2025 Automechanika Riyadh Academy Agenda
Day 1 – April 28 | Localization & Aftermarket Innovation
15:00 – 15:20 | Welcome address by conference chairman
Chairman:
- Flo Akinbiyi, International Presenter, TEDx Speaker
15:20 – 15:30 Keynote address: Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Readiness to Drive the Growth of the Automotive Ecosystem
Speaker:
Dr. Faisal Al-Kadi, Chief Executive Officer, Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry
15:30 – 16:15 Opening Panel discussion: Building the Middle East's automotive hub
- Establishing efficient cross-border logistics networks and free trade zones to facilitate seamless distribution across MENA and beyond
- Developing specialized automotive industrial clusters that combine manufacturing, remanufacturing, and distribution capabilities
- Facilitating the localization of EV charger production to boost industrial growth and reduce imports
- Creating standardized quality control mechanisms and certification processes to build trust in Middle Eastern aftermarket and OEM products
- Implementing digital transformation initiatives to modernize inventory management and enhance customer service capabilities
- Aligning technical specifications with international benchmarks while adapting to local market needs
Panellists:
- Engr. Majid Abdullah Matbouly, Chief Industrial Valley & Special Economic Zone (IVSEZ) Officer, King Abdullah Economic City – KAEC
- Dr. Faisal Al-Kadi, Chief Executive Officer, Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry
- Ben Stewart, Supply Chain Director, Lucid MENA
- Aftab Ahmed, Chief Advisor, National Industrial Development Center
Moderator:
- Haytham Honjol, Director, Roland Berger
16:15 – 16:30 Case study: Building the future of charging infrastructure - strategic partnerships and aftermarket solutions for EV growth in Saudi Arabia
- Highlighting the rapid expansion of EV charging infrastructure in Saudi Arabia through strategic partnerships
- Exploring the role of aftermarket solutions in enhancing the longevity and efficiency of charging networks
- Demonstrating how EVIQ is collaborating with key stakeholders to accelerate EV adoption
- Showcasing innovative technologies and business models driving Saudi Arabia’s EV ecosystem forward
Speaker:
- Ulf Schulte, Chief Operating Officer, EVIQ
16:30 – 16:45 | Presentation: Future-proofing Saudi’s automotive workforce, a deep dive into innovation & next-gen skills
- Examining how AI and digitalization are revolutionizing automotive training and workforce development
- Exploring the essential skills needed for EV and connected vehicle maintenance in a transforming industry
- Discussing the role of industry-government collaboration in building a future-ready automotive workforce
- Highlighting advanced repair techniques and AI-driven learning for workforce competitiveness
- Addressing Saudi Arabia’s proactive strategies to equip talent with next-gen automotive skills
Speaker:
Lawrie Martin, Regional Business Development Director - Asia, Middle East & Africa, GP Strategies Corporation
16:45 – 17:00 | Presentation: NAVA’s drive to develop automotive talent, from skills drive to opportunity
- Highlighting the critical role of training and development in shaping the future automotive workforce
- Introducing NAVA Academy as a dedicated platform for upskilling and industry-aligned learning
- Demonstrating how NAVA is addressing the skills gap through hands-on, targeted training programs
- Positioning NAVA as a key enabler of sustainable talent growth in the automotive industry
Speaker:
Amin Khayat, Head of Marketing, Strategic Partnership and Business Development, National Automotive & Vehicles Academy (NAVA)
17:00 – 17:45 | Panel discussion: From skills gap to opportunity – fostering Saudi Arabia's automotive workforce
- Emphasizing the significance of specialized automotive training programs integrating theory and practical experience through industry partnerships
- Analyzing incentives and career advancement pathways to attract Saudi youth to automotive sector careers, particularly in technical and specialized roles
- Establishing certification programs and standards to ensure workforce quality and create clear professional development frameworks
- Developing mentorship programs and knowledge transfer initiatives to accelerate skill development and retain talent within the sector.
