Serco Middle East leadership moves highlight equity focus in male-dominated sectors
Iain Hoey
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Leadership changes in UAE operations
Serco has announced new senior appointments across its Middle East operations.
According to Serco, Samantha Rowles [Left] has been promoted to General Manager – UAE and Hana Abu Kharmeh [Right] has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer – Shared Services.
Serco explained that the promotions are intended to strengthen its leadership structure across the region. It said the changes will support the company’s role as a partner to governments in the Middle East.
Phil Malem, CEO of Serco Middle East and +impact, said: “These promotions come at a pivotal moment for our business as we continue to expand our operations and deepen our partnerships across the region.
“Samantha and Hana have demonstrated exceptional leadership, driving performance, innovation, and cultural impact within Serco.
“They will play a critical role in ensuring we are positioned to deliver real value to governments and communities across the Middle East.”
Gender pay review results
Serco reported that the promotions follow its most recent Gender Pay Review.
The review showed a 0.94 per cent pay gap in favour of women.
Serco stated that this marked a year-on-year improvement of 1.7 per cent.
It added that this outcome reflects its commitment to equity and inclusion across its workforce.
The company explained that the progress is notable because its sectors are typically male dominated.
Focus for Samantha Rowles in UAE
Serco stated that in her new role, Samantha Rowles will focus on building Serco’s presence in the UAE.
It added that she will work on developing local partnerships and delivering complex projects that support communities.
Serco noted that Rowles joined the business in 2020 and most recently held the position of Managing Director – Mobility & Emergency Services.
The company explained that in that role she oversaw more than 3,000 employees across aviation, rail and emergency services.
Rowles is also the executive sponsor for SercoInspire, the employee network supporting female talent and early-career development.
Samantha Rowles, General Manager – UAE, said: “With over 14 years working here in the region and extensive experience leading large-scale operations across mobility and emergency services, I understand the importance of delivering high-quality services that directly support the UAE government’s ambitions.
“I am proud to be taking on a new role as General Manager – UAE, and I’m committed to fostering an inclusive culture, supporting national talent and ensuring our people have the tools and support they need to deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients and the UAE’s wider community.”
Role of Hana Abu Kharmeh in shared services
Serco explained that Hana Abu Kharmeh, who joined the company in 2019, will now oversee all shared services functions.
It added that this will include Technology, Transition, Human Resources and Bidding.
According to the company, the alignment is intended to create efficiencies and deliver greater value for regional partners.
Serco noted that Abu Kharmeh has more than 19 years of Middle East experience and is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt.
The company said she has been central in positioning Serco as an employer of choice, embedding a culture of inclusion and supporting local talent.
Hana Abu Kharmeh, Chief Operating Officer – Shared Services, said: “Serco has given me the opportunity to help shape a values-driven culture and support the development of talent across the business.
“In this new role, I will focus on ensuring greater alignment across our whole Middle East business, creating efficiencies and driving innovation and growth benefitting our colleagues, clients and the communities in which we operate.”
Wider context of the promotions
Serco stated that the promotions form part of a wider strategy to expand its Middle East operations.
The company explained that its intention is to strengthen partnerships with regional governments and deliver services that impact communities.
It noted that leadership continuity is a central part of this strategy.
According to the organisation, both appointments are intended to provide stability and ensure operational delivery.
It added that the moves reflect the company’s ongoing investment in local leadership and talent development.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
For fire and safety professionals, Serco’s appointments highlight the role of leadership in shaping service delivery across critical sectors including emergency services and transport.
The company’s expansion strategy in the UAE includes oversight of large operational teams in areas linked to safety and resilience.
The emphasis on equity and workforce inclusion also reflects broader trends in building sustainable leadership structures within safety-focused industries.
These developments indicate how leadership changes in large contractors can directly influence safety standards and operational approaches across the region.
Serco confirms senior promotions in Middle East: Summary
Serco has announced senior promotions across its Middle East operations.
According to Serco, Samantha Rowles has been promoted to General Manager – UAE.
It said that Hana Abu Kharmeh has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer – Shared Services.
Serco explained that these changes form part of a wider strategy to strengthen leadership across the region.
The company noted that the appointments follow its latest Gender Pay Review.
The review showed a 0.94 per cent pay gap in favour of women.
Serco said this marked a year-on-year improvement of 1.7 per cent.
The company added that Rowles will focus on strengthening Serco’s UAE presence and building local partnerships.
Serco explained that Abu Kharmeh will oversee Technology, Transition, Human Resources and Bidding.
It said that both leaders will play a role in supporting government partnerships and operational delivery.
Serco indicated that the changes are intended to create efficiencies and drive inclusion.
The company said the appointments reflect its investment in local leadership.
Serco added that both Rowles and Abu Kharmeh will support community outcomes.
According to the organisation, the moves strengthen its position in the Middle East.
