Yanbu Aramco Sinopec Refining Company Limited (YASREF) in Saudi Arabia is setting a precedent in global legal talent development. By investing in its people, building international expertise, and creating a legal team ready for the future, YASREF serves as a powerful example of innovative talent strategies. In a pioneering move, YASREF became the first Saudi Arabia-based company to support its legal team in sitting the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) to qualify as solicitors in England and Wales. This innovative leap is being undertaken in partnership with BARBRI.
Our Strategic Vision: Investing In-House
YASREF's approach diverges sharply from conventional methods, focusing on internal growth rather than external recruitment.
Why Focus on Developing Internal Talent?
- Valuing Commitment and Long-Term Growth: YASREF believes in helping its team progress internally, which builds loyalty and keeps the best talent engaged.
- Securing a Deep Connection: It’s a smarter way to secure people who know YASREF's culture and share its vision. While external hires bring valuable, diverse skills and immediate expertise, our internally developed legal team possesses an irreplaceable, deep connection and understanding of our business. By investing in its own people through the SQE, YASREF creates a highly qualified workforce that is committed to the company’s long-term success and culture.
What Makes YASREF’s Approach Different from Others?
YASREF is taking a fresh approach. Instead of hiring externally, the company invests in its own employees. This strategy combines the team's vital regional experience with English law knowledge to create a team that is uniquely positioned for international work.
The SQE is the critical enabler:
"The SQE gives us flexibility and global relevance. It allows our team to qualify in English law without leaving the region, which is critical for a business like ours. It’s a modern pathway that fits our vision for developing talent in-house."
Enhanced Q&A: Strategy, Benefits, and the Future
We sat down with YASREF’s legal team to explore the strategic advantages and future impact of this unique SQE pathway.
Q: How does this dual qualification strategy benefit YASREF as a company and provide a competitive edge?
A: We are building a team that is adaptable, globally minded, and deeply connected to our business. This is how we stay competitive and deliver value to stakeholders. This strategy gives us a competitive edge by shaping a team that understands our business and can support our global ambitions. Our legal team doesn't just understand the law; they understand YASREF, and that makes a real difference.
Q: How does this initiative align with Saudi Arabia's national goals?
A: It aligns directly with Saudi Vision 2030. Vision 2030 emphasizes developing local talent and creating world-class capabilities within the Kingdom. Our investment in our local legal talent is a tangible commitment to this national objective.
Q: What does this mean for the future of YASREF?
A: Our approach isn’t just about today’s needs. It’s about creating a legal team that can grow with us and support our vision for years to come. We are committed to cultivating a generation that will lead the company to achieve and sustain its vision and mission, which is maximizing stakeholders’ value through operational excellence, technology, and human capital development.
Q: Who are the key participants showing the commitment to this pathway?
A: We are proud to highlight the achievements of our team members who are progressing through this pathway. Among our most promising candidates are Saad Aljuhani, Ibrahim M. Ibrahim, Imaan M. Soha, Rawah M. Al Harthi. Their commitment and expertise exemplify the values we seek to nurture at YASREF, setting a benchmark for future talent.
We are delighted to work with BARBRI to support us this mission of developing our world-class human capital.
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