Strategy& names Jad Hajj as new leader of Middle East business

Strategy& has appointed a new leader for its Middle East business: Jad Hajj. A long-time company member, Jad takes over the reins from now global boss George Sarraf.

Appointed effective today, Jad Hajj now leads Strategy& across the Middle East, where the consulting firm has a team of around 900 staff across offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Beirut, Riyadh, Cairo and Doha.

Based out of the UAE, he oversees the firm’s strategic ambitions, operations, client development and delivery, and talent development. “I am honored to lead Strategy&'s business across the Middle East, helping governments and organizations transform through strategy, technology, innovation, and digital solutions – driving economic development across the region.”

Jad joined Strategy& early 2005 and has during his time with the firm held several leadership roles. Prior to stepping up, he served as the leader of the Telecommunications, Media, Technology, and Digital practices in the Middle East.

In his client work, Jad specializes in helping telecom operators and technology companies develop winning strategies and build distinctive capabilities. He has particular expertise in corporate strategy, B2B digitization, as well as innovation and business development. He has authored multiple Strategy& reports and is a well-known advisor and speaker in the region.

Jad holds a bachelor’s in engineering from the American University of Beirut, a master’s in engineering from the University of Texas, and an MBA from the London Business School.

“Jad’s appointment marks an exciting next chapter for Strategy& in the Middle East. He brings the right blend of experience, sector insight, and a strong focus on client outcomes. Under his leadership, I am confident we will continue to expand our regional capabilities and help our clients navigate complex and impactful transformations,” said Hani Ashkar, Senior Partner of PwC in the Middle East.

PwC is the parent of Strategy&. The Big Four company acquired the strategy consulting firm in 2014, then operating as Booz & Company. Not much later, Booz & Company was rebranded as Strategy& to reflect its positioning on strategic transformations.

According to a recent benchmark, Strategy& is one of the Middle East’s leading strategy consulting firms, alongside the trio known as ‘MBB’ (McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group and Bain & Company). In the Middle East, Strategy& has long enjoyed a head start on its rivals – back in the 70’s it was the first of the strategy giants to operate in the region. It also was the first to establish a base in the region.

Strategy& works for clients across most major sectors, including consumer goods, retail, arts & culture, entertainment, energy, resources, government and public sector, healthcare, real estate, technology, financial services, travel and tourism.

Meanwhile, George Sarraf, who led the Middle East business through a period of strong growth since 2018, has been elevated to global leader of Strategy&.