From Eastwood student to Managing Director: Sari El Khalil

Having recently stepped into the role of Managing Director at Seven-Up Bottling Company in Nigeria, Eastwood International School graduate Sari El Khalil has gone on to achieve some incredible things. We sat down with him to chat more about those achievements, his time at Eastwood and how he balances his work with everyday life.

First of all, congratulations on your recent appointment as Managing Director of Seven-Up Bottling Company (SBC) Nigeria!

Thank you! I am humbled by the opportunity and deeply honored to serve in this capacity.

You’ve worked hard to get here and it’s very well deserved. How are you finding the role so far?

So far, the role has been both energizing and grounding. Stepping into it isn’t entirely new for me, seeing that I grew with the business, worked across different functions, and spent years listening and learning from incredible people across our organization. But leading at this level brings a fresh sense of purpose. I am more aware than ever of the responsibility we carry not just to deliver results, but to create an environment where our people feel seen, connected, and empowered to do their best work. It’s early days, but I’m excited. We have a strong foundation, and my focus is on building forward with clarity, strengthening our culture, deepening our customer relationships, and ensuring we grow as one united SBC family. There’s a lot to do, but we’ll get there together.

This is a wonderful outlook to uphold. Can you tell us about some of the professional experiences you’ve had that led you to where you are now?

I started my career right here at SBC, working across within different departments such as sales, operations, and finance. These weren’t just roles for me; they were real-time lessons in how our business works, how our people show up, and what it truly means to build something that lasts.

After earning my MBA at NYU Stern, I spent time at PepsiCo USA, which gave me a broader view of the FMCG landscape and the power of strategy on a global scale. But home was always calling and when I returned to SBC in 2020, I took on the role of Head of Financial Planning & Analysis, where we drove critical digitization and business performance initiatives. Later, as SBC’s first-ever Chief Transformation Officer, I led a company-wide strategy aimed at shaping the future of our business focused on execution, digitization, and building a culture of performance and collaboration.

Each of these experiences has taught me that transformation isn’t just about systems or structures – it’s about the people. It’s about making sure every person, in every region, feels connected to the bigger picture and empowered to move us forward. Now, as Managing Director, I lead with those lessons in mind staying grounded in our values, clear in our purpose, and committed to building one great business, together.

You’ve been on quite the journey! As an alumnus of Eastwood International School, can you tell us about any standout experiences or defining moments you had with us?

Looking back, my time at Eastwood was truly formative. What stood out the most was the sense of community. I remember how genuinely approachable the teachers and school leaders were. You never felt like just another student at Eastwood – you felt seen, supported and encouraged to grow.

The friendships I made during that time still hold meaning today. It provided a space that encouraged curiosity, allowed us to express ourselves, and challenged us to be better not just academically, but as people.

What made Eastwood special was that the care went beyond the classroom. The staff truly went the extra mile, and that created an environment that motivated you to give your best because you knew they were giving theirs.

We’re so happy to hear you have such fond memories of your time at Eastwood. What subject areas were you mainly interested in as a student?

I leaned more towards the arts (English, philosophy and history) as a student, however at Eastwood I made a point of balancing the equation by putting more weight on the sciences (math, chemistry and physics).

That’s really interesting – and very sensible. Things have changed a little since then – as you probably already know, Eastwood is on a mission to innovate education by way of its online school, Eastwood Global. Do you think the introduction of all-encompassing, online education is making a difference to students? What are your thoughts on this?

I’m strongly in favour of online education, however not at the expense of what the physical classroom brings and offers. I still believe there’s something special about the physical classroom, the energy, the connection, the structure. So, for me, it’s about finding the right balance – both have a role to play.

That makes a lot of sense. We really try to bring about a balance of authentic classroom experiences and digital innovation to our students. You went on to study at Northeastern University before achieving an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of Business after graduating from Eastwood Global (congratulations again!) How did Eastwood influence this route into further education?

Eastwood was a stepping stone for getting accepted into American University of Beirut (AUB). I then left for Northeastern as I wanted a bigger shift in my life, something that would really challenge me and push me out of my comfort zone. I wanted more independence, more exposure, and a different perspective. Eastwood gave me the foundation to make those decisions with confidence academically and personally.

That’s incredible to hear. What about when you’re not working? What do you enjoy doing outside of the office?

Family comes first for me, that has always been my anchor. Outside of that, I enjoy connecting with people, whether it’s catching up with friends or expanding my network. I find a lot of value in good conversations and learning from different perspectives.

How do you balance your career and work with looking after yourself?

I never compromise on my health – it’s non-negotiable. For me, sports is medicine. It resets the mind, builds discipline and keeps me grounded. I start every morning with a workout whether it’s lifting weights or going for a run. To me, that time is sacred. It gives me the energy and focus I need to lead well and show up fully, both at work and at home.

What a way to start your mornings. What about winding down at the end of the day? What is your go-to method for relaxing after a busy or stressful time?

Honestly? Netflix. Sometimes the best way to reset is just to unplug, throw on a good show, and let the mind breathe a little. It’s simple, but it works.

Very true. There’s a lot to be said for letting our mind and bodies switch off for a little while. What advice or guidance would you offer to current Eastwood Global students?

Make the most of where you are right now. Eastwood gives you a strong foundation, but what you build on it is up to you. Stay curious, stay grounded, and don’t be afraid to take bold steps, even when the outcome isn’t clear. Growth comes from showing up, asking questions, and pushing yourself just a little further than what’s comfortable. Above all, focus on building character, not just a resumé. That’s what lasts.