December, 2024
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The Most Inspiring
CEOs Making a
Difference in 2024
Hussam Baghdadi Senior Director Arabian Automobiles Company, AW Rostamani Group
“Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.”
Editor’s Desk
Leading with Purpose
T
he role of a CEO is more crucial than ever. The most inspiring leaders today are steering their companies toward financial success and shaping their industries and communities with purpose-driven actions. These CEOs lead organizations by embodying resilience, innovation, and social responsibility, demonstrating that business success goes hand-in-hand with making a positive impact. What sets these CEOs apart is their ability to motivate and empower their teams, creating cultures where collaboration, creativity, and accountability thrive. Focusing on employee development and championing diversity ensures that their organizations remain agile and capable of responding to shifting market demands. More than managing day-to-day operations, these leaders focus on long-term strategies prioritizing sustainability, ethics, and societal value, ensuring their companies are positioned for growth without compromising core values. In 2024, the most inspiring CEOs will lead by example in digital transformation, customer-centric innovation, and environmental sustainability. They actively promote the use of new technologies, drive product innovation, and implement practices that boost profitability and contribute to the well-being of employees and communities. Their leadership goes beyond profits; it is about creating businesses that leave a lasting, positive legacy. As we look ahead, these CEOs prove that leadership in the modern business world is about more than financial success. It is about shaping the future with integrity, guiding companies through uncertainty, and making a difference far beyond the bottom line. Their influence continues to inspire the next generation of leaders and set the standard for true business success in 2024.
Preston B.
CONTENTS
Cover story
08
Articles
18
Cultivating Company Culture A Guide for Building an Inspiring Company Culture
22
CEO Leadership Inuence The Impact of Inspiring CEOs on Business Success
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Editor-in-Chief Merry D'Souza Managing Editor Preston B.
Executive Editor Jenny F.
Assistant Editors Michael W.
Visualizer
Art & Design Director
Associate Designer
David King
Rosy Scott
Angela Ruskin
Senior Sales Managers
Business Development Manager
Brain Moody, Jack McDowell
Mark Hassan
Marketing Manager
Sales Executives
James M.
Max Floyd
Technical Head
Business Development Executives
Jacob Smile
Simon, Tom
Technical Specialist Irvin Wilson
Digital Marketing Manager Dominique T.
SME-SMO Executive Steve Rodrigues
Research Analyst Frank Adams
Circulation Manager Robert Brown
Database Management Stella Andrew
Technology Consultant David Stokes
[email protected] December, 2024
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Featured Person
Company Name
Brief
Emon Shakoor CEO & Founder
Blossom Accelerator blossom.sa
Emon is a Saudi neuroscience researcher turned venture capitalist and entrepreneur, renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the intersection of technology, inclusion and venture capital.
Hadi Anwar CEO
CPX cpx.net
With over 25 years of experience in IT management, strategy, and audit, Hadi has successfully delivered complex and innovative solutions for various industries, including AI, smart city, and consulting.
Hassan Tamimi CEO
Al Tannan Group altannangroup.com
Hassan is a driven professional dedicated to fostering workplace transformation and organizational growth through innovation, teamwork, and strategic leadership.
Hussam Baghdadi Senior Director Arabian Automobiles Co
AW Rostamani Group awrostamani.com
With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Hussam has developed a deep understanding of the market and has successfully led various aspects of the business.
Jorge Felippe CEO
Almulla Capital almullacapital.com
Experienced CEO of a single-family office with 20+ years in global investments across private equity, consulting, and industry. Expertise spans portfolio management, team leadership, and impact investing in emerging markets.
Hussam Baghdadi Senior Director Arabian Automobiles Company, AW Rostamani Group
Hussam’s leadership priori zes adaptability and con nuous learning, ensuring his team remains well-prepared to steer industry changes.
The Most Inspiring CEOs Making a Difference in 2024
Customer-Centric Vision!
T
he automotive industry remains essential to global infrastructure, catering to diverse transportation needs and driving substantial economic value globally. Technological advancements and shifts in consumer behavior are continuously reshaping this industry. Embracing sustainable practices and digital transformation has become imperative as manufacturers and distributors adapt to new environmental standards and consumer expectations. Enhanced vehicle connectivity, the push towards electric vehicles, and tailored customer experiences are emerging trends redefining how automotive companies operate, creating an environment where adaptability and innovation play crucial roles in maintaining relevance and achieving growth. Hussam Baghdadi, Senior Director of Arabian Automobiles Co., illustrates a customer-centric approach and strategic foresight that have marked his distinguished leadership journey in the automotive world. Known for his pragmatic and forward-thinking vision, Hussam combines a deep understanding of market trends with a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. His leadership prioritizes adaptability and continuous learning, ensuring his team remains well-prepared to steer industry changes. Hussam’s focus on cultivating a collaborative and empowering work culture has strengthened his team and contributed significantly to the overall success of his initiatives in the industry.
