Mohannad Samara heads Etisalat Group’s Business Development & Strategic Partnerships since 2009, and leads Etisalat Group cross-functional Big Data team. His focus in his current role is on D&D (Data & Digital) Monetization, Innovation Scouting, IoT, Commerce, Digital Media, as well as Smart Cities & Businesses digital transformation. He is also involved in several initiatives related to defining the framework of Big Data, Open and Shared Data that can empower Cities, Business, Brands and People leveraging new business models.

Prior to joining Etisalat Group, Mr. Samara worked for Etisalat UAE, a journey that started in 1998, over the course of which he held various senior positions within Etisalat UAE including; Mobile Engineering & VAS and Marketing P&S. He was also part of the management team which helped establish Etisalat Misr in Egypt, where his role included: Heading Mobile Services, Devices, Customer Experience & VAS teams as well as Senior Strategy Advisor.