Kabeer Naqvi

Kabeer Naqvi is a seasoned financial professional with extensive expertise in banking, fintech, and microfinance. As a technical and financial consultant, he advises financial institutions, startups, and emerging markets on strategy, operations, and digital transformation. He played a key role as the lead advisor in the recent acquisition of FINCA Microfinance Bank, a defining milestone for the industry.

Kabeer was the Chairman of the Pakistan Microfinance Network (PMN), a consortium of over 40 institutions, including Microfinance Banks (MFBs) and Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), dedicated to advancing the microfinance sector in Pakistan. Initially formed as an informal industry group, PMN is committed to expanding financial services’ scale, quality, diversity, and sustainability, fostering social and financial inclusion across the country.

His leadership experience includes serving as President & CEO of U Microfinance Bank, where he significantly expanded outreach and enhanced financial accessibility for underserved communities. Under his leadership, the bank achieved substantial growth, introduced innovative products, and strengthened its market position in the microfinance space.

Prior to U Bank, Kabeer held key roles at Tameer Bank (now Easypaisa Bank), serving as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief of Staff, and Company Secretary. His strategic insights and operational enhancements contributed to Tameer Bank’s market presence and sustainable growth.

A recognized industry expert, Kabeer has played a crucial role in launching innovative financial models. He was instrumental in pioneering easyPaisa, the world’s first bank-led branchless banking model, which revolutionized Pakistan’s financial landscape. His extensive career also includes significant positions at Ernst & Young (Jeddah), Trakker (Pvt) Ltd., Noble Computers, and Ford Rhodes Sidat Hyder & Co., with expertise spanning financial management, compliance, donor relations, and corporate finance.
Kabeer is a Chartered Accountant and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales, as well as a Fellow Member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). His professional credentials and industry contributions have earned him widespread recognition, including the Best Emerging Leader in the Corporate Sector, Creativity and Innovation Awards, and the CFO of the Year Award (2012 & 2013).

A thought leader and advocate for financial inclusion, Kabeer has represented the microfinance and banking industry at prestigious global forums, including the World Economic Forum and TEDx Islamabad. His commitment to economic empowerment and poverty alleviation continues to drive transformative change in the financial sector.