HAZEM HEGAZY
,, ,, Wealth consists not in havinggreat possessions, but in having few wants.
- Epictetus
Why Valuing Employees Leads to Greater Engagement and Success
Leadershipisoftenmisunderstoodasacompetition
tobethebest.However,trueleadershipisabout inspiringothersandhelpingthemrealizetheir potential.Agreatleadercreatesanenvironmentwhereteam membersfeelvaluedandempoweredtocontributetheir ideasandskills.Thisapproachfosterscollaborationand innovation,leadingtobetteroutcomesforeveryone involved.
Researchshowsthateffectiveleadershipcansignificantly impactteamperformance.AccordingtoastudybyGallup, organizationswithstrongleadershipsee21%higher profitabilityand17%higherproductivity Thishighlights howvitalitisforleaderstofocusonnurturingtheirteam's abilitiesratherthanmerelyshowcasingtheirownexpertise.
Moreover,whenleadersencouragepersonalgrowth,they createacultureoftrustandmotivation.Asurveyconducted bytheAmericanPsychologicalAssociationfoundthat93% ofemployeeswhofeelvaluedaremorelikelytobeengaged intheirwork.Thisengagementnotonlyboostsmoralebut alsoenhancesoverallproductivity
Inessence,leadershipisaboutguidingotherstowards success.Itinvolvesrecognizingindividualstrengthsand helpingteammembersovercomechallenges.Byfosteringa supportiveatmosphere,leaderscanunlockthefullpotential oftheirteams,ultimatelydrivingsuccessfortheentire organization.Theabilitytoinspireconfidenceinothersis whatdistinguishesagreatleaderfromagoodone,making itclearthatleadershipislessaboutpersonalaccoladesand moreaboutcollectiveachievement.
Thelatestissue “MENA's Most Influential Leaders to Watch, 2024” ofTheCIOWorldfeaturesleaderswho havemadesignificantstridesintheirrespectivefields, showcasingthepowerofeffectiveleadershipintheMENA region.Theseindividualsexemplifythequalitiesofgreat leaders,vision,tenacity,andacommitmenttoempowering others.
Haveagoodreadahead!
18.
Hazem Hegazy
Leveraging Financial Institutions to Promote Economic Prosperity
Mohammad Shamas
Transforming Ideas into Impact
Reem Safy
Pioneering Technology and Diversifying into Multiple Industries
28.
16. 24.
22. 32.
Zaid Al Siksek
A Vision for Empowering Wellness
Talk Like a Leader: The Language of Solutions Over Problems
Why Criticism Shouldn’t Deter You from Your True Path
First Impressions in Business: 6 Accessories That Matter
- Anand Mahindra
Editor-in-Chief
Deputy Editor
Managing Editor
Assistant Editor
Visualizer
Art & Design Head
Art & Design Assitant
Business Development Manager
Business Development Executives
Technical Head
Assitant Technical Head
Digital Marketing Manager
Research Analyst
Circulation Manager
David
Richard
MENA'S MOST INFLUENTIAL LEADERS TO WATCH, 2024
Hazem Hegazy CEO & Vice Chairman
Mohamed Saka Deputy Chief Execu ve Officer and Ac ng Chief Execu ve Officer
Mohammad Shamas Deputy CEO Reem Safy CEO & Founder
Featuring Kuwait Interna onal Bank kib.com.kw Sigma Cylinders sigmacylinders.com
Zaid Al Siksek Chairman
Al Baraka Bank Egypt albaraka.com.eg Company
AlSafy Group alsafygroup.com Reem Hospital reemhospital.com
Descrip on
Hazem Hegazy is a seasoned banking professional with over 30 years of experience, recognized for his strategic leadership and commitment to ethical banking prac ces in the financial sector
Mohamed Saka combines strategic insight with opera onal excellence, adeptly naviga ng challenges in the banking sector to foster growth and enhance stakeholder value through innova ve solu ons.
Mohammad Shamas possesses extensive exper se in opera onal management, driving efficiency and innova on within the organiza on, while fostering a collabora ve work environment for team success.
Reem Safy is an innova ve entrepreneur dedicated to transforming her industry through sustainable prac ces and community engagement, showcasing a strong vision for future growth and development.
Zaid Al Siksek is a visionary leader focused on enhancing healthcare services, emphasizing pa ent-centered care and strategic growth ini a ves that elevate community health standards.
Hazem Hegazy CEO & Vice Chairman
Al
Baraka Bank
Egypt B.S.C
C V E R Story
HAZEM HEGAZY
Leveraging Financial Institutions to Promote Economic Prosperity
My journey into the financial sector reflects a combination of personal drive and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the industry's growth and development.
Utilizing the Desire to Contribute Meaningfully to the Finance Industry's Growth and Development!
Toooften,companiesgetcaught upchasingever-higherprofits andlosingsightoftheirgreater purposeandresponsibilities.While financialstrengthisnecessaryto sustainoperations,itshouldnotbethe soleyardstickbywhichan organization'ssuccessismeasured.
Themostsuccessfulcompaniesare thosethatimprovelivesthroughtheir products,services,andpractices.They createopportunities,driveprogress, andworktoleavecommunitiesbetter offthantheyfoundthem.Truesuccess comesfrommakingapositive difference—nurturingtheenvironment, strengtheningtheworkforce, supportingimportantcauses,andbeing aforceforgood.
"Thetruemeasureofsuccessliesnot justinfinancialgainsbutinthe positiveimpactwecreateforthe communitiesweserve,"notesHazem. ThesewordsfromHazemHegazy, CEOandViceChairmanofAl BarakaBankEgyptB.S.C.,express themotivationforhisthree-decade journeyinthefinancialsector.Witha careerdefinedbystrategicleadership, adaptability,andzealforethical bankingpractices,hehascarvedapath thattranscendsmereprofitability, focusinginsteadonthebroaderrole financialinstitutionsplayincatalyzing economicgrowthandsocietalwellbeing.
Reflectingonhisascenttotheapexof AlBarakaBankEgypt,Hegazy attributeshissuccesstoacombination ofpersonalambitionanddedicationto thebankingindustry'sevolution. "Frommyearlydaysasapromising professional,Iharboredaprofound desiretocontributemeaningfullytothe sector'sdevelopment,"herecalls."This passionhasbeentheguidinglight
throughoutmycareer,motivatingme tocontinuouslyseekknowledge, embracechallenges,andmakealasting impact."
HistenureatthehelmofAlBaraka BankEgypthasbeenmarkedbya strategicvisionthatharmonizes financialperformancewithethical practicesandcommunity-centric initiatives.Underhisleadership,the bankhaspioneeredinnovative productsandservicestailoredtothe needsofdiversecustomersegments, stimulatingfinancialinclusionand accessibility.
"Challengesareinevitableinany industry,butIviewthemas opportunitiesforgrowthandlearning," Hazemexplains."EachobstacleI've encounteredhasreinforcedthe importanceofpersistence,adaptability, andstrategicdecision-makingin managingtheprogressivebanking industry."Hisabilitytoanticipateand respondtomarkettrendshas positionedAlBarakaBankEgyptasa frontrunnerintherealmofIslamic banking,offeringsolutionsthatalign withbothreligiousprinciplesand modernfinancialdemands.
AsHazemlookstothefuture,hisfocus remainssteadfastonleveragingthe powerofbankingtodrivepositive change."Ourroleextendsfarbeyond merefinancialtransactions,"he affirms."Wehavetheresponsibilityto upliftcommunities,fuel
entrepreneurship,andcontributetothe nation'seconomicprosperity."
