A STOURBRIDGE banker was recognised as one of the most talented individuals in his field when he picked up a prestigious award.

Jemal Omar, aged 28, was named Birmingham Young Professional of the Year in the finance category for his outstanding contribution to the financial services industry at an awards ceremony at the ICC, Birmingham, recently.

He is Handelsbanken’s youngest ever corporate banking manager, and holds sole responsibility for the financial requirements of more than 50 corporate clients at the company's Temple Row, Birmingham branch.

Keen to continue his professional development, Mr Omar is currently undertaking a number of internal and external courses and has also recently co-founded an online recruitment business.

The former Stourbridge College student said: "I'm extremely proud to have won the award given the plethora of talent working within Birmingham's finance industry.

"I am ever thankful to my family, colleagues and friends for their ongoing support and source of motivation. It has been inspiring to see the level of talent here in the Midlands, the future of the region is in very good hands."

His proud father, Hassan Omar, aged 57, said: "It's absolutely brilliant that he has won, in terms of what he has achieved, it's remarkable."