She shared her professional journey, key achievements, and her role in empowering women—emphasising that her success was made possible first by the grace of God, then by the support of Saudi leadership and Vision 2030, and most deeply, by the unwavering strength and encouragement of her family.

The Beginning: From Innovation to Mining

Shoug recalls her early steps: “I began my career in the field of innovation, working as a project manager at a business accelerator. One of my proudest achievements during that time was designing and launching a virtual training programme in 2020 that brought together 40 entrepreneurs from across the Middle East to learn from experts and mentors how to build their startups from scratch.”

She then transitioned into the luxury jewellery industry, working first as a media specialist and later as a marketing manager at Sulaiman AlOthaim Jewelry.

She explains: “That experience sharpened my skills in communication, brand building, and customer understanding—essential skills for any leader aiming to drive transformation in an established organisation.”

Her next step was joining the Saudi Gold Refinery Company, one of her father’s visionary investments. She started in public relations and rose to lead the Change and Communication department, eventually joining the board of directors.

“What truly attracted me was the opportunity to be part of a future-focused industry built on values and contributing to a sustainable national economy.”

Her Leadership Role in the Company

Today, Shoug serves as Director of Change and Communication and a Board Member. She describes her role: “I lead institutional transformation initiatives within the company, aiming to instill a culture that embraces change and to enhance internal and external communication systems that reflect transparency and alignment.”

Among her most notable achievements is leading the design and implementation of the company’s internal transformation roadmap, which reshaped how teams collaborate, communicate, and innovate.

“This experience proved that Saudi women not only have the ability to participate in the mining sector but can lead it toward innovation and sustainability.”

On Mentorship and Inspirational Figures

Shoug emphasises that her father, Sulaiman Saleh AlOthaim, played the most significant role in shaping her leadership identity: “My father is my first and most important role model. He taught me to stay focused on the goal, embrace dynamic leadership, and master strategic planning.”

She also highlights the vital role of her family: “My family has always been my primary source of strength. They consistently emphasised the importance of mutual support, which enabled me to work with confidence and maintain a sustainable balance between my professional and personal life.”

As for other mentors, she says: “I’ve learnt from international experts such as Thea Weeks and Nico Lange. Their insights have been incredibly valuable and deeply enriched my professional experience.”

From Professional Achievements to Mindset Shifts

For Shoug, the most important achievement wasn’t just reaching executive positions but the mindset transformation that came with it: “From leading public relations to strategic change, and then joining the board, it’s been a journey of growth by the grace of God. What truly sets it apart is that I’ve been able to lead a transformation that connects sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated sector like mining.”

Empowering Women in the Mining Sector

Shoug sees women’s empowerment as a real responsibility: “Within the company, I support female talent through leadership programmes, mentorship, Outside the company, I’m a founding member of the Saudi Women in Mining Association.”

Work-Life Balance

“Balance doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentional planning. I dedicate my evenings to family and community and Fridays entirely to family. This balance keeps me refreshed, clear-minded, and consistently productive.”

Her Advice to Young Women

“Life is like a game—the higher the level, the tougher the challenges. Don’t see that as an obstacle, but as proof that you’re growing. If you face something that feels difficult, remember: you’re at this level because you’re capable of overcoming it.

“Believe in your vision, even if others don’t see it yet. Trust your instincts. Stay focused. You are the hero of your own story. The world may not applaud you as you climb—but it will when you reach the top,” says Shoug.

“Success doesn’t come fully formed. It’s built—with patience, courage, and faith in God first, then in yourself. I always thank God for His guidance at every step, and I pray that every ambitious young woman finds her dream and becomes a source of inspiration and empowerment for others.”

Gratitude and Faith

“I thank God first and foremost for His grace and guidance. Everything I’ve achieved is by His will and with the support of our wise leadership and the encouragement of my family. This complete system of support deepens my responsibility to serve my country and contribute to building its economic future.”