Let us explore his journey:
JourneyThroughtheFinancial Landscape
Throughouthisillustriouscareer, Hazemhasbeenprivilegedtohold diverseleadershiproleswithin esteemedfinancialinstitutions, instrumentalindrivingcontinuous developmentandinnovation.Drawing uponthesevariedexperiences,he bringsfreshperspectivesand approachestohiscurrentroleasCEO ofAlBarakaBankEgypt.Integrity formsthebedrockofhisfinancial leadershipphilosophy,wherehe prioritizesaccuracyandtransparency inallaspectsofhiswork,buildingtrust andcredibilitywithstakeholders.
Hazemhashonedtheartofbalancing responsibilitiesacrossmultiple organizations,involvingstrategic prioritizationandalignmentofefforts tomaximizeimpact.Approachinghis roleswithastrategicmindset,he ensuresthathisactionscontributeto broaderorganizationalobjectives, drivingmeaningfulchangeand progressalignedwiththelong-term vision.Leveraginghisdiverse backgroundandexperiences,hebrings uniqueperspectivestoboard discussions,fosteringcollaborationand innovationforpositiveoutcomesthat benefitallstakeholdersinvolved.
Challenges have been plentiful, but each obstacle has served as an opportunity for growth and learning, reinforcing my commitment to innovation and staying ahead of industry trends.
Hismultifacetedleadershipapproach, rootedinstrategicthinkingandadeep understandingoftheindustry's complexities,haspositionedhimasa drivingforceforpositivechangeand growthwithinthefinancialrealm.
TransformationandGrowth
AlBarakaBankEgypthasstarteda majorrestructuringjourney,ledbythe lightofitsthree-yearstrategicvision thatcametolifein2023,inadaring steptowardsafuturefullofpromise. Hazem'sstatementspresentaclear pictureofaninstitutionthatis persistentinitsresolvetocreateaway thatunitescompletebankingsolutions withthevarioustunesofclient demands.
Theorganization'sofferingsareinfused withinnovativeservicesandsharply honeddigitalcapabilities,creatinga strategicrhythmthatechoesa symphonyofinnovation.AlBaraka Bank'sentryintotheretailbankingand SMEsectorsisawake-upcallthat signalsthebank'sunflinchingsupport forexpansionanddiversification.
Yet,thismaestro'scompositionextends beyondthebordersofcommerce,for thebankremainssteadfastlydedicated tosupportingnationalendeavorsof grandeur,fosteringfinancialinclusion asameansofupliftingcommunities, andnurturinginitiativesthatsowthe seedsofsocietaldevelopment.
serveascatalysts,empowering entrepreneurstocomposetheirareasof economicprosperity.
Harmonizingwiththisgrandoverture, thebank'sstrategyforSMEsresonates witharobustrestructuringapproach, transcendingtheCentralBank's mandateofa25%financingportfolio. WithanSMEfinancingportfoliothat hasswelledtoacrescendoofEGP6.2 billion,AlBarakaBank'sperseverance infuelingthedreamsofsmall businessesburnswithan inextinguishableflame.Initiativessuch asthetriumphant"Izdihar"program
Furthermore,themedicalsectorfinds itselfenvelopedinAlBarakaBank's embrace,withspecializedfinancing programsofferingtounderwriteupto 100%ofthetotalcostofmedical equipment,aresoundingaffirmationof thebank'smissiontobolstercritical sectorsthatformthebackboneof society.
PioneeringDigitalTransformation
Amidsttheversatileevolutionwithin therealmofdigitalbankingand fintech,Hazemhasinitiateda comprehensive5-yearstrategyatAl BarakaBankEgypt,focusingondigital transformationwithastrongemphasis
onenhancingproductandservice digitization.Thisstrategicvision encompassestheenhancementof Internetandmobilebankingservices, thebroadeningofdigitalpayment avenues,andseamlessintegrationwith ATMs.Withasubstantialinvestment exceedingEGP400millionincuttingedgeITinfrastructure,AlBarakaBank ispoisedtospearheadthedigital revolutionwithinEgypt'sfinancial servicessector.
Theproactiveadoptionof groundbreakingtechnologiessuchas InstaPayforinstantaneoustransfers andelectronicpayments,alongsidethe introductionofconvenientdonation servicesandbillpaymentsthroughthe bank'sapplication,underscoresa devotiontoinnovationandcustomercentricity.TheseinitiativessolidifyAl
BarakaBank'sstandingasa frontrunnerinEgypt'sdigitalbanking landscape.
Furthermore,thebankhasintroduceda rangeofnewretailbankingproducts tailoredtocatertothediverseneedsof itsclientele.Noteworthyamongthese offeringsistheintroductionof tripartitesavingscertificates,named "Elite,"boastingavariablereturnofno lessthan22%incompliancewith IslamicShariaprinciples.Additionally, AlBarakaBankEgypthasunveileda suiteofaccounts,includingsavings anddailyinvestmentaccountsforboth individualsandcorporations,featuring competitivevariablereturnsofupto 26%.
Therecentlaunchofthe"Tharaa" service,cateringtocustomerswith balancesstartingfromEGPonemillion orequivalentinforeigncurrencies,or salarytransferaccountsfromEGP 50,000monthlyoritsforeigncurrency equivalent,exemplifiesthebank's tenacityinprovidingtailoredfinancial solutionsandenhancingaccessibility acrossallcustomersegments.
Inabidtomitigaterisksandenhance governancepractices,AlBarakaBank Egypthasestablishedacentral operationssectorandundertakena comprehensiverestructuringof policies,procedures,and organizationalframeworksgoverning dailyoperationsandbankingservices. Thisstrategicinitiativeisdesignedto ensurestrictadherencetothedirectives setforthbytheCentralBankofEgypt (CBE)whileenablingallbranchesto operateinalignmentwithcentralized regulations.
AYearinReview
Hazemconveyedthatalongsidethe strategicendeavors,thefinancial performanceoftheinstitutionin2023 showcasedsubstantialadvancement throughoutthefiscalyear,concluding
onDecember31,2023.Thebank attainedapre-taxnetprofitofEGP3.4 billion,denotingagrowthrateof28% incomparisonto2022.Theaggregate portfoliooffinancingsandfacilities extendedtoclienteleobservedasurge ofEGP8.3billion,indicatingagrowth rateof23%fromtheconclusionof 2022,culminatingatEGP43.7billion bytheconclusionofDecember2023.
Furthermore,thecomprehensive customerdepositsportfoliototaled EGP85billionbytheconclusionof December2023,withanescalationof EGP10.6billion,signifyingagrowth rateof14.2%incontrasttothe conclusionof2022.Thiselevation empoweredthebanktoenhancethe ratiooffinancingstodepositsto51.5% from47.7%attheconclusionof2022. Theportfoliooffinancingextendedto individualsexperiencedanotable upsurgein2023,reachingEGP7.6 billion,anincreaseofEGP3.3billion, showcasingagrowthrateof77% comparedtotheconclusionof2022.
Similarly,theportfoliooffinancings forsmallandmedium-sizedenterprises witnessedasignificantascentin2023, reachingEGP6.2billion,anincrease ofEGP1.6billion,withagrowthrate of35%comparedtotheconclusionof 2022.
Regardingfinancialpartnerships,the collaborationwiththeInternational FinanceCorporation(IFC),allocating $50milliontobolstersmalland medium-sizedprojectsalongsidegreen financing,servesasanexampleofthe institution'spassionforsupporting theseventures,cultivatingconfidence withinthefinancialrealm.
