Tawasol Newsletter - Winter 2014

Winter 2014

TAWASOL AmCham Abu Dhabi’s Newsletter ‘Connecting’ U.S.- U.A.E. Business

Special Feature

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker addresses AmCham Abu Dhabi Members

Member Focus

Guy Mehula Parsons International Ltd.

New Members & Recent Events

Highlights AmCham Abu Dhabi assumes AmCham MENA Regional Council Chairmanship ABC Dubai & AmCham Abu Dhabi host Dubai Airshow Breakfast Women in Business Committee celebrates 1st Anniversary of the Women Achieve Initiative

CONTENTS

WELCOME MESSAGES

CONTENTS

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE - mATTHEW E. BYRD

Welcome Messages

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AmCham Board of Directors & Executive Team

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have been many new developTChamhere ments since the last newsletter. AmAbu Dhabi has moved to a new

office in the East Tower of the Abu Dhabi Trade Center next to Abu Dhabi Mall; a location and larger office space that allows us to better serve our members.

In addition, we have a new management team in place, led by Executive Director Terry Weber. There have been many significant accomplishments and I would like to highlight two of them. In December, AmCham Abu Dhabi assumed the chairmanship role for the AmCham Middle East and North Africa Regional Council (AmCham MENA). We will hold that position for two years and work closely with the secretariat based in AmCham Egypt. AmCham MENA is one of four regional councils that constitute the Global AmCham Network. In March, we co-hosted an exclusive business event in honor of U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. It was the first visit to the Gulf region of a sitting U.S. Secretary of Commerce, with an accompanying trade mission, in 15 years. We were proud to promote the infrastructure trade mission of 21 firms working in the fields of project management, engineering, clean and renewable energy and environmental technologies.

Features

eXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE - tHERESA F. WEBER e are excited to launch the new elecW tronic and hard copy format of Tawasol, AmCham’s newsletter connecting

U.S. and U.A.E. business. The contents of Tawasol (to connect in Arabic) reflect our mission to promote commerce, trade and goodwill. In this edition, we introduce the new AmCham management team, who speak nine languages, and AmCham’s Board of Directors (2013-2014). Our Features section includes a Member Focus interview with the President of Middle East and Africa for Parson’s International and a Special Feature on the U.S. Secretary of Commerce event. Our Highlights section focuses on three areas: AmCham’s role as Chair of the AmCham MENA Regional Council; the Dubai Air Show Breakfast; and the inspiring Women Achieve initiative led by our Women in Business Committee. We welcome 62 new members in our New Members section, with photos of Corporate and Platinum members. Our popular Events Gallery illustrates diverse activities ranging from kick-off events for major international exhibitions such as ADIPEC to our informative Lunch & Learn Series on Cyber Security to our U.A.E. Relations Committee seminar on Attracting and Developing U.A.E. Talent. We celebrated best in class success at our marquee event: AmCham’s 4th Annual Excellence Awards and 14th Annual Charity Gala. We thank you for your support, which allows us to give back to the community.

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Special Feature: U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny 8 Pritzker addresses AmCham Abu Dhabi members member Focus: Guy Mehula, President MEA, Parsons International Ltd

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Highlights AmCham Abu Dhabi assumes AmCham MENA Regional Council Chairmanship

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ABC Dubai & AmCham Abu Dhabi host Dubai Airshow Breakfast

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Women in Business Committee celebrates 1st Anniversary of the Women Achieve Initiative

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New Members

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EVENTS GALLERY

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Upcoming events & Sponsorship Opportunities

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Newsletter Team Communications Manager - Nour Salman AmCham Interns - Haytham Abdo, Nida Mulk & Andrew Platonov Editorial Submissions AmCham Abu Dhabi Trademark of the American Business Group of Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 43710, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. T: +971 2 631 3604 F: +971 2 633 0489 E: communications@amchamabudhabi.org W: www.AmChamAbuDhabi.org Copyright 2014 AmCham Abu Dhabi

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2013 - 2014

Officers

Peter Rafferty Vice Chairman AmCham Abu Dhabi Fund Manager Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)

Yassin Y. Yassin Treasurer, AmCham Abu Dhabi Financial Advisor Abu Dhabi Police - GHQ

John Habib Secretary, AmCham Abu Dhabi Managing Partner Qasimi Law Partners MENA

Souad Al Hosani President Nexus Business Services

Saeed Ghanim Vice President Middle East General Enterprises

Ronald Herman CEO Mubadala GE Capital PJSC

Lina El Labban-Lampkin Programs Manager Abu Dhabi Education Council

Tracy Lavin Director, Community Relations New York University Abu Dhabi

Guy Mehula President MEA Parsons International Ltd.

Jack Montgomery Middle East Regional Director Executive Search Shane Phillips Consultants

Roy Panzarella Chief Executive UAE Lockheed Martin Global, Inc.

