In 1980 Commercial Bank’s first full-service branch was opened at Souk Al Ahmed. A new General Manager, Finlay Moodie, was hired direct from American Express, ending Chase Manhattan’s role in providing management services. In 1981 the contract with Chase Manhattan Bank officially ended as a result of Commercial Bank’s consistent success and growth. Fully independent, the Bank was now able to build on shareholder funds, reserves and fully invest in expansion.