Hazem'sImpactatAlBarakaBank Egypt
ThroughouthistenureatAlBaraka Bank,Hazemexudesprideinthe myriadaccomplishmentsandprojects thathavebeeninstrumentalinthe
bank'ssuccess.Onenoteworthy achievementwastheactive involvementinnumerousIslamic financingendeavorsin2023, encompassingdiversesectorssuchas contracting,systems,industry,energy, sustainabledevelopment,andurban development.Theseinitiativesnotonly demonstratedasteadfastcommitment toIslamicbankingprinciplesbutalso highlightedadedicationtosupporting andfinancingpivotalsectorscrucial forEgypt'seconomicadvancement.
Furthermore,hisprofessionaljourney hasbeenadornedwithprestigious awardsandaccolades,emphasizinghis significantcontributionstothebanking industryandorganizationaltriumphs. Notably,AlBarakaBankEgyptwas honoredwiththedistinguishedtitleof "BestIslamicBankinEgypt2023"by theArabBankersUnionatthe prestigiousExcellenceandBanking AchievementAwardsintheArab world,proofofthebank'spursuitof excellenceandinnovationinIslamic bankingpractices.AlBarakaBank receivedtwoawardsfromEMEA FinanceAwards,includingrecognition fortheBestStructuringandBestLocal CurrencyFinancingforour participationinthejointfinancingfor EvergrowFertilizersCompany.
Internationally,thebank'sdedicationto growthandinnovationwas acknowledgedthroughaccoladessuch asthe"Fastest-GrowingIslamicBank" bytheInternationalBusinessMagazine inDubaiandthe"BestFinancingDeal inEgypt2023"awardfromthe esteemedBritishGlobalBrands Magazine,affirmingitsleadershipin craftingsuccessfulfinancing arrangements.
Moreover,AlBarakaBank'sinclusion inForbes'esteemedlistofthe"Top50 CompaniesinEgypt2023"solidifies itspositionasapremierfinancial institution,recognizingitsoutstanding marketperformanceandsubstantial
contributionstoEgypt'seconomy.The receiptofthe"FastestGrowingIslamic Bank"awardfor2023bythe InternationalFinanceMagazinefurther underscoresthebank'sadherenceto growthandinnovationintheIslamic bankingsector,reaffirmingits dedicationtodeliveringexcellenceand valuetostakeholders.
Additionally,Hazem'stenureatAl BarakaBankEgyptwitnessedthe establishmentofAlBarakaCapital,a subsidiaryofAlBarakaBank-Egypt andafrontrunnerinEgypt'sShariahcompliantnon-bankfinancialsector.Al BarakaCapitaloffersinnovative financingandinvestmentsolutionsto businesses,fosteringgrowthand prosperity.Leveragingextensive industryexperienceandavastnetwork withinAlBarakaBankingGroup,Al BarakaCapitalsetsnewstandardsin IslamicFinanceinEgypt.Itsseasoned professionalsprovidepremium financingandassetmanagement services,strictlyadheringtoIslamic Shariahprinciples.
Throughmeticulouscreditanalysisand riskassessments,AlBarakaCapital ensurestheviabilityofdebtstructures acrossvarioussectors.Theentityhasa proventrackrecordindeveloping diversedebtstructures,includingassetbackedsecuritiesandsukuk,spanning consumerfinance,microfinance, leasing,factoring,andmortgages.Its expertiseinShariah-compliantfinance guaranteesfullcomplianceinSukuk structuring,offeringaccesstoabroad poolofpotentialinvestorsforSukuk issuances.ThismilestoneatAlBaraka Capitalsignificantlycontributestothe broadersuccessoftheAlBaraka Group'smission.
Bank'sCommitmenttoCommunity Impact
Uponmaintainingthebank'sprimary objectiveofmakingapositiveimpact onthecommunitiesitserves,Hazem
highlightstheinstitution'sefforttoward CorporateSocialResponsibility(CSR) programs.Severalsignificantprojects thataimtosolvevarioussocialand communalissueshavebeenstartedby AlBarakaBankEgypt.
Inthefightagainstbreastcancer,the bankhasactivelyengagedinvarious endeavors,includingtheprovisionof essentialmedicalequipmentandthe sponsorshipof100chemotherapy sessions,allofferedfreeofcharge. Collaboratingwithesteemed organizationsliketheSonaaAlKheir FoundationandBaheyaHospital,these initiativesunderscorethebank's diligenceinsupportingcritical healthcarecauses.
Withinthehealthcaredomain,Al BarakaBankEgypthaspartneredwith organizationssuchas"SonaaAlKheir" andtheMervatSultanFoundationto organizemedicalmissionsanddonate vitaleyeexaminationdevicesto hospitalsacrossgovernorates. Furthermore,thebank'scontributions extendtoenhancinghealthcare facilities,exemplifiedbydonationsof externaloxygenunits,chemotherapy chairs,andlaboratoryequipmentto institutionsliketheNationalCancer InstituteandNasserHospital,witha focusonimprovingservicesfor pediatricheartpatients.
DuringtheholymonthofRamadan,Al BarakaBankhascollaboratedwith variousNGOsamongwhichisMisrEl KheirFoundationfortwoconsecutive years,generouslydonatingaround 8,000foodboxestobedistributed amongdisadvantagedfamiliesin UpperEgypt,demonstratinganintent toalleviatehungerandsupport vulnerablecommunities.
Inthefieldofeducation,AlBaraka BankEgyptandElSewedyUniversity ofTechnology(Polytechnic)have partneredtocreateasophisticated computerlabthatbearsthebank's
name.Withthehelpofmoderndevices toimprovetheircommunicationand informationtechnologyabilities, studentswillbebetterpreparedfor successinaworldthatisbecoming moreandmoredigitallysavvy.The goalofthiseffortistoimproveboth theeducationalandtechnological environmentsforstudents.
WordsofWisdom
Inhisinsightfuladvice,Hazem underlinestheimportanceofstaying abreastofindustrytrendsfor individualsaspiringtoexcelinthe financialsector,particularlythose aimingforleadershippositions. Continuouseducationandprofessional developmentarehighlightedas essentialcomponentstostaying competitiveinthisdynamicfield. Embracingamindsetofadaptability andopennesstochangeiscrucial, giventherapidevolutionofthe industry
Moreover,heunderscoresthe significanceofcultivatingarobust professionalnetworkasameansto unlockopportunitiesandfoster collaborations.Upholdingintegrityand ethicalstandardsisemphasizedas fundamentalinallprofessional interactionstoupholdtrustand credibility.Developingleadership skills,includingeffective communicationandstrategicthinking, isdeemedindispensableforeffectively navigatingchallengesandfostering growth.
Lastly,headvocatesforseekingout mentorsandleveragingthewisdomof experiencedprofessionalsas invaluablesourcesofguidanceand insightsonthejourneytowards achievingsuccessinthefinancial industry.
Leadership is not about being in charge, Its about taking care of those in your charge.
- Simon Sinek
Talk Like a Ld
The
Language of Solutions Over Problems
Talkinglikealeaderinvolves adoptingalanguagethat emphasizessolutionsrather thanproblems.Thisapproachnotonly fostersapositiveenvironmentbutalso encouragescollaborationand innovationamongteammembers. Leaderswhocommunicateeffectively caninspiretheirteams,drive engagement,andultimatelyachieve betterresults.
TheImportanceofaSolutionsOrientedMindset
Asolutions-orientedmindsetiscrucial foreffectiveleadership.Thismeans focusingonopportunitiesratherthan dwellingonproblems.Accordingtoa 2023reportonbusiness communication,poorleadership languagecanleadtosignificantissues withinteams,includingincreased stressandburnoutfor50%of employeesanddecreasedjob satisfactionfor34%.Byshiftingthe focusfromproblemstosolutions, leaderscanhelpalleviatethesestresses andcreateamoreproductivework environment.
