Emad Kashgari: Leading Saudi Arabia’s Digital Transformation and Fintech Innovation

Emad Kashgari is a distinguished leader in digital transformation and venture building with over 15 years of experience across various industries, including technology, energy, and finance. As the CEO of 1957 Ventures and the SVP of Digital Partnership & Innovation at Riyad Bank, Emad is at the forefront of open banking and fintech innovation in Saudi Arabia. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the Kingdom's entrepreneurial ecosystem, driving investment and business growth through cutting-edge technology solutions.

Pioneering Innovation in Fintech and Venture Building

Emad’s role at Riyad Bank has seen him oversee the bank’s SAR 100 million FinTech Fund and the SAR 806 million corporate venture builder fund, both of which are central to the Kingdom’s fintech ecosystem. His work involves launching new fintech ventures and developing embedded finance solutions to foster innovation and growth. He has also played a crucial role in supporting startups, having incubated over 150 tech startups, creating more than 500 jobs, and securing SAR 40 million in investment rounds.

Shaping the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Before his tenure at Riyad Bank, Emad was the GM of the entrepreneurship development sector at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, where he led the Tech Champions program to activate Saudi Arabia's digital transformation. He was also a pivotal player in establishing Saudi Arabia’s first angel investment networks through Sirb Angel Investors Network, helping close multiple investment deals and preparing startups for growth.

A Visionary in Digital Innovation

Emad’s entrepreneurial spirit is not limited to his corporate roles. He co-founded Hello My Health, a tech-based health platform, and PlayDeal, a daily deals platform. His background in engineering entrepreneurship, coupled with executive education from prestigious institutions like McMaster University and IESE Business School, gives him a unique edge in merging technology with business strategy.

Emad Kashgari is a leading force in Saudi Arabia’s digital and fintech sectors, with a deep commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and driving technological innovation. His work is transforming the Kingdom’s financial landscape and empowering startups to thrive in a competitive global market.