Dina El Dalil Interview
Dina El Dalil, a seasoned expert in banking and international business, shares insights from her career journey leading executive roles across diverse industries. With a strong academic foundation from the American University in Cairo and a career spanning collaborations with global institutions and international stakeholders, she discusses leadership, strategy, financial innovation, and the importance of bridging local expertise with international vision. This interview offers a glimpse into the mindset of a leader committed to impact, integrity, and sustainable growth.
A Purpose-Driven Path
We started the interview by asking, “Can you tell us a bit about your professional journey and what inspired your focus on banking and international business?”
Dina El Dalil replied, “My professional journey has been a blend of passion, persistence, and purposeful learning. From the early days of studying Business Administration and Economics at the American University in Cairo, I was always drawn to the intersection of finance and global affairs. The structured world of banking gave me the analytical tools I needed, while my exposure to international organizations like UNIDO, USAID, and the World Bank opened my eyes to the broader impact financial systems can have on development. Throughout my career, I’ve held executive roles across various sectors, and what’s kept me motivated is the ability to create meaningful change whether through structuring complex credit solutions or fostering international partnerships. What inspires me most is the opportunity to bridge gaps between markets, between cultures, and between public and private sectors to build systems that are not only financially sound but also socially responsible and future-ready.”
Aligning Finance with Global Vision
The UK Times: With your extensive background in the financial sector and with international stakeholders, how have you aligned financial strategies with global partnerships to ensure long-term growth?
Dina El Dalil replied, “Throughout my career, I’ve found that long-term growth comes from aligning financial strategies with a broader, international perspective. Collaborating with institutions like the USAID, UNIDO, and the World Bank has taught me how to build frameworks that go beyond numbers and focus on impact, sustainability, and risk balance. In corporate Banking, I’ve structured credit solutions that meet both local needs and international standards. These strategies helped attract foreign investment and strengthened trust with global partners. I always emphasize clarity, accountability, and flexibility in financial planning. The key is understanding the priorities of international stakeholders while staying grounded in local realities. This dual awareness has helped me create bridges between financial performance and global development goals. Long-term growth isn’t just about profitability; it’s about creating systems that evolve with both market trends and societal needs.”
Leading with Purpose
The UK Times: What are some key success principles that have guided you through your progressive career across banking and various industries?
Dina El Dalil replied, “My work has always been rooted in adaptability, empathy, and strategic thinking. Integrity and consistency build trust, especially when managing cross-border projects or working with multicultural teams. Over the years, I’ve also learned the importance of staying calm during uncertainty. Whether working in banking or collaborating with international stakeholders, being able to navigate change with confidence has made a real difference. Staying ahead is essential for navigating uncertainty and building resilient strategies in times of crisis, proactively assessing risks and opportunities, and using data-driven analysis to guide strategic decisions before any corporate transaction. It’s this forward-looking approach that serves as the most effective safeguard in a constantly changing landscape, while aligning vision with execution, and pushing for innovation even in traditional systems. And finally, communication has been my strongest tool. Being trilingual helps me bridge cultural and professional gaps and foster collaboration in every environment I step into.”
Foundations of Excellence
The UK Times: How has your education at the American University in Cairo shaped your professional journey, particularly in banking and the global approach you took in your career?
Dina El Dalil replied, “Studying at the American University in Cairo was truly foundational for my career. It gave me more than just academic knowledge. It shaped the way I think, communicate, and approach challenges. Graduating with the Highest Honors and a GPA of 3.92 wasn’t just an academic achievement; it reflected a commitment to excellence that I carried into every professional setting. The courses I took in finance, marketing, international business, and economics gave me a solid understanding of how global systems work. But equally important were the extracurricular experiences. Volunteering and working with student-led initiatives taught me teamwork, leadership, and the value of giving back. My postgraduate studies deepened this foundation, especially in banking and credit assessment. What I learned at AUC helped me not only enter the banking world with confidence but also thrive in managing and analyzing cross-border, mutually beneficial business relationships.”
Striking the Balance
The UK times: How do you balance the challenges in your profession and personal lives?
Dina El Dalil replied, “One of the most enduring challenges we face—both professionally and personally—is achieving balance. To me, success isn’t defined solely by milestones or titles, but by the ability to harmonize our ambitions with our well-being, our decision making with empathy, and our career with the personal roles we play outside of work.
For women, this balance often comes with added complexity. We’re taught to aim high, deliver flawlessly, and nurture deeply—often all at once. In our pursuit of excellence, we may unknowingly push ourselves toward unrealistic ideals of perfection. As Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, wisely said, “—“You may not be able to have it all at the same time, but you can find a rhythm that works for you.”
Time management is critical, but it’s only part of the solution. What has truly helped me is learning how to prioritize with intention, understanding that I cannot—and should not—do everything alone. Delegating effectively, trusting others, and leaning on the strength of a reliable support system have all been transformative.
Equally important is cultivating self-compassion. We often extend empathy to those around us, but rarely to ourselves. As Sheryl Sandberg has said, “Done is better than perfect.” And “You cannot do it all alone. It’s a delusion to think otherwise.” Allowing ourselves space to be human—to pause, reflect, and recharge—is essential not only for our own well-being but also for the quality of our relationships and career.
Ultimately, being fulfilled is one of the most powerful gifts we can offer our families, our teams, and ourselves. Balance is not about having it all—it’s about knowing what truly matters and making space for it.”
Sincere Advice
Lastly we asked, “What advice would you give to young professionals aiming to excel in international business and banking today?”
“For anyone entering these fields, my advice is to stay curious, be adaptable, and never stop learning. The world is changing fast, whether it’s new financial technologies, shifting regulations, or global economic shifts. It’s crucial to build a strong foundation in both technical and soft skills. Learn how to analyze data, read financial statements, and understand markets, but also develop communication, leadership, and cultural sensitivity. Don’t underestimate the value of languages. They open doors and create connections. Also, find mentors who inspire you and be open to feedback. Real growth often comes from challenges, so embrace them. Finally, always stay ethical. In your career, your reputation matters. People work with those they trust. Build relationships, listen more than you speak, and lead with purpose. Success isn’t just about climbing the ladder. It’s about making a meaningful impact while doing so with integrity and humility.” Dina El Dalil concluded
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