Forexample,whenfacedwitha challenge,aleadercouldframethe discussionaroundpotentialsolutions ratherthansimplyoutliningtheissues. Insteadofsaying,"Wehaveaproblem withoursalesnumbers,"amore effectiveapproachwouldbe,"Let's explorewaystoboostoursales figures."Thissubtleshiftinlanguage
notonlysetsapositivetonebutalso encouragesteammembersto contributetheirideasandsolutions.
IntentionalCommunication
Intentionalityincommunicationis anotherkeyaspectofeffective leadership.Leadersshouldbe thoughtfulaboutwhattheysayand howtheysayit.Thismeansbeingclear abouttheirintentionsandensuringthat theirmessagesresonatewiththeir audience.Aleaderwhocommunicates intentionallyismorelikelytoinspire trustandrespectamongteam members.
Whenpreparingforameetingor importantconversation,leaderscanask themselvesquestionslike,"WhatdoI wanttoachievefromthisdiscussion?" and"HowcanIpresentmyideasina waythatencouragescollaboration?" Byanticipatingtheneedsandreactions ofothers,leaderscantailortheir messagestofosteramoreinclusive andengagingdialogue.
TheRoleofEmotionalIntelligence
Emotionalintelligence(EI)playsa significantroleinhowleaders communicate.Itencompassesselfawareness,empathy,andsocialskills, whichareessentialforunderstanding andrespondingtotheemotionsof others.Leaderswithhighemotional intelligencecannavigatechallenging conversationsmoreeffectivelyand
createanatmosphereofopenness.
Forinstance,ifateammemberis strugglingwithatask,aleadermight say,"Iunderstandthisischallenging foryou.HowcanIsupportyouin overcomingtheseobstacles?"This approachnotonlyshowsempathybut alsoreinforcestheideathattheleader istheretohelp,fosteringasenseof teamworkandcollaboration.
BuildingTrustThrough Vulnerability
Anotherpowerfulaspectofleadership communicationisvulnerability. Leaderswhoarewillingtosharetheir challengesanduncertaintiescanbuild strongerconnectionswiththeirteams. Thisopennessencouragesteam memberstoexpresstheirownconcerns andideas,leadingtoamore collaborativeenvironment.
Researchshowsthatleaderswho demonstratevulnerabilitycanenhance trustandengagementwithintheir teams.Forexample,aleadermight shareapersonalstoryaboutatime theyfacedasetbackandhowthey overcameit.Thisnotonlyhumanizes theleaderbutalsoinspiresotherstobe resilientinthefaceofchallenges.
TheImpactofLanguageonTeam Dynamics
Thelanguageleadersusecan significantlyimpactteamdynamics.A
2023studyfoundthat22%of employeesconsideredleavingtheir jobsduetopoorcommunicationfrom leadership.Thishighlightsthe importanceofusingclear,positive languagethatfostersasenseof belongingandcommitmentamong teammembers.
Leadersshouldstrivetouseinclusive languagethatemphasizesteamwork. Forinstance,using"we"insteadof"I" cancreateasenseofshared responsibilityandcollaboration. Phraseslike"Let'sworktogetherto solvethis"canmotivateteammembers toengageactivelyinfindingsolutions.
Conclusion
Inconclusion,talkinglikealeader meansadoptingalanguagethat prioritizessolutions,intentionality, emotionalintelligence,and vulnerability.Byfocusingonthese elements,leaderscancreateapositive andengagingworkenvironmentthat fosterscollaborationandinnovation. Thestatisticshighlightthesignificant impactthateffectivecommunication canhaveonemployeesatisfactionand retention.Leaderswhoembracethis approacharenotonlymorelikelyto inspiretheirteamsbutalsotodrive betterorganizationaloutcomes.By makingaconsciouseffortto communicateinawaythatencourages solutionsoverproblems,leaderscan trulymakeadifferenceintheir organizations.
An Emerging Leader in the Manufacturing Sector!
Bycombiningadvanced technologywithstringent qualitycontrolprocesses, machinerymanufacturinghas consistentlydeliveredproductsthat exceedindustrystandards.Toaddress thegrowingdemandforreliableand safecylindersolutions,expertsinthese organizationsaimtoinnovateandset newstandardsintheindustry Witharobustbackgroundinstrategy, management,andbusiness development,MohammadShamas, theDeputyChiefExecutiveOfficerat SigmaCylinders,hasdedicatedhis careertooptimizingoperationsinthe MiddleEastandAfrica.
HeattainedaBachelor'sdegreein BusinessAdministrationand ManagementfromtheLebanese AmericanUniversity,hehasutilized hisacademicfoundationtodrive significantgrowthandoperational excellencethroughouthisprofessional journey.
Mohammad Shamas Deputy CEO Sigma Cylinders
Bridging Strategy and Operations
Hismotivationderivesfromhis passionforturningcomplexproblems intogrowthopportunities.Heis especiallymotivatedbythe unpredictablenatureofbusiness instances,wherehecanhaveagenuine impact.
Indecision-making,hebalances intuitionwithdata-driveninsights.His extensiveexperienceinstrategyand managementconsultinghastaughthim theimportanceofcomprehensivedata analysis.Thiscombinationof analyticalandagiledecision-making enableshimtonavigatecomplex situationseffectively
Mohammadsetsclear,achievable goalsusingtheSMARTcriteria, aligningthemwiththecompany's broaderstrategicobjectives.He providesconstructive,timely,and balancedfeedback,focusingonboth positivereinforcementandareasfor improvement.Heconductsregular one-on-onemeetingstodiscuss progressanddevelopmentgoalstostay aheadinthemarket.
Here are the interview highlights:
Canyoupleaseintroduceyourself andyourmotivationtoembarkon thissector?
MynameisMohammadShamas,andI amcurrentlytheDeputyChief ExecutiveOfficeratSigmaCylinders. Myprofessionaljourneyhasbeen deeplyrootedinstrategy,management consulting,andbusinessdevelopment, withaspecificfocusonscalingand optimizingoperationsintheMiddle EastandAfrica.
TofocusonactingCOO,whereI believeconnectingoperationsto commercialsisthebestapproach.I holdabachelor'sdegreeinBusiness AdministrationandManagementfrom theLebaneseAmericanUniversity. Thisacademicfoundationequippedme
withabroadunderstandingofbusiness principles,whichIhaveapplied throughoutmycareertodrivegrowth andoperationalexcellence.
Mymotivationtoworkinthissector comesfromapassionforturning complexchallengesintoopportunities forgrowth.Whetherit'sleadinglarge teamsorspearheadingexpansion initiatives,Ithriveonthedynamic natureofbusinessenvironmentsand thechancetomakeatangibleimpact.I amparticularlyinspiredbythe potentialtocreatevaluenotjustforthe company,butalsofortheteamsIwork with,ensuringthateveryonegrowsand learnsalongtheway
Couldyoupleasegiveabrief introductiontoyourcompanyand itsinceptionstory?
SigmaCylindersisapioneering companyinthemanufacturingsector, specializingintheproductionofhighqualityLPGcylinders.Establishedto meetthegrowingdemandforreliable andsafecylindersolutions,Sigma Cylindershasquicklypositioneditself asaleaderinthisnichemarket.
Thecompanywasfoundedwitha visiontoinnovateandsetnew standardsincylindermanufacturing. Sinceitsinception,SigmaCylinders hasfocusedoncombiningadvanced technologywithrobustqualitycontrol processestodeliverproductsthat exceedindustrystandards.Ourjourney hasbeenmarkedbycontinuous improvementandadaptationtomarket needs,allowingustoexpandour presenceacrossvariousregions, particularlyintheMiddleEastand Africa.
Themixoffamilybusinessand corporateisthebestcombinationfor ourculture,structure,andthemarkets we'reintomakedecision-making efficient.
