MECS+R Global Associate Program

A passionate and dynamic professional, Samar Akkou has heavily involved in the retail real estate industry for the past twelve years between Lebanon and the GCC. Being an active member of Super-regional and Regional Shopping Centre’s Leasing and Retail Brand Committees has given her immense insight into the industry and confidence to manage most challenging situations. She has successfully negotiated Lease Agreements with major international anchor brands in the Fashion, F&B, Supermarket, Department Stores, and Cinema Theatres categories. Moreover, she has successfully attracted and recruited international brands with a market debut within her portfolio of projects. Samar is a CSM and CLS holder, being the first lady in the Middle East to achieve the “CSM” Designation. She is a dynamic member and active participant in MECSC+R/ICSC’s local and international committees. In her position as MECSC+R Regional Representative for Lebanon, she is spreading MECSC+R’s vision and mission at her local chapter. She is a constant contributor to several regional business publications and to MECSC+R’s “Retail People Magazine” with over 15 publications to date. Finally, as a trainer, she is continuously passing on her experience and expertise to uprising professionals within the industry.