Kuwait - 2012: Gulf Bank, the second largest bank in Kuwait, announced that its Chief Executive Officer and Chief General Manager, Mr. Michel Accad has been named the 'Banker of the Year' by the region's leading banking industry magazine 'Banker Middle East'. The Banker Middle East awards ceremony was held in Dubai on 12th June, 2012 at the Emirates Tower Hotel.

Michel Accad, CEO and CGM at Gulf Bank, said: "I am honored to receive this coveted award, which reflects the dedication and efforts of the entire Gulf Bank team. It is a reward for our commitment to deliver excellent banking services that are unparalleled in the industry. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Chairman, Mr. Mahmoud Al-Nouri, and the Board of Directors for their stewardship, as well as every Gulf Bank employee for their tireless efforts in ensuring we deliver the best and fastest banking services in Kuwait. We are proud to have won this title by such a well-regarded publication as The Banker Middle East."

Congratulating Mr. Accad on his award, Mr. Mahmoud Al-Nouri, Gulf Bank's Chairman, said: "So far, 2012 is turning out to be a stellar year with major award wins for Gulf Bank. It's gratifying to see the industry experts agree that our overall banking strategy has consistently delivered outstanding results to our loyal customers, our highly dedicated employees, and to the community as a whole. This success came about through effective leadership and focussed strategic planning and I congratulate Mr. Accad on his contribution towards making Gulf Bank a success. Gulf Bank has established itself as a market leader in product and service delivery and innovation, and we are taking firm steps to continue strengthening our position as Kuwait's preferred local bank."

The announcement was made during the awards gala dinner and ceremony where international and regional senior bankers, executives and economists of the financial and banking sector attended. Award winners were chosen by a judging panel of international industry experts from companies such as rating agencies as well as from some of the region's financial centers.

The prestigious Banker Middle East Awards, which are held each year, recognize businesses in the region that have outclassed in providing exceptional levels of customer service and innovation across a range of sectors, from basic banking products to high-end investment services. They were established to set the highest benchmarks for the industry. The award's panel of judges nominates banks and financial organizations that have shown outstanding improvement and success over the past 12 months.

This press release has been issued by Gulf Bank.