Canyoudescribeyourleadership style?Howdoyoumotivateyour team?
Myleadershipstyleischaracterizedby apeople-centricapproach.Ibelievein leadingbyexample,fosteringaculture ofempowerment,andconnecting deeplywithmyteam.Assomeonewho isextrovertedandenthusiasticabout people,Ithriveoncreatingan environmentwhereteammembersfeel valuedandmotivatedtocontribute theirbest.
Leadingadiverseteamofover1,750+ professionalsacrossdifferent geographicalareas,Ifocuson empoweringindividualsby recognizingtheirstrengthsand providingopportunitiesforgrowthand development.Iencourageopen communicationandactivelyseekinput fromallteammembers,ensuringthat everyone'svoiceisheard.Sharing knowledgeandbigideasisa cornerstoneofmyapproach.Ibelieve thatwhenpeoplearewell-informed andengaged,theyaremorelikelytobe motivatedandproductive.
Howdoyouapproachdecisionmaking?Doyourelyonintuitionor data-driveninsights?
Inmydecision-makingprocess,Istrive tobalanceintuitionwithdata-driven insights.Myextensiveexperiencein strategyandmanagementconsulting hastaughtmethevalueofmaking informeddecisionsbasedon comprehensivedataanalysis.However, Ialsorecognizetheimportanceof intuition,especiallywhendealingwith rapidlychangingenvironmentsor complexhumandynamics.
Itypicallystartbygatheringand analyzingrelevantdatatounderstand thepotentialoutcomesand implicationsofadecision.This analyticalapproachprovidesasolid
foundationformakinginformed choices.However,Ialsotrustmygut feelingsandexperience,particularlyin situationswheredatamaynotprovide acompletepictureorwherequick decisionsarenecessary.This combinationallowsmetobeboth analyticalandagileinmydecisionmaking.
Howdoyouensureeffective communicationwithinyourteam? Arethereanyspecificstrategiesyou use?
Effectivecommunicationisvitalinany organization,especiallywhen managingalargeandgeographically dispersedteam.Iensureeffective communicationthroughafewkey strategies:
• RegularUpdatesand Meetings:Ischeduleregular meetingsandupdatestokeep everyoneinformedabout companygoals,project progress,andanychangesin strategy.Thishelpsmaintain alignmentandensuresthat everyoneisonthesamepage.
• Open-DoorPolicy:Imaintain anopen-doorpolicywhere teammembersfeel comfortableapproachingme withtheirideas,concerns,or feedback.Thisfostersa cultureofopennessand transparency.
• UseofCollaborativeTools: Leveragingtechnologyis essentialintoday'sworld.We usevariouscollaborativetools andplatformsthatfacilitate real-timecommunicationand collaboration,makingiteasier tomanageteamsacross differentlocations.
• CulturalSensitivity: Understandingandrespecting culturaldifferenceswithinthe teamiscrucial.Imakeita pointtobeculturallysensitive
I aim to deepen my understanding of digital transformation and advanced data analytics.
ofteamengagementand satisfaction,astheseare criticalindicatorsoflong-term success.
Whatstrategiesdoyouusetobuilda cohesiveteam?Howdoyoufostera positiveteamculture?
Howdoyouhandleconflictswithin yourteam?Whatstrategiesdoyou usetoresolvethem?
Conflictisaninevitablepartofany teamdynamic,especiallyindiverse andfast-pacedenvironments.My approachtohandlingconflictsis proactiveandcenteredaround understandingandempathy.
• EarlyIntervention:Ibelieve inaddressingconflictsearly beforetheyescalate.Open communicationchannelshelp identifyissuesastheyarise.
• ActiveListening:Imakeita pointtolistenactivelytoall partiesinvolvedinaconflict. Understandingdifferent perspectivesiscrucialfor findingafairandeffective resolution.
• FindingCommonGround:I focusonfindingcommon groundandsharedgoalsthat allpartiescanagreeon.This helpsinredirectingthefocus frompersonaldifferencesto teamobjectives.
• Mediation:Ifneeded,Iactas amediator,facilitating discussionsandhelpingteam memberscometoamutual agreement.Thisoften involvesnegotiating compromisesthatare acceptabletoeveryone involved.
Howdoyousetgoalsforyourteam?
Whatcriteriadoyouuseto determinesuccess?
Settingclearandachievablegoalsis fundamentaltodrivingperformance andensuringthateveryoneisaligned withthecompany'svision.My approachtogoal-settinginvolves:
• SMARTGoals:Iusethe SMARTcriteria(specific, Measurable,Achievable, Relevant,Time-bound)toset goalsthatareclearand actionable.Thisframework helpsinbreakingdownlarger objectivesintomanageable tasks.
• AlignmentwithCompany Strategy:Goalsarealways alignedwiththebroader strategicobjectivesofthe company.Thisensuresthat individualandteamefforts contributedirectlytoour overallmissionandvision.
• RegularMonitoringand Feedback:Ibelievein continuousmonitoringand providingregularfeedback. Thishelpsintracking progressandmaking necessaryadjustmentstostay oncourse.
• DefiningSuccess:Successis determinedbyachievingthe setgoalswithinthespecified timeframeandtheimpactof theseachievementsonthe company'sgrowthand operationalefficiency Wealso measuresuccessbythelevel andencouragemyteamtodo thesame,whichhelpsin buildingstrong,respectful relationships.
Buildingacohesiveteamandfostering apositivecultureareessentialforhigh performanceandsatisfaction.My strategiesinclude:
• Team-BuildingActivities: Regularteam-building activitieshelpstrengthen relationshipsandbuildtrust amongteammembers.
• RecognitionandRewards: Acknowledgingand celebratingachievements, bothbigandsmall,goalong wayinboostingmoraleand reinforcingpositivebehavior.
• InclusiveCulture:Ipromote aninclusiveculturewhere diversityisvaluedand everyonefeelswelcome.This includesrespectingdifferent viewpointsandencouraging collaborationacrossdifferent culturesandbackgrounds.
• ProfessionalDevelopment: Providingopportunitiesfor learningandgrowthhelps keeptheteamengagedand motivated.Isupport continuousdevelopment throughtrainingprogramsand mentoring.
• EmpoweringTeamMembers: Ibelieveinempoweringteam membersbygivingthem autonomyandresponsibility Thishelpsinbuildingasense ofownershipand accountability.
Why Criticism Shouldn’t Deter You from Your True Path
Criticismisaninevitablepartof life,yetmanypeoplefindit difficulttocopewithnegative feedback.Whetheritcomesfroma colleague,afriend,orevenastranger, criticismcanstingandoftenleadsto self-doubt.However,itiscrucialto understandthatcriticismshouldnot deteryoufrompursuingyourtruepath. Instead,itcanserveasapowerfultool forpersonalgrowthandselfimprovement.
UnderstandingOurReactionto Criticism
Psychologically,humansarewiredto respondnegativelytocriticism. Researchindicatesthatnegative feedbackisprocessedmorethoroughly thanpositivecomments,with individualsbeingfourtimesmore likelytoremembercriticismthan praise.Thistendencycancreatea significantemotionalburden,makingit easytofeeloverwhelmedbynegative opinions.Forinstance,ittakesfive positiveexperiencestocounteractthe effectsofjustonenegativeevent.This imbalancecanleadtoafearof criticism,whichmayprevent individualsfromtakingrisksor pursuingtheirpassions.
Despitethisnaturalinclinationtofear criticism,itisessentialtorecognize thatitisauniversalexperience.As Aristotlefamouslystated,"There’s onlyonewaytoavoidcriticism:do nothing,saynothing,andbenothing." Thisquotehighlightsacrucialpoint: avoidingcriticismoftenmeans avoidinggrowthandprogress.Those whodaretostepoutsidetheircomfort zoneswillinevitablyfacecriticism,but theywillalsohavetheopportunityto achieveremarkablethings.
