Olayan Alwetaid: Transforming the Future of Telecommunications with Visionary Leadership

Olayan Alwetaid is a prominent figure in the telecommunications industry, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Saudi Telecom Group (STG) since March 2021. Under his leadership, STG has cemented its position as the leading mobile operator in the Middle East region, spearheading technological advancements, driving digital transformation, and expanding into new business verticals. With over 20 years of experience in the telecom, media, and technology sectors, Alwetaid has played a critical role in reshaping the future of ICT (Information and Communications Technology), fostering innovation, and promoting digital ecosystems.

Early Career and Corporate Development Leadership

Before assuming the role of CEO, Alwetaid was instrumental in shaping STG’s strategic growth in various leadership positions. In 2018, he served as Vice President of Corporate Development, where he led the company’s inorganic growth strategy by focusing on:

• Media and advertising
• Financial services
• IT services and digital platforms
• Connectivity assets

During this period, he played a key role in expanding STG’s portfolio beyond traditional telecom services, aligning it with the rapidly evolving digital economy.

Transforming the Consumer Business Unit

Prior to becoming CEO, Alwetaid served as Senior Vice President (SVP) of the Consumer Business Unit at STG, where he spearheaded a commercial turnaround program. His leadership was pivotal in several key areas:

• Preserving STG’s mobile leadership in the highly competitive telecom market.
• Expanding the residential fiber business, significantly enhancing connectivity for millions of customers.
• Accelerating digital and non-core services, including financial services, media, and direct carrier billing.
• Enhancing customer experience through digital-first initiatives and innovative service offerings.

Alwetaid pioneered the B2C (Business-to-Consumer) concept, offering end-to-end value propositions centered on:

• Mobile and fixed connectivity
• Smartphones and digital devices
• Digital media and financial services
• Advanced billing solutions for global services

His ability to merge traditional telecom services with digital ecosystems set the stage for STG’s rapid expansion into 5G, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and IoT (Internet of Things).

Leadership During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Alwetaid’s leadership was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period of unprecedented global challenges. He successfully navigated the crisis by:

• Driving the digital transformation of all customer touchpoints.
• Enhancing the award-winning mystc app, making it a comprehensive digital services platform.
• Doubling down on 5G investments, expanding network coverage, and introducing new monetization strategies.
• Prioritizing customer needs, ensuring seamless digital experiences and uninterrupted connectivity.

His efforts not only ensured business continuity but also positioned STG as a leader in digital resilience and innovation.

Strategic Leadership as CEO of STG

Since taking over as CEO in March 2021, Alwetaid has further strengthened STG’s market leadership by focusing on:

Digital Transformation and Innovation

Alwetaid continues to drive digitization across all business segments, integrating cutting-edge cloud platforms, cybersecurity solutions, and IoT technologies into STG’s core offerings.

Expanding STGPay and Financial Services

As Vice Chairman of the STGPay Board of Directors, he has played a pivotal role in:

• Attracting major international investments into STGPay.
• Fueling demand for digital financial services through consumer-centric innovations.
• Positioning STGPay as a leading digital payment platform in the region.

Strengthening International Partnerships and Investments

Under his leadership, STG has forged strategic alliances with global tech giants, positioning itself at the forefront of the digital economy. His focus on international expansion and partnerships has boosted STG’s global influence in ICT and digital infrastructure.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Alwetaid is a strong advocate for diversity and gender equality, currently serving as the Head of the STG Women Forum. Through this initiative, he champions the empowerment of women in technology and leadership roles, fostering a more inclusive corporate culture.

Board Leadership and Governance

Alwetaid also chairs several Boards of Directors, including:

• Channels
• Intigral
• CCC (Center for Communications and Computing)

Additionally, he holds leadership positions in several key committees, guiding STG’s governance, strategy, and innovation agenda.

A Visionary in the ICT Sector

Beyond telecom, Alwetaid has an extensive background in ICT-related technologies, including:

• 5G and Next-Gen Connectivity
• Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity
• IoT and Smart Ecosystems
• AI-Driven Digital Solutions

His passion for connected societies and digital transformation continues to shape STG’s long-term vision, making it a cornerstone of regional and global innovation.

Olayan Alwetaid holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Electrical Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. He has also received numerous certifications in ICT, leadership, strategic planning, and governance, solidifying his expertise in the telecom and technology sectors.

Olayan Alwetaid’s leadership at STG has transformed the company into a global telecom powerhouse, pioneering digital services, expanding financial technologies, and revolutionizing customer experiences. His strategic foresight, technological expertise, and commitment to innovation continue to drive STG’s success in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

As STG moves towards a future defined by AI, IoT, and next-gen connectivity, Alwetaid remains at the forefront, ensuring that Saudi Telecom Group remains a leader in shaping the digital world.