Panellists:
- Rudy Shukri, Business Leader & Coach, Tiqani
- Sandile Mtshali, Training Manager, Nissan Motor Corporation Dubai
- Lawrie Martin, Regional Business Development Director - Asia, Middle East & Africa, GP Strategies Corporation
- Suhayb Nouruldeen, Education Manager, Saudi Japanese Automobile High Institute (SJAHI)
- Technical Vocational Training Corp Representative - TBC
Moderator:
· Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
17:45 – 18:10 | Fireside chat: Behind the deal – a candid conversation on partnership & innovation
- How to evaluate and establish strong collaborations that align with business vision and market demands
- Overcoming regulatory, logistical, and consumer adoption challenges in the MENA region
- The importance of rigorous product evaluation and testing in maintaining brand credibility
- Lessons from O2Proformance’s expansion into the MENA region and beyond
Panellist:
- Ahmed Al-Hussaini, Managing Director & Co-Founder, O2Proformance
Moderator:
- Graham Threlfall, Global Key Account Manager - Vehicle Refinishes, Akzonobel
18:10 – 18:55 Panel discussion: Maximizing car care business growth - strategies for installers and retailers
- Exploring strategies to scale car care businesses with premium services like PPF and ceramic coating
- Discussing effective sales team development and partnership-building for sustained business growth
- Addressing methods to communicate value propositions to price-sensitive customers
- Highlighting best practices for managing high-performing technical teams while maintaining quality standard
Panellists:
- Ahmed Al-Hussaini, Managing Director & Co-Founder, O2Proformance
- Sakher Al Shawwa, Group Chairman & Founder, Automillenium Group
- Idriss Makdoud, Chairman & Founder, Hexis Middle East
Moderator:
Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
18:55 – 19:20 | Digi dialogue: Driving digital innovation and profitability for aftermarket distributors
- Implementing integrated e-commerce platforms and digital catalogs to enhance customer experience and market reach
- Developing data-driven pricing strategies to maximize margins while remaining competitive across market segments
- Creating digital ecosystems that connect distributors, retailers, and service providers for seamless operations
- Enhancing supply chain visibility through advanced digital solutions and real-time data integration
- Exploring innovative approaches to optimize online automotive parts sales and customer engagement
Panellists:
- Emad Daghreri, Co-Founder & CEO, Autobia
- Alisdair Walton, Senior General Manager – Digital Transformation & IT, Abdul Latif Jameel Enterprises
Moderator:
- Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
19:20 – 20:05 | Panel discussion: The evolving role of calibration systems in modern automotive services
- Building specialized technician expertise in multi-brand calibration protocols and advanced diagnostic procedures
- Developing standardized calibration workflows to ensure consistent, manufacturer-compliant service quality
- Implementing digital documentation systems to track calibration histories and validate service procedures
- Enhancing quality control processes to improve accuracy and reliability in vehicle calibration services
- Exploring best practices for managing warranty compliance and liability through precise calibration records
Speakers:
- Syed Javaid, General Manager, Power Machinery Company (PMC)
- Ali Alshehri, General Manager, Future Mobility Institute - King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology
Moderator:
Aadil Rashid, Associate Director, Mobility Advisory, Frost & Sullivan
20:05 – 20:50 | Disruptive dialogue: Shifting the paradigm – the impact of P2P and subscription car rentals on Saudi Arabia’s evolving aftermarket
- Examining how P2P and subscription models reshape vehicle maintenance cycles and service demands
- Exploring shifts in parts procurement patterns and the need for efficient inventory management systems
- Highlighting the role of data-driven technologies in integrating rental platforms with aftermarket services