TheValueofCriticism
Criticism,whenviewedthroughthe rightlens,canbeincrediblybeneficial. Itoffersachanceforreflectionand improvement.Forexample, constructivecriticismcanrevealblind spotsinourworkorbehaviorthatwe mightotherwiseoverlook.Astudy foundthathavingpeoplearoundwho providehonestfeedbackiscriticalfor personaldevelopment.Thisisbecause criticismcanactasamirror,reflecting areaswherewemightneedtoimprove.
Moreover,criticismcanfoster resilience.Whenyoulearntoaccept andprocessfeedback,youbecome moreadaptableandbetterequippedto
handlefuturechallenges.Infact, embracingcriticismcanleadtoa strongersenseofselfandincreased confidence.Insteadofviewing criticismasapersonalattack,consider itanopportunitytorefineyourskills andapproach.
StrategiestoHandleCriticism
• ChooseYourCriticsWisely:Not allcriticismiscreatedequal.It’s importanttodiscernwhois providingfeedbackandwhether theiropinionholdsvalue. Constructivecriticismfrom trustedsourcescanbemore beneficialthanharshwordsfrom thosewhodonothaveyourbest interestsatheart.
• FocusonImprovement:Instead ofseekingapproval,aimforselfimprovement.Lookforthe constructiveelementsincriticism andusethemtosethigher standardsforyourself.Thisshift inmindsetcantransform criticismfromasourceofanxiety intoacatalystforgrowth.
• ControlYourReaction:While youcannotchangewhatothers say,youcancontrolhowyou respond.Avoidemotional
reactionsthatmayexacerbatethe stingofcriticism.Instead,takea stepback,assessthefeedback, anddeterminehowitcanhelp youmoveforward.
• StayGoal-Oriented:Keepyour focusonyourobjectives.When youconcentrateonwhatyou wanttoachieve,criticism becomesaminordistraction ratherthanasignificant roadblock.Thisapproachaligns withtheadviceofracecardriver MarioAndretti,whonotedthat "Yourcargoeswhereyoureyes go."Bymaintainingyourvision, youcannavigatearound negativity.
• PracticeGratitude:When receivingcriticism,express gratitudetothepersonofferingit. Thisnotonlydemonstrates maturitybutalsoacknowledges thecourageittakestoprovide honestfeedback.Bythanking critics,youcreateamorepositive atmosphereforfuture interactions.
Criticismisanunavoidableaspectof life,butitdoesnothavetodeteryou fromyourpath.Instead,byreframing yourperspectiveoncriticism,youcan useitasasteppingstonetoward personalgrowth.Rememberthatevery successfulindividualhasfaced criticismatsomepoint;itisoftena signthatyouaremakinganimpact. Embracefeedback,learnfromit,and letitguideyoutowardbecomingthe bestversionofyourself.Ultimately, thejourneytoyourtruepathmaybe filledwithbumpsalongtheway,butit isthroughthesechallengesthatyou willfindthestrengthtopersevere.
September, 2024 23
Reem Safy
Pioneering Technology and Diversifying into Multiple Industries
Integrating Technical Expertise and Empathetic Leadership at the Helm of Al Safy Group!
Withthreadsofpassion,
resilience,andarelentless pursuitofpurposetoguide thecompanyintoafuturemarkedby innovation,andresilience,Reem combineshertechnicalexpertisewith anempatheticapproachtoestablish AlsafyGroupasaleaderinthe technologymarket.
AstheCEO,shelaunchedAlSafy Techin1999,settingitapartinthe industry Thecompanybecamea leaderinthetechnologymarket throughdynamicinternational alliancesandbyintroducingChinese phonestotheEgyptianmarket.
Asanambitiousleader,she acknowledgesthatsuccessisnotan individualpursuitbutacollective effort.Thinkingthatsuccessliesin creatingacollaborativeenvironment whereteamsworktogetheracross sectors,leadingtosharedachievements andapositiveteamculture.
Here are the interview highlights:
Canyoupleaseintroduceyourself andyourmotivationtoembarkon thissector?
IamReemSafy,theproudCEOofAl SafyGroup,Ihaveembarkedona remarkablejourneythatseamlessly blendstechnicalexpertisewithadeep understandingofthehuman
Learning is a lifelong journey that enriches both your character and your business acumen. “ “
experience.Aftergraduatingfromthe AmericanUniversityinCairowitha BachelorofScienceDegreein PetroleumEngineering,Ifeltacalling toexplorebeyondthepredictablepath.
Drivenbyadesiretobridgethegap betweentechnicalstudiesandthe heartsoftheworkforce,Ipursueda MasterofPsychologicalScience DegreeattheUniversityofGlasgow, Scotland.Thisunconventionalmove reflectsmybeliefthattrueleadership transcendsmeretechnicalprowessand liesintheabilitytounderstandpeople's fears,aspirations,anddreams.
Almostsevenyearsago,Itookthe helmofAlSafyGroup,afamilyownedmulti-nationalconglomerate establishedin1985inCairo,Egypt. Here,Ifoundthecanvastoblendthe artofengineeringwiththescienceof empathy,honoringherfather'slegacy whilepushingtheboundariesofwhat's possible.
Asaleader,mymotivationistwofold: toimproveuponsomethingalready significantandtoensurethattheAl SafyGroup'sjourneyisfarfromover
Couldyoupleasebrieflyintroduce yourcompanyanditsinception story?
It’sapleasuretosharethestoryofthe AlSafyGroup.Ourcompanyisa family-ownedmulti-national conglomerateestablishedin1985in Cairo,Egypt,andhasarichhistoryof pioneeringthetechindustry
Startingwithmobilebusiness distributionforOrange,thecompany expandeditsportfoliotoincludemajor brandslikeXiaomiandApple,while alsoventuringintoretailshopsand distribution.
ThelaunchofAlSafyTechin1999 markedasignificantmilestone,asthe companybecamealeaderinthe technologymarketthroughdynamic internationalalliancesandthe introductionofChinesephonestothe Egyptianmarket.
Today,theAlSafyGroupoperates acrossawiderangeofindustries, includingtechnology,F&B,retail, financialsolutions,realestate,and hospitality,contributingsignificantlyto theEgyptianeconomyandreducing relianceonimports.
Canyoudescribeyourleadership style?Howdoyoumotivateyour team?
Ibelieveinsharingacompellingvision withmyteam.Iunderstandthat successisnotanindividualpursuitbut acollectiveeffort.Byarticulatinga clearvisionforthecompany’sgrowth, development,andportfolio diversification,Imotivatemyteamto worktowardcommongoals.
Irecognizewellthatamotivatedteam isanempoweredteam,soIkeep encouragingopendialogue,valueinput fromallteammembers,andactively seektheirperspectives.Byinvolving themindecision-makingprocesses,I fosterasenseofownershipand commitment.
Howdoyouapproachdecisionmaking?Doyourelyonintuitionor data-driveninsights?
Inavigatedecision-makingwitha blendofintuition,data-driveninsights, andmywealthofexperience.I acknowledgethatfeelingsplaya significantroleinmyapproach, alongsidedata-driveninsights.
Inaddition,wehavearichhistorythat informsourintuition,andwefirmly believeinthepowerofdatatoguide ourstrategicchoices.Ourdecisionsare oftenbackedbycomprehensivemarket research,financialanalysis,and consumertrends.
Howdoyouhandleconflictswithin yourteam?Whatstrategiesdoyou usetoresolvethem?
