Georges Barakat is a seasoned C-suite executive with a distinguished 24-year track record of propelling brand expansion and commercial success across the GCC, India, Africa, CIS markets, and Saudi Arabia. Currently serving as Director at the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in Riyadh, he oversees the Local Real Estate Investments Division with a focus on retail. His work is integral to advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by driving transformative projects in real estate and retail sectors.
Extensive Leadership in Luxury and Retail Operations
Before joining PIF in September 2023, Georges was the Chief Operating Officer of Richemont Saudi Arabia, where he was responsible for managing Richemont’s luxury maisons including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Montblanc, and others. His leadership emphasized strategic planning and operational excellence aiming to meet both short- and long-term financial objectives in a rapidly evolving market.
Georges also served as Regional Director for Alfred Dunhill Ltd, managing markets across MENA, India, Turkey, and Russia. His broad expertise encompasses commercial operations, product/service marketing, stakeholder engagement, and brand strategy development in the fashion, luxury, consumer goods, and retail sectors.
Proven Track Record of Business Growth and Team Empowerment
Throughout his career, Georges has built and led high-performing teams that embrace a customer-first philosophy. His strategic vision and business acumen have helped expand market footprints, accelerate revenue streams, and solidify brand presence in competitive international markets. He is known for leveraging his extensive network and deep market insights to create winning teams that deliver sustainable business growth.
Educational Background and Multilingual Capabilities
Georges holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Concordia University. He completed an Executive Leadership Programme at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, as well as an MBA Essentials course at The London School of Economics and Political Science. Fluent in English, Arabic, and French, Georges excels in navigating multicultural environments and forging strategic partnerships.
Leadership Philosophy
Georges Barakat believes that true leadership combines visionary strategy with operational discipline and a strong commitment to stakeholder engagement. By fostering collaboration and innovation, he strives to create remarkable customer experiences while driving business transformation.
Leadership Quote
Successful growth is rooted in strategic foresight, empowered teams, and a relentless dedication to the customer experience.
Inspired Magazine proudly features Georges Barakat among the Top 100 Inspiring Professionals, celebrating his exemplary leadership and influential contributions to retail, luxury, and real estate investment sectors in Saudi Arabia and the global market.
