In a defining moment for one of Nigeria’s most iconic beverage companies, Seven-Up Bottling Company (SBC) has officially announced the appointment of Sari El-Khalil as its new Managing Director, effective July 1st, 2025. The appointment marks the beginning of a new leadership era, as the company charts its next chapter of innovation and growth.
Sari El-Khalil steps into the role with an impressive portfolio of local and international experience. Having grown up in Nigeria and begun his career at SBC, Sari brings a deep understanding of the business and the market. His professional journey has seen him excel across sales, operations, and finance, including a transformative stint in the United States with PepsiCo after earning his MBA at NYU Stern.
Returning to SBC, Sari played a key role in leading the company’s digital transformation as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis, before becoming its first-ever Chief Transformation Officer. In this role, he spearheaded a company-wide transformation initiative that enhanced SBC’s resilience, agility, and future-readiness, efforts that have already begun to yield significant impact.
“Building on the strong foundation laid by the company’s founders, and the exceptional leadership of Ziad Maalouf, I am committed to driving innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth, always guided by our people-first ethos,” Sari affirmed in his first official statement as Managing Director.
Sari’s appointment follows the retirement of Ziad Maalouf, who led the company for nearly 18 remarkable years. Under Ziad’s stewardship, SBC experienced unprecedented growth, expanding manufacturing capacity, launching major brands like Aquafina, Lipton Ice Tea, and Supa Komando, and embedding sustainability at the heart of its operations.
From pioneering green initiatives to reinforcing the company’s position as a national leader in beverage innovation, Ziad leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a blueprint for continued success. The Board and the entire SBC family have expressed deep appreciation for his visionary leadership.
With Sari El-Khalil now at the helm, Seven-Up Bottling Company is poised to enter a dynamic new phase, blending heritage with future-focused innovation to drive lasting impact across Nigeria’s business landscape.
