Pearl Initiative appoints new executive director

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Published: Mon 22 Feb 2021, 3:23 PM

Last updated: Mon 22 Feb 2021, 5:25 PM

The Pearl Initiative, a non-profit organisation promoting a corporate culture of accountability and transparency, announced the appointment of Ranya Saadawi as its new executive director.

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Saadawi has extensive experience in the field of social entrepreneurship, impact investment and international development, with a particular focus on the Middle East and North Africa.


Saadawi started her career on Wall Street, where she consulted for companies in consumer-packaged goods, life sciences and manufacturing industries.

She will work closely with the Pearl Initiative Board of Governors and the organisation's growing community of partner companies to advance the mission of enhancing corporate governance in the Gulf region.


Badr Jafar, founder of the Pearl Initiative said: "Over the past 10 years, the Pearl Initiative has been a leading player in helping to champion good corporate governance practices across the Gulf region. Reflecting on the organisation's journey to-date, we have updated our strategy, marking a renewed pledge to continue to advance the business case for strong corporate governance practices in the region. The appointment of Ranya is a testament not only to her diverse experience and abilities to advance our renewed pledge but also to the board's commitment to succession planning as a key pillar of corporate governance. On behalf of the Pearl Initiative's Board of Governors, I would like to thank our departing executive director Yasmine Omari for her contribution during her tenure with the organisation."

The Pearl Initiative's proactive response to the Covid-19 pandemic enabled it to adapt its programming, and the organisation successfully delivered 75 virtual webinars and workshops, reaching thousands of participants across the Gulf region, including the vibrant student community.


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