Saba Tahir (left) has retired from her position as Senior Vice President, Purchasing after 37 years with the company; Sharon Beecham has taken up the position of Head of Purchasing.

Dubai Duty Free (DDF) Executive Vice Chairman & CEO Colm McLoughlin has paid tribute to Senior Vice President Purchasing, Saba Tahir who retired from her role, effective 31 August after 37 years with the company.

Sharon Beecham, Vice President, Purchasing has taken up the position of Head of Purchasing department following Tahir’s retirement. Beecham joined DDF in 1998 in the retail division before moving to purchasing in 2004.

McLoughlin said: “Saba is one of our ‘pioneers’ and in fact was the very first employee of DDF whom we hired in October 1983.

VALUED SENIOR TEAM MEMBER

“During her years with the company Saba has shown great commitment to the operation and has contributed in no small way towards our success. She was a valued member of the senior team and we are sad to see her go.

“We wish Saba every happiness and I know that she will enjoy her time with her family here in the UAE and in Canada.”

He added: “Sharon brings with her many years of experience as a senior member of the Purchasing department and, like Saba, she is a well-known figure in the industry. I know that she will do a great job in heading up her team during these challenging times.”

In the past six months 640 Dubai Duty Free employees have opted for voluntary resignation or retirement.