Amer Rihawi
General manager
Jeddah
Summary
Versatile and results-driven executive with over 35 years of progressive leadership experience in business development, operations, and general management across diverse sectors including construction, retail, and aviation. Known for spearheading strategic growth initiatives, establishing new business units, and leading multicultural teams. A decisive leader with deep market knowledge in Saudi Arabia and the GCC, combining financial acumen, operational oversight, and exceptional stakeholder engagement.
Overview
43
43
years of professional experience
3
3
Languages
Work History
Business Development Manager / Projects Director
Ousama Abulhasan Trading & Contracting Co. Ltd.
01.2018 - 01.2025
- - Directed commercial and operational growth strategies for trading and contracting services.
- - Oversaw end-to-end project execution, client acquisition, and vendor relations.
- - Implemented business development frameworks to enhance market reach and profitability.
General Manager
DEPA Saudi Arabia
06.2006 - 05.2018
- - Appointed by the board to establish and lead Depa's Saudi operations from inception.
- - Built brand presence and market share through strategic partnerships and high-value contracts.
- - Oversaw all departments (HR, Finance, Marketing, IT) and managed governmental affairs with full POA.
- - Strengthened client relations and ensured successful project delivery across multiple sectors.
- - Delivered consistent year-on-year growth; financial achievements available upon request.
Associate General Manager
Nizam Trading & Contracting Establishment
01.2003 - 01.2006
- - Co-founded and developed a startup focused on sanitary fit-out contracting and trading.
- - Launched a specialized gift and promotional service division, generating new revenue streams.
Retail Operations Manager
Alesayi Electronics (Panasonic)
01.2001 - 01.2003
- - Led the strategic expansion of Panasonic retail operations across Saudi Arabia.
- - Executed store rollout, site selection, and store design, ensuring brand consistency.
National Sales Manager - Consumer Goods
Alesayi Electronics (Panasonic)
01.1998 - 01.2001
- - Managed nationwide dealer networks and a sales force of over 250 employees.
- - Achieved a record sales turnover of SAR 1.118 billion through effective channel management.
Travel Agency Manager
Alesayi Group - Travel Division
01.1985 - 01.1998
- - Oversaw travel operations and built strong relationships with airline partners and corporate clients.
Ticketing Agent
Alitalia (Italian Airlines)
01.1982 - 01.1985
Education
University Diploma - Business Administration
University of Damascus
High School Certificate - undefined
Skills
- - Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
- - Financial Modeling & Forecasting Tools
Business development
Team leadership
Lead generation
Operations management
References
Available upon request.
Education & Training
- Numerous executive training courses in business management and finance
Core Competencies
- - Strategic Planning & Business Development
- - P&L Management & Financial Forecasting
- - Team Leadership & Talent Development
- - Project & Operations Management
- - Government Relations & Licensing
- - Contract Negotiation & Risk Mitigation
- - Cross-functional Stakeholder Engagement
- - Brand Building & Market Entry Strategy
Timeline
Business Development Manager / Projects Director
Ousama Abulhasan Trading & Contracting Co. Ltd.
01.2018 - 01.2025
General Manager
DEPA Saudi Arabia
06.2006 - 05.2018
Associate General Manager
Nizam Trading & Contracting Establishment
01.2003 - 01.2006
Retail Operations Manager
Alesayi Electronics (Panasonic)
01.2001 - 01.2003
National Sales Manager - Consumer Goods
Alesayi Electronics (Panasonic)
01.1998 - 01.2001
Travel Agency Manager
Alesayi Group - Travel Division
01.1985 - 01.1998
Ticketing Agent
Alitalia (Italian Airlines)
01.1982 - 01.1985
High School Certificate - undefined
University Diploma - Business Administration
University of Damascus