Almarai, the Middle East's leading food company, announced today, Wednesday, that its Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Mr. Fawaz bin Mohammed Al-Jasser as the company's Chief Executive Officer, based on the recommendation of the Nominations and Remuneration Committee. Mr. Al-Jasser is scheduled to officially assume his duties on January 16, 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening the company's strategic leadership in the coming phase.
A distinguished career and accumulated experience
In a statement published on the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) website, the company explained that Fawaz Al-Jasser was chosen based on his extensive experience. He is considered one of the prominent national talents who grew up and developed within Almarai. Al-Jasser spent nearly 20 years with the company, progressing through several vital leadership positions, which gave him a deep understanding of the company's operations and corporate culture.
His previous responsibilities included overseeing strategic sectors such as bakeries, seafood, and human resources, reflecting the breadth of his operational and managerial experience. He also served as General Manager of Taybeh, a subsidiary of Almarai in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and managed the Technical Institute for Food Industries, underscoring his commitment to professional and technical development within the sector.
High academic and leadership qualifications
In addition to his professional experience, the new CEO has a strong academic background, holding a postgraduate degree in business administration from the University of Leicester in the UK. To further develop his leadership skills, Al-Jasser participated in advanced executive programs at some of the world’s most prestigious business schools, including the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Michigan Ross University, and London Business School.
Prior to returning to lead Almarai, Al-Jasser served as CEO of the National Aquaculture Group “Naqwa”, an experience that adds a strategic dimension to his expertise, especially in light of the Kingdom’s directions to enhance food security and diversify food sources.
The importance of the decision and its impact on the food sector
This appointment comes at a vital time for the food and beverage sector in Saudi Arabia and the region, as Almarai plays a pivotal role in achieving the food security targets within the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The appointment of a leader from within the company, with external and internal experience, is seen as a step to ensure the stability of operations and continued growth in local and regional markets.
This leadership transition reflects the commitment of major Saudi companies to empowering qualified national talent to lead large economic institutions, which enhances investor confidence in the Saudi financial market “Tadawul”.
It is worth noting that this decision came after the resignation of the former CEO, Abdullah Al-Badr, which he submitted yesterday, Tuesday, due to personal circumstances, according to the company's statement, thus turning one page and starting another with new and ambitious leadership.
