Khaled Elmoursi: Seasoned Cold Chain Leader Transforming a Logistics Company into a Regional Middle East Powerhouse

Middle East’s 10 Most Influential Business Leaders to Follow in 2025

Khaled Elmoursi is a seasoned cold chain leader with a career spanning more than 21 years. He has an impressive track record of leading highly successful projects in the logistics industry. He is renowned for driving operational excellence and commercial growth in temperature-controlled logistics. Currently, he serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Mahasin Alsharq Logistics (MS Logistics), where he is playing a pivotal role in transforming the company into a leading logistics service provider in the Middle East.

Khaled influences the logistics business by inspiring, motivating, and enacting meaningful change, both within an organization and across the industry.

Drawn to Logistics because of Passion

Khaled has always been passionate about solving complex operational challenges and optimizing efficiency. He was drawn to the field of logistics because of this passion.

At the very start of his career, he also identified logistics as the critical link that connected producers to consumers. He noted that it ensured the seamless movement of the goods, even under demanding conditions such as temperature-sensitive environments. “This understanding drove me to specialize in cold chain management, where precision has a direct impact on product integrity and public health,” Khaled points out.

Additionally, his background in agronomy, coupled with his hands-on farming experience, offers him a unique insight into perishable supply chains from production to distribution. Khaled’s expertise spans end-to-end cold chain management, 3PL and warehouse leadership, operational transformation, and commercial innovation.

He has been actively involved in the designing and construction of optimized cold storage facilities that maximize efficiency and minimize operational costs. In addition to that, he has overseen the development of strategic solutions for complex logistics challenges across food and agricultural sectors, as well as implemented quality management systems and team development frameworks that enhance performance. According to Khaled, he has also leveraged his negotiation skills and market analysis to build profitable service models.

“And, as a Certified Supply Chain Manager, I’ve built my career on integrating agricultural knowledge with logistics expertise, particularly in potato production and perishable food storage,” Khaled says. His approach combines strategic planning with hands-on problem solving, which is always aligned with organizational goals for sustainable growth and team development.

A Brief Introduction to MS Logistics

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-based MS LOGISTICS is a premier third-party logistics (3PL) company specializing in food storage and warehouse services. It offers cutting-edge cold storage facilities designed to meet the highest standards of food safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

In the highly competitive cold chain sector in Saudi Arabia, MS Logistics has carved out a special place for itself. It is because of its strategic location and advanced technology, including state-of-the-art tracking systems and cooling technologies. This has ensured optimal conditions for the food product.

Additionally, the company also employs cutting-edge warehouse management systems (WMS) and advanced material handling equipment MHEs to enhance operational efficiency. “With a focus on flexibility and agility,” Khaled points out, “MS Logistics offers customized solutions that meet the specific needs of clients, maintaining stringent quality standards.”

“The company’s commitment to innovation and excellence positions MS Logistics as a leader in the Saudi market,” he adds.

Leveraging Previous Experience and Shaping Operational Strategy

Previously, over a period of seven years, Khaled developed a third-party logistics company. He played a key role in changing the company’s name to Advanced Co. He also elevated it to a highly esteemed position within the industry, in addition to evolving it. His strategic leadership and innovative approach were instrumental in this achievement, and he brings the same level of confidence and expertise to his current role at MS Logistics.

Additionally, Khaled played a crucial role in transforming the Materials Management Department, which includes all Warehouses at ARASCO Food Co., significantly enhancing operational efficiency and setting new industry standards. His proven ability to drive organizational advancement and excellence positions him as a key figure in the ongoing success and growth of MS Logistics.

In December 2024, Khaled stepped into the role of Chief Operating Officer at MS Logistics. And, in a short time, he has shaped the operational strategy of the company, and he has done that in three key ways:

  • Data-driven decision-making: Implementing real-time analytics for optimization and inventory management to reduce waste
  • Technology integration: Leveraging IoT and automation to maintain uncompromising quality standards while scaling operations.
  • Sector-specific customization: Developing specialized solutions for food logistics, ensuring compliance without sacrificing agility.

