Seven-Up Bottling Company Ltd. (SBC), one of Nigeria’s leading beverage manufacturers, today announced a strategic leadership transition as managing director, Ziad Maalouf, retires after nearly 18 years of remarkable service.
Sari El-Khalil, a current SBC Board Member and chief transformation officer, will assume the role of managing director, effective July 1, 2025.
During Ziad’s tenure, SBC experienced a period of significant growth and transformation, from redefining its go-to-market strategy and expanding its manufacturing capacity, to launching new product lines, including Aquafina, Lipton Ice Tea, and Supa Komando, and pioneering sustainability efforts across Nigeria.
His leadership was instrumental in positioning SBC as a national force for innovation, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship.
Speaking on his retirement, Ziad Maalouf said: “It has been the privilege of a lifetime to lead SBC through such a transformative period.
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.”
The company’s incoming managing director, Sari El-Khalil, brings a strong mix of global experience and local insight. Sari spent his childhood years in Nigeria, where he completed his primary education before moving abroad. Sari began his career at the company and has held multiple roles across sales, operations, and finance. 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 where he spearheaded digitisation and automation efforts. He later became SBC’s first Chief Transformation Officer, leading a comprehensive transformation that reinforced SBC’s readiness for the future and positioned the company to thrive further in the years ahead.
Commenting on his new role, Sari said: “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. 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 expressed its full confidence in the transition. “Sari’s appointment reflects both continuity and new momentum,” said Faysal El-Khalil, Chairman of the Board. “His global perspective and hands-on leadership within SBC make him uniquely equipped to guide us into this next phase. At the same time, we extend our deepest gratitude to Ziad Maalouf for nearly two decades of visionary leadership.”
This transition affirms SBC’s long-term commitment to growth, resilience, and national development, anchored in values that endure and leadership that evolves with purpose. As one chapter closes and another begins, SBC remains committed to its mission to serve, inspire, and lead.
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