New Chief Executive Officer for leading Islamic insurance company

Since 2003, Mr. Al Wazzan held the position of General Manager, Solidarity-General Takaful. In addition to his role as CEO, Mr. Al Wazzan will also continue his role within Solidarity's General Takaful division.

Just weeks after his new appointment to CEO, Mr. Al Wazzan was awarded Best Insurance Man, Middle East by the Bahrain Monetary Agency (BMA).

The Islamic insurance sector is increasingly being recognized by the world's financial industry for its market-driven initiatives, credibility and strategic growth. In order to be poised for further growth within the industry, Solidarity has heightened its focus on putting strong leadership in place to drive the company's growth and development. Mr. Al Wazzan's appointment reflects the company's emphasis on leadership, growth, and strategic initiatives that will cultivate organic international growth through partnerships.

Khalid Abdulla Janahi, Chairman of the Executive Committee, Solidarity said,

"We take great pride in announcing Sameer Al Wazzan as Solidarity's new acting Chief Executive Officer. He has grown within Solidarity's organization and has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and dedication, as well as innovation in his work within the Islamic Insurance sector. The executive committee looks forward to Solidarity's continuing growth within the industry, and wishes Sameer Al Wazzan the best of luck in his new role."

With over 24 years of international experience, Mr. Al Wazzan will be a key leader and contributor to Solidarity's strategic growth initiatives. Previously, Mr. Al Wazzan has held senior management roles at Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company, Unitag Group, and National Insurance Company. At National Insurance Company, he held various positions of during his 17 year tenure, and left the company as acting General Manager.

"I am thrilled with my new role at Solidarity, and am looking forward to working alongside the Senior Management to stimulate further growth in the GCC region and beyond. There is a lot of work to be done, but with the dynamic and dedicated team that is in place, it can be achieved. As Solidarity looks to its future, I am grateful to be able to contribute to the successes and developments yet to come."

Mr. Al Wazzan is active in a number of roles locally and internationally. He is currently the Chairman of Bahrain Insurance Association, Islamic Takaful & Re-Takaful Co. "ITRC" (Bahamas) Ltd. and Takaful Islamic Insurance Co. (Bahrain). He is on the Board of Takaful S.A. (Luxembourg), General Arab Insurance Federation "GAIF", and sits on the Coordination Committee for Gulf Insurance & Reinsurance Association.

In addition, Mr. Al Wazzan is the Vice Chairman of Arab War Risk Insurance Syndicate, and is on the Board for Specific Council for Vocational Training - Banking Sector, and the Human Resources Development Fund - Banking & Financial Sectors.

Mr Al Wazzan studied Management at Stanford University, California, USA and furthered his studies at Manchester Business School, in the UK. He is currently a member of the board of Trustees at University of Bahrain - Business College.