GEN PLUS Group appoints Wael Mahdi as chief growth officer for MENA

GEN PLUS Group appointed Wael Mahdi as chief growth officer for the Middle East and North Africa region.
GEN PLUS Group appointed Wael Mahdi as chief growth officer for the Middle East and North Africa region.
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Updated 30 September 2024
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GEN PLUS Group appoints Wael Mahdi as chief growth officer for MENA

GEN PLUS Group appointed Wael Mahdi as chief growth officer for the Middle East and North Africa region.

GEN PLUS Group, a global independent group of agencies, has announced the appointment of Wael Mahdi as chief growth officer for the Middle East and North Africa region. This key leadership role underscores the group’s commitment to expanding its presence in the region, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia and its Vision 2030 transformation. GEN PLUS Group recently established its regional headquarters in Riyadh to support this mission.

Wael Mahdi brings over 20 years of experience in communications, media and journalism to his new role. He holds a bachelor of arts in political economy from the American University in Cairo and has held various senior positions at prominent organizations such as NEOM and the Saudi Research and Media Group, where he made a significant contribution across multiple outlets. His career also includes contributions to respected publications like Arabian Business, Alwatan, The National, and Asharq Alawsat, as well as nearly a decade with Bloomberg, where he covered business and energy news across the GCC.

Sofia Panayiotaki, CEO of GEN PLUS Group, said: “We are excited to welcome Wael Mahdi to our leadership team. His extensive experience in strategic communications and content creation will be invaluable as we strengthen our role in supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and helping brands in the Kingdom and the MENA region grow and thrive.”

Mahdi added: “I am thrilled to join GEN PLUS Group at such a pivotal time of growth and transformation in the region. I look forward to contributing to the group’s mission by driving impactful content and narratives that align with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goals to spur economic activity and attract global investors.”

GEN PLUS Group is a global leader in integrated communications and holistic brand storytelling. With a diverse network of over 3,000 experts representing 67 nationalities, the group operates in more than 100 countries. GEN PLUS Group provides a comprehensive suite of services, including creative marketing, PR, digital strategy, social media and content development, all driven by its signature “PLUS” philosophy.

In Saudi Arabia, GEN PLUS Group empowers brands, and partners with groundbreaking projects and initiatives to support Saudi Vision 2030.


Google brings flagship ‘Accelerate’ program to KSA

Google brings flagship ‘Accelerate’ program to KSA
Updated 13 October 2024
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Google brings flagship ‘Accelerate’ program to KSA

Google brings flagship ‘Accelerate’ program to KSA

Google launched its flagship Accelerate program in Saudi Arabia with an event, bringing the latest advancements in AI-powered marketing to the Kingdom’s thriving business landscape.

Accelerate Saudi, held at Muvi Theatre in Boulevard Riyadh, unveiled the latest study conducted by BCG and Google, looking at AI-driven marketing maturity. The study indicates that businesses that use AI and generative AI to power data-driven marketing strategies were found to witness 1.9 times  more profitable growth and are 39 percent more productive vs two years ago. In today’s market context characterized by rising prices, market volatility, and disruptive technologies, companies seeking to increase their digital maturity are facing ever-greater challenges.

Exclusive insights from a research on Saudi consumers done by Google and Ipsos were also discussed, providing valuable information into consumer trends in Saudi Arabia and their decision-making processes using behavioral science principles. 

Basel Hijazi

“The future of marketing is here, and it’s powered by AI,” said Charbel Sarkis, country director at Google, Saudi Arabia.

Sarkis believes this presents a significant opportunity for businesses. “Every business, regardless of its current digital maturity level, must strategically assess its capabilities and plan its growth trajectory,” he urged, adding: “Investing in advanced technologies, training integrated teams, and adopting a data-oriented culture are crucial steps for not just surviving but thriving in the digital age.”

“It’s an exciting time to be a marketer using AI, through the latest tools, allowing us to understand and connect with our audience like never before,” said Basel Hijazi, retail and marketing lead at Google, Saudi Arabia. He added: “Consumers now expect companies to anticipate their needs, and businesses must leverage AI to meet these expectations effectively.”

Findings from the research on Saudi consumers revealed that 53 percent of consumers are open to AI-powered personalized recommendations in their shopping journey. Furthermore, approximately 30 percent of Saudi consumers have increased spending on leisure, entertainment, and fashion due to the growing availability of options within the country. With inflation impacting consumer behavior, 92 percent of respondents indicated changes in their spending habits, with 31 percent actively seeking sales and discounts.

Google’s Accelerate program equipped Saudi businesses with the insights and tools necessary to navigate the evolving marketing landscape and harness the power of AI for sustainable growth and success.


Rheem Middle East opens regional HQ in Saudi Arabia

Rheem Middle East opens regional HQ in Saudi Arabia
Updated 13 October 2024
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Rheem Middle East opens regional HQ in Saudi Arabia

Rheem Middle East opens regional HQ in Saudi Arabia

As part of its ongoing commitment toward its key market of Saudi Arabia, Rheem Middle East has announced the establishment of its new regional headquarters in the Kingdom. This move marks a significant milestone in the company’s dedication to servicing its customers in the country.

At the heart of this expansion is the launch of Rheem’s state-of-the-art Innovation and Learning Center in Riyadh. The ILC serves as a pivotal hub for showcasing Rheem’s latest HVAC technologies and providing specialized training programs aimed at developing the next generation of Saudi professionals. By offering comprehensive educational programs, Rheem is equipping young Saudis with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the rapidly evolving HVAC industry, emphasizing the growth of local talent and the importance of fostering a knowledge-based economy.

