Jerome Guiraud, a seasoned financial expert with over 35 years of experience in banking and financial markets, currently serves as the Chairman of Orascom Construction Plc, one of the Middle East’s leading engineering and construction contractors. His career began at the French Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia, where he served as deputy to the commercial attaché, before joining the Société Générale group in 1986. Over the years, he held various senior positions within Société Générale, gaining extensive expertise in capital markets and investment banking across Europe and emerging markets.
In 2008, Jerome Guiraud joined the NNS Group as CEO and Director of NNS Advisers (now NNS Capital), where he played a pivotal role in establishing and growing a highly respected single-family office. His tenure at NNS Group saw him rise to the position of vice-chairman until July 2023. Currently, he serves as a board member and CEO of AFCI, another prominent single-family office, and as an advisor to EMEA at Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM). Additionally, he serves as a director of BESIX Group, a leading Benelux EPC contractor and concessions operator, demonstrating his broad influence in the global business landscape.
Jerome Guiraud’s appointment as Non-Executive Chairman of Orascom Construction in 2016 marked a significant milestone in his career. Replacing Nassef Sawiris, he brought his extensive financial acumen and strategic vision to guide the company’s growth in the Middle East and beyond. As Chairman, he serves on key committees, including Audit, Compensation, and Nominating, ensuring the company adheres to high standards of corporate governance and ethical practices.
Orascom Construction’s Footprint in the Middle East
Orascom Construction Plc is a global leader in engineering and construction, with a strong presence in the Middle East, Africa, and the United States. Founded in Egypt in 1976 by Onsi Sawiris, the company has grown into Egypt’s first multinational corporation, operating in over 25 countries. It specializes in infrastructure, industrial, and high-end commercial projects, consistently ranking among the world’s top contractors. In the Middle East, Orascom Construction has been instrumental in transforming landscapes and empowering communities through innovative and sustainable projects.
The company’s notable projects in the region include:
| Project | Location | Description |
| Bahr El Baqr Water Treatment Plant | Egypt | Provides clean water to millions, supporting economic and social development. |
| Abu Rawash Water Treatment Plant | Egypt | Enhances water management, improving quality of life for local communities. |
| Dammam West ISTP | Saudi Arabia | Strengthens infrastructure for efficient water management. |
| 500MW Wind Farm | Middle East | Advances renewable energy goals, reducing carbon footprint. |
| Africa’s First Integrated Hydrogen Plant | Egypt | Pioneers clean energy solutions, setting a regional benchmark. |
| Grand Egyptian Museum | Egypt | Houses the world’s largest collection of Egyptian artifacts, boosting tourism. |
| Egypt’s High-Speed Rail System | Egypt | Connects major cities, enhancing connectivity and economic growth. |
| Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Centre | Egypt | Provides advanced cardiac care, improving healthcare access. |
These projects highlight Orascom Construction’s commitment to addressing critical regional needs, from water and energy to cultural and healthcare infrastructure. The company’s 50% ownership of BESIX Group, acquired in 2004 through a joint leveraged buyout, further strengthens its capabilities in the Middle East, enabling access to new sectors and clients.
Recent reports indicate Orascom Construction’s strategic shift to reduce operations in Egypt by 2026, focusing on international expansion, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This includes power plant expansions and seawater treatment projects, aligning with the region’s infrastructure demands.
Leadership and Strategic Vision
As Chairman, Jerome Guiraud plays a pivotal role in shaping Orascom Construction’s strategic direction. His extensive experience in financial markets and corporate governance enables him to provide valuable insights to the board and management team. Guiraud’s leadership emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and long-term value creation, aligning with the company’s mission to deliver projects that exceed expectations.
He is actively involved in Orascom’s governance framework, serving on the Audit, Compensation, and Nominating committees. These roles ensure the company maintains transparency, complies with regulatory requirements, and upholds ethical standards. Guiraud’s vision is to continue Orascom’s legacy of excellence while embracing new technologies, such as 3D printing in construction, which the company is exploring through partnerships like COBOD International. This technology reduces material consumption and construction waste, reinforcing Orascom’s commitment to sustainability.
Jerome Guiraud’s background also informs his focus on building strong relationships with clients, partners, and communities. His strategic oversight has supported Orascom’s ability to secure high-profile projects that drive economic growth and social impact in the Middle East.
Community and Social Impact
Orascom Construction, under Jerome Guiraud’s leadership, prioritizes community engagement and social responsibility. The company’s contribution to the American University in Cairo (AUC), naming its business school after founder Onsi Sawiris, reflects its commitment to education and leadership development.
Additionally, Orascom fosters a positive workplace culture, as evidenced by employee events like the Ramadan tournament in Cairo, which promotes teamwork and community bonds. These efforts align with Guiraud’s vision of creating lasting positive impacts in the regions where Orascom operates.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Orascom Construction, under Guiraud’s stewardship, is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for infrastructure in the Middle East. The company’s focus on sustainable projects, such as renewable energy and water treatment, aligns with regional priorities. Guiraud’s strategic guidance will likely play a key role in navigating challenges, such as economic fluctuations, while pursuing opportunities in markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Jerome Guiraud’s journey from a diplomat to a financial expert and Chairman of Orascom Construction exemplifies a career marked by excellence and leadership. His strategic vision and governance expertise have strengthened Orascom’s position as a global leader in construction. In the Middle East, the company’s transformative projects, from water treatment plants to cultural landmarks, reflect Guiraud’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. As Orascom Construction looks to the future, Jerome Guiraud’s leadership will continue to inspire the delivery of projects that enhance communities and drive regional development.
