Najman Isa Named CEO of RHB Islamic International Asset Management

RHB Islamic International Asset Management Bhd (RHBIIAM) has announced the appointment of Mohd Najman Md Isa as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Investment Officer, effective April 8, 2024. This strategic leadership transition is poised to play a pivotal role as the company seeks to expand its footprint in the realms of Islamic finance and asset management throughout the region.

Mohd Najman Md Isa, more commonly known as Najman, brings a rich background of international and regional expertise to his new role at RHBIIAM. Before stepping into his current position, Najman garnered substantial experience at Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management in Hong Kong. Over a productive six-year tenure, he excelled as the lead equity portfolio manager specializing in Asia Pacific ex-Japan equity mandates. Furthermore, he played a crucial role as the lead analyst for the financial sector across emerging Asian markets, notably excluding China. His tenure in Hong Kong endowed him with a deep and insightful understanding of the dynamics and economic conditions prevailing in the regional markets, equipping him with the strategic foresight needed for his new role.

Before his stint in Hong Kong, Najman was integral to the operations at Eastspring Investments Malaysia, where he managed Shariah-compliant investment portfolios. He adeptly handled Shariah Asia ex-Japan and Shariah ASEAN equity mandates, demonstrating his capability to navigate the complex landscape of compliant investments. His career before Eastspring provided him with foundational experience at Aberdeen Asset Management. During a significant five-year period there, he managed ASEAN equities and co-managed several Shariah equity mandates. This experience helped lay a robust foundation for his deep-seated expertise in Shariah-compliant investments.

In addition to his professional experience, Najman’s academic qualifications are noteworthy and align seamlessly with his new role at RHBIIAM. He holds a double degree in Civil Engineering (first class honors) and Commerce from the University of Melbourne, Australia. His academic achievements are complemented by professional certifications that further highlight his capabilities. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and holds a Capital Markets Services Representative’s License (CMSRL) for fund management, which are testament to his preparedness and aptitude for leading RHBIIAM.

Najman’s extensive experience and strong academic background are expected to bring innovative leadership and a fresh perspective to RHB Islamic International Asset Management. Under his direction, the company is set to enhance its influence and operations in Islamic finance, striving to provide superior service and innovative solutions to meet the growing needs of its clientele across the region. The RHB group looks forward to a new chapter of growth and development with Najman at the helm.