Almarai Signs Deals To Train Saudi Youth For Food And Beverage Market Jobs

Almarai Company has signed multiple agreements to train and qualify more Saudi youth for the food and beverage labour market. These agreements were formalised at the annual Nationalisation Ceremony 2024, organised by Almarai under the slogan "Nationalisation as a Strategic Goal". The event saw partnerships with Hail University, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities, Saudi Logistics Academy, Food Industries Institute, and Ikhaa Charity Association for Orphans Care.

The ceremony was attended by Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Bader, CEO of Almarai, along with leaders and officials from all participating entities. The executive management and directors of various company sectors were also present.

Al-Bader emphasised that nationalisation is a top priority in Almarai's comprehensive strategic plans. He noted that the company is one of the largest work environments in Saudi Arabia, employing approximately 10,000 Saudi nationals. This includes over 800 female employees and more than 500 employees with special needs.

Al-Bader further explained that Almarai's five-year investment plan (2024–2028) aims to increase investments by over SR18 billion ($4.8 billion). This initiative is designed to enhance the kingdom’s food security.

Developing human capital is crucial for the success of these plans and programmes, according to Al-Bader. He highlighted the passion and high capabilities of the nation's youth as key elements in this endeavour.

Almarai has achieved platinum and high green levels in the Nitaqat programme for nationalising private sector jobs. This success is attributed to its integrated system of initiatives and training programmes. In 2023 alone, Almarai provided over half a million training hours, boosting employee retention to 90%.

Review of Nationalisation Programmes

Fahd bin Mohammed Al-Drees, Chief Human Resources Officer at Almarai, reviewed the success of the company’s nationalisation programmes. He pointed out that Almarai works in coordination with all partners to build and develop an integrated system of qualitative training and qualification initiatives. These programmes aim to supply various sectors and departments of the company with qualified national cadres.