As senior vice president and group country manager for the GCC region, Dr. Saeeda Jaffar drives business growth and digital transformation. Having previously worked with consulting giants like Alvarez & Marsal ME, McKinsey & Company, and Bain & Company, Jaffar’s leadership style has been shaped by over two decades of experience and inspired by her mother and mentor. “My mother is more than just a parent to me. She has also been a mentor who has shaped my understanding of leadership, consistently encouraging me to pursue my dreams with confidence,” she says. 

Jaffar has consistently strived to create a supportive environment where people can thrive, inspired by the lessons that her mother has taught her. To her, it is key to make a positive impact every single day, and she ensures that everyone in her organization has a chance to do so. “This people-centric approach has become a cornerstone of my own leadership style. At Visa, I strive to reflect these values every day,” she adds.  

Driven by her desire to solve problems and make an impact from an early age, Jaffer initially wanted to become a physician. She pursued a degree in biomedical engineering due to her passion for math and physics and went on to acquire a master’s degree from MIT, and later, a doctorate. After working for chemical firms, Jaffar realized she wanted to become a consultant.  

Jaffar, who has followed her passion from one profession to the next, stresses the importance of following evolving interests. “A pivotal moment in my career was the transition into consulting–a change sparked by my passion for solving real-world problems. This shift led me to explore the consulting domain, which eventually brought me to Visa. These experiences underscore the importance of embracing and adapting to evolving interests to forge a successful career path,” she says. 

Empowering women within her professional circle, she continuously encourages others to build their network and surround themselves with the right people. Jaffar is a firm believer in dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work, and to that end, says it best with a nugget of wisdom from her experience: “Immerse yourself in what truly excites you. Embrace opportunities as a chance to refine your skills and let your enthusiasm guide you to success in your professional endeavors.”