There are several essential values that embody a true leader; among these clear communication, and the ability to influence and inspire, be authentic and adapt are vital. This month, Farah Baig, speaks to a truly inspirational woman who not only possesses these qualities, but perfects them – Eman Deabil. The proud Bahraini, who was born, raised and educated in the Kingdom, is currently leading the Transformation Management Office (TMO) at one of the biggest banks in Bahrain.
For over 15 years, Eman Deabil’s life has been in two parallels: one focused on learning and the other on building a career. The goal-oriented Bahraini hence has several qualifications and prestigious career highlights to her name. Ms. Deabil is a Chartered Manager by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), a doctorate candidate researching the impact of ESG Adoption and a published author with three published collaborative books and one still in the making.
She has also spoken at local and international forums, been an awards winner in project management and a judge at PMO awards global competitions. “On the career front, I’ve changed my job six times, worked with more than 15 bosses, met hundreds of people at all levels, and had the opportunity to experience different professions,” says Ms. Deabil.
On the learning front, she currently holds three Masters Degrees and over ten professional certifications in different fields. “I’m proud to be the first Bahraini lady who obtained the Portfolio Management Professional (PMI-PfMP) – the most prestigious certificate in project management. This is in addition to being the first Bahraini to obtain the Strategy Implementation Professional (SIP) from the Strategy Implementation Institute,” she says.
Given that Eman changed jobs many times, one of the most significant changes she had to deal with was related to the personalities of people. “Every boss has a different leadership style, every team has different characteristics, every member of the team requires a different way of management,” she says. “Accommodating all these types of personalities was one of the challenges that I overcome by building my emotional and political intelligence over the years.”
“Being a female leading a team of males or even females was another challenge; unlike my male colleagues, I had to prove that I deserve this position all the time by excelling in what I do, and demonstrating the value I add,” she adds.
Through her contributions, recently published in Woman This Month, Ms. Deabil has reflected on women’s representation in the boardroom. “Although the percentage of women representation in Bahrain listed companies is 5.9 percent (2022), I think our kingdom has come a long way in empowering and enabling women at different fronts,” she says.
“Today, what we’re looking at is not quantity (represented by higher percentages) but rather, quality. To have a real impact, we need strong, active, knowledgeable and experienced women at board level to drive change and contribute positively and effectively to decision making,” she adds.
As for young women pursuing leadership roles, Eman encourages them to work on several factors including building a strong value system, developing a personal brand and expanding their network. “You must also learn as you go as learnability is a great characteristic of future leaders. In addition, you should build your experience; work in something you like and excel in it. It’s never too late to find your passion,” she says.
As for balancing personal and professional responsibilities, Eman says: “I think it all starts by defining your goals in life, and setting the right priorities to them, assessing those goals as you go in life, and keep practicing this prioritisation exercise. Many women have already proven that they are able to juggle many balls at the same time, switch hats and practice multiple roles.”
