Investment is the cornerstone for economic growth and financial stability because it provides a critical method of resource allocation in ways that encourage innovation. Given the current dynamics of the marketplace, proper investment management means far more than just analysis of financial data; it has to do with strategic foresight in the face of risks and opportunities. One good example of this impact that thoughtful investment strategies can have, both on individual portfolios and at the level of the economy itself, is Sofia Skiredj.
Sofia has over 15 years of experience in the financial sector in Morocco, with her being a seasoned leader in investment and asset management. As the CEO of CFG Bank Asset Management from 2020, she oversees roughly 2.4 billion USD in assets and takes part in key functions in the Executive Committee of CFG Bank. Her commitment to corporate governance is also illustrated through her positions on the boards of ASFIM and Network-Economy, an organization from Switzerland committed to sustainable initiatives.
Sofia’s passion for asset management is rooted in its blend of analytical rigor and strategic foresight, and what she can do to create impact on the long-term value basis. She believes effective leadership is about trust-building and empowering teams.
We were in a discussion with Sofia on how her role as CEO will impact the bank in long-term. Let’s delve into it.
Could you please brief us about the company and its inception story?
CFG Bank, founded over 30 years ago, originated from Casablanca Finance Group, a trailblazer in Morocco’s financial markets. Guided by the core values of innovation (Al Amam), hope and patriotism (Al Amal), and trust (Al Aman), CFG Bank is known for its commitment to excellence, ethical practices, and fostering Morocco’s economic development. The bank’s mission is to provide a premium, personalized banking experience accessible to clients from diverse backgrounds.
Since the inception of the asset management industry, its subsidiary CFG Bank Asset Management has played a pivotal role, offered innovative and tailored investment solutions while maintaining a strong market position. Together, CFG Bank and CFG Bank Asset Management embody a forward-looking approach, leveraging cutting-edge tools and techniques to deliver high-value financial services across the Moroccan financial landscape.
What drives your passion for leading this company, and how does that influence your decision-making process?
Beyond the numbers, it’s the ability to navigate challenges and drive meaningful results that continues to motivate me. Leading CFG Bank’s Asset Management division is not just about achieving financial success—it’s about inspiring trust, empowering teams, and fostering a sense of purpose in everything we do. For me, leadership is deeply personal; it means creating an environment where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to push their limits.
This approach shapes my decision-making, ensuring every choice is grounded in trust, accountability, and a long-term vision. At CFG Bank Asset Management, we prioritize authentic relationships, delivering on promises, and setting the standard for integrity in the financial sector. Together, we are not only shaping the future of banking in Morocco but also building a culture where individuals thrive, challenges are embraced, and excellence becomes second nature.
Can you describe a pivotal moment in your career that significantly shaped your leadership style?
A pivotal moment in my career was during my tenure as Senior Pension Fund Manager at CIMR. Being relatively early in my career, I was tasked with presenting investment strategies to a board comprising prominent figures, including CEOs of major listed companies on the Casablanca Stock Exchange.
This experience required a careful balance of expertise and humility and pushed me to rapidly develop confidence, adaptability and meticulous attention to detail, master clear and impactful communication, and adapt to the expectations of high-level stakeholders.
It was an incredibly formative period that shaped my leadership style, teaching me the importance of preparation, strategic foresight, and building trust through transparency and professionalism.
How do you balance short-term pressures with long-term strategic goals, and what frameworks do you use to guide this balance?
We balance short-term pressures with long-term goals by staying focused on our strategic vision while remaining flexible to respond to immediate challenges.
We rely on a framework that includes scenario planning to anticipate risks, KPI monitoring to track performance, and regular alignment with stakeholders to ensure decisions serve both immediate needs and the broader vision. This approach allows for agility while driving sustainable growth.
What are the most significant challenges you’ve faced as a CEO, and how have they changed your perspective on leadership?
One of the most significant challenges I faced as CEO was taking on the role in 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Navigating the uncertainties of a global crisis forced me to adapt quickly, balance short-term survival with long-term strategic goals, and guide the organization through an unprecedented situation.
This experience taught me the value of agility, clear communication, and having a strong, supportive team. It reinforced the importance of transparency with stakeholders and staying focused on our core values, even in times of crisis. It also changed my perspective on leadership, emphasizing the need for empathy, resilience, and the ability to pivot quickly in response to changing circumstances.
What role does feedback play in your leadership approach, both in giving it to others and receiving it for yourself?
I encourage open dialogue and constructive criticism, as it fosters growth and continuous improvement. Personally, I value feedback as an opportunity to refine my leadership style and make informed decisions that benefit the organization as a whole.
How do you envision the company’s impact on its industry over the next decade, and what steps are you taking to realize that vision?
Over the next decade, we aim for CFG Bank Asset Management to set the standard for a healthy, collaborative work culture in our industry. Our strength today lies in our unique approach to management—horizontal, motivating, and centered on fostering a positive environment. By continuing to invest in an open, inclusive culture where team members feel empowered and valued, we will not only drive innovation but also attract top talent. This commitment to people-first management will be key to our long-term success and will help us remain a leading player in the industry.
