3M appoints Mark Blondeel as MD in Saudi Arabia

3M, a global science-based company, has appointed Mark Blondeel as the managing director for its operations in Saudi Arabia.
Blondeel will lead 3M’s strategic plans to invest in the country following the foreign-owned trading license it received from the government recently.
“With over 33 years of experience working at 3M, he has amassed a wealth of industry and company-specific knowledge to enhance business development and operational management. His expertise in the electrical, manufacturing, research and development as well as the health care sectors will further strengthen the long-term partnership with the Saudi government in support of its Vision 2030,” a press release said.
Lars Hanseid, area vice president for central and eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa region at 3M, said: “Mark is a strategic thinker, tactical specialist and charismatic leader, we are confident that he will successfully implement our phased strategic plans with phase one underway to establish our manufacturing footprint in the country while also focusing on health care and infrastructure sectors.”
Blondeel said: “This is an exciting time to be in Saudi Arabia, especially since the Kingdom is moving steadily toward economical diversifications, investing in manufacturing, health care, research and development. We have an exceptional team here at 3M Saudi, and I am certain that we can continue our strong operational footprint adding value to government and private sector.
Phase two of 3M’s strategic development will focus on further expanding manufacturing capabilities to cover more of the local market as well as a plan to establish research and development centers in the Kingdom. Additionally, the third phase, depending on the outcome of phases one and two, will focus on building the established manufacturing footprint and technical foundation to serve local and regional markets.
3M has been present in Saudi Arabia since 1980, and provides technical support through a technical and scientific office, and operates customer technical centers and learning centers in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. With Blondeel at the helm, the company said it will aim to foster mutually beneficial relationships with key stakeholders to sustain consistent growth and development.