to identify skill gaps and implement strategic learning initiatives. 

CELTA and TEFL certified English language educator with over six years’ experience teaching primary, secondary, and adult learners. Specialising in the IGCSE curriculum, English Language Arts Standards, and modern, learner-centred teaching methodologies. Skilled at designing engaging lessons and training programmes that foster critical thinking, communication, and professional skills development. 

Currently delivering employability and soft skills training as part of the Job Centre programme in partnership with ADGMA. Experienced in tailoring content to individual learning styles and career stages, with a strong focus on promoting continuous professional development, growth mindset, and workplace readiness. 

Proven ability to manage classrooms effectively, coordinate academic programmes, and develop customised curricula to enhance learner outcomes. Passionate about creating inclusive and motivating learning environments that empower learners to achieve their academic and social goals. 

Patrick is a transformational leader specialising in health and wellness innovation, organisational restructuring, and financial strategy. With extensive experience as an instructor, course creator, and speaker, he delivers data-driven programmes that align stakeholders, optimise operations, and prepare organisations for sustainable growth and expansion. Patrick has a proven track record of scaling wellbeing solutions internationally and driving measurable improvements in employee engagement and absenteeism. 

Sameh Omar Elish is an experienced finance instructor and business consultant with over a decade of expertise delivering high-level training and academic programmes at DBA and MBA levels. He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration specialising in Finance and Accounting and has taught various finance and management courses across reputable institutions. 

Previously, Sameh worked as an Assistant Investment Manager, where he led research and portfolio management activities and contributed to strategic business planning. He combines strong analytical skills with practical experience in financial markets, risk management, and investment analysis. 

He is proficient in English and Arabic, skilled in MS Office, Reuters, and Bloomberg, and recognised for academic excellence with honours from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals.

Sanjay M Prabhu is an accomplished compliance trainer and consultant with over 18 years of experience in banking operations, audit, and regulatory compliance, including more than 9 years delivering specialised training across the UAE financial sector. Holding an MBA in Finance and multiple professional certifications—such as Certified Compliance Manager, Financial Crime Specialist, and Certified Training Professional—he brings deep expertise in AML/CFT, KYC/CDD, sanctions compliance, and regulatory frameworks aligned with UAE and international standards. 

He is skilled in instructional design, e-learning development, and has conducted over 2,500 training sessions and webinars. 

As a trusted advisor, he supports financial institutions in embedding a robust culture of compliance and risk management, enhancing regulatory adherence, and implementing governance frameworks. His proficiency spans advanced learning platforms and banking software, making him a valuable asset in the training and consultancy space within financial services. 
 

Sapna Sulaya is a seasoned learning and development professional with over 22 years of experience in the financial services industry. She has led group-wide transformation initiatives by designing and delivering strategic training programmes that place customers at the core of business outcomes. Sapna specialises in sales enablement, governance frameworks, and embedding cultures of continuous learning within complex, multinational organisations. 

She currently serves as a Learning Partner delivering senior-level training and bespoke certification programmes, including collaborations with ADGM Academy and LIBF, achieving outstanding success with UAE national development plans. Her expertise extends to sustainable finance, fintech innovation, and coaching, with a strong track record in stakeholder engagement and multi-disciplinary collaboration. 

Previously, Sapna held leadership roles at major financial institutions, where she excelled in risk management, wealth governance, and operational excellence. Her professional journey is marked by award-winning team leadership and a passion for coaching and lifelong learning.

Shubhangi has extensive experience in finance, treasury, research, and academic teaching. She has designed training programmes for fintech, wealth management, retail and digital banking, enhancing learner engagement with practical activities and industry examples. Her research on fintech adoption is widely published and cited in top international journals.

Sophie Bertin is a seasoned compliance and financial services strategist with over 25 years’ experience leading innovation and transformation across global banking, fintech, and regulatory landscapes. As Founder and CEO of Serapy AG, she pioneers gamified and AI-driven learning platforms designed to elevate compliance training effectiveness in areas such as AML/ABC, CFT, ESG, and data privacy. 

Her previous leadership roles include Head of Corporate Development at SIX Group, where she steered strategic innovation and risk frameworks, and Head of State Aid for Financial Services at the European Commission during the financial crisis, overseeing banking sector stabilisation and regulatory guidance across Europe. 

Sophie’s expertise spans digital transformation, regulatory compliance, project management, and corporate governance, backed by an INSEAD MBA and post-graduate qualifications in EU competition law and corporate governance. She is also a respected advisor to law firms, consultancies, and VC firms, blending deep sector insight with a passion for impactful learning.

Syed Aamir Zahidi is a globally experienced board member and C-suite executive specialising in banking and finance. He is known for driving corporate performance through transformation and innovative strategies, acting as a trusted advisor to boards and executive teams. His expertise spans redesigning operational frameworks, enhancing commercial performance, and facilitating complex mergers, acquisitions, and integration programmes worldwide. 

His extensive experience includes leadership roles in management consulting, Islamic banking, financial holdings, and multinational investment banking. Syed has contributed to business performance, governance, capital strategy, and regulatory compliance while managing significant digital transformation and capital projects. He has a proven track record in managing diverse teams, mentoring future leaders, and delivering sustained financial growth. 

Vera is an enthusiastic advocate of sustainability with 15 years’ experience specialising in financial services, particularly retail banking, asset management, and wealth management. She has successfully delivered multi-million-pound business transformation programmes across multiple regions. 

Holding Master’s degrees in Computational Mathematics and Environment and Sustainability, Vera has trained over 15,000 professionals through both face-to-face and online programmes, focusing on sustainability in business, leadership, project and change management, and data management. She has also supervised more than 100 MBA and MSc dissertations. 

Vera combines her expertise as an independent consultant and lecturer, collaborating with universities and organisations to embed sustainability strategies and deliver impactful projects. Outside of work, she is actively involved as a director of a children’s charity in Kenya. 

Wasim Jabr is a finance and banking professional specialising in corporate finance, Islamic banking, risk management, and compliance training. He supports ADGMA by delivering comprehensive programmes designed to enhance financial literacy, credit analysis, operational risk, and anti-money laundering awareness. With over 20 years of experience across banking, internal audit, and regulatory compliance, Wasim brings practical insights into financial governance and controls. His expertise is instrumental in equipping learners with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern banking and financial services.

Youssef is a seasoned Human Resources professional with over 25 years of cross-functional experience spanning learning and development, HR consulting, assessment and development, and executive coaching.

For the past 14 years, he has led major projects and consulting engagements across the Gulf region—including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar—as well as South Africa. His fluency in Arabic, combined with deep expertise in HR, has uniquely positioned him to bring valuable insight and impact to every engagement.

Youssef has overseen and delivered leadership development programmes, executive coaching, assessments, and 360-degree feedback facilitation for senior executives, vice presidents, deputy ministers, and governors across both the public and private sectors. His work also extends to large-scale transformation projects, such as designing and implementing competency frameworks.

Through his extensive regional experience and people-focused approach, Youssef has built a reputation as a trusted advisor and strategic partner in driving leadership growth and organisational transformation.