The Saudi Venture Capital Company (SVC) has announced the appointment of Noura bint Mohammed Al-Sarhan as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2026. This decision is the culmination of a strategic, long-term succession plan developed and overseen by the company's Board of Directors. The move is designed to ensure a seamless leadership transition and maintain the company's growth trajectory within the Kingdom's investment ecosystem.
A Strategic Leadership Transition
The appointment is a key part of an institutional succession plan designed to guarantee an orderly transfer of leadership. This forward-thinking approach aims to support SVC's continued expansion and reinforce its crucial role in Saudi Arabia's private investment sector. The board's careful planning underscores a deep commitment to stable governance and sustained performance for the company's future.
Profile of the Incoming CEO
Noura Al-Sarhan brings a wealth of experience in private investment management and financial consulting to her new position. She first joined SVC in June 2019 and has since held several senior roles, most recently serving as Deputy CEO and Chief Investment Officer. In these capacities, she was instrumental in developing the company's overarching strategy and leading its investment agenda.
Her distinguished qualifications include a Master's in Business Administration with honors from Al-Faisal University and the completion of a leadership development program at Harvard Business School. Al-Sarhan is also a Kauffman Fellow, a prestigious honor in the venture capital community, and serves on multiple boards. Her comprehensive expertise positions her perfectly to guide SVC into its next chapter of strategic development and impact.
Acknowledging a Foundational Leader
The Board of Directors extended its profound gratitude to the outgoing CEO, Dr. Nabil bin Abdulqader Koshak, for his transformative leadership since 2019. Dr. Koshak was fundamental in establishing SVC's operations, building its expert team, and cementing its reputation as a key market maker. His vision was critical in shaping the private investment landscape within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Under his direction, SVC witnessed remarkable growth in its investment activities, which significantly contributed to the Kingdom's emergence as a regional venture capital leader. Dr. Koshak also personally oversaw the creation of the succession plan, demonstrating a commitment to institutional stability and long-term success. He will continue to contribute his expertise to the company as a member of the Board of Directors.
SVC's Impact on the Saudi Ecosystem
SVC's strategic initiatives have been a driving force behind the Kingdom's flourishing venture capital scene. This has resulted in Saudi Arabia leading the region in venture capital investment volume for three consecutive years. Since 2018, the venture capital market in the Kingdom has expanded by an extraordinary 26-fold, highlighting SVC's significant influence.
The company has strategically invested in over 65 funds, encompassing venture capital, private equity, venture debt, and private debt. These funds have subsequently provided capital to more than 1,000 startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This widespread investment directly fuels the diversification of the national economy and advances the objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.
This leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for the Saudi Venture Capital Company, reinforcing its commitment to structured growth and long-term stability. With Noura Al-Sarhan's appointment, SVC is well-positioned to build upon its foundational successes and continue its vital mission. The company remains a cornerstone of the Kingdom's economic diversification strategy, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators.