Marafih becomes group CEO while Al Thani promoted to CEO of Qtel Qatar

Qtel Group announced a number of senior management changes following a board meeting held June 9.

Nasser Marafih, who was CEO of Qtel Qatar, was appointed CEO of the Qtel Group, with responsibility for driving efficiencies and growth across all the group companies.

Marafih began his career at Qtel in 1992 as expert advisor from the University of Qatar, and was seconded to the organisation as strategic planning and development manager in 1994.

Since becoming CEO in 2002, Marafih has led Qtel through its transformation programme and the restructuring of the company in Qatar and across the region. During Qtel’s robust international expansion, he has held the dual roles of Qtel Qatar CEO and Qtel Group CEO – today’s announcement will enable him to focus on the key group responsibilities that will drive long-term growth for the whole business.

Taking on the role of CEO of Qtel Qatar will be Sheikh Saud Bin Nasser Al Thani, who was previously executive director of HR and general services. Al Thani joined Qtel in 1990, and, over the course of 21 years at the company, has gained a wide range of experience and knowledge across the business. In his new role, he will direct operations throughout Qatar.

Al Thani also sits on the Board of Nawras in Oman, which is part of the Qtel Group, in addition to playing a key role on a number of management and audit committees within Qtel Qatar.

Waleed Al Sayed, formerly executive director of customer services, was named as the new chief operating officer of Qtel Qatar. Having joined the company in 1987, Al Sayed has held senior roles across sales, marketing, project management, business solutions, communication and customer services within Qtel.

Nick Dent, formerly COO of Qtel Qatar, will work with Al Sayed on the transfer process, before moving to a new role within the Qtel Group.