Sami, who is presently the Chief Operating Officer of the KFC Division and the Managing Director of KFC Asia, will follow Tony Lowings, who will stand down as CEO at the end of 2021 in preparation for his retirement in early 2022.
Sami, a 12-year company veteran, will assume global responsibility for KFC’s brand strategy and performance, the corporation stated in a news statement.
“Sabir is an exceptional leader who possesses extensive expertise and knowledge of our business and a track record of expanding KFC’s physical and brand presence in markets worldwide,” Brands Chief Executive Officer David Gibbs said.
“As a highly regarded strategic brand builder, operations expert, and heart-led leader, Sabir is an obvious choice to continue successfully executing KFC’s long-term global growth strategies in close collaboration with our franchisees and further elevating KFC as a relevant, easy, and distinctive (R.E.D.) brand,” Gibbs added.
“I’m incredibly privileged and excited to continue working with our talented and dedicated KFC leaders and amazing franchise partners around the world to continue strengthening and accelerating the development of our powerful, iconic brand,” Sabir Sami said of his promotion.
Sami was formerly the Managing Director for the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan, and Turkey markets, where he played a critical role in developing the business and establishing KFC as one of the region’s most R.E.D. brands.
He has served as General Manager of KFC’s operations in Canada and Turkey.
