Barrak Al-Nakkas: A Visionary Redefining Human Capital Management in Kuwait’s Banking Sector
We are thrilled to feature Barrak Al-Nakkas, the dynamic Director of Talent Acquisition and Total Rewards Management at Warba Bank, in this edition of “Leaders 50 Under 50.” Barrak isn’t just navigating the HR landscape; he’s transforming it, pioneering innovative strategies that seamlessly integrate technology with human-centric practices within Kuwait’s banking sector.

An Educational Journey Rooted in Excellence
Barrak’s commitment to excellence is evident in his impressive educational background. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Organization Behavior and Management from Kuwait University, laying the foundation for his future success. Driven by a thirst for knowledge and strategic insight, he pursued executive education programs at esteemed institutions, including The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, INSEAD, and the prestigious Harvard Executive Program, solidifying his leadership capabilities and strategic vision.

A Proven Track Record of Success
With over 15 years of experience in the banking industry, Barrak has consistently delivered strategic and innovative HR solutions that align with business objectives and values. Before joining Warba Bank, he honed his expertise at the National Bank of Kuwait, where he held various positions, including Compensation and Benefits Manager and Senior Compensation & ODD Analyst. These roles allowed him to develop a deep understanding of compensation structures, organizational development, and the importance of aligning HR strategies with overall business goals. His early career also includes experience at ABYAT, where he served in quality assurance and performance development roles, showcasing his versatility and commitment to operational excellence.

Pioneering Projects and Innovative Initiatives
Barrak’s innovative spirit is exemplified by the groundbreaking projects he has spearheaded at Warba Bank:

Warba World 3D Virtual Immersive Experience: He led the implementation of Kuwait’s first virtual reality recruitment process, revolutionizing job applications and attracting top talent through an engaging virtual environment.

Fayez Application in Warba Bank Career Experience 2.0: Barrak digitized the talent acquisition process using virtual reality, providing fresh graduates with immediate hiring opportunities and streamlining the recruitment process.

Introducing LinkedIn to Kuwait: Under his leadership, Warba Bank introduced LinkedIn to Kuwait for the first time at the Watheefti Career Fair, connecting professionals and fostering a culture of networking and career advancement.

Warba Yard: He also contributed to the Kuwait National Day Celebration Event “Warba Yard”.

A Diverse Skill Set
Barrak’s success can be attributed to his diverse and well-honed skill set, which includes:

Strategic HR & Workforce Planning: He excels in aligning HR strategies with business objectives, ensuring optimal workforce planning and talent acquisition.

Organizational Development & Performance Management: Barrak is adept at fostering a culture of excellence through effective performance management and organizational development initiatives.

Compensation & Benefits Management: He possesses a deep understanding of compensation structures, benefits administration, and remuneration strategies, ensuring fair and competitive employee rewards.

HR Consulting & Employee Relations: Barrak provides valuable HR consulting services and fosters positive employee relations, creating a supportive and productive work environment.

Recruitment: Through this skills he is helping the Warba Bank to find best talent for the organisation

Noteworthy Achievements
Barrak’s achievements have earned him widespread recognition, including being named one of the top 200 influencers in Kuwait, ranking 69th in the HR category. He holds certifications in areas such as Transformative CX: Innovating with Service Design, Excel with LinkedIn Recruiter Assessment, and Ability and Personality Test User, demonstrating his commitment to continuous professional development and staying at the forefront of industry trends.

Barrak’s Vision for the Future
Barrak envisions a future where HR is a driving force for innovation and employee empowerment. He is passionate about fostering a culture of excellence, driving organizational change and growth, and implementing initiatives that enhance employee engagement, retention, and development. His commitment to leveraging technology and creating human-centric HR practices positions Warba Bank as an employer of choice and a leader in the banking sector.

Concluding Remarks
Barrak Al-Nakkas is a true visionary and a catalyst for change. His innovative approach to human capital management, coupled with his unwavering commitment to excellence, makes him a standout leader in Kuwait’s banking sector. We are honored to recognize Barrak in our “Leaders 50 Under 50” for his exceptional contributions, transformative leadership, and dedication to shaping the future of work.

His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring HR professionals and business leaders alike, demonstrating the power of vision, innovation, and a passion for empowering people.