In an era where technology and business strategy must seamlessly integrate, Loay M Safa stands at the forefront, continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation. As the Group CIO of Al Othaim Investment Group, a multi-billion-dollar enterprise in Saudi Arabia, he plays a pivotal role in revolutionizing IT infrastructure and fostering a culture of innovation and resilience. Having a deep understanding of both technology and people, he ensures that progress isn’t just about systems and strategy—but about empowering teams, creating meaningful impact, and shaping a future built on adaptability and excellence.
Under his leadership, Al Othaim Investment Group Digital Transformation has solidified its reputation as a market leader, contributing significantly to the economic growth of Saudi Arabia and aligning with the nation’s Vision 2030 goals.
As Loay continues to redefine business success, let’s explore his leadership journey, his approach to innovation, and his vision for the future.
A Journey Defined by Passion and Innovation
Loay Safa’s journey to leadership has been shaped by a deep passion for technology, a relentless pursuit of knowledge, and a commitment to excellence. His strong academic background, including several master’s degrees in IT and certifications in advanced technologies and business management, has provided him with a solid foundation in both technical expertise and strategic leadership.
With a career spanning global industry leaders like ExxonMobil RasGas, Qatargas, and FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Loay has honed his expertise in IT leadership, business continuity, and digital transformation. His ability to blend cutting-edge technology with business strategy has positioned him as a trailblazer in the world of business.
“Leadership is a constant learning process,” he reflects. “In a world where technology evolves rapidly, staying ahead requires curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning.” It is this principle that have guided him throughout his career, helping him navigate challenges and build high-performing teams.
Transforming Business Through Leadership
Loay’s leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in collaboration and transformation. He believes in empowering his team by giving them the tools and autonomy to excel while maintaining a clear vision and direction. Over the years, his leadership has evolved from being more directive to becoming a coach and mentor.
“I have also practiced situational and servant leadership throughout the years. I’ve learned to trust the expertise of my team, encourage innovation, and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.”
Driving Digital Transformation at Al Othaim Investment Group
Al Othaim Investment Company is a leader in retail, real estate, and hospitality in Saudi Arabia. It operates diverse business lines, including fashion stores, entertainment venues, cinemas, food franchises, and large-scale malls.
As Group CIO, Loay has led Al Othaim Investment Group through an ambitious digital transformation journey, ensuring that the company remains agile, customer-focused, and future-ready. By implementing cutting-edge enterprise solutions like Dynamics 365, strengthening cybersecurity with AI-driven tools like Darktrace, and developing customer-focused platforms such as the Othaim+ app, he has streamlined operations and improved customer engagement. Beyond technology, Loay’s leadership fosters a culture of adaptability and innovation, ensuring that Al Othaim Investment Group remains a trusted name in the region.
“Innovation, for me, is about solving problems creatively and staying ahead of the curve. I encourage my team to experiment, learn from failures, and think beyond the conventional.”
Inclusive Leadership: Fostering Diversity and Inclusion
Loay strongly believes that diversity and inclusion are the cornerstones of business innovation. At Al Othaim Investment, he has championed initiatives that promote equal opportunities for all, celebrating different perspectives, and fostering a workplace culture of respect and inclusion. Initiatives like mentoring programs and inclusive hiring practices have been instrumental in building a diverse and high-performing team.
Future-Proofing the Business
In today’s fast-changing business environment, future-proofing requires a combination of strategic foresight, technological innovation, and cultural development. Loay has taken a proactive approach to ensuring Al Othaim Investment remains at the forefront.
By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning, Al Othaim Investment Group focuses on anticipating market trends and continuously innovating customer experiences. It has further streamlined operations, enhancing efficiency and productivity across all business divisions. However, true progress goes beyond technology—it lies in investing in people. Through continuous training and development, the company ensures that the workforce is equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a fast-changing business environment.
Leaving a Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
For Loay M Safa, leadership is about more than just achieving business success—it’s about creating lasting impact, inspiring future leaders, and driving meaningful change.
His vision is to leave behind a legacy of innovation, resilience, and a strong foundation for future growth, ensuring that Al Othaim Investment remains a market leader for generations to come.
His advice to aspiring leaders is simple yet powerful:
“Stay curious and adaptable. Never stop learning, whether it’s about emerging technologies or new leadership techniques. Build strong relationships, listen actively, and lead with empathy. Remember that your role is not just about managing systems but enabling the business to achieve its goals. Be a problem-solver, think strategically, and always keep the big picture in mind.”
