11 August 2008

James Wakim, Managing Director of Arab Bank Australia was recognised as Boss of the Year at The Executive PA Magazine Awards for 2008 held at the Hilton Hotel Grand Ballroom on Friday 8 August.

The Executive PA Magazine Awards originated in the UK and the awards have been in place with its UK members for many years. Friday’s gala evening was the first time this prestigious occasion has been held in Australia and was celebrated with a black tie dinner and interactive entertainment by Drum Beats.

James Wakim was nominated in the category of "Boss Of the Year" by his Executive Assistant Laura Townsend. An Executive Assistant is the same as a PA but with greater responsibilities.

"We had a fantastic response to the first Executive PA Magazine Awards held in Australia, receiving hundreds of entries to the five award categories and some entrants truly shone for their performance and dedication in the workplace. This was evident with Laura's entry of James for Boss of the Year", said James Brome, General Manager of Solutions Publishing.

Boss of the Year is a great confirmation of the successful working relationship between a PA and a Boss.

"I feel so fortunate to work with a Managing Director who is extremely generous in his support, praise and constant back up. He has worked very hard to forge a successful working relationship with his team here at Arab Bank Australia. James Wakim brings out the very best in the Arab Bank Australia team and has plenty to still contribute" said Laura Townsend.

Reasons why James Wakim was selected as the Boss of Year by the panel of judges:

• Is so positive, friendly, kind and values his staff and team. i.e. Reiterates at every Senior Management Meeting what a fantastic team he has sitting around the Board Room table;
• Everyday gives 101% excellence to Arab Bank Australia and always improving;
• Is flexible and doesn’t always make the final decision allowing staff to take ownership and contribute to the success of Arab Bank Australia. James empowers his staff to draw the best out of them. Staff are also accountable for any repercussions of their decisions.

James, his staff and family were on hand to accept the award and the Wakim family and James’ extended Arab Bank Australia family celebrated into the early hours of the morning.

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