Unlocking Potential: 20 Years of Banking, Innovation and Growth

I have often been asked, "Why are you so passionate about banking?" It is a question that I have contemplated over my 20-year journey. Today, I would like to share why banking has been more than a career for me. It has been a passion, a vehicle for empowerment, and a gateway to endless possibilities.

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Steve Jobs

These are the main reasons why I enjoy banking:

? Enabling Businesses and People to Flourish - One of the most rewarding aspects has been the opportunity to enable businesses and individuals to flourish. In Transaction Banking, we deal with the critical solutions that companies need to not just operate but to thrive and grow. It is about facilitating transactions that create value, drive innovation, and foster economic progress.

My journey in banking led me to initiate the Barclays Beyond Programme, a platform that has allowed me to see young talent flourish through mentorship while employees share their insights and grow together. It is a testament to the fact that banking is not just about numbers; it is about nurturing the potential within individuals and businesses.

? Exposure to Diverse Businesses - Banking has given me the privilege of exposure to an array of businesses. From startups blazing new trails to established enterprises shaping industries. Be it Harrods, Arsenal or global Financial Institutions, understanding their unique challenges and opportunities has been both humbling and enlightening.

This exposure has taught me the importance of building lasting relationships and being a trusted partner in our clients' journeys to success.

? Continuous Personal Growth - Throughout my banking career, I have had the privilege of further developing my strengths. Banking, with its ever-evolving landscape, has honed my skills in being results-driven, a communicator, and an innovative leader. It is a sector that thrives on change.

The pursuit of excellence, the need to adapt to changing circumstances, and the drive to innovate. These are not just qualities I admire; they are qualities I have embraced.

? A Global Perspective - One of the remarkable aspects of banking is its global reach. My career has taken me to multiple countries, where I have had the privilege of meeting clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. From Kuwait to South Africa, from London to Qatar, the experience has been insightful.

These interactions have reinforced my belief in the power of global collaboration and the importance of understanding the nuances of different markets.

I am excited about the future of banking and the continued opportunities it holds. My journey has been a testament to the endless potential of this industry, and I am grateful for every step along the way.

Here's to the next chapter of passion, growth, and making a meaningful impact in banking and beyond.

About the Author

Nathan John is a Corporate Banker and an award winning Social Entrepreneur based in Dubai.

Over his 20 years in banking, Nathan has developed expertise in Transaction Banking, Financial Institutions, solution delivery and developing relationships, having?worked for Barclays, J.P. Morgan, RBS, Ernst & Young and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank.

In March 2007, he founded Youth Enlightenment Limited (Y-E-L), which is a social enterprise committed to providing inspiration and empowerment to young people.?

Nathan?served as an Advisor to the Stephen Lawrence Review, chaired by Dr Richard Stone and was?a Community Cohesion Advisor to the former Mayor of Lewisham, Sir Steve Bullock.?He also contributed to the former Mayor of London, Boris Johnson's 'Time for Action' youth strategy and was a?member of the NPIA's Stop & Search Panel.

He has spoken virtually in addition to various places in Dubai, London and Paris.?Such as the Mayor’s Office, Barclays HQ, Oxford Brookes University, colleges, schools and a prison.?Nathan has also been interviewed over 150 times on BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Sky News, LBC, The Guardian plus more.?He now hosts his own TV talk show called On.Point.

Nathan has met Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his contributions and won a Barclays Citizenship award.

His leadership, drive, strategic and communication skills have allowed him to be successful both in the UK and UAE.