Matthew E. Byrd Chairman, AmCham Abu Dhabi President and CEO Gulf Alliance Company, A Perot Company

Members-at-Large

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2013 - 2014

Members-at-Large

Timothy J. Richards Managing Director, MENAT General Electric

Dana Salloum General Manager, Boeing International Abu Dhabi Boeing International Corporation

Elias Sayah President Sayah Engineering MENA

Non-Voting Members

John E. Simmons Regional Senior Commercial Officer for the Gulf and Counselor for Commercial Affairs U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi

Theresa F. Weber Executive Director AmCham Abu Dhabi

Dr. S. Qaiser Anis Auditor, AmCham Abu Dhabi Partner Alliot Hadi Shahid

Honorary Members

Michael H. Corbin Ambassador of the United States of America to the United Arab Emirates

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H.E. Yousef Al Otaiba Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the United States of America

Danny E. Sebright President U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council

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EXECUTIVE TEAM

Theresa “Terry” Weber Executive Director

Theresa Weber serves as Executive Director of AmCham Abu Dhabi. In this role, Terry leads AmCham Abu Dhabi’s efforts to serve the interests of its members and to promote the trade and investment relationship between the U.S. and U.A.E. through innovative and effective business, policy, advocacy and networking programs.

Previously, Terry served as Executive Director of AmCham Abu Dhabi from 2008-2011 and has been an active member for eight years. She brings 25+ years of international executive experience in trade and investment promotion, project management, business development, marketing, and strategic planning. Originally from New York, Terry started her career in banking and advertising and after graduate studies worked at the Council on Foreign Relations. Since then she has managed multi-million dollar economic development projects for businesses, non-profit organizations and international donors in 20 countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Terry holds a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University in Washington D.C., U.S., a Master of Arts in Area Studies from the University of London, England, and a Masters Certificate in Project Management from Villanova University in Pennsylvania. A native English speaker, she is conversant in Russian and French. Active in the Abu Dhabi community, Terry serves on the Board of St. Mary’s Schools in the U.A.E. and previously served as Board Chair of the American Community School in Abu Dhabi.

Christina “Tina” Struller Membership Director

Christina Struller serves as the Membership Director for AmCham Abu Dhabi. Christina is responsible for growing AmCham Abu Dhabi’s membership and managing membership recruitment, retention, services, and benefits. An active member of AmCham Abu Dhabi for many years, she understands the importance of member relations.

Previously, Christina held sales and marketing management positions for companies in the U.S., U.A.E. and Oman. She was the Director of Corporate Sales at The Ritz-Carlton - Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. and Director of Business Development, U.A.E. for the Shangri-La in Muscat, Oman. Christina graduated from the International Business School for Management in Nuremberg, Germany and completed the Starwood Management Program in Palm Springs, California. She is fluent in English and German.

Christina Villaluz Accounting & Membership Manager

Christina Villaluz serves as the Accounting and Membership Manager for AmCham Abu Dhabi. Christina manages financial accounts, human resources, and membership. In addition, she serves as the project manager for the annual audit and AmCham Abu Dhabi Membership Directory.

Christina is an accounting professional with 13 years of experience having previously worked for the Danube Group and other trade, construction and manufacturing companies in the U.A.E. and Philippines. Christina holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Dela Salle University in Dasmariñas, Philippines. She is currently pursuing her CPA. Christina speaks English and Tagalog.

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EXECUTIVE TEAM

Noor Barghouti Events Manager

Noor Barghouti serves as the Events Manager for AmCham Abu Dhabi. Noor is responsible for organizing and managing all AmCham Abu Dhabi events and programs. In addition, she secures cash and in-kind sponsorship for AmCham’s signature events and handles other special projects.

Previously, Noor worked as an Account Executive for Hill and Knowlton Strategies, a global communications and public relations company. Her key accounts included twofour54, Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) and FLASH entertainment. Noor’s responsibilities included events, media relations and communications. A graduate of Concordia University in Montreal, Canada, Noor holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing. She grew up in Abu Dhabi and speaks English, Arabic and French.

Nour “Norah” Salman Communications Manager

Nour Salman serves as the Communications Manager for AmCham Abu Dhabi. Nour manages communications, IT, media relations and the AmCham internship program. She also conducts policy research developing content for AmCham’s website, social media, marketing materials, newsletter, and other publications.

Previously, Nour worked for the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in Sydney, Australia improving marketing and communications. She has a business management background working in finance and human resources for CFBT Education Trust and Siemens Transformers in the U.A.E. Nour holds a Master of International Communication and a Master of International Relations with a focus on the Middle East from Macquarie University, Australia. She also received a Bachelor of Business Administration with a double major in Accounting and Information Systems from the University of Western Sydney, Australia. Nour is fluent in English and Arabic.

Muhammed Ali Office Administrator

Muhammed Ali serves as the Office Administrator for AmCham Abu Dhabi. Ali’s duties include office maintenance, bookkeeping, banking, vendor relations and general office duties. His 14 years of institutional knowledge contribute to the smooth running of office operations.