- Analyzing regulatory developments impacting car rental models and aftermarket business opportunities in Saudi Arabia
- Identifying strategic approaches for aftermarket players to adapt and thrive in the evolving mobility landscape
Panellists:
- Eslam Hussein, Co-Founder & CEO, Invygo
- Raafat Al-Sarkaji, Commercial Director, Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry
- Mohammed Khashoggi, CEO & Founder, Ejaro
- Rudy Shukri, Head Coach & Business Leader, Tiqani
Moderator:
- Graham Threlfall, Global Key Account Manager - Vehicle Refinishes, Akzonobel
21:05 – 21:15 | Closing remarks & end of day 1
Chairman:
- Flo Akinbiyi, International Presenter, TEDx Speaker
Day 2 – April 29 | Core Aftermarket Operations & Sustainable Supply Chain
15:00 - 15:15 | Welcome address by conference chairperson
Chairman:
Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
15:15 - 16:00 | Panel discussion: Tailoring your Saudi Arabia aftermarket strategy
- Adapting to local consumer preferences and cultural factors in product offerings
- Navigating regulatory changes and compliance in Saudi Arabia's evolving market
- Integrating digital sales channels with traditional distribution networks
- Building partnerships with local distributors to strengthen market presence
Panellists:
- Amir Khurshid, Chief Executive Officer, ThinkDirect Automotive Consulting
- Salman Alsuhaibaney, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Morni
- Rajiv Jham, Regional Sales Director, Mobility Aftermarket, Robert Bosch Middle East
- Mansour Al-Fardan, Regional Commercial Director, Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry
Moderator:
Glenn Harwood, Co-Founder, Algodriven
16:00 - 16:45 | Panel discussion: Adaptive digital strategies in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape
- Leveraging data analytics to optimize workshop performance, customer retention, and predictive maintenance
- Training technicians on emerging technologies while maintaining traditional mechanical expertise
- Adopting scalable, cloud-based systems to enhance collaboration and adaptability across multi-location operations
Panellists:
- Jamie Frame, Automotive Consultant, The Automotive Association for the Middle East and North Africa
- Sanel Hodzic, Chief Executive Officer, Cyber Automotive Solutions
- Alisdair Walton, Senior General Manager – Digital Transformation & IT, Abdul Latif Jameel Enterprises
- Raafat Al-Sarkaji, Commercial Director, Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry
Moderator:
- Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
16:45 - 17:00 | Presentation: Beyond aesthetics - the business of car care & PPF in the evolving aftermarket
- PPF & Coatings as a Service Expansion Strategy – How workshops and detailing centers can integrate high-margin car care services into their business models
- Tech & Sustainability in Car Care – The rise of self-healing PPF, nano-ceramic coatings, and eco-friendly detailing solutions that align with evolving regulations and consumer preferences
- The Digital Customer Journey – Leveraging AI, booking platforms, and customer education to enhance service visibility and retention
- PPF & EVs: The Growing Synergy – How the rise of EV adoption is fueling demand for specialized paint protection and aftermarket customization
Speaker:
- Eng. Hesham Mehani, Technical Director, O2Proformance
17:00 - 17:45 | Panel discussion: Accommodating customers - how a customer-centric approach is shaping the automotive industry
- Developing an offering for customers that would enhance their experience
- Ensuring pricing transparency to gain customer trust
- Rewarding repeat customers to gain customer loyalty
- Obtaining customer feedback and ensuring that their suggestions for improvements are met in alignment with business strategy and costs
Panellists:
- Amir Khurshid, Chief Executive Officer, ThinkDirect Automotive Consulting
- Omer Jubair, Chief Executive Officer, 360 Repair Network Company
- Nawaf Baljahar, Operations & Aftersales Director, Ahmed Kassim Al Amoudi Co.
