Trending 2026

Richard Ltaif | Chief Strategy & Digitalization Officer, Mobily | Board Member, Mobily Pay Richard Ltaif is a distinguished telecommunications executive with more than 20 years of experience across corporate strategy, business planning, governance and digital transformation. As Chief Strategy and Digitalization Officer at Mobily, he leads the company’s strategic agenda, corporate performance management and digitalisation efforts, supporting one of Saudi Arabia’s leading telecom operators. Richard joined Mobily in June 2025, bringing deep expertise in strategy, M&A, customer experience governance and business excellence. He also serves as a Board Member of Mobily Pay, contributing to the development of digital financial services in the Kingdom. Before Mobily, Richard spent over six years at TAWAL – Telecommunications Towers Company, where he served as Chief Strategy & Governance Officer, overseeing strategy planning, corporate performance, sustainability, legal and regulatory affairs, and governance, risk and compliance. His earlier career includes leadership roles at stc Bahrain, where he progressed from Director of Strategy Planning to Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and Chief Strategy & Governance Officer. He also served as Vice Chairman of the Board at Mena Telecom, contributing to governance and strategic oversight. A graduate of London Business School with an MBA in Finance and Cornell University with a Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering, Richard combines technical depth with strategic acumen. He is fluent in English, French and Arabic, reflecting a career built across multicultural markets. Trending 2026 recognises Richard Ltaif for his exceptional leadership in telecommunications strategy and digital transformation, commitment to governance and sustainable growth, and consistent delivery of high-impact results across the Middle East’s most dynamic markets. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996) #trending2026 #teamtrending

Bassam Kamashki, | Managing Partner, AIN Partners | CEO | CIO | Family Office & Real Estate Investment Expert Bassam Kamashki is a distinguished real estate investment and family office leader with more than 20 years of experience across the UK, USA and MENA markets. As Managing Partner of AIN Partners, he advises family offices and real estate platforms on investment strategy, governance and portfolio optimisation, providing fractional CEO and CIO support alongside board representation services. Bassam founded AIN Partners in May 2024, bringing a rare blend of institutional investment expertise and family office leadership. His practice focuses on helping private capital owners build resilient, well-governed portfolios that balance income generation with long-term growth. In addition to AIN Partners, Bassam serves as Senior Adviser to the Chairman of AWN Enterprises, a Saudi holding company with private equity businesses and strategic financial investments. He also advises the CEO of Tilal Real Estate on corporate transformation and investment growth, supporting one of Saudi Arabia’s emerging private developers aligned with Vision 2030 and the Quality of Life strategy. His board and advisory roles span the region and beyond, including Fund+ in Abu Dhabi, Northtree Investment Management in London and YAS Investments, where he supports the launch of Spartech Fund II, a venture capital fund anchored by major sovereign wealth funds and private investors. Earlier in his career, Bassam served as CEO of AlAjial Holding, a family office backed by the AlRajhi family, where he led the transformation of a ~$4 billion portfolio into an institutional investment platform. He also held senior roles at JISR Holding, Al Salam Bank-Bahrain, Ibdar Capital and Gulf International Bank, building a strong foundation in real estate asset management, investment strategy and corporate governance. A graduate of the University of Bahrain with a BSc in Civil Engineering, Bassam holds an MBA from Strathclyde Business School and is a Certified Real Estate Development Manager from The George Washington University. He is also a Real Estate Investment Professional and Certified REIT Manager. Trending 2026 recognises Bassam Kamashki, for his exceptional leadership in real estate investment and family office advisory, commitment to governance and sustainable growth, and consistent delivery of transformative results across the Middle East, UK and US markets. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996)

Tareq Alkhayyat | Vice President for Saudi Arabia, Lower Gulf & Levant Region – Lunatus - Healthcare Tareq Alkhayyat is a distinguished pharmaceutical and healthcare commercial leader with more than 25 years of experience across the Middle East. As Vice President for Saudi Arabia, the Lower Gulf and the Levant at Lunatus Healthcare, he leads commercial strategy, market expansion and operational performance across a multi-country portfolio. Tareq joined Lunatus in May 2016 as General Manager for Saudi Arabia, progressively expanding his remit to Bahrain, Lebanon, the Lower GCC countries and Jordan. His promotion to Vice President in November 2025 reflects a decade of sustained leadership and regional growth within the organisation. Before Lunatus, Tareq held senior commercial roles at Ferring Pharmaceuticals and Hikma Pharmaceuticals, where he progressed from Medical Representative to Country Manager and Commercial Excellence Manager for KSA and the GCC. His career began in 1998 as a Medical Representative at APM, building a deep foundation in field sales, market access and commercial leadership. A pharmacist by training, Tareq holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Al-Ahliyya Amman University and completed MBA studies at the University of Leicester in the UK. His expertise spans cardiology, dermatology, sales management, commercial excellence and cross-border market development. Trending 2026 celebrates Tareq Alkhayyat’s leadership in healthcare commercialisation, his commitment to building high-performing teams, and his contribution to expanding access to quality healthcare across the Middle East. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996)