Five Core Values

Safety, integrity, care, collaboration, and agility are the five core values of MS Logistics that drive its commitment to excellence.  These values guide Khaled and his team to exceed client and partner expectations.

  • Safety: Prioritizing safety ensures a secure environment, builds trust, and enhances operational efficiency.
  • Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and transparency fosters trust and reliability, maintaining MS Logistics’ reputation for excellence.
  • Care: Fostering a supportive environment ensures that employees and clients feel valued, enhancing satisfaction and service quality.
  • Collaboration: Emphasizing teamwork and partnership leads to innovative solutions and shared success.
  • Agility: Embracing flexibility allows MS Logistics to adapt swiftly to market changes, maintaining competitiveness and delivering cutting-edge solutions.

Compliance with Food Safety Standards

MS Logistics makes sure food safety rules are adhered to by using a strong and detailed plan. For that, they focus on staff training. Khaled explains that training opportunities are provided to employees so that they can keep up with the latest food safety practices. This reduces risks significantly.

Also, they conduct regular audits. Khaled points out that frequent checks are done to find and fix any potential safety issues. In addition to that, MS Logistics follows international standards such as ISO 22000. This allows them to meet global food safety standards and build trust with clients.

Every issue or problem is quickly addressed at the company because of the advanced systems that monitor operations in real-time. Khaled also highlights that MS Logistics’s processes are flexible. They can quickly adjust to new rules without disrupting operations. And they stay in touch with regulatory bodies, which helps the company anticipate and meet new requirements.

MS Logistics’s Quality Control teams also play a key role in keeping the company compliant with food safety standards. They make sure that food safety standards are consistently met across all facilities, according to Khaled.

“This thorough plan helps MS Logistics keep food safety high while staying agile, protecting products, and maintaining our reputation as a trusted logistics provider,” he adds.

The Role of Technology

Technology is central to MS Logistics’s operations. Khaled points out that it greatly enhances their efficiency and reliability. The company employs advanced WMS that automate inventory tracking, order processing, and space optimization to ensure smooth operations. It minimizes errors as well. In the near future, MS Logistics plans to implement sophisticated transportation management systems (TMS). will optimize routing and fleet management, Khaled says.

He also highlights that MS Logistics is currently tapping into data analytics to predict demand patterns. This is enhancing their decision-making processes, in addition to allowing the company to effectively anticipate and meet client needs. “The strategic integration of technology not only supports sustainability goals but also assures high reliability and customer satisfaction, positioning MS Logistics for continued success,” Khaled points out.

Building and Retaining Skilled Workforce

MS Logistics’s leadership team believes that employees are an asset. They are developing a skilled workforce by prioritizing continuous learning and development. Khaled says that they offer a range of training programs and workshops to keep their employees at the forefront of industry innovations. In addition to that, competitive compensation packages are designed to attract and retain top talent. Also, MS Logistics has a supportive and inclusive work environment, where collaboration and engagement are encouraged.

“And career development is emphasized through mentorship and personalized growth plans,” Khaled says. “This ensures employees are well-equipped to deliver cutting-edge logistics solutions and achieve their professional goals.”

Dealing with Challenges When Scaling 

Scaling MS Logistics was not an easy feat. Khaled and his team had to face multiple challenges. To overcome them, they implemented a strategic growth plan that focused on partnerships, technology investment, and employee development.

To scale a company, significant investment and careful planning are required. According to Khaled, MS Logistics collaborated with top contractors to develop state-of-the-art warehouses, which support seamless operations and future growth.

The second step they took was implementing advanced systems that were crucial for enhancing service quality and scalability. For this, they partnered with technology providers and invested in customized solutions. This resulted in MS Logistics achieving operational efficiency and reliability.

