There has been a concerted focus by the Bank on allocating more resources to developing our pipeline of talent at all levels. This is evidenced by a sharp rise in the total training hours to 35.8 hours per full-time employee (FTE) in 2024, up 35% from 26.5 hours in 2023.
In 2024, Bank ABC launched ABC Rise, an initiative that provides employees with career development opportunities through skill-building workshops and structured programmes designed to enhance professional capabilities. This was launched with a career development week that involved external subject matter experts presenting industry trends and career opportunities across specialist areas.
A management training programme was launched in parallel, focused on strengthening the management skills required to support career development across the bank and create a fair and consistent management culture that values employees.
A mentorship programme was introduced to support the expansion of our talent pipeline. This further strengthened the Bank’s culture by fostering cross-organisational relationships, aligning 25 mentees with experienced mentors to support long-term growth. These mentoring sessions received positive feedback across the board, with comments such as: “The programme helped me resolve a range of issues related to work, engagement with senior leadership while boosting my self-confidence,” and “Outstanding programme and impressive initiative from the Bank.”
Leadership development was also prioritised through the Manager Skills programme, which equipped leaders with critical skills in feedback, performance management, coaching, and leadership styles.
The Pathways to Excellence sponsorship programme provided financial support for employees pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Additionally, Bank ABC advanced its well-being initiatives in 2024, offering support sessions, financial literacy workshops, and in-house health check-ups.
We are now looking to build on these initiatives to retain talent and broaden our talent pipeline.