The second largest mobile operator in Iraq, Zain has appointed Ali Al-Zahid as the new CEO of the company. An Austrian national with Iraqi roots, Al-Zahid most recently held the position of COO of Zain Iraq, which he assumed in June 2015 having joined the organization as Director of Sales in September 2013.
Al-Zahid brings 17 years of extensive experience with international telecom operators including Orange Austria, O2 Germany (Telefonica), and Zain Iraq to his new role. He also has experience in management consultancy, working with two European based firms for five years. Al-Zahid combines broad and in depth experience in organizational leadership and development, brand, marketing and commercial strategies in fast growing telecom markets across Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Ali Al-Zahid graduated with a MSc in Management & Communication, from Danube University Krems (Austria) in 2004 and is currently part of the TRIUM Global Executive MBA with the London School of Economics, HEC Paris and NYU Stern.
Mohammed Al Charchafchi, Chaiman of Zain Iraq
It is a pleasure to promote a young talented leader with Iraqi heritage to the role of CEO at an important stage of Zain Iraq’s evolution. Over the last three years he has played a vital role within the senior management ranks and proven to be a very capable professional, exceeding expectations on multiple fronts.
Scott Gegenheimer, CEO, Zain Group
Ali Al-Zahid has an outstanding track record in one of Zain’s most complex and challenging emerging markets.He has a strong background in mobile technology, strategy and management, and in exploiting commercial data-related opportunities.