- Javaid A Syed, General Manager, Power Machinery Company (PMC)
- Mahmoud Malkawi, Business Development Manager, Hexis Middle East
Moderator: Jamie Frame, Automotive Consultant, The Automotive Association for the Middle East and North Africa
17:45 – 18:15 | Fireside chat: Advancing EV adoption: Unlocking opportunities for battery-electric and software-driven vehicles in Saudi Arabia’s aftermarket
- The integration of AI, telematics, and predictive maintenance in service models
- How digital tools can improve inventory management and customer experiences
- The role of Saudi companies in leading the regional charge on digital innovation in the aftermarket sector
Panellist:
Glenn Harwood, Co-Founder, Algodriven
Moderator:
Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
18:15 - 18:30 | Presentation: Building supplier ecosystem to support development of automotive industrial cluster in KSA as a part of Vision 2030
- Federico Torregrosa, Senior Manager - Purchasing Program Management, Procurement, CEER Motors
18:30 - 19:15 | Panel discussion: Sustainable supply chain practices in the automotive industry
- Exploring the role of solar, wind, and alternative fuels in reducing the carbon footprint of automotive supply chains
- Examining how technology-driven automation is minimizing waste, improving resource allocation, and enhancing sustainability
- Discussing the transition to electric and hybrid vehicles for transport and last-mile delivery
- Evaluating how sustainable supply chain practices drive cost savings, operational efficiency, and long-term profitability for the automotive industry
Panellists:
- Javed Akhtar Mohammad, General Manager, Robert Bosch Saudi Arabia
- Ben Stewart, Supply Chain Director, Lucid MENA
- Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Tilad Sustainability Co
Moderator:
- Piero Ngadiuba, Head of Human Resources and Operations, ENY Consulting
19:30 - 20:00 | Fireside chat: Cost efficiency vs. scalability – can GCC’s automotive supply chain strike the balance?
- Optimizing freight forwarding & last-mile logistics
- The role of free zones & bonded warehouses in cost reduction
- Adapting to rising fuel & transportation costs
Panellist:
- Nissrine Elqobai, General Manager Supply Chain and Operations, TAAM healthcare solutions - TAMER GROUP
Moderator:
- Graham Threlfall, Global Key Account Manager - Vehicle Refinishes, Akzonobel
20:00 - 20:45 Panel discussion: Revolutionizing automotive supply chains – process optimization for efficiency & scalability
- Streamlining operations from production to delivery for better cost control
- Eliminating inefficiencies in procurement, inventory, and warehouse management
- Overview of how AI, automation, and lean methodologies can enhance supply chain responsiveness
Panellists:
- Mohammed Almusawa, Head of E-Mobility & Smart City Solutions, AlSharif Group Holding
- Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
- Ibrahim Al-Dali, Chief Operations Officer, Tatco
Moderator:
- Vishal Pandey, Partner - Automotive & Mobility Sector, Glasgow Research & Consulting, Partner - Automotive & Mobility Sector, Glasgow Research & Consulting
20:45 - 20:55 | Closing remarks & end of day 2
Chairperson:
- Kim Winter, Managing Director, Logistics Executive Group
Day 3 – April 30 | Modern Workshop
14:30 – 16:00 | Presentation: Bridging the gap – tackling skills shortages, embracing digital change & aligning business goals
- Addressing skills shortages by developing workforce training programs tailored to the evolving automotive aftermarket
- Exploring digital transformation and its impact on skill development and operational efficiency
- Aligning business goals with workforce capabilities to ensure long-term industry growth
- Implementing strategies to attract and retain talent in a rapidly changing automotive landscape
- Enhancing collaboration between industry, education, and technology to future-proof the workforce.
Speaker:
- Rudy Shakir, Business Leader & Coach, Tiqani
16:00 – 17:30 | Presentation: Bridging hybrid automotive technology – preparing technicians for advanced hybrid vehicle servicing
- Comprehensive workforce preparation for advanced hybrid vehicle diagnostic techniques
- Developing specialized skills in hybrid powertrain system maintenance and repair
- Exploring emerging service strategies for hybrid vehicle technological ecosystems
- Addressing technical and operational challenges unique to hybrid automotive platforms
Speaker:
- Abdullah Ismail Badawi, Technical Instructor, Saudi Japanese Automobile High Institute (SJAHI)
17:30 – 19:00 | Presentation: Charging ahead: Preparing stakeholders for EV servicing with NAVA
- Addressing the emerging skills gap in EV servicing across the automotive aftermarket
- Introducing NAVA’s initiatives to train and certify technicians for electric vehicle maintenance
- Equipping the garages with the knowledge and tools required for EV service readiness
- Showcasing hands-on training modules tailored to the evolving EV ecosystem
- Driving industry-wide collaboration to future-proof the workforce for electric mobility
Speaker:
- Muhammad Moazzam, EV Technical Trainer, NAVA Academy