Jason Bergquist | CEO, RecycleMe - North America Jason Bergquist is an experienced executive with more than 25 years of leadership across manufacturing, recycling and waste management. As CEO of RecycleMe – North America, he brings operational expertise, commercial discipline and a commitment to sustainable business outcomes to a consultancy focused on circular economy solutions, sustainable packaging and extended producer responsibility (EPR). Jason joined RecycleMe in May 2024 as Vice President USA before becoming CEO for North America in October 2025. His background combines full P&L ownership, strategic operations management and the development of high-performing teams across complex, multi-site and international environments. Before RecycleMe, Jason served as Chief Operations Officer at Woodex Bearing Company & MECO Seals and held both board and operational leadership roles at Junora LTD. His experience also includes leading operations at CLYNK’s Count & Crush business and providing independent consultancy through Bergquist Consulting. His expertise spans supply chain optimisation, global sourcing, quality management, process improvement and sustainability leadership. With experience in ISO 9001, 14001 and 18001 standards, Jason combines a structured approach to operational performance with an understanding of environmental and workplace responsibilities. A Juris Doctor graduate of John F. Kennedy University, Jason brings a legal perspective to contracts, regulatory compliance, governance, mergers and acquisitions. This foundation complements his hands-on leadership experience across industrial and resource recovery businesses. At RecycleMe, his experience connects with the company’s mission to help brands improve packaging sustainability, conserve resources and navigate EPR requirements through specialist advice and international best practices. Trending 2026 celebrates Jason Bergquist’s leadership across recycling and manufacturing, his commitment to operational excellence, and his focus on creating lasting value for customers, employees and stakeholders. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996) hashtag#trending2026 hashtag#teamtrending

Ahmed Bastawy | Managing Director, icealex | Professor of Practice, ESLSCA University | Board Member, AfriLabs Ahmed Bastawy is a distinguished innovation and entrepreneurship leader with more than two decades of experience across venture building, ecosystem development and impact-driven growth. As Managing Director and Founding Partner of ICEALEX, he leads one of Egypt’s leading innovation platforms, shaping venture creation and entrepreneurship ecosystems across Egypt, Africa, the Mediterranean and Europe. Ahmed founded ICEALEX in 2013, building a platform that connects startups, SMEs, corporates, development partners and policymakers to drive inclusive economic growth. His work spans innovation consultancy, impact-driven venture building and the design of programmes that help entrepreneurs move from ideas to sustainable, scalable impact. He is also the Founding Director of Startups of Alex Incubator, Alexandria’s first business incubator, which he established in 2016 to support early-stage ventures and strengthen the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. In 2025, Ahmed was appointed Professor of Practice in Business and Social Entrepreneurship at ESLSCA University, where he teaches social entrepreneurship, sustainable business models and impact investing. He also serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, teaching innovation and entrepreneurship within the College of International Transport and Logistics. His contributions extend across Africa through his role as a Board Member of AfriLabs, the largest network of technology and innovation hubs on the continent. Ahmed has also served as an international consultant for hub managers, supporting capacity-building programmes across North Africa and beyond. His expertise includes circular economy transformation, investment readiness, social innovation and green business development. He has advised international organisations including GIZ, UNDP, EBRD, IDRC and the Federation of Egyptian Industries on innovation strategy, hub sustainability and inclusive economic empowerment. A mechanical engineer by training, Ahmed holds a Master of Engineering from Alexandria University and an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Business Administration from UCAM Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia. His multidisciplinary background combines technical rigour with human-centred design and systems thinking. Trending 2026 recognises Ahmed Bastawy for his exceptional leadership in innovation ecosystems and venture building, commitment to inclusive growth and circular transformation, and consistent delivery of high-impact results across Egypt, Africa and the Mediterranean. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996) hashtag#trending2026 hashtag#teamtrending

Tony Nunan | UK Country Chair, Chief of Staff & Corporate Relations – Shell Tony Nunan is an energy industry leader whose career spans legal affairs, major project development, operational management and corporate relations. As Shell’s UK Country Chair and Chief of Staff and Corporate Relations, he combines national leadership with a global role supporting the company’s executive team and stakeholder relationships. Appointed Shell’s first-ever Chief of Staff in 2023, Tony took on a newly created role reporting directly to Chief Executive Officer Wael Sawan. Based in London, he brings experience across countries and cultures to the challenge of leading organisational change and strengthening corporate engagement. Before moving to London, Tony served as Executive Vice President, Integrated Gas Australia and Country Chair, following leadership roles as Vice President QGC and Vice President East, Shell Australia. His progression reflects experience across asset management, operations and the delivery of major energy projects. Tony joined QGC in 2008 as Legal Counsel before taking on responsibilities in land and community management. For the US$15 billion Queensland Curtis LNG project, he led work covering land access, native title and cultural heritage requirements, placing integrity, fairness and respect at the centre of engagement with landholders. His leadership perspective connects the delivery of reliable, affordable energy today with the trust needed to build a lower-carbon future. He emphasises adaptability, local understanding and constructive engagement with customers, governments and communities across different markets. With degrees in Land Resource Science from the University of Queensland and Law from the University of New England, alongside business economics studies at the University of Oxford, Tony brings an interdisciplinary perspective to energy leadership, balancing commercial priorities with legal, environmental and community considerations. Trending 2026 celebrates Tony Nunan’s career in energy leadership, his emphasis on stakeholder trust and his contribution to navigating change across a complex global industry. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996) #trending2026 #teamtrending

Mohammad Abandah | AVP Head of Legal, GCC – MetLife | Board Member, ACC MENA Mohammad Abandah is a distinguished legal and governance leader with more than 25 years of experience across corporate, commercial, insurance and banking law. As AVP Head of Legal for the GCC at MetLife, he leads the company’s legal, regulatory and governance agenda across the Gulf region, supporting strategic growth, compliance and risk management in one of the world’s most dynamic insurance markets. Mohammad joined MetLife in October 2025, bringing deep expertise in multi-jurisdictional legal operations, regulatory strategy and corporate governance. His mandate includes advising senior leadership on complex legal matters, supporting business expansion and ensuring robust controls across MetLife’s GCC operations. Before MetLife, Mohammad served as Chief Legal & Compliance Officer for the Middle East at Aon, overseeing legal and compliance functions across Commercial Risk, Health, Human Capital, Investment, Retirement and Reinsurance. His tenure included supporting billion-dollar negotiations, complex transactions and regulatory initiatives across the region. His earlier career includes nearly a decade as Head of Legal for the Gulf at MetLife, where he led legal operations across five jurisdictions, and a partnership at Dajani & Associates in Jordan, where he specialised in banking, dispute resolution and corporate governance. A graduate of the University of Jordan with a Bachelor of Laws, Mohammad is an In-House Counsel Certified (ICC) professional and a certified Private Mediator recognised by both the American Bar Association–Jordan and the Judicial Council of Jordan. Beyond his executive role, Mohammad is an active contributor to the legal and business community, serving as a Board Member of ACC MENA, the Emirates Insurance Association and the Multinational Companies Business Group. He has also designed and delivered more than 15 legal and alternative dispute resolution workshops for corporate clients across the Middle East. Trending 2026 recognises Mohammad Abandah for his exceptional leadership in legal and regulatory governance, commitment to compliance and risk management, and consistent delivery of high-impact results across the Middle East’s most complex legal environments. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996) #trending2026 #teamtrending

Jordan Goldstein | Co-CEO, Gensler Jordan Goldstein is a distinguished architect and design leader with more than 30 years of experience across some of the world’s most complex and influential built environments. As Co-CEO of Gensler, the world’s largest architecture and design firm, he leads the firm’s global vision, overseeing more than 7,000 professionals across 57 offices in 16 countries. Jordan joined Gensler in 1996, progressing through leadership roles including Co-Regional Managing Principal for the U.S. Southeast, Global Director of Design and Co-Firm Managing Principal before being appointed Co-CEO in January 2024. His career reflects a sustained commitment to design excellence, innovation and the development of people across the firm’s global network. His portfolio includes headquarters for Marriott International, Under Armour and the Motion Picture Association, alongside Duke Kunshan University in China, a campus he was the driving force behind. He has also transformed venues and practice facilities for professional sports teams into world-class destinations for athletes and fans. An advocate for the power of design and technology, Jordan champions the integration of generative AI, real-time collaboration and data-driven systems into the design process. His leadership has helped position Gensler at the forefront of a fast-changing industry, blending creativity with digital innovation. A Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), Jordan was named to Commercial Observer’s Power 100 in both 2025 and 2026. His thought leadership has been featured in Fast Company, Forbes, Fortune, Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a Master of Architecture and the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Jordan combines deep design expertise with a people-first leadership philosophy. He has also served as Kea Distinguished Professor at the University of Maryland and as a lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania. Trending 2026 recognises Jordan Goldstein for his exceptional leadership in architecture and design, commitment to innovation and talent development, and consistent delivery of transformative results across the global built environment. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996) #trending2026 #teamtrending