Rheem’s investment in Saudi Arabia reflects the company’s commitment to servicing the local market while driving innovative HVAC solutions tailored to the market. “As we approach our 100th anniversary in 2025, we are thrilled to establish our regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, which is a key market that plays an essential role in our global aspirations, and are committed to supporting the Kingdom’s growth” said Brian Hempenstall, vice president and general manager of Rheem Middle East.

As Rheem continues to innovate and grow, the new regional headquarters and the ILC will play a critical role in supporting the company’s expansion strategy, reinforcing its position as a thought leader in the Saudi HVAC industry.


GIB-Saudi Arabia to spread cancer awareness in Eastern Province

GIB-Saudi Arabia to spread cancer awareness in Eastern Province
Updated 13 October 2024
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GIB-Saudi Arabia to spread cancer awareness in Eastern Province

GIB-Saudi Arabia to spread cancer awareness in Eastern Province

Gulf International Bank-Saudi Arabia has announced a new partnership with the Saudi Cancer Foundation to spread cancer awareness and support society in providing necessary care for cancer patients in the Eastern Province.

The signing ceremony, which is part of the “Eastern in Pink Campaign,” was attended by Eastern Province Gov. Prince Saud bin Nayef, GIB Chairman Abdulla Al-Zamil and Chairwoman of Saudi Cancer Foundation May Al-Jabr, along with executives and dignitaries.

Through this collaboration, GIB-Saudi Arabia will support the foundation’s initiatives to continue its mission in delivering quality healthcare and awareness programs within the Eastern Province community.

Commenting on the partnership, Al-Zamil said: “We are pleased to collaborate with the Saudi Cancer Foundation in their mission of improving the well-being of cancer patients. This partnership is part of GIB’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and reflects our efforts to contribute positively to the community we operate in and support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

Through its CSR programs, GIB-Saudi Arabia supports many nonprofit organizations that are actively providing services to the community and contributing to community development.


Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA

Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA
Updated 12 October 2024
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Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA

Salam Mobile renews partnership with Zain KSA

The Integrated Telecom Company, known as Salam Mobile, has extended its strategic partnership with Zain KSA, a provider of telecommunications and digital services in Saudi Arabia. This newly signed agreement extends the collaboration until 2030, focusing on expanding and enhancing Salam Mobile’s services by leveraging Zain KSA’s cutting-edge hosting capabilities and advanced telecommunications infrastructure.

This collaboration aligns with Salam Mobile’s strategy to elevate user experiences, strengthen its presence, and expand its services across the Kingdom. By leveraging Zain KSA’s advanced 5G infrastructure and digital capabilities, Salam Mobile will deliver enhanced mobile solutions, while contributing to the Kingdom’s broader digital goals. The partnership also reinforces Zain KSA’s dedication to promoting digital inclusion and advancing Saudi Arabia’s telecommunications and smart services sectors. Through direct, strategic investments in innovation and expansion, Zain KSA empowers mobile virtual network operators like Salam Mobile, along with other digital service providers, to grow and actively participate in the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey.

Salam Mobile CEO Ahmed Al-Anqari said: “Our partnership with Zain KSA has been instrumental in supporting our growth and expansion plans, playing a pivotal role in our transformation as a key contributor to the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey. With the renewal of this strategic partnership, we will leverage one of the most advanced 5G networks in the region, enabling us to expand our coverage and enhance our service and product portfolio for both individuals and businesses. This move reaffirms our commitment to building strong partnerships and harnessing cutting-edge technologies to accelerate digital transformation and support the Kingdom’s broader objectives.”

Acting CEO of Zain KSA Saad bin Abdulrahman Al-Sadhan added: “We remain committed to supporting the realization of Saudi Vision 2030 and our leadership’s aspirations to transform the Kingdom into a global hub of innovation and a smart digital economy. As a leading telecommunications provider, we recognize our duty to promote digital inclusion, which enhances the daily experiences of our customers and helps them achieve their goals. Our responsibility also extends to our partners in this vital telecom sector, particularly mobile virtual network operators. Empowerment drives impact, and inclusive partnerships yield widespread benefits. This is why we are focused on creating a level playing field that serves everyone and improves the overall quality of services and solutions. In line with this vision, we are pleased to extend our strategic partnership with Salam Mobile until 2030, building on years of successful collaboration.”

The partnership between Zain KSA and Salam Mobile, begun in 2021.


New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair

New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair
Updated 12 October 2024
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New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair

New Murabba participates in Riyadh career fair

New Murabba Development Company participated in the 10th edition of the Step Ahead Career Fair in Riyadh, as part of its aim to attract the very best Saudi talent of the future. The exhibition featured a large gathering of more than 873 local and international employers within the Kingdom.

“New Murabba is committed to collaborating with various Saudi companies and sectors to attract highly skilled and ambitious talent. Our New Murabba Graduates Program is designed for both male and female graduates from local and international universities. This program aims to provide specialized and high-quality training to integrate and engage graduates, contributing to the company’s objectives and supporting Saudization plans and targets,” said Mamdouh Al-Quraishi, chief corporate services officer.

Al-Quraishi highlighted the significant engagement and attendance at the company’s exhibition pavilion, with notable interest from visitors and prospective candidates. Both male and female national talents expressed their keenness to join the New Murabba team. The company’s representatives warmly received them, addressing their queries regarding job applications and providing information about the New Murabba Graduate Program.

New Murabba is building a vibrant, modern destination in Riyadh, where innovation and technology harmonize with nature and sustainability. 

This landmark destination is set to captivate the world and pave the way for a new era in the bright future of the Kingdom.