Ramy Abd El Rasheed is an MBA holder with 14 years of experience in trade finance at the National Bank of Egypt. His passion for navigating the complexities of international trade helps him to deliver creative solutions for clients from around the world.
Ramy shares his experiences studying LIBF’s Certificate for Documentary Credit Specialists (CDCS) and Certificate in International Trade and Finance (CITF) –both of which have helped him to establish himself as a trusted advisor and leader in the field of trade finance.
Our trade and transaction banking qualifications are studied in over 90 countries and we provide lifelong financial education with our strategic partner ADGM Academy in the MENA region.
Why trade finance?
“As a banking professional, what got me interested in trade finance is its diverse and important role in the global economy. It involves complexity and challenge, impact and significance, and innovation and evolution.”
Which parts of the CITF and CDCS learning experience did you enjoy the most?
“Relevant and up-to-date content! Both the qualifications offered content that applies to current industry standards and practices. They give learners the tools they need to dive into their jobs or careers right away. Plus, having that up-to-date knowledge not only boosts your credibility but also opens doors in the trade finance world.”
How has CITF helped you to deliver effective trade finance solutions?
“CITF provided me with the expertise needed to offer guidance to clients involved in international trade – helping them choose suitable payment methods, organising trade finance arrangements, and tackling any trade-related issues or hurdles they might face.
It helped me understand international trade risks better, along with ways to assess and lessen those risks. It also taught me about the rules and standards set by organisations like the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), for international trade finance. This knowledge helps me follow the rules and avoid legal issues.”
How did studying CDCS improve your understanding of documentary credits? What big differences did you see before and after finishing the programme?
“Before completing CDCS, I had only a basic understanding of documentary credits and faced some challenges in optimising operational efficiency in documentary credit transactions.
However, after being awarded CDCS, I feel more confident in my ability to handle various aspects of documentary credit transactions, mitigate risks effectively, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and contribute to operational efficiency within my organisation.”
What aspects of working in trade finance do you enjoy the most?
“Trade finance often involves engaging with businesses and counterparts from around the world. This global perspective can be intellectually stimulating and provide opportunities to learn about different cultures, markets, and business practices.
Another of the most enjoyable parts of trade finance is problem-solving. Trade finance transactions can be complex, involving various parties, regulations, and risks. I enjoy the challenge and finding creative solutions to ensure smooth and successful transactions.”
From your perspective, why is continuous learning crucial in the trade finance industry?
“By prioritising continuous learning, trade finance professionals can adapt to dynamic market conditions, drive innovation, and achieve long-term success in their careers.”
How has your learning experience with LIBF been overall?
“LIBF has contributed to my personal and professional growth by expanding my knowledge, skills, and capabilities in trade finance. Completing LIBF qualifications has boosted my confidence to lead changes in trade finance during critical circumstances and challenges. Studying with LIBF can also open up new avenues for professional networking and collaboration in the sector.
How do you see the future of trade and transaction banking evolving?
“The future of trade and transaction banking hinges on digitisation and sustainability. Digitisation and automation are streamlining processes, leveraging technologies like blockchain and AI to enhance customer experience. Digitisation offers seamless collaboration among stakeholders, reducing paperwork and enabling real-time visibility. Simultaneously, there’s a rising focus on sustainability and ESG factors, with banks integrating these criteria into lending and investment decisions, catering to environmentally and socially responsible businesses.”
Learn more about our banking and trade finance qualifications.