Seven-Up Bottling Company announces Ziad Maalouf’s retirement and Sari El-Khalil’s appointment as Managing Director, marking a strategic leadership transition for the beverage giant
[dropcap]S[/dropcap]even-Up Bottling Company Ltd. (SBC), a prominent Nigerian beverage manufacturer, will see a significant change.
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Ziad Maalouf, the current Managing Director, will retire after nearly eighteen years of remarkable service to the company.
Sari El-Khalil, already a current SBC Board Member and Chief Transformation Officer, will assume the role of Managing Director, effective from July 1.
During Ziad Maalouf’s tenure, SBC experienced a period of notable growth and extensive transformation. This included redefining its go to market strategy and expanding its manufacturing capacity.
He oversaw the launch of new product lines such as Aquafina, Lipton Ice Tea, and Supa Komando. His leadership was also instrumental in pioneering sustainability efforts across Nigeria.
His contributions were key in positioning SBC as a national force for innovation, operational excellence, and strong environmental stewardship.
Upon his retirement, Ziad Maalouf reflected on his time, stating, “It has been the privilege of a lifetime to lead SBC through such a transformative period.”
He added, “I’m proud of what we’ve built, especially the culture of innovation, discipline, and shared purpose. I leave knowing the company is in capable hands and look forward to continuing my work and mission of supporting Nigerian businesses through SME Scale Up.”
t has been the privilege of a lifetime to lead SBC through such a transformative period.
The company’s incoming Managing Director, Sari El-Khalil, brings a robust combination of global experience and valuable local insight to his new role.
Sari spent his early childhood years in Nigeria, completing his primary education there before moving abroad.
He began his career at SBC and has held numerous roles spanning sales, operations, and finance within the company.
After completing his MBA at NYU Stern and gaining international experience with PepsiCo USA, Sari returned to Nigeria in 2020 as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis.
In this role, he spearheaded significant digitisation and automation efforts across the company.
He later became SBC’s first Chief Transformation Officer, leading a comprehensive transformation initiative that strengthened SBC’s readiness for the future and positioned the company for continued success in the years ahead.
Commenting on his new appointment, Sari expressed his commitment: “Building on the strong foundation laid by the company’s founders, as well as Ziad and the team, I am committed to driving innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth, guided by our people first ethos. Together, we will continue to shape the future of our industry and make a positive impact across Nigeria.”
He concluded, “As we look to the future, we carry forward the same ambition, the same values, and the same mission that has defined SBC for decades.”
The Board of SBC conveyed its full confidence in this strategic transition. Mr Faysal El-Khalil, Chairman of the Board, remarked, “Sari’s appointment reflects both continuity and new momentum. His global perspective and hands on leadership within SBC make him uniquely equipped to guide us into this next phase.”
He also extended deep gratitude to Ziad Maalouf for nearly two decades of visionary leadership.
This leadership transition affirms SBC’s long term commitment to growth, resilience, and national development, anchored in enduring values and leadership that evolves with clear purpose.
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As one significant chapter closes and another exciting chapter begins, SBC remains steadfast in its mission to serve, inspire, and lead within the Nigerian beverage industry.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
