Middle East Paper Company (MEPCO) has announced the appointment of Eng. Faisal Alawi Haddawi as new Chief Executive Officer, with effect from February 16, 2025. 

Announcing the leadership transition, MEPCO stated, “...pleased to announce the Board of Directors’ resolution dated January 15, 2025 (corresponding to 15 Rajab 1446H), appointing Eng. Faisal Alawi Haddawi as the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of MEPCO, effective February 16, 2025 (corresponding to 17 Shaban 1446H)...Eng. Faisal Haddawi has over 15 years of experience in C-suite roles. Previously, he served as the Chief Executive Officer in the industrial sector, where he demonstrated a remarkable ability to drive growth, optimise operations and deliver strategic transformation.”

Eng. Faisal takes over responsibilities from Rob Jan Renders, who has stepped down from the position as his assignment has ended due to retirement. Rob will continue to serve the company as a non-executive member of the company board. He had been serving as the acting CEO after the former CEO, Sami Ali Al Safran, stepped down due to retirement. The company board also extended wishes to Rob, stating, “...we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Rob Jan Renders for his efforts during his assignment as CEO of the company. Mr. Renders will continue as a non-executive Board Member.”

In his new role, Eng. Faisal brings nearly two decades of leadership experience across the leading sectors including mining, manufacturing, and FMCG. Most recently, he held the position of CEO for Abdullah Abdulaziz AlRajhi & Sons Holding Company. He also serves as a member on board of Falcon Plastic Products Company, Sulb National Company, and Aljazierah Home Appliances. Previously, he served as Group CEO at Al Rajhi Industrial Group, CEO at Falcon Plastic Products Company, CEO & Board Member at Sulb National Company, Chief Commercial Officer at Al Tuwairqi Group, and General Manager at Al Ittefaq Steel Products Company. 

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On the academic front, Eng. Faisal holds an MBA from the University of Manchester, a Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, and certifications in Alternative Investments from Harvard Business School, and Advanced Negotiation from INSEAD.