Before joining AmCham, Ali worked for Al Masaood Automobiles and a private photography firm in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. Ali studied at P.J.H.S. Putiyangadi in Kerala, India. He speaks English, Hindi, Malayalam and Tamil.

Zenaida “Zheny” Carpio Administrative Coordinator

Zheny Carpio serves as the Administrative Coordinator for AmCham Abu Dhabi. Zheny’s responsibilities include coordinating office administrative matters, schedules, and general receptionist duties. In addition, she assists the accounting, membership, events and communications teams.

Previously, Zheny worked in the customer relations and accounting departments at Image Advertising and the Science and Development Company in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. A graduate of Centro Escolar University in Malolos Bulacan, Philippines, Zheny holds a Bachelor of Science in Commerce with a major in Banking and Finance. She speaks English and Tagalog.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Chambers of Commerce host U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker in Abu Dhabi as part of her Trade Mission to the U.A.E. The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, AmCham Abu Dhabi, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council co- hosted an exclusive business event featuring a keynote address by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Hotel, Nation Towers. Over 400 top business executives, senior U.A.E. Government officials, U.S. Embassy officials, and media attended the on-the-record event. VIPs included H.E. Mohamed Thani Murshed Al Romaithi, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry; H.E. Khalfan Saeed Al Kaabi, First Vice Chairman, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry; and Victor Hurtado, Chargé D’Affaires, U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi.

Secretary Pritzker lead an Infrastructure trade mission of 21 U.S. firms looking for export opportunities in the U.A.E. This was the first visit of a sitting U.S. Secretary of Commerce with an accompanying trade mission to the Gulf region in 15 years. The mission highlights infrastructure export opportunities for U.S. businesses with an emphasis on project management and engineering (construction, architecture and design), clean and renewable energy (solar, wind, waste-to-energy), smart grid and energy efficiency, and environmental technologies (water/wastewater, air pollution control, and waste management).

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker gives a keynote address to over 400 top business executives, senior U.A.E. and U.S. government officials in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.

“I am so pleased to be joined on this trade mission by 21 U.S. firms that are eager to partner with government and industry in Abu Dhabi,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. “The United States and our businesses truly value our strong commercial and economic ties with the Gulf region, and recognize that working together is a win-win. American companies have the expertise to help the U.A.E. achieve its vision of becoming an even more powerful global hub for business. And when U.S. firms sell their goods and services to new markets, the American economy stands to gain. I hope this trade mission will l ead to many more mutually- beneficial relationships between our two nations.”

U.S. Commerce Secretary Pritzker delivered her keynote address following opening remarks by co-hosts Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry Chairman, H.E. Mohamed Thani Murshed Al Rumaithi, AmCham Abu Dhabi Chairman Matthew E. Byrd, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President and COO, David Chavern and U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council President, Danny Sebright.

“AmCham Abu Dhabi is honored to host Secretary Pritzker and members of her business delegation in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The timing of the visit is superb, as Abu Dhabi is growing and a great place for American business to focus their efforts locally and regionally,” said Matthew E. Byrd, Chairman of AmCham Abu Dhabi. “Secretary Pritzker’s agenda for 8

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SPECIAL FEATURE

increased global trade relations highlights the importance of U.S.- U.A.E. trade, which totaled a record of $26.9 billion in 2013.”

His Excellency Mohammed Thani Murshid Al Rumaithi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, emphasized the vitality and importance of the exceptional and strategic bilateral relations between the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the United States, noting “Abu Dhabi’s unique standing in the regional business environment and the U.A.E.’s friendly ties with the U.S. provide us with a strong footing to build a solid economic partnership.”

His Excellency stated, “The visit of the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to the U.A.E. is a good opportunity to maintain this excellent bilateral cooperation. We believe that both our economies have the strength to forge many more long-term cooperation relations that help us achieve more in terms of trade and development.”

David Chavern, Executive Vice President and COO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce commented, “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce values U.S.-U.A.E. trade and investment, and we are here because we want to both celebrate our bilateral relationship, and explore how we can take it to new heights. It is so important that leaders in the business communities and governments of both our countries work together to advance commercial and strategic partnerships. We look forward to continued collaboration with U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker and our partner organizations here in the U.A.E. to achieve our shared goals.”

“Secretary Pritzker’s visit to both Abu Dhabi and Dubai during her inaugural trip to the Middle East provides a clear indication that the U.S. Administration views commercial ties between the U.S. and the U.A.E. as a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship,” said Danny Sebright, President of the U.S.- U.A.E. Business Council. “With the planned visit of President Obama to the region later this month, the U.S. is clearly committed to strengthening and deepening our already close ties.”

In her remarks, U.S. Commerce Secretary Pritzker, highlighted the capacity of U.S. companies to help the U.A.E. meets its ambitious infrastructure investment goals.