Khaled points out that to address the challenge related to employee development, they came up with comprehensive training programs and focused on employee engagement. By offering continuous learning and career advancement opportunities, MS Logistics was able to motivate and develop a skilled workforce capable of delivering high-quality logistics services.

The Leadership Principles

The leadership team at MS Logistics has adopted certain core principles to drive the company toward continued growth and success. According to Khaled, these include dynamic and structured approaches, transparency, innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

The dynamic approach involves encouraging open communication, embracing new ideas, and building a culture of teamwork. All these factors have enabled the company to inspire and motivate employees to exceed expectations. “This approach cultivates a culture of innovation and supports personal and professional growth, helping the team adapt to industry changes,” Khaled says.

When it comes to a structured approach, the company has set clear goals. It also provides rewards for achievements and ensures accountability. Khaled explains that this organized method aligns daily operations with strategic objectives, which ensures consistent performance and efficiency.

“Together, these approaches enable MS Logistics to navigate industry changes effectively, ensuring ongoing learning and data-driven decision-making that align with the company’s strategic goals,” Khaled says.

Strategic Goals for 2025

Strategic expansion is one of MS Logistics’s key goals for 2025. Khaled points out that they intend to strategically expand their network and service offerings across the KSA and outside it. The company is positioning itself as a leading logistics provider in the region, and it is aligning with regional trends toward increased trade and globalization.

“We are targeting over 90% utilization of our Riyadh project, ensuring maximum efficiency and productivity,” Khaled says. “This focus on optimization reflects global trends in maximizing resource use and operational efficiency.”

Additionally, MS Logistics is designing a new Cold Warehouse project in Jeddah. Once completed, it will have a capacity of over 30,000 pallet positions. Khaled says that this expansion will meet the growing demand for temperature-controlled logistics. This move is also in line with the global trends in food security supply chains.

“Through these strategic goals,” Khaled says, “MS Logistics is poised to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving logistics landscape, aligning with both regional ambitions and global logistics trends.”

Contribution to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, launched in 2016, is a national transformation plan to reduce the Kingdom’s dependence on oil, diversify the economy, empower citizens, and create a vibrant environment for both local and international investors. It aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader.

MS Logistics is supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by striving to become a global logistics hub. The steps that it is taking are:

Infrastructure Investment: Enhancing logistics capabilities through state-of-the-art infrastructure, attracting global business.

Advanced Technology: Utilizing cutting-edge technology to optimize supply chain operations, aligning with innovative goals.

Workforce Development: Empowering local talent with training programs, supporting economic diversification, and job creation.

Sustainable Practices: Adopting eco-friendly logistics solutions, aligning with the kingdom’s sustainability objectives.

Contribution to Food Security: Offering unique services at competitive prices to ensure a stable food supply chain.

Expanding Network: Increasing regional and global connectivity, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key logistics player.

“These efforts align with Vision 2030, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s status as a leading global logistics hub,” Khaled says.

Message to Aspiring Logistics Professionals

Khaled advises aspiring logistics professionals to focus on gaining a comprehensive understanding of technology, sustainability, and global market dynamics. He encourages them to be lifelong learner and be adaptable. These two traits are crucial today, as the industry is rapidly evolving primarily due to technological advancements and environmental considerations, Khaled points out.

Another piece of advice that Khaled offers to aspiring professionals is: seek mentorship from industry leaders. He tells them to actively participate in professional networks to gain insights and build valuable connections.

“And develop a blend of visionary thinking and practical problem-solving skills,” Khaled says. “It will empower you to drive meaningful change and innovation in the logistics landscape.”

The Legacy!

As Chief Operating Officer at MS Logistics, Khaled hopes to leave a legacy of innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to excellence that resonates throughout the logistics sector. He wants to create an environment that promotes continuous improvement and cutting-edge practices. “The aim is to shape the future of logistics in the region, setting new standards for efficiency, responsibility, and growth,” Khaled says.

“Through leadership, the hope is to inspire others to pursue excellence and contribute to a thriving, forward-thinking industry,” he adds.