Why DP World's CSO, Maha AlQattan, is Stepping Down

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Maha AlQattan, DP World's outgoing Group Chief Sustainability Officer | Credit: DP World
DP World, the global logistics provider based in Dubai, says farewell to Maha AlQattan, who served as Group CSO for eight years, but why is she leaving?

Maha AlQattan, Group Chief Sustainability Officer at DP World, has announced her departure from the company after eight years of service.

Maha's tenure at DP World was marked by significant growth and transformation, particularly in the areas of human resources and sustainability.

"After eight memorable years with DP World I have decided to move on to pursue new opportunities," Maha said in a statement.

"My journey was filled with career fulfilment and growth, I got to transform and lead two strategic global functions into business enablers - People and Sustainability."

Maha's eight years at DP World saw her transform the way the company did business | Credit: DP World

A journey of growth and impact

During her eight years at DP World, Maha witnessed the company grow from 34,000 employees to a global workforce of 113,000, spanning more than 79 countries.

This growth provided her with the opportunity to work with diverse talent on a global scale, contributing to her professional development and the company's success.

Maha's career at DP World was characterised by her leadership in two critical areas:

  1. As Group Chief People Officer, she transformed the HR function, introducing innovative practices and AI applications to enhance productivity.
  2. As Group Chief Sustainability Officer, she focused on creating a positive impact for the planet and communities, driving DP World's commitment to a sustainable future.
In the past eight years, DP World has become one of the world's largest operators of ports and cargo terminals

Maha's achievements at DP World

Under Maha's leadership, DP World became a big player in the field of sustainability whose initiatives have been covered many times in Sustainability Magazine.

The company's 'Our World, Our Future' sustainability strategy, developed in 2019, aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and focuses on key areas including climate change, community engagement and people development.

Maha set DP World's decarbonisation targets, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2040 and net zero emissions by 2050, as well as the company's Climate Change Asset Resiliency project, which is designed to monitor the impacts climate change might have on DP World's assets in the coming years.

Then, there's the organisation's Environmental Impact Strategy, its Waste Strategy and its involvement in climate finance and sustainable investments.

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Educational initiatives and partnerships

Maha's passion for education and empowerment was evident in DP World's initiatives.

The company partnered with Schneider Electric to launch the "Future Sustainability Leaders" programme, which aims to empower UAE graduates with industry knowledge and practical experience in sustainability, decarbonisation and AI. 

DP World was also sponsor of the Maiden yacht's 2021-2024 World Tour, which aims to empower girls through education and encourage them to pursue STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) subjects.

A legacy of leadership

Maha's departure marks the end of a significant chapter for both her and DP World. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on the company's approach to human resources and sustainability.

Upon her announcement, many colleagues and admirers left Maha messages of support. Gaia Arzilli, International Director of AWorld, was one such individual.

Gaia Arzilli, International Director at AWorld | Credit: AWorld

"We absolutely need more driven and committed women like you in leadership positions," she said.

Maha took the opportunity to make her own acknowledgements too.

In her farewell message, she expressed a great deal of gratitude to her mentor, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World. "I have learned and grown under his leadership and I will always cherish my time with him," she said.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World | Credit: DP World

Looking ahead

As Maha embarks on a brand new journey, it's clear that she'll leave behind a legacy of innovation and commitment to sustainability at DP World.

Whilst her successor has not yet been announced, whoever takes the role will inherit a well run office with a history of success. Her work has positioned the company as a leader in responsible business practices within the global logistics industry. DP World's next CSO will hope to have the same level of impact.

"I wish DP World all the best and look forward to a new chapter," Maha says.


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