From Left to Right: Victor Hurtado, Charges D’Affaires, U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi; David Chavern, Executive Vice President and COO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Washington D.C.; H.E. Khalfan Saeed Al Kaabi, First Vice Chairman, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry; The Honorable Penny Pritzker, U.S. Secretary of Commerce; Matthew E. Byrd, Chairman, AmCham Abu Dhabi; and Danny Sebright, President, U.S.- U.A.E. Business Council.

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MEMBER FOCUS

INTERVIEW WITH

GUY MEHULA

President, Parsons Middle East & Africa (MEA) AmCham Abu Dhabi Board Member Chair of the U.A.E. Relations Committee by

Haytham Abdo

Q. Tell us about Parsons’ business in the U.A.E? A. Parsons is an international engineering, construction, technical, and management services firm headquartered in Pasadena, California, with more than 13,000 employees and revenues of $3 billion in 2013. I joined Parsons in 2010 and was appointed as Senior Vice President managing our Global Buildings Division. I came to the Middle East in 2011, as President of the MEA Region.

Parsons is fully committed to the region’s growth. We have been designing, developing, building, and modernizing Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure since the 1970s. Having a good infrastructure improves the quality of life, promotes economic growth, enhances mobility, and achieves sustainability standards that continue to support the Abu Dhabi 2030 Vision.

Parsons’ first impact on Abu Dhabi started shortly after the seven Emirates united, building the initial bridges and infrastructure. Since then, Parsons has grown with the U.A.E. and we have worked on some of the country’s most visible projects. Some of the biggest ones we contributed to are: Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi Airport, Dubai Metro, Saadiyat Island, Sorbonne University, Zayed University, Eithad Rail, Al Shamkha housing, and several Abu Dhabi water treatment plants and water reuse projects.

Q. What is one of your favorite projects that Parsons’ has completed in Abu Dhabi?

A. There are so many projects that Parsons has been a part of, that it is really hard to choose just one. I would say the Sheikh Zayed Street Tunnel has definitely added value to Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure and has been a major asset in relieving traffic, by allowing vehicles to enter from the Corniche and Mina Port to proceed to Dubai without ever stopping at a red light. I would also mention another personal favorite project is the Hodariyat Bridge, which connects the Abu Dhabi western coastline to the Hodariyat Island coastline. While sometimes referred to as the “Bridge to Nowhere” because the island is currently undeveloped, it will certainly facilitate Hodariyat Island’s future development. The great thing about being in this particular industry in Abu Dhabi is the diversity and size of projects we have developed in the U.A.E. You see the final product that you build and watch them help the country continue to grow. It is very rewarding.

Q. How has your industry changed since you arrived in Abu Dhabi?

A. I have been here since 2011, around the time when Abu Dhabi was reprioritizing their capital projects required to help them reach the 2030 vision. The projects market was slower at that time, but today optimism has increased in Abu Dhabi and we see a larger number of projects moving forward.

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MEMBER FOCUS

Q. What is your advice for someone looking to excel in the construction and engineering industry?

A. The advice I would give to someone in this industry would be the same advice I would give to anyone in any other industry. Learn, understand your job and develop the expert status needed to excel in your field. Understand that change will happen in your industry and if you know your job well, you will be well prepared for all the changes.

Q. What leadership lessons have you experienced to be the most beneficial in your career?

A. My first career began in the U.S. Naval Academy where I received my degree in systems engineering, and then I proceeded to serve as an officer in the Navy’s Civil Engineer Corps for 25 years. The Navy was a great first career and taught me a great deal about leadership, such as taking care of my troops, building team motivation, and achieving high standards. As President of Parsons MEA, I endeavor to bring those leadership qualities to the job and keep the Parsons team motivated and performing to the high standards our company is known for providing.

Q. What do you do to relax?

A. Balancing work and life is difficult here in the U.A.E! However, I do enjoy swimming, as it helps to work out any of my frustrations of the day. I also enjoy playing golf, which may add to the frustration level at times, but I try to play it as much as I can.

Q. What is your favorite aspect about being a member of AmCham Abu Dhabi?

A. Representing an American company like Parsons, AmCham Abu Dhabi has definitely been a great experience since I joined in 2011. I have enjoyed meeting the members of AmCham. The networking opportunities are great and our roundtable meetings have been productive. It is truly an opportunity to continue to improve the business environment for our companies in the U.A.E. Q. What inspired you to contribute to the U.A.E. Relations Committee and the Roundtables Committee?

A. I have lived in several countries during my career and it has made me appreciate the different cultures and people that I have met along my way. Living here and experiencing the culture of the U.A.E. and meeting individuals from a diverse range of countries encouraged me to look for ways to give back to the community. Shortly after arrival, I upgraded our membership to Platinum to get Parsons more involved in the various initiatives with our host government and roundtable forums that AmCham Abu Dhabi facilitates. It was a great move, and one I would encourage everyone to consider.