Sebastien Gillard | General Manager, Cheval Blanc Seychelles Sebastien Gillard is a distinguished luxury hospitality leader with more than 30 years of experience across some of the world’s most celebrated hotel brands. As General Manager of Cheval Blanc Seychelles, he leads the sixth Maison of the LVMH-owned ultra-luxury brand, guiding its opening, operations and continued evolution as a benchmark for Indian Ocean luxury. Sebastien joined Cheval Blanc in 2020 as Resort Manager and Director of Opening, playing a pivotal role in the development and launch of Cheval Blanc Seychelles, which opened in December 2024. His leadership helped shape the property’s identity, blending jungle immersion, ocean views and refined French-inspired service. Under his leadership, Cheval Blanc Seychelles has been recognised among the World’s 50 Best Luxury Hotels, reflecting the property’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences and design excellence. Before Cheval Blanc, Sebastien served as Director of Food and Beverage at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London, where he oversaw the profitability, efficiency and creativity of all F&B outlets, banqueting and in-room dining. His earlier career includes senior project roles at Groupe Yannick Alléno, where he contributed to the openings of Cheval Blanc Courchevel, Royal Mansour Marrakech, Shangri-La Beijing and Taipei, and the creation of F&B standards for Cheval Blanc Hotels alongside LVMH’s hotel management team. Sebastien also worked as Director of Operations for the French Pavilion at the 2015 Universal Exposition in Milan, overseeing restaurants, bars, events and banqueting operations. His consulting experience spans financial audits, business plan development and project management for hospitality investments across Europe. A graduate of École de Savignac with an MBA and a Bachelor’s in Tourism and Hospitality from the University of West London, Sebastien combines deep operational expertise with a people-first leadership philosophy. His ability to craft emotionally resonant experiences and foster strong team cultures has made him a respected voice in luxury hospitality. Trending 2026 recognises Sebastien Gillard for his exceptional leadership in luxury resort management, commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation, and consistent delivery of transformative guest experiences across Europe, the Maldives and the Seychelles. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996) #trending2026 #teamtrending

Anoop Gopal | Senior Vice President & Head, Oasis Malls – Landmark Group Anoop Gopal is a distinguished retail and real estate leader with more than 20 years of experience across the Middle East, North Africa and India. As Senior Vice President & Head of Oasis Malls at Landmark Group, he leads the strategic direction, operations and growth of one of the region’s most recognised community mall portfolios, spanning eight shopping centres across the GCC. Anoop joined Landmark Group in December 2022 as Business Head for Oasis Malls and was promoted to Senior Vice President in September 2025. His mandate includes driving asset performance, tenant mix optimisation and business development, positioning Oasis Malls as a leader in community retail across the region. Under his leadership, Oasis Malls has embraced data-driven decision-making through the implementation of Mallsense’s sales data capture system, enabling real-time evaluation of tenant performance, marketing impact and operational efficiency. Anoop has also championed innovation in leasing models, including the adoption of turnover rent strategies across different tenant categories, reflecting his forward-thinking approach to retail economics. Before Landmark, Anoop spent nearly four years at Nakheel, where he served as Director and General Manager of Leasing, overseeing leasing for Nakheel Mall projects, specialty leasing and media sales. His earlier career includes leadership roles at Americana and Apparel Group, where he drove retail expansion and real estate strategy across MENA. Anoop began his career at Line Investments & Property LLC, where he spent over a decade developing leasing strategies and managing mall portfolios across the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and India. A graduate of Ascencia Business School with an MBA in Business Administration, Anoop combines deep market knowledge with a people-first leadership style. His ability to build strong tenant relationships and deliver high-impact results has made him a respected voice in the retail and real estate sector. Trending 2026 recognises Anoop Gopal for his exceptional leadership in retail asset management and mall development, commitment to innovation and tenant success, and consistent delivery of transformative results across the GCC’s most dynamic markets. Ready to inspire others with your journey? Send your professional profile via mail teamtrendingpeople@gmail.com, For WhatsApp at https://wa.link/ro83i1 (+971 50 7362996)