Mondelēz International appoints Ziad Abla as Managing Director for Saudi Arabia

Mondelēz International has appointed Ziad Abla as Managing Director of Mondelez Arabia, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Abla, a Mondelēz veteran with more than 25 years of experience across the Middle East, Africa, Turkey, and emerging markets, brings a strong track record in accelerating growth, strengthening commercial performance, and building high-performing organisations. His appointment marks a strategic step in advancing Mondelēz’s ambitions in Saudi Arabia, one of the company’s most important markets.

In his new role, Abla will lead the company’s operations in the Kingdom, setting the vision and strategy, driving category expansion, deepening partnerships, and strengthening organisational capabilities in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. He will also oversee supply chain performance to ensure agility, reliability, and excellence across the value chain, supporting market demand and long-term growth objectives.

Prior to this role, Abla served as Managing Director for the Gulf & Developing Markets (GDM), where he repositioned the business as a growth engine, delivering strong double-digit performance, market share gains, and accelerated digital commerce. His regional leadership included close oversight of integrated commercial and supply chain operations across diverse markets.

Aligned with national priorities, Abla will continue advancing Mondelez Arabia’s efforts in Saudi talent development, governance, and long-term sustainability. His experience in operational excellence, renewable energy initiatives, and culture-building is expected to further strengthen the company’s contribution to the Kingdom’s economic and social goals.

“Saudi Arabia is a market of immense opportunity, and I am honored to lead Mondelēz Arabia at such a pivotal time,” said Abla. “We will continue to invest in local talent, deepen partnerships, and drive sustainable growth aligned with the Kingdom’s broader transformation.”