A Career Forged at the Intersection of Finance, Investment, and Strategic Management
At the helm of Advans Tunisie, Meriem Zine embodies a career built at the crossroads of finance, investment, and executive leadership. Appointed CEO in 2021, she made history as the first woman to lead the country’s pioneering microfinance institution.
Her professional journey spans over 18 years of diverse expertise. After four years in audit at Ernst & Young, she transitioned into private equity before joining GAT Assurances in 2010. There, she rapidly climbed the corporate ladder, ultimately becoming CEO of GAT Vie. She later expanded her impact within Tunisia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by leading investment operations for the Anava Fund at Smart Capital.
At Advans, her mandate extends far beyond traditional financial management. Her core mission is to democratize access to capital for micro-entrepreneurs and drive financial inclusion across Tunisia. Today, Advans Tunisie prioritizes entrepreneur support, responsible finance, and economic empowerment—with a strategic focus on uplifting women-led businesses.
This milestone carries particular significance on August 13, Tunisia’s National Women’s Day. By becoming the first female CEO of Advans Tunisie, Meriem Zine has helped reshape perceptions of women in leadership within a sector historically dominated by men. Her appointment serves as a powerful reminder that women in Tunisia’s economy are no longer just participants—they are decisively shaping boardrooms and driving strategic decisions.
