In the world of finance, a leader’s vision doesn’t just shape a bank’s success—it can also influence the trajectory of an entire region’s economy. At CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, one of Malaysia’s most prominent banking institutions, Novan Amirudin stands out as the visionary steering the ship toward a new horizon.
Many may not know this, but Novan Amirudin’s journey to the top wasn’t built on luck. Rather, it was forged through years of hard work, resilience, and an unshakable belief in customer-centric strategies. Rising from the ranks of the banking workforce, Novan has proven that consistent performance, strategic thinking, and adaptability can pave the way to transformative leadership.
Novan Amirudin | A Leader Forged in Real-World Banking Battles
Before joining CIMB, Novan held pivotal roles in several prominent domestic and multinational financial institutions. These years of hands-on experience honed his expertise in retail banking, wealth management, and operational strategy—skills that became instrumental when he returned to CIMB to drive key initiatives. Under his leadership, CIMB Islamic Bank and CIMB Investment Bank embarked on a sweeping realignment of their business portfolios, anchored in renewed customer value propositions.
What’s more impressive is that Novan doesn’t merely chase short-term profit numbers. Instead, he focuses on building a sustainable and resilient bank—one that can earn the trust of stakeholders while remaining future-proof in an ever-changing financial environment.
Championing Digital Innovation and ESG in Tandem
Perhaps most notably, Novan Amirudin is a rare breed of banking executive who doesn’t just talk about digital transformation—he delivers it. But what sets him apart even more is his dual commitment to green finance and digital disruption. Recognizing that the future of banking must balance profits with purpose, he has led CIMB toward becoming a champion of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
Whether it’s aligning the bank’s operations with carbon-neutral goals or prioritizing green lending projects, Novan has ensured that CIMB not only evolves technologically but also ethically. In fact, his vision helped the group secure multiple sustainability awards in 2024, further solidifying CIMB’s leadership position in the ASEAN banking space.
Transparent, Fair, and Future-Ready Leadership
Beyond his strategic initiatives, Novan Amirudin is widely respected for his open, transparent leadership style. He fosters cross-departmental collaboration and encourages a bottom-up culture of innovation, transforming CIMB into a learning organization where speed meets depth.
In addition, Novan’s forward-thinking mindset has driven CIMB to collaborate with both global tech giants and local startups. This fusion of finance and technology has enhanced the customer experience and positioned the group as a regional digital powerhouse.
The Future of ASEAN Banking Is Being Written by Novan Amirudin
Looking at CIMB’s evolution over the past few years, one name consistently emerges at the core of its transformation—Novan Amirudin. He is more than just a CEO; he is a visionary architect of a modern banking ecosystem that spans across Southeast Asia.
In a world shaped by geopolitical uncertainty, economic transitions, and digital upheaval, Novan’s leadership stands as a blueprint for the future. As he continues to strengthen CIMB’s footprint across ASEAN markets and explore new cross-border financial innovations, there’s no doubt that Novan Amirudin’s name is destined to become legendary in the world of Asian banking.