Dr. Leila Bouamatou
Managing Director, Bank of Mauritania
Mauritania
Dr. Leila Bouamatou
In the distinguished 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023, Avance Media proudly recognizes Dr. Leila Bouamatou. At 35, she stands as the Managing Director and Board Member at Générale de Banque de Mauritanie (General Bank of Mauritania), showcasing exceptional leadership in the finance sector. Her journey from an Executive MBA to a Doctorate in Business Administration reflects a commitment to excellence that goes beyond familial ties.
After graduating from the French school Théodore Monod in Nouakchott in 2001, Dr. Bouamatou embarked on her academic pursuits at the American Business School of Lausanne in Switzerland. There, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an outstanding GPA of 3.55/4. Her quest for knowledge took her to Barcelona, Spain, where she graduated with a Master’s in Finance, specializing in Banking & Audit, from EADA Business School in 2006.
Her educational journey continued with an Executive MBA at MSB School in Tunis, culminating in her graduation in December 2012. Notably, Dr. Bouamatou furthered her academic achievements with a Doctorate in Business Administration from Temple University in Pennsylvania.
Dr. Leila Bouamatou’s professional trajectory began with a diverse range of experiences. She interned at Deloitte & Touch in Tunisia as a banking auditor, where she contributed to missions primarily at the African Development Bank. Subsequently, she worked as a financial analyst in the Corporate Department at Medicapital Bank in London, an international wholesale arm of BMCE Group.
Currently serving as the Head of the TRS Dep at GBM, Dr. Bouamatou has played a pivotal role in shaping the long-term strategy of the bank’s portfolio. Générale de Banque de Mauritanie focuses on fostering partnerships with multilateral sponsors and correspondents, catering to large, medium, and small company clients.
Despite the founding legacy of her father, Mohamed Ould Bouamatou, Dr. Bouamatou’s ascent to leadership has been marked by her own merit. Her impressive credentials, including a Master’s Degree in Finance, an Executive MBA, and a Doctorate in Business Administration, underscore her dedication to mastering the intricacies of the financial world.
Dr. Bouamatou is not only a financial leader but also a staunch advocate for gender equality in Africa. She passionately supports financial inclusion for women and aims to break down disparity barriers across the continent. Speaking about the changing landscape for women, she notes the increasing ambition and support from fathers, signalling a positive shift.
Her symbolic choice to consistently wear El-melhfa, a traditional Saharawi garment, stands as a statement against discrimination faced by women. Embracing her heritage, Dr. Bouamatou boldly challenges biases and promotes a more inclusive environment for women in Africa.
Avance Media celebrates Dr. Leila Bouamatou’s impactful contributions to African banking and her unwavering commitment to breaking down gender barriers. Her recognition in the 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023 is a testament to her exceptional leadership, academic prowess, and advocacy for a more inclusive and diverse future in the financial landscape. Dr. Bouamatou stands as an inspiration for aspiring leaders and a beacon of change in African banking and beyond.