Call for submissions: Do you have something you would like to share with AmCham Abu Dhabi members? We accept submission of articles from members, although inclusion in the newsletter is not guaranteed.

Submit information to communications@amchamabudhabi.org.

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HIGHLIGHTS

AmCham Abu Dhabi Assumes Chairmanship Role for AmCham MENA Regional Council The AmCham MENA Regional Council (“AmCham MENA”) met in Morocco in December, 2013 for its Annual Board meeting. The meeting marked the transfer of AmCham MENA’s Chairmanship from AmCham Tunis (the 2011-2013 Council Chair) to AmCham Abu Dhabi. Mr. Matthew E. Byrd, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of AmCham Abu Dhabi, now serves as AmCham MENA’s new Chair for a two-year term.

AmCham MENA was established in 2005 and comprises the AmChams of Abu Dhabi - U.A.E., Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine and Tunisia. The overriding objective of AmCham MENA is to promote greater business opportunities between the U.S., the Middle East, and North Africa region.

The Council’s permanent Secretariat resides at AmCham Egypt.

AmCham MENA is one of four regional councils that constitute the Global AmCham Network, including the Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America (www.aaccla.org 23 AmChams), the American Chambers of Commerce in Europe (www.amchamsineurope.com - 49 AmChams) and The Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers of Commerce (www.apacc. net - 28 AmChams).

AmCham MENA seeks to foster regional cooperation by coordinating efforts among AmChams to promote greater business opportunities between the United States and the Middle East North Africa region. The Council’s goals and values include commitment to free trade, opening of regional markets, protection of intellectual property rights, and accession to international agreements. Free trade agreements (FTAs) between MENA countries and the United States are also a priority for the Council.

“AmCham Abu Dhabi, through the key Subcommittees, looks forward to working closely with all AmCham MENA chapters, and with the other three regional councils to aggregate AmCham members’ voices in unison with those of AmCham’s other regional councils,” said Byrd. “We are pleased and proud to be working on regional initiatives with the impressive support of our AmCham MENA secretariat in Cairo – AmCham Egypt.”

In 2011 AmCham Abu Dhabi established separately the Exports, FDI and Taxation and the Arabian Gulf Subcommittees for engaging in advocacy efforts in the U.S.A. For the past two years AmCham Abu Dhabi has contracted with a Washington, D.C.based lobbyist to engage in lobbying efforts on legislation of importance to its Members.

Call for submissions: Do you have something you would like to share with AmCham Abu Dhabi members? We accept submission of articles from members, although inclusion in the newsletter is not guaranteed.

Submit information to communications@amchamabudhabi.org.

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HIGHLIGHTS

The American Business Council and AmCham Abu Dhabi Host Dubai Airshow Breakfast featuring U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense (Acquisition) ters relating to acquisition to the Secretary of Defense and the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. Ms. McFarland began her civil service career at Headquarters Marine Corps, which lead her to the Department of National Defense in Ontario, where she performed Procurement Head of Electronics duties. Her career progressed to Director for Acquisition for the Missile Defense Agency, while in her tenure, Ms. McFarland’s advice led to over $37 billion of sole source procurement activity being opened up to competition.

The ABC Dubai-AmCham Abu Dhabi joint breakfast is held during Prior to becoming Assistant Secretary of Defense (Acquisition) each Dubai Airshow to support the local American and Emirati she served as President of the Defense Acquisition University business communities and their interaction with the many visit- (DAU) where she continued to build DAU’s outstanding reputaing U.S. aerospace and defense industry executives. This high- tion as the Department of Defense’s primary learning institution. profile event has become a tradition among U.S. military, diplomats, and local and visiting industry CEOs. Attendees included: The Dubai Airshow is the premiere showcase of aviation and U.S. Ambassador to the U.A.E., The Honorable Michael Corbin; air defense products in the Middle East and typically results in U.S. Ambassador to the State of Qatar, The Honorable Susan billions of dollars of aircraft and defense contracts. This year’s L. Ziadeh; U.S. Consul General in Dubai, The Honorable Robert show is predicted to be the largest in its history and is being Waller; Federal Aviation Administration Director of Europe, Africa held at the new Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. Mat& Middle East, Catherine Lang; AmCham Abu Dhabi Chairman, thew E. Byrd and Ramsey B. Jurdi expressed their enthusiasm for the strong presence by the U.S. aviation and defense comMatthew E. Byrd; and ABC Dubai President, Ramsey B. Jurdi. panies, which are key components of American industry. ABC During her keynote address, Ms. McFarland stated, “The De- Dubai and AmCham Abu Dhabi are proud to partner with the partment of Defense is improving the U.S. Government’s and Dubai Airshow, which uniquely showcases American businesses U.S. industry’s ability to promote and implement defense exports operating in the U.A.E. in support of our foreign policy and national security objectives.