Ibelievethatlifeisn’tblackandwhite. Iencourageunderstandingdifferent perspectivesandempathizingwith teammembers.Whenconflictsarise,I trytoseethesituationfromtheirpoint ofview
Whileloudvoicesmaynotalwaysbe thesolution,Iacknowledgethat assertivenesscanbeeffective.I
promoteopencommunication,where teammembersexpresstheirconcerns andideasrespectfully.Iaimforwinwinsolutions.Ratherthanimposing myviewpoint,Iencourage collaborationandcompromise.Finding commongroundhelpsresolveconflicts constructively
Iactivelylistentomyteammembers.I believethattrulyunderstandingtheir needsandconcernsiscrucialfor effectiveconflictresolution. Remember,myapproachreflectsmy experienceandgrowthovertime. Conflictresolutionisn’taboutrigid rulesbutadaptingtotheunique dynamicsofeachsituation.
Howdoyousetgoalsforyourteam? Whatcriteriadoyouuseto determinesuccess?
Inessence,Iemphasizecontinuity, improvement,andapositiveimpacton myteamwhensettinggoals.Iseekto builduponthecompany’sexisting successwhileensuringmyteam’s satisfactionwiththeircontributions.
Flexibilityallowsadaptationtomarket shifts.Successismulti-dimensional, focusingonfinance,innovation,and teamwell-being.
Whatstrategiesdoyouusetobuilda cohesiveteam?Howdoyoufostera positiveteamculture?
Weinvestinprofessionalgrowthand teambuildingtocultivatea collaborativeenvironmentwhere empoweredindividualsleverage diversestrengths.Asaleader,I championthisculture,drivingsuccess andinnovation.
Howdoyouhandleyourown emotionsintheworkplace?Howdo yourecognizeandmanagethe emotionsofyourteammembers?
IacknowledgethatIamanemotional personwhocansometimesmanageher emotionseffectivelybut,atother
times,struggles.Ifirmlybelievethat personalandbusinesslivesshouldnot beentirelyseparate.Asaleader,I recognizethataleaderexperiencesthe sameemotionsasteammembers.
Balancingemotionsinaleadership roleiscrucialformaintainingwellbeingandeffectiveness.Accepting themasgenuineandlegitimateallows metoaddressthemeffectively.I’m tryingtomanagemyemotionsby practicingemotionalregulation.This involvesunderstandingandcontrolling emotionalresponses,especiallyduring challengingsituations.
Howdoyouadapttochanging circumstancesorunexpected challenges?Whatstrategiesdoyou usetostayflexible?
Learningfromchangingcircumstances andunexpectedchallengesis invaluable.Experienceiscultivated throughtacklingdifficultprojectsand solvingcomplexproblems.Indeed,this hands-onapproachisoftenthemost effectivewaytolearnandgrow.
Howdoyouprioritizeyour professionaldevelopment?What skillsorknowledgedoyouaimto acquireinthenextyear?
Ithinkcontinuouslyseekingout differentcoursesisavaluable approach.Eachday,addingtoyour knowledgeandskillscontributesnot onlytoyourpersonalgrowthbutalso enhancesyourprofessionalprofile. Learningisalifelongjourneythat enrichesbothyourcharacterandyour businessacumen.
Success is not how high you have climbed, but how you make a positive difference to the world.
- Roy T. Bennett
ZaidAlSikk
A Vision for Empowering Wellness
Building a Healthier Future through Transforming Healthcare!
Avisionforwellnesscanspark arevolutionaryjourneyinthe medicalindustryby encouragingcontinuouslearninganda desiretopromotechange.Toimprove thehealthcareindustryinAbuDhabi whilefulfillingthecommunity's changingrequirements,ZiadAl Siksekstrivesrelentlesslytomakesure thatpatientsreceivesafeand compassionatecare.
WhenZiadandotherco-foundersof ReemHospitalsetouttoestablishthis pioneeringhealthcarefacilityinAbu Dhabi,theirmissionwasclear:to addresstheUAE'sstrategicmedical needsandenhancesocietalhealth.
AsChairman,herecognizedthe increasingdemandforadvanced healthcaresolutionsthatsupport familiesandcommunitiesinachieving theirhealthobjectives.Withafocuson improvinghealthcarequalityand buildingpatienttrust,ReemHospital hasbecomeacornerstoneofAbu Dhabi'sVision2030.
Thismulti-specialtyhospitalprovides servicesthatwerepreviously unavailableintheregionaccordingto worldwidebestpractices.Their devotedteamofphysicians,nurses, andtherapistsusemodernmedical technologytodeliverhigh-qualitycare.
Here are the interview highlights:
Pleasebriefusaboutyourselfand whatinspiredyoutoembarkonthis sector.
WestartedReemHospitalinAbu DhabitoaddresstheUAE'sstrategic medicalneedsandenhancesocietal wellness.Ourgoalistoprovide advancedhealthcaresolutionsamidst theincreasingdemandsofmodernlife, supportingfamiliesandcommunities inachievingtheirhealthobjectivesand improvingtheiroverallqualityoflife.
Couldyougiveourreadersan insightintoyourcompanyandits inceptionstory?
ReemHospitalisacornerstoneofAbu Dhabi'sVision2030,emphasizingthe developmentofthehealthcaresectoras atopgovernmentprioritytoenhance qualityandbuildpatienttrust.This multi-specialtyhospitaloffersunique servicesnotpreviouslyavailableinthe region,focusingonefficiencyand internationalbestpractices.
Ourskilledteamofphysicians,nurses, andtherapistsutilizesadvanced medicaltechnologytodeliverhighqualitycare.Guidedbyourcore values,weensurethatpatientsreceive safeandcompassionatetreatment. Committedtocontinuous improvement,ReemHospitalaimsto upliftthehealthcarelandscapeinthe UAEandmeettheevolvingneedsof thecommunity.
Canyoudescribeachallenging decisionyouhadtomakeasa chairmanandhowyounavigated throughit?
Themostchallengingdecisionswe facedwereduringtheearlystagesof theCOVID-19pandemic.Wehadto decidewhethertorepurposea significantportionofourfacilityto treatCOVID-19patientsortocontinue focusingonourexistingspecialties.To navigatethischallenge,weconvened emergencymeetingswithour executiveteam,medicalexperts,and otherkeystakeholders.
Weconductedathoroughrisk assessment,evaluatedpotential impacts,andsoughtguidancefrom localhealthauthoritiesandglobalbest practices.Afterextensivedeliberation, wedecidedtorepurposepartofour hospitaltocreateaspecialized COVID-19treatmentunitwhile maintainingessentialservicesforour existingpatients.
Whatmethodsdoyouusetoensure effectivecommunicationand alignmentacrossthedifferent departmentsunderyourleadership?
Ensuringeffectivecommunicationand alignmentacrossdepartmentsinvolves severalkeymethods.Regularmeetings andupdateskeepeveryoneinformed, whileclearcommunicationchannels likeemailnewslettersand collaborationtoolsfacilitate informationflow.
In my role, I faced a conflict between the clinical and administrative teams over resource allocation.
Zaid Al Siksek Chairman Reem Hospital
Our goal is to provide advanced healthcare solutions amidst the increasing demands of modern life, supporting families and communities in achieving their health objectives and improving their overall quality of life.
Standardizedreportingandreal-time dashboardstrackprogress.
Collaborativeplanningandtransparent goalsettingensureeveryoneisonthe samepage.
Anopen-doorpolicyencouragesdirect communicationbetweenleadership andstaff.Feedbackmechanisms,such assurveysandone-on-onemeetings, gatherinputanddriveimprovements.
Howdoyouprioritizeandallocate resourcestodrivegrowthand profitabilityinyourrole?
