Salah Al Nasser, CEO – Exim Finance

By Shereen Shabnam

In the dynamic landscape of export finance and investments, few individuals stand out as prominently as Salah Al Nasser. As the visionary leader behind Exim Finance, Salah has carved a niche for himself as a trailblazer in the world of sustainability and export finance industry, spearheading projects with green initiatives that help reshape for a better future.

With a keen understanding of market dynamics and a relentless drive for innovation, Salah as a seasoned leader has positioned Exim Finance as a powerhouse in facilitating cross-border transactions, empowering businesses to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. 

He has a proven track record in investment strategies, export finance, international trade and is an expert in cultivating corporate growth and forging key relationships across industries while driving success in dynamic environments for over 25 years.

In the bustling hub of global commerce, Salah Al Nasser emerges as a beacon of excellence, navigating the complexities of export finance with unparalleled expertise and foresight. 

Born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Salah’s entrepreneurial journey began at an early age, fuelled by a passion for financial innovation and a relentless drive to make a difference in the world of business. After completing his education in Master of Business Administration, Salah embarked on a career path that would ultimately lead him to establish Exim Finance in 2017, a leading player in the field of export finance, investment, and finance facilitation services. 

Drawing on his extensive experience in banking and finance, Salah identified a pressing need for innovative solutions to facilitate cross-border trade and mitigate the inherent risks associated with international transactions. Under Salah’s visionary leadership, Exim Finance has evolved into a global powerhouse dedicated to investment and fostering sustainable projects worldwide, shaping a brighter future for generations to come. 

From export finance and Equity partnerships to risk management and advisory services, Exim Finance offers a holistic and dynamic approach when it comes to helping businesses navigate the complexities of global commerce with confidence and ease. Beyond his role as CEO of Exim Finance, Salah is deeply committed to driving positive change in the community. 

As a philanthropist and advocate for social responsibility, Salah actively supports initiatives aimed at empowering youth, promoting education, and fostering economic development in underprivileged communities. Through his leadership and philanthropic endeavours, Salah has become a driving force for change, inspiring others to give back and make a meaningful impact in the world.

According to Salah, “Choosing green isn’t just about environmental responsibility; it’s a smart financial move too! Green projects not only contribute positively to the planet but also offer long-term financial stability and resilience. In today’s world, where environmental challenges are becoming more prominent, investing in green initiatives is not just a choice but a strategic decision for sustainable growth and profitability.” His aim is to make green the new gold standard for success.

Salah’s commitment to global development is further exemplified by his role as a United Nations Ambassador, where he advocates for sustainable economic policies and practices. In this capacity, Salah leverages his expertise in finance and his passion for sustainable development to influence global policies that encourage responsible and inclusive economic growth. His efforts are particularly focused on promoting financial literacy, fostering international trade relationships, and supporting economic initiatives that benefit underdeveloped nations and communities. 

This role not only underscores his dedication to making a positive impact on the global stage but also enhances his influence as a leader in the international finance community. Exim Finance places a significant emphasis on sustainability-led projects, and one notable example of Exim Finance’s impactful investments is their involvement in Angola, to help enhance the country’s infrastructure and promote economic growth.

In Angola, Exim Finance is aiming to invest in various sectors that aspire to harness the country’s natural resources to generate clean energy. These projects not only contribute to the nation’s economic growth but also create jobs and support local communities. Through these strategic investments and innovative projects, Exim Finance under Salah’s leadership continues to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable development and economic growth across Africa, setting a benchmark for responsible and impactful investment practices.

Salah has also introduced the VerdExim Sustainability Award, a prestigious recognition aimed at fostering innovation in environmental sustainability within the export finance sector. The award team invited sustainability start-ups from around the world and received over 100 submissions. 

With the purpose of empowering future leaders and green innovation, the top three submissions were selected and supported in their initiatives put forward. This award highlights and rewards organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to eco-friendly practices and innovations that not only reduce environmental impact but also improve economic efficiency.  

By establishing this award, Salah wants to encourage startups worldwide to prioritize green initiatives and sustainable development as core aspects of their business operations.  The VerdExim Sustainability Award serves as a platform to showcase the best in eco-innovation, inspiring an industry-wide movement towards more sustainable solutions.

With over two decades of experience in export project finance, Salah’s expertise extends to investing in sustainability-led projects, including recycling and renewable energy initiatives. His vision encompasses supporting food security initiatives and those harvesting renewable energy, recognizing the critical need for sustainable solutions in today’s world. 

A key highlight of Salah’s work is his focus on recycling projects, such as the “Waste to Energy” projects, which transform waste into biogas, shaping a better future. As the global economy continues to evolve, Salah Al Nasser remains at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of trade finance and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. With his unwavering dedication to excellence and his visionary approach to business, Salah is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of finance and trade for years to come.