Alaa Al Ghanem is a seasoned HR leader and a passionate advocate for people development, currently serving as the Cluster Head of People and Culture at ACWA Power, a pioneering company at the forefront of energy transformation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With a career grounded in strategic human capital management, Alaa has been instrumental in driving large-scale HR initiatives aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, particularly focusing on Saudization, organizational development, and building resilient, high-performing workforces.
A Visionary in HR and Organizational Transformation
With deep expertise in strategic HR leadership, talent acquisition, learning and development, performance management, and sustainability, Alaa plays a pivotal role in shaping the people agenda across the Rabigh Cluster and NEOM projects. Her ability to align HR strategies with overarching business goals has empowered teams to deliver measurable results while fostering a workplace culture rooted in innovation, collaboration, and continuous development.
At ACWA Power, Alaa is recognized not only for her ability to lead with impact but also for her genuine commitment to mentoring and coaching talent. Her approach ensures that individuals are guided toward fulfilling career paths while also contributing meaningfully to their organizations and the broader economic landscape of Saudi Arabia.
Proven Success Across Leading Organizations
Prior to joining ACWA Power, Alaa held strategic HR positions in both local and multinational corporations. Her professional journey is marked by a series of accomplishments in HR strategy design, employee engagement, recruitment branding, localization initiatives, and operational excellence. Through each role, she has driven tangible improvements in organizational effectiveness and employee satisfaction.
What sets Alaa apart is her interdisciplinary expertise. Beyond her HR work, she served for several years as Public and Media Affairs Manager for the Saudis in USA organization, where she led impactful initiatives in organizational communication, sustainability, and environmental quality management. This unique blend of experiences has given her a holistic view of how internal culture and external reputation intersect in the journey toward excellence.
Academic Background and Professional Credentials
Alaa holds an MBA in International Business from the University of Business & Technology, complemented by a Bachelor’s degree in Business Analysis Studies. Her commitment to lifelong learning is evident in her numerous certifications, including:
- Change Management and Employee Engagement
- Executive Leadership
- Gender-Based Behaviors in Organizations
These qualifications have further enriched her capabilities in driving organizational transformation and promoting inclusive, sustainable, and people-first cultures.
Commitment to Vision 2030
Alaa’s career reflects a deep alignment with the aspirations of Vision 2030 — particularly in local talent empowerment, female leadership advancement, and building sustainable, knowledge-based economies. Her contributions to NEOM and other national megaprojects demonstrate her dedication to shaping a future where human capital is the Kingdom’s greatest asset.
With her strategic mindset, empathetic leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Alaa Al Ghanem continues to be a driving force in the transformation of people and culture in Saudi Arabia.
