Elias Aad appointed as Roland Berger’s Middle East digital leader

Returning to the firm earlier this year for the second time during his career – Elias Aad has been appointed as leader of its Digital practice in the Middle East.

Having gained experience at another consulting firm, Elias first joined the German-origin strategy consultancy in 2012, focusing on engagement in the financial services, telecom and technology sectors.

During his initial spell at the firm, Elias grew the ranks to Associate Partner, and was a member of the Middle East leadership team. “I’ve always cherished my time at Roland Berger, and the firm’s growth since my departure has been nothing short of remarkable,” said Elias.  

He has now been appointed as the region’s Digital practice lead – one of Roland Berger’s key areas of focus amidst a rapidly digitising backdrop in both the public and private sector space.

“Elias has extensive experience in the digital space, a deep understanding of our clients, our company culture, and our values,” said Rene Seyger, Managing Partner of Roland Berger in the Middle East.

The new practice leader brings 15+ years of experience in strategy consulting, entrepreneurship and industry to the role, centered in the emerging tech, digital and fintech space. 

In his last role, Elias led the Strategic Growth business unit at Mastercard, founding the business unit in MENA and spearheading its growth. Earlier in his career and post his MBA studies, he co-founded and led a marketplace tech start-up as part of Rocket Internet. 

Commenting on his return, Elias said: “Having built my career in the digital and tech space and witnessing first-hand its importance in rapidly transforming the Middle East region, I’m thrilled to lead the digital practice and to continue shaping and growing a differentiated proposition that includes some frontier topics such as venture building, digital economy development, entrepreneurship, VC advisory and future of finance.”

In parallel to his role at Roland Berger, Elias is a member of Saudi Angel Investors (a network of venture capitalists he co-founded in 2021) and a member of Lebanese International Finance Executives. He previously was the President of the UAE INSEAD Alumni Association (2018 - 2021), leading the 5th largest INSEAD association globally.

Elias Aad holds an MBA degree from INSEAD Business School and an undergraduate degree in Computer and Communication Engineering from the Lebanese American University.