Current and future efficiencies achieved through these efforts This joint event was sponsored by Aerojet Rocketdyne, Lockwill help us build, field, and support better defense equipment heed Martin Global Inc., Boeing Middle East, DynCorp International, and Bell Helicopter, with support from Kallman Worldwide for ourselves, our allies, and our friends.” and Dubai World Central.

Ms. McFarland currently serves as the principal adviser on matThe American Business Council of Dubai & the Northern Emirates (ABC Dubai) and AmCham Abu Dhabi held a high-level breakfast meeting on Monday, November 18, 2013 at Dubai World Central Headquarters on the sidelines of the 13th Dubai Airshow. Prominent members of the American business community came to hear insights from Ms. Katrina G. McFarland, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense (Acquisition), regarding the U.S. defense sector.

The Honorable Robert Waller, U.S. Consul General in Dubai; Christopher Bernhardt, President of DynCorp International; Jeffrey L. Johnson, President of Boeing Middle East; Marillyn Hewson, CEO and President of Lockheed Martin Global Inc.; Ramsey B. Jurdi, ABC Dubai President; Katrina G. McFarland, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense (Acquisition); Matthew E. Byrd, AmCham Abu Dhabi Chairman; Warren Boley, President of Aerojet Rocketdyne; Tom Kallman, President and CEO of Kallman Worldwide, Inc.; and John Garrison, President and CEO of Bell Helicopter.

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MEMBER DISCOUNTS

These companies offer AmCham Abu Dhabi members exclusive discounts upon presentation of a valid membership card.

To view the complete list of member discounts, click here.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS COMMITTEE

AmCham Abu Dhabi Celebrates the Spirit of ‘Women Achieve’

Grass roots corporate initiative embraced by global companies

Signatories

Women Achieve, an initiative by AmCham Abu Dhabi’s Women in Business Committee marked its first anniversary as over 100 top business executives and distinguished Emirati guests attended the event, which recognized the 19 companies and organizations that have signed the women’s empowerment pledge.

The event, held at the twofour54 offices of BrandMoxie, hosted Women Achieve signatories including Amideast, Boeing, ExxonMobil, F&E Aerospace, Lockheed Martin Global, Mubadala GE Capital, Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) Middle East, New York Institute of Technology, Nexus Business Services, Olgoonik Global Security, Parsons International, Patton Boggs LLP, Sayah Engineering MENA, Alexandria Consulting Team (ACT) LLC, BrandMoxie, Regal International Projects Development and Mountain High.

“Women Achieve is a fantastic initiative used to raise professional advancement of women in the workplace,” said Matthew E. Byrd, Chairman of AmCham Abu Dhabi. “AmCham is proud to support Women Achieve, and congratulates the Women in Business Committee on a productive first year benefiting both women and businesses.”

Established in 2013, Women Achieve emphasizes seven key ideals, which direct companies towards establishing a supportive work environment for the professional advancement of women. These ideals include encouraging women to grow through training, shadowing, coaching, mentorship and internship programs, as well as promoting female candidates for new opportunities and supporting ‘rising stars’ into leadership positions. Women Achieve also encourages the induction of women to serve on boards of various organizations, and advocates the importance of fair remuneration for female employees.

“It has been an exciting year for Women Achieve in which we have managed to push the ideals of Women Achieve into the broader corporate consciousness. Our aim is to encourage more companies and institutions to become more aware of the importance of advancing women, and realize how that can positively impact their bottom lines,” said Sana Bagersh, Chair of AmCham Abu Dhabi’s Women in Business Committee, and CEO of BrandMoxie.

The evening celebrated women and included a signing ceremony welcoming BrightPoint Women’s Hospital as the latest signatory to Women Achieve, inspirational words

by Jules Lewis, Founder of Mountain High, live music by three locally based female performers from the Dream Players, and a performance of the acclaimed theatre production Trojan Women by the The Resuscitation Theatre.

Participation in Women Achieve is open to entities of all sizes. Companies that are interested can elect to become signatories by contacting AmCham Abu Dhabi. Signatories of Women Achieve receive a certificate of acknowledgement from AmCham Abu Dhabi for their support and are eligible to use the Women Achieve seal on their communication collateral.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS COMMITTEE

Signatories

Regal International Projects Development

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NEW MEMBERS

Platinum Members

Joseph Georgie GM - Abu Dhabi Regional Representative Office

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Firas Mallah MD - Global Asset Management

Zafar Anjum Chief Executive Officer

Lara Jezeph Marketing & PR Manager - EMEA

Christopher Gilbert Managing Director

Jonathan O’Connor Commercial Manager TAWASOL - WINTER 2014

NEW MEMBERS

Platinum Members

Tareq Abu-Sukheila Principal - Managing Director

Christopher Johnson Managing Principal

Declan Hegarty Managing Director

Thomas J. Kallman President & Chief Executive Officer TAWASOL - WINTER 2014

T.B. (Mac) McClelland Jr. Managing Director - Middle East 19

NEW MEMBERS

Corporate Members

Amanda Jones Country Manager U.A.E.

