Savola Group, a strategic investment holding company in the food and retail sectors across the MENA region, has announced a leadership transition to further progress the group’s strategic transformation.

The board of directors accepted the resignation of Waleed Khalid Fatani from his position as CEO of Savola Group. The move is in line with the group’s strategic transformational direction that focuses on the food sector, following a successful tenure marked by major milestones. These include the launch of a SR6 billion ($1.6 billion) rights issue to strengthen the group’s capital position, as well as the distribution of Savola’s entire stake in Almarai to its shareholders.

Meanwhile, Sameh Mahmoud Hassan has been named the new Savola Group CEO based on the recommendation of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee. Hassan currently holds the position of the CEO of Savola Foods Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of Savola Group) since December 2018. He is a seasoned executive in the FMCG and food industries. He will continue to lead Savola Foods in addition to being group CEO.

This leadership change reflects the group’s continued evolution, with Savola Foods at the center of its future growth ambitions.

Sulaiman A.K. Al-Muhaidib, chairman of Savola Group, said: “The appointment of Sameh Hassan marks a new phase in Savola’s journey as we focus our efforts on building a scaled and integrated food platform with regional and global ambitions. On behalf of the board, I thank Fatani for his leadership and contributions. With Hassan at the helm, Savola is well-positioned to accelerate its growth in the food sector while continuing to manage its broader portfolio in a value-maximizing manner.”

Fatani said: “It has been a privilege to lead Savola during this transformative period.” 

I am proud of what we have accomplished together — from the execution of value-enhancing transactions to laying the foundation for the future with Savola Foods at the center of its future growth ambitions. I am confident that Sameh Hassan will continue this momentum and take the group to even greater heights.”

Incoming CEO Hassan said: “It is an honor to take on the role of group CEO at this pivotal time. We will continue to build on Savola’s heritage and strengths, driving sustainable growth in our food platform. I look forward to working closely with the board and our teams to execute this next chapter of our strategy.”