Early Life and Education
Born with a passion for technology and innovation, Fares Akkad embarked on an academic journey that laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. He pursued an undergraduate degree in Biotechnology, graduating with honors (Cum Laude). Recognizing the burgeoning importance of information systems, he furthered his education with a Master’s degree in Information Systems, again earning Cum Laude honors. To round off his academic pursuits, Akkad obtained an MBA focusing on entrepreneurship and finance, graduating with the highest distinction. This diverse educational background equipped him with a unique blend of scientific knowledge, technical expertise, and business acumen.
Professional Beginnings and Management Consulting
Akkad’s professional journey commenced in the realm of management consulting. Over a decade, he collaborated with esteemed firms such as Booz & Co. and KPMG, operating across the United States and the Middle East. During this period, he engaged with a myriad of industries, offering strategic insights and solutions. His tenure in consulting honed his analytical skills and provided him with a panoramic view of global business operations.
Venturing into Media: The MBC Group Era
Transitioning from consulting, Akkad joined the MBC Group, the Middle East and North Africa’s largest media conglomerate. As the head of digital business development and distribution, he spearheaded initiatives that quadrupled the company’s digital footprint over five years. A notable achievement was his instrumental role in expanding “Shahid,” the world’s largest Arabic Video on Demand (VOD) platform. Under his leadership, Shahid experienced unprecedented growth, solidifying MBC Group’s dominance in the regional digital entertainment sector.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Advisory Roles
Beyond corporate roles, Akkad’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish, fund, and successfully exit several startups in both the U.S. and the Middle East. His hands-on experience as an entrepreneur provided him with invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of startup ecosystems. Committed to fostering innovation, he remains an active advisor and investor in the startup scene, guiding emerging ventures and collaborating with venture capitalists. His mentorship has been pivotal in shaping some of the most promising startups in the region.
Joining Meta: A New Chapter
In 2017, Akkad embarked on a new journey with Meta (formerly Facebook). He initially took on the role of Head of Media Partnerships for Facebook and Instagram in the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey. In this capacity, he collaborated closely with media entities across various verticals, including entertainment, news, sports, and social causes. His efforts were directed towards enhancing the user experience on Meta’s platforms by fostering robust partnerships and integrating innovative content strategies.
Global Impact: Director for Media Partnerships
Akkad’s exemplary performance led to his promotion as Director for Media Partnerships at Meta, where he oversaw media investments and operations across growth markets, including Asia-Pacific (APAC), Latin America (LATAM), and the Middle East and Africa (MEA). In this global role, he navigated complex and sensitive issues such as Australian intellectual property regulations, political unrest in Afghanistan and the Middle East, and the intricacies of Brazilian elections and regulations. His strategic acumen not only addressed these challenges but also fostered cohesion in newly established regions. Under his leadership, news-related revenues from growth markets surpassed those of other global regions, showcasing his ability to drive both compliance and profitability.
Championing Regional Content and Initiatives
A staunch advocate for regional content, Akkad successfully positioned the Middle East and Africa as one of Meta’s four “play-to-win” video markets. He secured $45 million in funding over three years dedicated to content development from the region. This investment not only amplified local voices but also enriched Meta’s global content diversity. Additionally, Akkad played a pivotal role in the inception of the 1Africa initiative, ensuring substantial funding and resources were allocated to Sub-Saharan Africa, thereby promoting digital inclusivity and growth in the region.
Leadership as Managing Director of MEA
In 2022, Akkad ascended to the role of Managing Director for Meta’s Middle East and Africa operations. Entrusted with the region’s profit and loss responsibilities, he serves as the primary liaison between Meta and regional policymakers and stakeholders. His leadership is characterized by a deep understanding of regional dynamics, cultural nuances, and a commitment to aligning Meta’s objectives with the aspirations of the local communities. Under his stewardship, Meta has fortified its presence, fostering collaborations that resonate with the region’s unique digital landscape.
Board Memberships and Philanthropy
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Akkad dedicates time to various board roles. He serves on the boards of prominent organizations such as Binghatti, CAFU, Enhance Fitness, Aliph Capital, and the TAKREEM Foundation. In these capacities, he offers strategic guidance, leveraging his extensive experience to drive organizational growth and impact. His philanthropic endeavors reflect a commitment to social causes, particularly in areas that intersect with technology and community development.
Personal Life and Multicultural Fluency
Residing in Dubai for the past 17 years with his wife and two children, Akkad embodies a blend of professional dedication and personal fulfillment. His linguistic proficiency spans English, Arabic, Spanish, and Portuguese, a testament to his multicultural engagements and global perspective. This linguistic versatility not only facilitates his professional interactions across diverse regions but also enriches his personal experiences and connections.
Inspiration Through Resilience and Vision
Fares Akkad’s journey from a management consultant to a leading figure at one of the world’s most influential tech companies is a narrative of resilience, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. His multifaceted career serves as an inspiration, illustrating how diverse experiences and a passion for growth can culminate in impactful leadership. Akkad continues to shape the digital landscape of the Middle East and Africa, driving initiatives that empower communities and foster sustainable development. Do follow him on Instagram.
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