Ayman N. El Gayar General Manager Gulf Operations

Siobhan O’Connell Move Consultant

Medhat N. Mansi Project Director

Ronald Herman Chief Executive Officer 20

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NEW MEMBERS

Corporate Members

William Mooney Regional Director

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Michael Dishman Senior Business Development Manager

Gisella Torresala Director of Sales

Antoine Nassrallah Sales Manager

Jeffrey Smoak Vice President

Tammy Leemon Branch Manager 21

NEW MEMBERS

Affiliate Corporate Members

Philip Bay Founder & CEO

Kamal Chaoui General Manager

Hanady Khalife Director - Middle East & Africa

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Sabahudin Dollaku Cheif Operating Officer

Aaishah Bohari Director of Sales & Marketing

Natalia Abboud Marketing Manager

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NEW MEMBERS

Affiliate Corporate Members

Helen Konstantopoulos Managing Director Development

Susan Kadereit Circulation Sales & Marketing Manager

Rana Feghali Director

The New Members list in this newsletter includes new AmCham Abu Dhabi Members from November 2013 - February 2014

Your U.S.A. - U.A.E. Business Link in Abu Dhabi.

Discover the power of partnership.

Join AmCham Abu Dhabi today.

TAWASOL - WINTER 2014

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NEW MEMBERS

Individual Members 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Dr. Nasim Ashraf Linh Austin Peter Jabbar Robert Kenedy Esra Menke Vanessa Middleton Valerie Rogers Rick Schoenthaler Najam Sheikh Tamer Soliman Sally Soubra Deirdre de Steno Dr. Jeffrey Staples Renate Tanaka Retta Tamashiro Clark Thomas

DNA Health Corp ADMA-OPCO deVere Group Fulbright & Jaworski LLP Menke Management Consultants Petroleum Institute GEMS Education Parsons International Ltd. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Akin Gump Hauer & Feld LLP Patton Boggs LLP Al Noor Hospitals Group Expat US Tax Parsons International Ltd. Global Aerospace Logistics

CEO - Chairman Senior Advisor Associate Wealth Consultant Associate Management Consultant Librarian Teacher Vice President, Sector Manager Director Partner Senior Associate Consultant Chief Operating Officer Senior Adviser MENA Project Controls Manager Senior Aviation Advisor

Affiliate Individual Members 1

Hanan Al Bannai

Injazat Data Systems

2

Haifa Al Mubarak

Know How for Management Consulting

3

Michael Armstrong Shawn Davis Maria Fe Toribio Noha Girgis Russell Hildebrand Yendy Khayat Diony Koyess

4 5 6 7 8 9

10 Rasha G. Lutfi 11 Caroline McEneaney 12 Fawaz Moukayed 13 Saleh Muqattash 14 Tareq Nabeel 15 Samia Oulmi

16 Matiur Rahman

17 Alexandra Vasilopoulou

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Akin Gump Hauer & Feld LLP United Parcel System Medical Phoenix International Dhour Building Materials The Franchizery FZE Injazat Data Systems Lutfi Law, P.A. Guardian Insurance Brokers Control Contracting & Trading Company Qasimi Law Partners MENA Tawazun Urban American Dev. Co. Ltd. Le Royal Meridien Hotel

Marketing & Communication Manager CEO - Founder

Senior Counsel Account Manager Chairperson Managing Director Founder & Managing Director Marketing & Communication Manager Attorney Attorney CEO Chief Executive Officer Senior Legal Consultant CEO - Office Manager Director Deputy Director of Sales

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EVENTS GALLERY

AmCham Abu Dhabi Platinum Reception with General James L. Jones Jr. USMC (Ret.), Lamar Hunt Jr., and Ross Perot Jr. - November 1, 2013

AmCham Abu Dhabi hosted an exclusive Platinum member reception on Friday, November 1, 2013 at the residence of Matthew E. Byrd, Chairman of AmCham Abu Dhabi. Distinguished guests, General James L. Jones Jr., USMC (Ret.), former U.S. National Security Advisor to President Barack Obama; Lamar Hunt Jr., a member of the founding family of the Kansas City Chiefs; and Ross Perot Jr., Chairman of the Perot Group, provided insightful remarks on a variety of topics.

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EVENTS GALLERY

AmCham Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (ADIPEC)Kick-Off Breakfast - November 10, 2013 - Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri

Sponsors

AmCham Abu Dhabi kicked off the 2013 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) with a breakfast event at the Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri.

Over 100 top business executives, distinguished Emirati guests, and U.S. Embassy officials attended the event, including Michael Corbin, U.S. Ambassador to the U.A.E., and keynote speaker, Lorenzo Simonelli, President and CEO of GE Oil & Gas. AmCham Abu Dhabi Platinum Members, GE and Sayah Engineering MENA, generously sponsored the high level event.

