(Amman, 11 November 2008)Saraya Sochi Board of Directors appointed Mr. Samih Barbir, as General Director of Saraya Sochi – Russia. Joining Saraya team, Mr. Barbir brings with him a multi-national operational experience in culturally diverse environments.
Mr. Barbir's experience ranges from building high performing executive teams, to leading entities with sophisticated products and services. Talented with a strong ability to translate conceptual models into specific growth strategies, Mr. Barbir’s background includes managing joint ventures and strategic business partnerships to successful levels.
Mr. Ali Kolaghassi, Vice Chairman and CEO of Saraya Holdings, commented: “As we are expanding into different regions, we seek to hire the best in their fields of expertise, aiming for qualified individuals with diversified backgrounds.”
Mr. Barbir graduated in Business Administration with double majors in finance and marketing. The last tenure of Mr. Barbir in Vocalpad International Beirut, Lebanon, saw him in charge of business development and enhancing relations with governmental agencies, investor’s suppliers and banks, both in Romania and Canada.
Earlier in his career path, Mr. Barbir acted as Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Investment Development Authority of Lebanon (IDAL), the government agency in charge of attracting local and foreign investments to Lebanon as well as promoting exports.
Announced in early 2008, Saraya Sochi is a mixed-use destination on the shores of the Black Sea in Russia, consisting of a five star hotel and residential units as well as entertainment and retail facilities. The development is envisaged to stretch over an area of 63,000 sqm located uniquely in the central part of Sochi.