Amin Nasser’s path to the helm of Saudi Aramco, one of the world’s most valuable companies, is a story that defies tradition. Unlike his predecessors who often hailed from prestigious Western universities, Nasser’s journey began within the company itself.
A Saudi-educated engineer, Nasser’s career with Aramco stretches back four decades. He started as a petroleum engineer, his expertise laying the foundation for his future ascent. Nasser meticulously climbed the corporate ladder, tackling ever-increasing responsibilities. A key turning point came when he served as vice president of upstream operations, overseeing Aramco’s largest-ever capital investment program that bolstered the company’s integrated oil and gas portfolio.
Nasser’s dedication is legendary within the industry. An anecdote exemplifies this:during an industry event, the Saudi energy minister jokingly chided him for needing to get some rest by 9 pm. This work ethic, coupled with his deep understanding of Aramco’s inner workings, positioned him perfectly for the CEO role in 2015.
Nasser’s leadership has coincided with a period of significant transformation for Aramco. He spearheaded the company’s record-breaking initial public offering (IPO) in 2019, raising a staggering $29. 4 billion. This landmark deal, a cornerstone of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 plan, aimed to diversify the Saudi economy and lessen its dependence on oil. Nasser is also credited with meticulously preparing Aramco for further stock offerings, a move anticipated to bring in additional billions.
Beyond financial prowess, Nasser has emphasized technological advancements. He recognizes the need to adapt to a changing energy landscape and is actively steering Aramco towards a more sustainable future. Investments in renewable energy and carbon capture technologies are testaments to this commitment.
Nasser’s rise to prominence symbolizes a new chapter for Aramco. He is a product of the company’s own talent pool, shattering the mold of previous Western-educated CEOs. His leadership through Aramco’s historic IPO and focus on environmental responsibility solidify his reputation as a shrewd leader navigating the complexities of the global energy market.
