Nawar A. Abdulghaffar: Shaping Corporate HR Leadership in Saudi Arabia’s Retail Sector

Nawar A. Abdulghaffar is a seasoned Human Resources leader with extensive experience in talent management, organizational development, and corporate HR strategy. With a strong foundation in conflict management and people development, she has built a progressive career spanning more than a decade at Panda Retail Company under the Savola Group.

Currently serving as Head of Corporate HR, Nawar plays a key role in strengthening HR governance, enhancing organizational capability, and driving people-centered transformation across the enterprise. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to building inclusive workplaces, resolving organizational challenges, and enabling sustainable workforce growth.

Progressive Leadership Journey in Human Resources

Nawar’s career at Panda Retail Company reflects a consistent upward trajectory through multiple HR leadership roles, including Talent Development Manager, Senior Talent Development Manager, HR Business Partner, and Head of Talent Management.

Across these roles, she has contributed to designing and executing talent strategies, strengthening employee engagement, improving performance management systems, and supporting leadership development initiatives. Her work has consistently focused on aligning human capital strategies with business growth and operational excellence.

Expertise in Talent Development and Organizational Growth

As Head of Talent Acquisition and Development and later Head of Talent Management, Nawar led key initiatives in workforce planning, leadership pipeline development, and capability building programs. She has been instrumental in shaping structured development frameworks that support employees from entry-level roles through to leadership positions.

Her expertise extends to conflict resolution, negotiation, and HR transformation, enabling her to manage complex organizational dynamics while fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.

Strong Academic Foundation in Negotiation and HR

Nawar holds a Master’s degree in Negotiations and Conflict Management from the University of Baltimore and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management from King AbdulAziz University.

Her academic background complements her practical HR leadership experience, equipping her with advanced skills in negotiation, organizational behavior, and people strategy.

Recognition by Saudi Women Leaders

Saudi Women Leaders proudly recognizes Nawar A. Abdulghaffar for her impactful contributions to human resources leadership and talent development in Saudi Arabia. Her dedication to building strong teams, enabling leadership growth, and fostering inclusive workplaces continues to support the advancement of HR excellence in the Kingdom’s retail sector.