BRAC Bank’s COO receives SDG pioneer award

Md Sabbir Hossain, the Deputy Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of BRAC Bank, has been awarded the prestigious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Pioneer Award 2024.

The Global Compact Network Bangladesh (GCNB) honoured him at the Sustainability Day programme at the Westin Dhaka on November 6, 2024.

GCNB is the secretariat of the UN Global Compact, the world's most considerable voluntary corporate responsibility and sustainability initiative under the United Nations. GCNB is on a mission to fulfil the SDGs by engaging with the private sector.

With over thirty years of experience in technology, operations, and retail banking, Hossain has significantly contributed to Bangladesh's banking sector with his service in leading multinational and local banks. He also serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer at BRAC Bank. Beyond his professional pursuits, he is committed to addressing poverty and promoting environmental conservation.

This recognition highlights Hossain's exemplary commitment to sustainable development and BRAC Bank's pioneering role in promoting climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable financing, and inclusive financial services in Bangladesh.

Under his leadership, BRAC Bank has undertaken impactful initiatives—digital transformation of BRAC Bank, calculation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, launch of Sustainability Report—both endorsed by the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), and unique CSR initiatives focused on climate-smart agriculture.

Commenting on the accolade, Selim R. F. Hussain, Managing Director and CEO of BRAC Bank, stated, "Sabbir's dedication to integrating sustainability into our core operations has been transformative. This award is a testament to his vision and the collective efforts of our team to drive positive change in Bangladesh in the sustainability and digital banking space. We remain committed to fostering initiatives contributing to the UN SDGs and building an inclusive, brighter, more resilient future for our communities."

The Sustainability Day event, organised by the GCNB, brought together dignitaries from corporations, NGOs, foreign missions, and other UNGC signatories. Lamia Murshed, Principal Coordinator for SDG at the Chief Advisor's Office, was the Chief Guest at the occasion. Farooq Sobhan, the UN Global Compact Network Bangladesh network representative, and Shahamin Zaman, Executive Director of GCNB, were present.

Hossain holds an Electrical and Electronics Engineering degree from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). He has also earned Executive Certifications in economic development and Inclusive Growth from the Harvard Kennedy School, USA.