Todrivegrowth,weprioritize resourcesbyfocusingonhumanassets andclinicalexcellence.Ensuringan optimalnurse-to-patientratioand comprehensivedoctorcoverage throughouttheweekiscrucialfor high-qualitypatientcare.Weinvestin stafftrainingandadvancedhealthcare technologiestoenhanceefficiencyand supportstaff.
Data-drivendecisionsguideresource allocation,improvingpatientoutcomes andoperationalperformance. Additionally,wefocusonenhancing thepatientexperiencethroughfacility upgradesandeffectivecommunication. Thisapproachensuresresourcesare usedstrategicallytoachieveboth excellentpatientcareandsustainable growth.
Howdoyoustayinformedabout industrytrendsanddevelopmentsto makeinformeddecisions?
Tostayinformedaboutindustrytrends andmakeinformeddecisions,we leverageastrongnetworkof colleagues,includinginsurance providers,healthcareprofessionals, andtheDepartmentofHealth.We regularlyengagewiththese stakeholderstogaininsightsinto emergingtrends,regulatorychanges, andbestpractices.
Additionally,Istayupdatedthrough industrypublications,attendrelevant conferences,andanalyzemarket research.Thiscomprehensiveapproach ensuresthatIamwell-informedand abletomakestrategicdecisionsthat alignwithcurrentindustry developmentsandorganizationalgoals.
Canyoudiscussatimewhenyou hadtoresolveaconflictwithinyour leadershipteamorwithstakeholders inyourcapacity?
Inmyrole,Ifacedaconflictbetween theclinicalandadministrativeteams overresourceallocation.Theclinical teamneededmoresupportforpatient care,whiletheadministrativeteam prioritizedcostcontrol.Toresolvethis, Ifacilitatedaseriesofjointmeetings tounderstandeachteam’sconcerns andobjectives.
collaborativeproblem-solving.
Howdoyoumeasurethesuccessof yourleadership,andwhatkey performanceindicatorsdoyoufocus on?
Successinmyleadershiproleis measuredbyseveralkeyperformance indicators(KPIs).Employee engagementandsatisfactionare assessedthroughsurveysand feedback,whilepatientoutcomesand satisfactionscoresreflectcarequality.
Clinicalexcellenceisevaluatedbased onadherencetobestpracticesand clinicalresults.Operationalefficiency ismeasuredthroughturnaroundtimes andresourceutilization.Achieving strategicgoalsandmilestones demonstratesprogresstoward organizationalobjectives.
Additionally,staffretentionandthe effectivenessofdevelopmentprograms highlightourabilitytosupportand retaintalent.Finally,financial performance,includingrevenuegrowth andprofitability,indicatesthe effectivenessofourstrategicdecisions.
First Impre ions in Busine
6 Accessories That Matter
Wanttomakealasting impressioninbusiness?
Yourfirstmeetingwithaclientcan definetheentirerelationship.
Thesecret?It’sallinthedetails,right downtotheaccessoriesyouchoose.
Here’showsixcarefullyselecteditems caninstantlyelevateyourprofessional presence.
1.TheWatchThatSignalsControl OverTime—andRelationships
Awell-chosenwristwatchisnotjust practical;itmakesastatementabout yourefficiencyandhowyoumanage yourtime.
Aqualitytimepiece,particularlyone withfinecraftsmanship,signalsthat youvaluelongevity—commitments, relationships,andhighstandards.
• Reliabilityanddisciplineare traitsreflectedthroughwearinga precision-madewatch(source).
• Ahigh-qualitytimepieceimplies thatyouvaluetime,bothyour ownandothers'.
• Therightwatchcansubtlyshift howothersperceiveyour punctualityandprofessionalism.
A quality watch conveys how you manage time and professional relationships effectively
2.ProfessionalBag:ASymbolof Preparedness
Yourchoiceofaprofessionalbaggoes beyondutility.Itreflectsyour organizationalskillsandhowwellyou handledetails.
Anorderly,well-maintainedbag impliesanorganizedmind,indicating thatyouarealwaysreadytohandle challengeswithoutbeingoverwhelmed bythem.
• Awell-craftedleatherbriefcase showsyouareincontrolof resources.
• Organizeddocumentsindicate readinessandattentiontodetail.
• Aprofessionalbagservesasa physicalrepresentationofmental clarityandpreparedness.
Ifyou’rechoosingleather,we recommendlookingforfull-grain vegetable-tannedleather-welikethe onesfromVonBaer(link),whichare madefromCuoioSuperioreItalian leather Their“No.1”lockingbusiness briefcaseisshownabove.
An organized bag reflects mental clarity and readiness to handle any challenge.
3.High-QualityPen:AStatementof Purpose
Apremiumpenisn’tjustforsigning documents;itreflectsasenseof permanenceandcraftsmanship.
Inanageofdisposablealternatives, optingforawell-madepenindicates thatyouvaluelastingqualityand thoughtfulexecution,eveninsmall matters.
Thismindsetextendstothewayyou handleagreementsandpartnerships.It signifiesarespectfortraditional methodsofwritinginanageof computerdominance(source).
• Afinelycraftedpensymbolizes long-termvalueandattentionto detail.
• Theactofusingaluxurypen enhancesthesignificanceof interactions.
• Itreflectsamindsetofcareand dedication,nomatterhowsmall thetask.
A finely crafted pen symbolizes longterm value and thoughtful decisionmaking.
4.TailoredSuit:ThePowerofFit andAuthority
Wearingawell-fittedsuitisaboutmore thanappearance—itdemonstrates precisionandcontrol,whichare criticalqualitiesinleadership.
Whenyourclothingfitsyouperfectly, itcommunicatesthatyouhaveakeen eyefordetailsandthatyoucommand authorityinanyenvironment.
• Clothinginfluencesperceptions ofcompetenceandconfidence.
• Awell-fittedsuitprojectscontrol overbothappearanceand decisions.
• “Enclothedcognition”showsthat therightattireenhancesyour mindsetandpresence.
A perfectly fitted suit reflects control, precision, and authority, strengthening your presence in any setting.
5.StylishEyewear:Highlighting FocusandSharpness
Eyewear,whenthoughtfullyselected, communicatessharpnessandclarityof thought.
Whetherforvisionorstyle,choosing therightframessuggestsyouvalue clearandfocusedthinking.
Thedesignofyourglassesshould complementbothyourfeaturesand yourprofessionalrole,emphasizing intelligenceandpracticality.
• Eyewearcansubtlyenhance perceptionsofintelligenceand sharpness
• Well-chosenframeselevateyour imageinbothcasualandformal settings.
• Theycommunicateclarityand sharpfocusindecision-making andleadership.
Eyewear choices can reflect sharpness and intelligence, enhancing your professional persona.
6.BusinessCardHolder:AMarkof AttentiontoDetail
Inaworldwheredigitalconnections dominate,thebusinesscardremainsa smallbutessentialsymbolof professionalism.
Howyoupresentyourcardisjustas importantasitscontent.Apremium
cardholdernotonlyprotectsyour cardsbutsignalsthatyoucareabout thedetails,fromthefirstimpressionto thelast.
• Ahigh-qualitycardholderturnsa simpleexchangeintoamoment ofimportance.
• Thetactileexperienceofawellpresentedcardcanleavealasting impression.
• Itreflectspreparednessanda respectforin-personinteractions.
A high-quality business card holder reflects your attention to detail and enhances face-to-face interactions.
FinalThoughts
Firstimpressionsarecreated throughthesmallestdetails,andeach accessoryplaysaroleinshapinghow othersperceiveyourleadership qualities.
Whenchosenwisely,theseitems becomesilentambassadorsofyour personalandprofessionalstandards, buildingtrust,authority,andcredibility withoutyouneedingtosayaword.
Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.
- Winston Churchill
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