The Transformation Architect.. Orange Bets on Yasser Shaker’s Expertise to Drive Growth in the MENA and Africa
In a strategic move that reflects trust and confidence, Orange Group has announced the appointment of Eng. Yasser Shaker as CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA), succeeding Jérôme Hénique, effective July 1, 2025. This new role marks a significant milestone in a remarkable career, during which Shaker led Orange Egypt through one of the most challenging periods in the country’s telecom history, delivering outstanding results despite ongoing economic headwinds.
Turning Around Orange Egypt
Since taking over as CEO of Orange Egypt in May 2018, Shaker has navigated a series of unprecedented challenges — from currency devaluation and rising operational costs to rapidly shifting market dynamics and macroeconomic volatility. Yet, under his leadership, Orange Egypt returned to a path of sustainable growth and profitability, reaffirming its position as a leading provider of integrated digital services in the country.
Shaker’s leadership was defined by a clear vision focused on digital transformation, financial service expansion, and innovation in customer experience. He spearheaded major initiatives that accelerated Orange Egypt’s digital evolution, including significant investments in network infrastructure, expansion of mobile wallet and payment services, and strategic enhancements to customer engagement. These efforts translated into stronger brand loyalty and consistent revenue growth.
Regional Experience, Proven Success
Shaker’s success in Egypt builds on a long and accomplished international career in telecom and technology spanning over 25 years. He began in the satellite communications sector before taking on key regional roles within the Orange Group, including serving as Chief Technology and Innovation Officer (CTIO) for Orange Middle East and Africa.
In that role, Shaker played a vital part in developing telecom infrastructure and boosting operational efficiency across multiple African markets. His strategic insights and technical leadership helped elevate network readiness in 18 countries, directly contributing to OMEA’s impressive double-digit growth in both revenue and EBITDAaL — positioning the region as the primary growth engine of the Orange Group.
Leading into the Future
Yasser Shaker belongs to a rare breed of leaders who transform adversity into opportunity. His view of telecommunications goes beyond connectivity — he sees it as a tool for empowering people, driving economic progress, and building a sustainable digital future.
He holds a degree in Telecommunications Engineering from Cairo University and an MBA from Rennes School of Business in France. He is also a board member of several academic and youth-focused institutions, actively supporting initiatives that enhance employability and skill development across the region.
With this appointment, Orange Middle East and Africa begins a new chapter under Shaker’s leadership — one driven by growth, innovation, and a clear ambition to solidify the company’s dominance across one of the world’s most dynamic telecom regions.
