Mazen Elyas: A Journey of Growth, Innovation, and Impact

In this latest episode of 2030 Leaders Mic, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mazen Elyas, an inspiring leader and member of the Saudi Leadership Council, who shared his remarkable journey filled with learning, transformation, and personal milestones.

From Humble Beginnings to Bold Decisions

Mazen Elyas began his journey in Saudi Arabia with a clear goal in mind: to become a leader who could drive meaningful change. From a young age, Mazen showed an interest in technology, engineering, and innovation, which eventually shaped his educational and professional choices.

He recalls that he was always passionate about medical engineering and even dreamt of studying in Germany. However, life had different plans for him. Despite being accepted into one of the best universities for medical engineering in Germany, Mazen decided to pursue his studies at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) after strong advice from his family. He joined the petroleum engineering program, despite feeling it wasn't his true passion.

Looking back, Mazen reflects on the tough years he spent in petroleum engineering, battling with a lack of motivation and the pressure of adjusting to life away from home. For a while, he questioned his decision, realizing that pursuing a path he didn’t feel passionate about would not lead to long-term fulfillment.

A Pivotal Turning Point

After two and a half years in petroleum engineering, Mazen made a bold decision: he decided to leave the program. Despite his father’s initial disapproval, Mazen was determined to change the course of his life. He returned to Jeddah, enrolled in a finance program, and committed to finishing his degree in just two and a half years—a timeline that many thought was impossible.

Mazen’s drive to finish his degree quickly was fueled by his desire to make up for lost time. By working part-time while studying, he gained valuable experience in business development and finance, even securing an internship at a prominent company.

A Career Defined by Decision and Vision

After graduating, Mazen faced a new challenge: finding the right job. He initially struggled to secure a position that matched his passion for finance and business development, as many roles offered were in accounting. His breakthrough came when he received an unexpected call from a company specializing in corporate finance. Mazen’s persistence paid off, and he eventually found himself working in the finance sector.

This decision marked the beginning of Mazen’s long career, where he worked on market expansion, strategic partnerships, and organizational growth. His time in this role taught him the importance of innovation and adapting to change in a constantly evolving market.

From Marketing to Sports

Mazen's career took another unexpected turn when he entered the world of sports marketing. Working with the Al-Ittihad Club in Saudi Arabia, Mazen played a pivotal role in revitalizing the club's financial streams, leveraging sponsorships and corporate partnerships to boost the club’s revenue.

He recalls how his ability to innovate in the sports industry led to successful marketing campaigns that increased the club’s visibility and financial success. His background in business development helped him understand the intricacies of sports marketing, and he was able to make strategic decisions that would affect the club’s long-term sustainability.

Leading in the Insurance Sector

Mazen’s journey didn’t stop there. His next move took him into the insurance sector, where he brought his expertise in finance and business development to transform the way insurance services were marketed. He worked on various projects, including developing financial models, conducting market research, and leading product innovations in the health insurance space.

During his time in the insurance industry, Mazen was instrumental in creating innovative solutions for both corporate clients and individuals, helping companies like STC and NASS achieve greater profitability and market penetration.

Embracing Digital Transformation and Innovation

As Mazen’s career continued to evolve, he became more involved in digital transformation and innovation. He recognized that data-driven decision-making and technological advancements were the future of every industry. This realization led him to take on leadership roles in various initiatives aimed at integrating digital solutions across different sectors.

Mazen emphasizes that technology and innovation are key drivers for business growth, and he has always been at the forefront of implementing cutting-edge systems that streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and ensure efficiency.

Giving Back to the Community

Throughout his journey, Mazen has remained deeply committed to giving back to his community. He takes pride in mentoring younger generations, sharing his experiences, and encouraging them to pursue their own leadership roles in the business and tech industries.

Mazen believes in the power of collaboration, and through his mentorship, he helps young professionals build the skills they need to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Mazen is focused on making a significant impact on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. He is determined to continue his work in developing industries like insurance, sports, and finance, while also focusing on sustainability and innovation.

Mazen’s personal journey has been one of continuous growth, learning, and adaptation to new opportunities. His message to the next generation of leaders is clear: always seek opportunities, embrace challenges, and never stop learning.

Catch the full episode on our YouTube channel and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Anghami.