Julphar appoints new CEO to drive operational transformation and fuel growth

Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries PSC (Julphar), one of the largest pharmaceutical manufacturers in the Middle East and Africa, has announced the appointment of Essam Farouk as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), as the company drives its pioneering transformation programme across the region and beyond.

With over 27 years’ experience, Farouk will be leading Julphar’s evolution through its ongoing commitment to elevate and enhance its facilities, processes, practices and infrastructure, ensuring the company is in strong stead for a successful 2020 and beyond.

Sheikh Saqer Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Board at Julphar,said: “With his wealth of experience in the pharmaceutical industry across established and emerging markets, Dr Essam brings a proven track record of leading business transformation, strategic planning and successful hands-on strategy execution. His ability to manage a diverse organisation through challenging environments and achieving business and reputational success will ensure Julphar excels further and delivers a greater impact in the 50 markets we operate in around the world.” 

Prior to his appointment at Julphar, Farouk was the CEO at Algerian pharmaceutical company, ELKENDI, managing the corporation since its inception in 2006. Under his leadership, the company experienced exceptional growth to become the second largest pharmaceutical company in Algeria and North Africa. He was then appointed CEO for MS PHARMA Group, a position he held for seven years, guiding the company to be known as one of the top five leading pharmaceutical companies in the Middle East and North Africa. In addition, Farouk has also held senior roles at GlaxoSmithKline, Sanofi Aventis, T3A Pharma Group and Julphar Germany, accumulating a wealth of experience across both multinational and generic business environments.