Fadi Ghosn

Executive Board Member

Fadi is an accomplished senior automotive executive and board member with a proven record in driving strategic growth and creating long-term shareholder value. Throughout his career, he held C-level roles in renowned companies such as Nissan, Ford, and General Motors, with operational leadership experience spanning diverse business landscapes across key markets, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, the United States, Japan, and China. Deeply committed to driving innovation, sustainability, and profitability.
His expertise lies in navigating the automotive industry’s transformation, from the emergence of new energy vehicles to shifting regulations and evolving consumer behaviors. He has played a pivotal role in strategic planning and decision-making for medium and large automotive groups, spearheading restructuring initiatives, portfolio expansions, and revenue diversification to drive sustainable growth.

An advocate for innovation, he championed advanced digital solutions to elevate customer experiences and drive operational efficiency, enhancing the customer journey while reducing costs. With extensive knowledge of global markets, he brings valuable insights into emerging trends and the evolving retail landscape.

Recognized for his collaborative leadership style, he emphasize teamwork, diversity, and building strong stakeholder relationships at every level. With over 25 years in the automotive industry, he has developed a results-driven approach and bring fresh perspectives and strategic acumen.

The automotive industry in the GCC has historically been male-dominated. However, recent years have witnessed a transformative shift as women break through traditional barriers to assume leadership roles within this sector. This evolution not only signifies progress in gender equality but also introduces diverse perspectives that drive innovation and growth.

In KSA, the prohibition on women driving was lifted in June 2018, a monumental change that opened the doors for women’s active participation in the automotive realm. This policy shift was more than a legal adjustment; it symbolized a broader movement towards gender inclusivity in various professional fields, including the automotive industry.

Similarly, the UAE has been proactive in promoting gender equality, implementing policies that encourage women’s participation across all sectors. The government’s commitment to empowering women has led to increased female representation in industries traditionally dominated by men, such as automotive manufacturing, sales, and motorsports.

Several women have emerged as leaders in the automotive industry, serving as inspirations and catalysts for change.

  • Aseel Al Hamad: A prominent figure in Saudi Arabia, Aseel is the country’s representative at the FIA Women in Motorsports Commission and a board member of the Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation (SAMF). She made history as the first female board member of SAMF and has been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment in motorsports. Aseel taught herself to drive in Dubai before women were permitted to drive in KSA and participated in amateur racing since 2000. In June 2018, she celebrated the lifting of the Saudi female driving ban by completing a victory lap at the Paul Ricard circuit in France as a guest of Renault. She also co-founded STEER, a Saudi-licensed travel company specializing in supercar tours to promote domestic tourism through immersive automotive experiences.
    https://womensworldcoty.com
  • Nahla Al Rostamani: An Emirati female racing driver making waves in Formula 3 (F3). As one of the few women competing at this high level in motorsports, she has shattered stereotypes and demonstrated exceptional skill on the track. Her passion for racing, coupled with relentless dedication, has earned her recognition in the UAE and beyond. Nahla’s journey is an inspiration for aspiring female racers in the region, proving that women can excel in motorsports.
  • Reema Juffali: Saudi Arabia’s first female professional racing driver. She made her debut in the British Formula 4 Championship in 2019 and has since competed in international racing events, including endurance championships. As a role model, she encourages young Saudi women to pursue careers in motorsports and challenges gender norms in the region. In 2022, she launched Theeba Motorsport, a racing team aimed at increasing Saudi representation in motorsports.
  • Danah Al-Shaibani: An advocate for women’s participation in the automotive industry in Saudi Arabia. She is involved in training and educating women about driving and car maintenance, helping them gain confidence on the road. Her work contributes to breaking societal barriers and normalizing women’s active role in the automotive sector.
  • Muna Al-Osaimi: A vocal advocate for women’s participation in green mobility initiatives. Speaking at the Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024, she emphasized that women play a central role in driving positive change in the transport sector, highlighting the importance of their involvement in leadership, technical, and support roles within the industry.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite these advancements, women in the automotive industry have faced and continue to encounter cultural challenges, workplace inclusion & network opportunities. However, most local large automotive groups are committed and set targets to gender balance in leadership positions.

Looking Ahead

The journey towards gender parity in the automotive industry is ongoing. Campaigns that highlight successful women in the automotive industry can challenge stereotypes and motivate others to follow similar paths.

The automotive industry in the GCC is undergoing a significant disruption &transformation as women overcome traditional barriers to assume leadership roles. Through continued advocacy, education, and policy support, women can find their place in the driver’s seat and also can steer the industry towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.