Ali Besri appointed president of Pfizer in Saudi Arabia

Ali Besri Takes the Helm at Pfizer Saudi Arabia

After more than 23 years with Pfizer, Ali Besri embarks on a new chapter in his professional journey. The Moroccan leader has been appointed as Country President for the pharmaceutical giant’s operations in Saudi Arabia, succeeding Dr. Mohamed Fawzy.

This appointment comes after several years dedicated to emerging markets and addressing issues related to access to medicines and vaccines.

Over Two Decades at Pfizer

Ali Besri has built the majority of his career at Pfizer, having joined the company over 23 years ago. His career path has seen him occupy various roles across several emerging markets, focusing particularly on healthcare access and partnerships within the pharmaceutical sector.

Prior to his role in Saudi Arabia, he served as Vice President of Emerging Markets Access and Accord Lead. In this capacity, he was responsible for initiatives aimed at improving access to medicines and vaccines in emerging markets, while also overseeing the partnerships developed by Pfizer around these critical issues.

A Career Rooted in Morocco

The new head of Pfizer Saudi Arabia is also well-acquainted with the Moroccan market. Before taking on his international responsibilities, Ali Besri led Pfizer’s operations in Morocco and later managed the North Africa cluster.

This experience allowed him to work closely with Moroccan health authorities and various stakeholders in the healthcare sector. His time in Morocco was particularly significant in discussions surrounding access to treatments and vaccines, an area that has formed a key focus throughout his career within the pharmaceutical group.

Leading Pfizer’s Activities in Saudi Arabia

In Riyadh, Ali Besri will now be responsible for managing Pfizer’s activities in the Saudi market, as well as the group’s relationships with various players in the Kingdom’s healthcare system. His appointment comes at a time of transformation within the healthcare sector in Saudi Arabia, in the context of reforms initiated under Saudi Vision 2030.

The country is looking to develop its healthcare system, strengthen investments in the pharmaceutical sector, and increase private sector involvement. For Ali Besri, this new role marks a continuation of his commitment to emerging markets and health product access issues while leading a strategic market for Pfizer in the Middle East.