Abdul Manaf Puthiya Purayil
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Summary
Strategic operations leader with expertise in digital transformation and payments modernization. Demonstrated success in process re-engineering and automation using RPA, AI, and ML to improve operational efficiency. Strong background in regulatory compliance and risk management, enhancing customer experience through agile banking practices. Experienced in change management and stakeholder engagement, focusing on cost optimization and data-driven decision making. Well experienced in Offshoring and merger/integration of operation process.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work history
VP - Head of Payment Operations
First Abu Dhabi Bank
Abu Dhabi, UAE
03.2021 - Current
- Led transformation of core banking operations, establishing digital-first processes that boosted operational efficiency by 30%.
- Implemented instant payments ecosystem and digital currency platforms, positioning bank as leader in UAE's payments sector.
- Drove process re-engineering projects using RPA and AI, achieving 25% reduction in processing time with substantial cost savings.
- Championed customer-centric digital initiatives, resulting in 20% increase in customer satisfaction and engagement scores.
- Managed multi-disciplinary teams of over 150 FTEs, fostering performance-driven culture with effective succession planning.
- Promoted diversity and inclusion that resulted in enhanced company culture.
- Maintained high staff morale through effective leadership techniques.
Head of Inward, Vostro and NBFI Payments
First Abu Dhabi Bank
Abu Dhabi, UAE
12.2018 - 03.2021
- Increased STP rate from 68% to 98%, enhancing scalability and process efficiency.
- Streamlined inward and vostro payment processes, resulting in significant cost savings through offshoring process
- Led Integration of Operation process for FGB & NBAD merger
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize operations and elevate customer service.
- Managed relationships with external partners to improve payment solutions and service delivery.
Manager Inward Payments and Salary Processes
First Gulf Bank
Abu Dhabi, UAE
11.2013 - 11.2018
- Successfully led implementation of UAEFTS, WPS, and DDS.
- Managed high-volume payment operations, including UAEFTS, SWIFT, and WPS transactions.
- Drove salary processing initiatives to enhance accuracy and efficiency across departments.
- Contributed to rollout of e-banking platforms, facilitating digital transformation for the bank.
- Developed training programmes for staff for 50 staff to increase knowledge of payment systems.
Assitant Manager
First Gulf Bank
Abu Dhabi, UAE
08.2008 - 10.2013
- Centralised cheque clearing processes to enhance operational efficiency.
- Successfully implemented ICCS system for FGB
- Automated PDC cheque processing through ICCS to reduce manual errors.
- Coordinated training programmes for staff to boost productivity and efficiency.
Team Leader Cheque Clearing Process
Dubai Islamic Bank
Sharjah, UAE
04.2006 - 07.2008
- Coordinated cross-departmental efforts to streamline cheque clearing operations.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced cheque processing time.
- Trained team members on best practices for cheque handling and compliance.
- Conducted regular audits of cheque processing to ensure operational adherence.
Senior officer
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank
Dubai, UAE
07.2004 - 03.2006
- Executed processing of cheques and post-dated cheques.
- Contributed to centralisation process for improved cheque clearing efficiency.
- Provided outstanding customer service in cash handling roles.
Education
MBA - Finance
Sikkim Manipal University
IndiaB.A - Literature
Calicut University
IndiaBachelor of Education - Education
Kannur University
IndiaSkills
- Strategic Operation Leadership
- Digital transformation
- Payments Modernization & Instant Payments
- Process Re-engineering & Automation (RPA, AI, ML)
- Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management
- Customer experience Optimization
- Agile Banking Operations
- Change Management & Stakeholder Engagement
- Cost Optimization & Operational Efficiency
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- ESG & Sustainable Banking Initiatives
Languages
English
Native
Arabic
Native
Hindi
Native
Malayalam
Native
Timeline
VP - Head of Payment Operations
First Abu Dhabi Bank
03.2021 - Current
Head of Inward, Vostro and NBFI Payments
First Abu Dhabi Bank
12.2018 - 03.2021
Manager Inward Payments and Salary Processes
First Gulf Bank
11.2013 - 11.2018
Assitant Manager
First Gulf Bank
08.2008 - 10.2013
Team Leader Cheque Clearing Process
Dubai Islamic Bank
04.2006 - 07.2008
Senior officer
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank
07.2004 - 03.2006
MBA - Finance
Sikkim Manipal University
B.A - Literature
Calicut University
Bachelor of Education - Education
Kannur University