SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh has received the 2026 Wash100 Award, recognizing his leadership in expanding the company’s global satellite communications footprint and executing major strategic growth initiatives.
Jim Garrettson, CEO of Executive Mosaic and founder of the Wash100 Award, presented the honor to Al-Saleh during a visit to SES’ office in McLean, Virginia.
Why Did Adel Al-Saleh Win the 2026 Wash100 Award?
Al-Saleh earned his first Wash100 Award for strengthening SES’ position in the satellite communications market and completing transformative business moves that expanded the company’s capabilities.
His most significant achievement was closing SES’ $3.1 billion acquisition of Intelsat, a deal that broadened the company’s multiorbit fleet and enhanced its ability to deliver integrated connectivity services across government and commercial markets.
Garrettson emphasized Al-Saleh’s leadership and impact on the industry.
“Joining the ranks of Wash100 winners in 2026 is a prestigious and well-deserved distinction for Adel, reflecting the leadership and global expertise he brings as CEO of SES,” Garrettson said. “He defined himself as a premier executive in the satellite business last year by finalizing the acquisition of Intelsat, combining the powers of two communications industry forces.”
Garrettson also highlighted Al-Saleh’s focus on innovation and partnerships.
“Adel has an unmatched talent for collaborating with rising space launch firms, as demonstrated by SES expanding its agreement with Relativity Space for flight services with SES missions. He also entered into a contract to extend the life of SES’ geostationary orbit satellites, pursuing long-term service continuity while also committing to the responsible use of space. Adel’s accomplishments over the past year underscore his significance as a transformative leader in the satellite industry, and I look forward to him building on this momentum in 2026,” he added.
Who Is Adel Al-Saleh?
Al-Saleh is a veteran technology and telecommunications executive with decades of experience leading global organizations.
He became CEO of SES in February 2024 after serving as CEO of T-Systems and as a board member of Deutsche Telekom. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at IBM and IMS Health, now part of IQVIA.
Since taking the helm, he has led SES through major initiatives spanning satellite innovation, direct-to-device and Internet of Things connectivity and strategic international expansion.
What Is the Wash100 Award?
Since its inception in 2014, the Wash100 Award has honored the executives and officials who play a key role in shaping the government contracting arena. Winners are chosen for their leadership, vision, influence on the federal sector and ability to drive emerging industry trends.
Executive Mosaic congratulates Adel Al-Saleh on this Wash100 achievement.
Vote for Al-Saleh in the 2026 Wash100 popular vote contest!
