Orange Group has announced a significant leadership reshuffle, appointing Yasser Shaker, the current CEO of Orange Egypt, as Executive Vice President and CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA), effective July 1, 2025. This move highlights Orange’s ongoing commitment to boosting its growth across the region, relying on leadership with deep regional expertise.
Yasser Shaker will succeed Jérôme Hénique, who will take on the role of Executive Vice President and CEO of Orange France starting June 1, 2025. Hénique will also join the Board of Directors of Orange MEA and continue serving on the Group Executive Committee, reporting directly to Orange Group CEO, Christel Heydemann.
This leadership transition follows Jean-François Fallacher’s departure from the Group. Fallacher is set to become the CEO of Eutelsat Group. Christel Heydemann praised Fallacher for his contributions, particularly in the creation of MasOrange and in executing the Group’s “Lead the Future” strategy in France.
Christel Heydemann expressed her confidence in Jérôme Hénique’s ability to lead Orange France, given his profound knowledge of the Group and his successful leadership of the Africa-Middle East region. She also welcomed Yasser Shaker’s appointment, citing his vast experience and expertise as crucial for continuing Orange’s growth momentum in the Middle East and Africa.
A Proven Leader for MEA
Yasser Shaker brings over 25 years of experience in telecommunications and technology to his new role. Since May 2018, as CEO of Orange Egypt, he led the company through record growth and profitability, even amid challenging economic conditions. His leadership was key in enhancing the company’s market position, focusing on customer experience, digital transformation, and operational efficiency.
Before his role as CEO of Orange Egypt, Shaker was the Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) for Orange Middle East and Africa, offering him deep insights into the region’s operations. He is also committed to youth empowerment, serving on several boards that support skills development and employability. Shaker holds a degree in telecommunications engineering from Cairo University and an MBA from the Rennes School of Business.
Building on a Strong Legacy
Jérôme Hénique leaves a solid foundation for Shaker. As CEO of Orange MEA since July 2022, Hénique oversaw operations in 18 countries, serving over 135 million customers. Under his leadership, Orange MEA achieved double-digit growth in both revenue and EBITDAaL, making a significant contribution to Orange Group’s global performance.
Hénique’s career began as a consultant, and he held various senior positions within Orange, including Marketing Director in Spain, Home Consumer Market Director in France, and Group Marketing Director. His leadership in the region began in 2010 as Deputy CEO of Sonatel Group, followed by his role as CEO of Orange Jordan in 2015.
Orange’s Vision for the Future
These appointments are part of Orange Group’s continued transformation under its “Lead the Future” strategic plan. With revenues of €40.3 billion in 2024 and a global customer base of 294 million as of March 2025, Orange is a major global player in telecommunications. The Group’s strategy is focused on responsibility, efficiency, and excellence in network and service quality.
As Orange moves forward, the leadership of Yasser Shaker is expected to drive further innovation, expansion, and digital inclusion across the Middle East and Africa—regions that are central to the Group’s long-term growth plans.
