Iqbal Hamzah, a seasoned leader in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and food & beverage industry, has been at the helm of the National Food Products Company (NFPC) as Group CEO since 2019. With a career spanning over 28 years, Hamzah has built an impressive track record of strategic, operational, commercial, and financial achievements. At NFPC, he is tasked with steering one of the Middle East’s leading food and beverage companies into its next phase of expansion and innovation.
A Proven Leader in the FMCG Industry
Iqbal Hamzah’s career is defined by his ability to drive growth and transformation in complex, multi-location organizations. Before joining NFPC, he served as CEO of Agthia Group PJSC and Al Ain Farms. At Agthia, he played a pivotal role in scaling operations, enhancing profitability, and strengthening the company’s market position. His leadership extended beyond the Middle East as he worked for Gillette (later acquired by Procter & Gamble) as Regional Finance Director for Russia, the Republics, and the Baltic, based in Moscow. This role gave him invaluable exposure to international markets across Asia, Europe, and the Gulf.
Vision for NFPC
As Group CEO of NFPC, Hamzah oversees a workforce of over 4,500 employees and a portfolio of iconic brands such as Lacnor, Oasis, Blu, Arla, Puck, Lurpak, Milco, Safa, and Royal Bakers. His appointment was heralded by Faraj Ali Bin Hamoodah, Chairman of NFPC, who described him as “an industry veteran and a proven leader” with extensive experience in managing large-scale organizations.
Iqbal Hamzah’s vision for NFPC is rooted in innovation and adaptability. He aims to strengthen the company’s market position while embracing rapid industry changes. Speaking on his appointment, Hamzah expressed his excitement about leading one of the region’s most reputable food and beverage groups through future opportunities. He emphasized the importance of setting clear goals and strategies while delivering innovation to meet evolving consumer needs.
Driving Expansion and Innovation
Under Hamzah’s leadership, NFPC is poised for significant growth. The company has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1971 as a dairy production facility in Abu Dhabi. Over the decades, NFPC has expanded its portfolio to include long-life milk, fruit juices (Lacnor), bottled water (Oasis), sparkling water (Blu), and partnerships with global brands like Arla Foods.
One of NFPC’s most ambitious projects under Hamzah’s tenure is the development of its “Mega Plant” at KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi). This state-of-the-art manufacturing cluster spans 752,000 square meters and integrates multiple production units under one roof. The Mega Plant exemplifies NFPC’s commitment to innovation and efficiency.
Strategic Leadership Style
Iqbal Hamzah’s leadership style is characterized by strategic foresight and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. He leverages his extensive experience in financial management to ensure sustainable growth while maintaining operational excellence. His ability to navigate complex market dynamics has earned him respect among peers and colleagues alike.
At NFPC, Hamzah places a strong emphasis on fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. He believes that investing in people is key to achieving long-term success.
Challenges and Opportunities
The food and beverage industry faces numerous challenges, ranging from supply chain disruptions to shifting consumer preferences. However, Hamzah views these challenges as opportunities for innovation. Under his leadership, NFPC has adopted a proactive approach to addressing market demands while staying ahead of competitors.
One area where Hamzah sees significant potential is sustainability. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, NFPC is exploring ways to reduce its carbon footprint through eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
Global Perspective
Hamzah’s international experience sets him apart as a leader with a global perspective. His tenure at Gillette/P&G exposed him to diverse markets across Europe and Asia, equipping him with insights into consumer behavior and market trends.
By leveraging strategic partnerships and exploring new markets, Hamzah aims to position NFPC as a global leader in the food & beverage sector. His ability to balance local expertise with international best practices makes him uniquely qualified to lead this expansion.
Personal Philosophy
Iqbal Hamzah attributes his success to hard work, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. He believes that effective leadership requires technical expertise and emotional intelligence.
His philosophy aligns closely with NFPC’s core values of quality and service. As CEO, he ensures that these principles guide every aspect of the company’s operations.
Iqbal Hamzah’s appointment as group CEO marks a new chapter for National Food Products Company. With his extensive experience in the FMCG industry and proven track record of driving growth, he is well-equipped to lead NFPC into an era of innovation and expansion. His strategic vision, coupled with his commitment to excellence, positions him as a transformative leader who will shape the future of one of the Middle East’s most iconic food and beverage companies.
