BRAC Bank COO wins ‘SDG Pioneer Award 2024’

Md Sabbir Hossain, deputy managing director and chief operating officer of BRAC Bank, has been awarded the "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Pioneer Award 2024" by the Global Compact Network Bangladesh (GCNB), the secretariat of the UN Global Compact, the world's largest voluntary corporate responsibility and sustainability initiative under the United Nations.

Hossain received the award from Farooq Sobhan, network representative of the UN Global Compact Network Bangladesh, at the Sustainability Day programme at The Westin Dhaka in the capital recently, according to a press release.

The event, organised by the GCNB, brought together dignitaries from corporations, non-government organisations, foreign missions and other UNGC signatories.

This recognition highlights Hossain's exemplary commitment to sustainable development and BRAC Bank's pioneering role in promoting climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable financing and inclusive financial services.

Under his leadership, BRAC Bank has undertaken impactful initiatives, including digital transformation of BRAC Bank and unique CSR initiatives focused on climate-smart agriculture. Other initiatives include the calculation of greenhouse gas emissions and launch of a sustainability report, both endorsed by the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials.

Lamia Murshed, principal coordinator for SDGs at the Chief Adviser's Office, attended the programme as chief guest.

Commenting on the accolade, Selim RF Hussain, managing director and CEO of the bank, said: "Sabbir's dedication to integrating sustainability into our core operations has been transformative.

"This award is a testament to his vision and the collective efforts of our team to drive positive change in Bangladesh in the sustainability and digital banking space.

"We remain committed to fostering initiatives that contribute to the UN SDGs and building an inclusive, brighter, more resilient future for our communities."

Shahamin Zaman, executive director of GCNB was among those present.