​ In mid-2024, Samer Samman was appointed as the Interim Chief Administrative Officer of KAUST.

Samer first joined KAUST in 2015 as an Investment Manager in the Innovation Fund within the Innovation & Economic Development Department. With over 21 years of national and international experience, he brings a wealth of expertise in operations, investment, and business to his role. Prior to KAUST, Samer held positions at Saudi Aramco and Cargill, gaining deep industry insights and leadership acumen.

At KAUST, Samer has excelled in various leadership roles, including Manager of HR Support Services, Director of People Services, and Chief Human Resources Officer. These roles have allowed him to drive impactful initiatives for KAUST’s people, systems, and technology. As Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, he will continue to lead operational excellence across the University.

In addition to his KAUST responsibilities, Samer serves as an independent director on the compensation and nomination committee and the investment committee of a publicly listed company on the Saudi Stock Exchange. He has also been a board member and observer for multiple startup companies, further showcasing his leadership and governance expertise.

Samer holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kansas and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Columbia University.