Sari El-Khalil takes over leadership from Ziad Maalouf

Fresh era at Seven-Up as Sari El-Khalil takes over leadership from Ziad Maalouf

Seven-Up Bottling Company Limited introduces a major leadership change that signals a new chapter for the Nigerian beverage giant.

Managing Director Ziad Maalouf will retire after nearly 18 years of service marked by strategic innovation and business expansion. In his place, Sari El-Khalil, who currently serves as a Board Member and Chief Transformation Officer, will assume the role of Managing Director effective July 1, 2025.

Ziad Maalouf’s tenure transforms and grows the company significantly.

His leadership redefines Seven-Up’s go-to-market strategy, expands manufacturing capabilities, and launches major product lines such as Aquafina, Lipton Ice Tea, and Supa Komando.

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He also drives sustainability initiatives across Nigeria, positioning Seven-Up Bottling Company as a leader in both innovation and environmental responsibility.

Reflecting on his departure, Maalouf expresses pride in the progress achieved under his leadership and shares optimism for the company’s future. “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,” he says.

Sari El-Khalil’s appointment marks both continuity and renewal. Having spent his early years in Nigeria before gaining global experience, Sari brings a combination of deep local insight and international perspective. He begins his career at Seven-Up and holds leadership roles in sales, operations, and finance. After earning his MBA from NYU Stern and working at PepsiCo USA, he returns to Nigeria in 2020 as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis. His leadership in digitisation and automation lays the foundation for his current role as the company’s first Chief Transformation Officer.

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As he prepares to take the helm, Sari shares his vision for the future. “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,” he says.

Board Chairman Faysal El-Khalil expresses the company’s full support for the transition, describing Sari as uniquely equipped to guide the company through its next phase. He also extends the Board’s appreciation to Maalouf for nearly two decades of visionary leadership.

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This leadership transition reinforces Seven-Up Bottling Company’s dedication to growth and national development. It honors the legacy of the past while positioning the company to thrive in a dynamic future.