Pankaj’s role at Gulf Islamic Investments Group encompasses leadership, strategy, business and people. His unique grasp of industry nuances and innovative eye for detail have been pivotal in the company’s increasing success. After key positions in regional asset building and investment growth, Pankaj has over two decades of experience in conceptualizing, launching and running successful investment and advisory businesses. His initial role at the National Bank of Abu Dhabi i.e., NBAD, (now known as FAB) from 2000-2004 focused on managing multi-asset investment portfolios for UHNWI worth several billion dollars, significantly enhancing the investors' portfolios. During 2004-2007, Pankaj was instrumental in starting and developing the Union National Financial Consultancy, running investment portfolios of USD 2.5 billion. In parallel, he set up Allied Investment Partners in 2007, with a USD 5 bn. debt advisory and syndication account for TDIC (including the Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi) where he was involved until 2014. Between 2012–2014, Pankaj established a private equity platform called SOUQ with AIP, IL&FS of India and Emirates NBD Capital, exiting in 2014 to co-found GII. Pankaj has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. He also holds an Advanced Professional Diploma as a Financial Times Non-Executive Director (from Pearsons/Financial Times). A firm believer in the power of encouraging new ideas and supporting education business ventures, he is also involved in numerous projects and company start-ups, as both an advisor and Board Member.