Seasoned energy expert Dr. Azwar takes helm of STELCO months after former MD sacked

Dr. Ali Azwar, who had been serving as the deputy managing director, was appointed on Tuesday to helm the State Electric Company (STELCO), four months after the company’s former managing director was dismissed.

The Privatization and Corporatization Board (PCB) confirmed Azwar’s appointment in a statement on Tuesday afternoon.

Azwar, a native of Feydhoo district of Addu City, replaces Ahmed Samah Rasheed, who was dismissed from his role as managing director of STELCO on January 11, after a brief four-month tenure.

Azwar is a seasoned energy sector leader and policy professional with nearly three decades of experience STELCO.

Azwar began his career at STELCO in 1997 as a trainee, steadily rising through the organization across multiple technical and managerial roles. Over the years, he has led key departments including sales and marketing, billing services, and business development, before advancing into senior executive leadership positions. As deputy managing director and previously as chief operating officer, Azwar is credited with making significant contributions towards to strengthening institutional capacity, improving operational performance, and aligning the company’s strategy with the country’s growing energy needs.

In addition to his executive responsibilities, Azwar has served on STELCO’s board as an executive director appointed by the Maldivian president, and as a non-executive director at Fuel Supplies Maldives.

Azwar holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, where his research focused on the diffusion of renewable electricity technologies in Small Island Developing States. His academic background also includes a Master in Public Policy from the National University of Singapore and a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Business Studies from the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom.