Qtel Group has named Ahmed al-Derbesti as its new Chief Operating Officer. In his new role, reporting directly to the Group CEO, al-Derbesti will support efforts to make Qtel Group a leader in customer experience, an innovator in the field of performance management and a pioneer in broadband technologies and other digital futures. To help fulfil the group’s vision to ‘enrich people’s lives as a leading international communications company,’ he will work with management teams across 17 countries. Qtel Group CEO Dr Nasser Marafih said: “We are delighted to welcome Ahmed al-Derbesti as the new Qtel Group Chief Operating Officer. The Qtel Group has set ambitious targets to stand out from the competition, and to explore new opportunities for growth. I believe he will play a key part in achieving these. As a colleague of long-standing, we know that Ahmed offers an impressive track-record and a strong skill-set in his new executive position.” “Al-Derbesti brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his new role,” Qtel Group said in a statement. He has worked with Qtel Qatar since 1985 and has held a variety of positions including executive director (Group Strategy) taking on key responsibility in the early days of the group’s expansion outside Qatar. He has also held the positions of executive director (Customer Care), executive director (International Services) and most recently, chief officer (Wholesale and International Services) with responsibility for national and international voice, data and roaming services. Al-Derbesti said: “I am pleased and proud to be taking on the role of Qtel Group Chief Operating Officer. Every day, 84mn customers use our services, and the Qtel Group is doing everything we can to ensure the best possible experience and technology for all of them.” As part of its growth strategy, the Qtel Group is increasing its focus on broadband solutions, business-to-business opportunities, digital futures (such as entertainment, finance and health) and fibre technologies. It is also driving further operational and cost efficiency, productivity and scale benefits, while enhancing organisational and people capabilities.