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EVENTS GALLERY

AmCham Abu Dhabi U.A.E Relations Committee Seminar "Attracting and Developing U.A.E. Talent"- December 5, 2013 - Rosewood Hotel The AmCham Abu Dhabi U.A.E. Relations Committee hosted an interactive seminar, “Attracting and Developing U.A.E. Talent”, on Thursday, December 5, 2013 at the Rosewood Hotel. The AmCham Abu Dhabi U.A.E. Relations Committee unveiled AmCham Abu Dhabi’s Emirati internship initiative and discussed successful internship programs implemented by U.A.E. and U.S. companies. Over 130 top business executives, distinguished Emirati guests, and U.S. Embassy officials attended the event, including The Honorable Michael Corbin, U.S. Ambassador to the U.A.E., and Dr. Tayeb A. Kamali, Vice Chancellor of Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT). The interactive seminar informed participants about practices to implement Emiratization and highlighted internship programs from Mubadala GE Capital, Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC), and Injazat Data Systems. U.A.E. nationals provided testimonials about the benefits of their respective internship programs.

Sponsors

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EVENTS GALLERY

AmCham Abu Dhabi Lunch & Learn Series "eGovernment and Online Business in the Age of Advanced Persistent Cyber Threats" - January 15, 2014 - Sofitel Abu Dhabi

AmCham Abu Dhabi and the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) hosted an interactive seminar, “eGovernment and On-Line Business in the Age of Advanced Persistent Cyber Threats� on Wednesday, January 15, 2014 at the Sofitel Abu Dhabi. Over 100 top business executives, distinguished Emirati guests, and U.S. Embassy officials attended the event, including the Honorable Michael Corbin, U.S. Ambassador to the U.A.E. Featured keynote speaker, Rob Marano, Co-Founder of The Hackerati and Adjunct Professor at NYIT, spoke about the increasing visibility of organizations in the U.A.E. as high value targets of cyber-criminals and what organizations can do to protect themselves.

He outlined how cyber-criminals operate with mobile data, applications, personalized cloud computing and storage, smart machines, webscale IT and 3D printing.

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Sponsor

29

EVENTS GALLERY

AmCham Abu Dhabi Excellence Awards and Charity Gala - January 31, 2014 Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

At AmCham Abu Dhabi’s 4th Annual Excellence Awards and 14th Annual Charity Gala, over 300 top business executives and government officials came together to recognize leading U.A.E. companies, institutions and entrepreneurs for their dedication to strengthening U.S.-U.A.E. commercial relations. The finalists were honored Friday, January 31, with an evening gala at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi, sponsored by Al Noor Hospitals Group and other generous supporters.

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EVENTS GALLERY

SPONSORS Gold

Airline Young Achiever Award H.E. Noura Al Kaabi

Silver

Bronze Women in Business Award Mary C. Corrado

Bridge of Excellence Award U.S. - U.A.E. Business Council

Red

Blue Falcon Organization Award Mubadala Development Company

Thirst Quencher

Falcon Individual Award H.E. Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi TAWASOL - WINTER 2014

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EVENTS GALLERY

AmCham Abu Dhabi Supported Event - FC Dallas Soccer Team visits the American Community School of Abu Dhabi(ACS) - February 3, 2014

AmCham Abu Dhabi Strictly Social - Sponsored by FC Dallas - February 5, 2014 Flooka Restaurant, Eastern Mangroves Promenade

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EVENTS GALLERY

AmCham Abu Dhabi Seminar on U.S. Taxation for Expatriates & Recent Tax Law Changes Sponsored by PricewaterhouseCoopers - February 10, 2014 - Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi

AmCham Abu Dhabi Rountable Discussions - AmCham Abu Dhabi Office Thunderbird School of Global Management - February 2014 Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, NY - March 2014

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UPCOMING EVENTS & SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

SAVE THE DATES April 14

Women in Business Monthly Motivational Meets (M³) at BrandMoxie, twofour54

April 21

Morning Briefing: 2030 Plan with Chris O’Neill, Regional & International Trade Expert, Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development

April 23

Personal Leadership Series with Jules Lewis, Founder, Mountain High ME

April 29

AmCham Abu Dhabi Strictly Social at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat

May 12

Women in Business Monthly Motivational Meets (M³) at AmCham Office

May 14

U.A.E. Economic Update on National Bank of Abu Dhabi’s Strategy & Future with Alex Thursby, Chief Executive, National Bank of Abu Dhabi

May 21

AmCham Abu Dhabi Meet the Candidates Strictly Social

June 4

AmCham Abu Dhabi Annual General Meeting of Members (AGM)

June 9

Women in Business Monthly Motivational Meets (M³) at BrandMoxie, twofour54

June 27

AmCham Abu Dhabi American Independence Day Celebration (4th of July)

SPONSHORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AmCham Abu Dhabi American Independence Day Celebration (4th of July) Event

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AmCham Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 43710, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 2 631 3604, Fax: +971 2 633 0489 Email: inquiries@amchamabudhabi.org Website: www.AmChamAbuDhabi.org