Qtels CEO Dr Nasser Marafih take over the role of CEO for Wataniya International

Qtel’s CEO Dr Nasser Marafih is to take over the role of CEO for Wataniya International following the decision by Ahmad Haleem to step down as CEO of Wataniya's international operation.

The smooth and efficient integration of Qtel and Wataniya will be a top priority for Dr Nasser who will combine roles as CEO of both Qtel and Wataniya International.

Abdullah Bin Mohammed Bin Saud Al Thani, Chairman at Qtel, commented. “It is with regret that we announce the departure of Mr. Haleem who has been a major component in the success of Wataniya. His outstanding efforts to drive Wataniya's international operations and its rapid operational expansion into Tunisia, Iraq, Algeria, Saudi Arabia and the Maldives in a span of just over four years establishes a legacy that Qtel is fortunate and proud to inherit.”

Sheikh Abdullah continued. “The decision for Dr Nasser to take the lead in Wataniya’s international operations is a very positive one for our enlarged group. As CEO of both Qtel and Wataniya International, Dr Nasser’s dual roles will provide many synergies to add value to both Qtel and Wataniya International operations, and, ultimately, it is our shared customers who will feel the benefit.” 

Qtel is steadily pursuing its international growth strategy as it seeks be a top 20 telecommunications company worldwide by 2020. The acquisition of Wataniya, in which Dr Nasser played an important role, follows a number of key acquisitions spearheaded by Dr Nasser since he became CEO in 2002, including Qtel’s deal with AT&T to gain an equity stake in NavLink, the region’s leading provider of Managed Data services, and a strategic alliance with ST Telemedia to give Qtel a strong foothold in South East Asia.  

Dr Nasser said, “I am delighted to take on the role of CEO in Wataniya International. With our two companies now part of one enlarged group, we have been making the necessary adjustments to maximize our growth potential. As CEO of both Qtel and Wataniya International, I look forward to ensuring that we pool our resources and strengths in order to reach our common goals.”

22/4/2007