Meet the team, a diverse group of professionals and talents that makes RISE who we are – a diverse group of talents and professionals.
Our shared services team keeps the engine running at RISE and supports the wider business across a variety of functions. Meet the diverse team of superstars that keep us going:
RAY SMART
PARTNER - COORay Smart oversees RISE’s finances and operations. Based in Riyadh, he brings 20+ years of experience, fueling growth, streamlining operations and delivering the platforms to guide multicultural professionals to excellence.
Having led a record breaking transaction in the Marketing sector, he is committed to driving value across the organisation.
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ABDULLAH
ALHARBIHR Executive
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ALAA
MOUNIERHR Executive
HR ExecutiveAlaa is an HR Executive with 4+ years’ experience across HR functions. Her data-driven approach and interpersonal skills foster a thriving workplace.
At RISE, Alaa coordinates employee obligations across UAE and KSA Labour Laws and implements growth-oriented HR strategies, emphasizing diversity and inclusion.
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Marketing
BERNICE
THORNMarketing & Communications Manager
Marketing & Communications ManagerBernice oversees the marketing and communications at RISE, driven by her passion for crafting compelling narratives and fostering engagement. In her role, she plays a crucial part in shaping our brand presence and enhancing communication across all divisions.
Having recently transitioned from the People & Culture team, Bernice is dedicated to ensuring that all team members are informed and aligned with RISE’s core values and objectives. Her commitment extends to supporting talent acquisition efforts, adapting to business demands and helping to build a strong, cohesive team.
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GARETH
HUGHESTalent & Recruitment Manager
Talent & Recruitment ManagerGareth has c. ten year’s experience across recruitment, Executive Search, workforce planning, talent management, and HR transformation projects.
Prior to RISE, Gareth was working at NEOM, heading up recruitment for THE LINE.
Gareth now leads recruitment and talent management at RISE, supporting the business in attracting, engaging, and amplifying the very best talent across sport and consulting.
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Creative
ISSA
ALSALAMINHead of Creative - Acting
Head of Creative - ActingIssa leads the creative team at RISE, where he drives their creativity and storytelling. He has 12+ years of experience in production cycles across events, animation, film, TV, and creative agencies.
Issa has been involved in award-winning projects in the Middle East, where he has delivered commercial assets through his expertise in multimedia tools including 2D/3D design, UI/UX, etc.
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Operations
KRISTA
NAVARROReceptionist
ReceptionistStarting as a receptionist and eventually progressing within administration-focussed roles, Krista has over 11 years of Dubai-based experience.
At RISE, she manages the front desk, and supports the administration, operations and management.
Her readiness to offer smiles, aid, and foster positivity extends to RISE’s Dubai and Saudi offices.
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Finance
KRISTY GARBO
Accountant
AccountantKristy is the Accountant at RISE, leveraging over 5 years of expertise in balance sheet reconciliations, financial reporting, and advanced accounting software to deliver high-quality service and solutions.
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, she ensures accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in financial operations.
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Creative
MICO
PEDRIGALSenior Graphic Designer
Senior Graphic DesignerA seasoned design expert with over 7 years of diverse experience in Graphics, Web, and Photography. Certified in Visual Design Professional by Adobe.
At RISE, he excels in crafting visually impactful sales presentations and agency proposals, showcasing his passion for creating captivating designs.
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Translation
MOONIA
BILALCopywriter
CopywriterMoonia is a translator at RISE, with big experience in translating technical proposals, contracts and legal documents.
She has a bachelor’s’ degree in English-Arabic translation and over 8 years of experience in translation including the private and public sectors.
Moonia has experience in working with international NGOs.
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Finance
Rickus
RossouwGroup Financial Controller
Group Financial ControllerRickus is the Group Financial Controller at RISE with a demonstrated history of working across various industries. He is strong finance professional with a Chartered Accountant Qualification in focus.
He holds Postgraduate diplomas in Applied Accounting Sciences, Accounting and Finance from the University of South Africa.
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Operations
Shanu
BasheerTransportation
TransportationShanu
BasheerOur superstar on wheels, Shanu coordinates logistics for the RISE Team in Riyadh.
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Creative
STEFAN
URSACHIJunior Graphic Designer
Junior Graphic DesignerStefan is a Graphic Designer at RISE and is adept at problem-solving, where he excels in designing brand mockups, infographics, turning language into visuals, and concepts that enhance graphic visualisation on proposals.
With unwavering creativity and flexibility, Stefan is a proven asset for RISE, delivering innovative solutions for entrepreneurial success.
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Stephanie
MacKinnonHR Manager
HR ManagerStephanie is the HR Manager at RISE and Aim to create High-Quality Company Cultures through satisfaction and Employee well-being.
She drives the team to enhance employee engagement, workplace culture, diversity & inclusion, learning & development practices, and overall career development.
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Operations
TALITA
BOUDNAINOperations & Recruitment Manager
Operations & Recruitment ManagerTalita is the Operations & Recruitment Manager at RISE.
Whilst ensuring that RISEs operations run smoothly, she actively drives engagement across the business ensuring that all departments are focused and effective.
On top of the demands of the operational needs of the business, she also leads Talent Acquisition and has been instrumental in supporting the growth of the business.