Known for his pragma c and forward-thinking vision, Hussam combines a deep understanding of market trends with a commitment to delivering excep onal customer experiences.
Under the AW Rostamani Group, Arabian Automobiles Co. continues to establish itself as a leader in the UAE automotive sector, delivering premium experiences through
brands like Nissan, INFINITI, and Renault. The company focuses on harnessing advancements in, innovative technology, and digital platforms to enhance customer interactions and operational efficiency. With strategic initiatives prioritizing and market responsiveness, Arabian Automobiles positions itself as a forward-thinking entity committed to meeting growing customer expectations while contributing to sustainable growth in the region. The company consistently sets benchmarks in the competitive automotive market by focusing on innovation and adaptability. Let’s explore Hussam’s strategies for success in an elevating automotive market: Leading with a Focus on Customer Satisfaction Hussam’s journey in the automotive industry began over 30 years ago when he joined Arabian Automobiles Co. as a sales consultant. This early experience allowed him to gain firsthand insight into customer needs and the business's operational dynamics. Over the years, he had the opportunity to grow within the company, which deepened his understanding. One of the most important moments in his career was in 2005 when he played a key role in launching the INFINITI brand in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. This was a transformative experience, as it required strategic planning and a vision for establishing INFINITI as a key player in the UAE market. Through consistent effort and focus on excellence, a brand was built that garnered regional recognition and awards. Since then, Hussam’s role has expanded to overseeing Nissan, INFINITI, and Renault. Throughout his career, he has learned that adaptability is key. The industry has undergone many changes, particularly with the digital revolution. As he moved into more senior leadership roles, he embraced the need for innovation and strategic foresight, particularly in integrating technology to enhance customer experiences and improve business operations. His journey has been one of continuous learning, seizing opportunities, and driving forward with a passion for the industry. These experiences have shaped his approach as Senior Director, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to lead Arabian Automobiles Co. with a focus on innovation, customer excellence, and operational efficiency or optimization.
Integrating Innovation and Technology His responsibilities are centred around steering the strategic direction for Nissan, INFINITI, and Renault. While his journey has equipped him with the knowledge and experience to lead, his day-to-day focus is on ensuring that the company remains ahead of industry trends and delivers consistent value to its customers. One of Hussam’s key priorities is optimizing operational efficiency across all brand segments. This includes closely monitoring market conditions, refining sales strategies, and collaborating with different teams to ensure performance targets are met. He also oversees the development of new business initiatives and partnerships that align with the company’s long-term goals. Another critical aspect of his role is driving a customercentric approach. He works with every touchpoint—from sales to after-sales service—so they each reflect the company’s commitment to delivering a superior customer experience. This requires frequently refining processes and keeping teams well-trained and equipped to handle growing expectations. Innovation within the company is also a top priority, and it involves continuously exploring new technologies to improve customer experiences and internal processes. He focuses on integrating these innovations effectively— whether through enhancing digital platforms or streamlining operations—so they contribute to overall growth and operational excellence. By empowering the team and driving these initiatives, the company maintains its leadership position in a competitive market. Motivating Teams Through Clear Vision and Care Hussam's leadership style has developed notably over the years, shaped by the nature of the automotive industry and his journey with AW Rostamani Group. Early on, he learned that having a clear vision is crucial, but the ability to adapt to the regularly shifting environment is equally important. As the industry embraces digital transformation, continuous learning and personal development have become central to his leadership approach. This is why he pursued Stanford’s GSB LEAD executive program and joined the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, allowing him to engage in global leadership discussions and collaborative exchanges. Leaders must not only learn from external sources but also from their teams.
Effective leaders motivate and inspire those around them. Growth and adaptation demand setting ambitious yet achievable goals while creating a shared purpose within the team. By clearly communicating the vision and demonstrating genuine care for everyone’s contributions, efforts are successfully aligned, driving collective success. A critical component of his leadership philosophy is cultivating a culture of coaching. He has recognized that leadership isn’t about being involved in every detail; instead, it’s about empowering others to excel. As part of ongoing efforts to enhance workplace culture, he leads the Fostering Emerging Leaders Program (FELP), an initiative designed to unlock the full potential of teams through structured coaching and development opportunities. FELP equips emerging leaders with essential skills while strengthening the leadership pipeline for future success. By implementing initiatives like the Fostering Emerging Leaders Program (FELP), the next generation of leaders is shaped, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to drive the future of the business. This holistic approach means that the company remains agile and prepared to steer the challenges of an ever-changing industry. Encouraging Lifelong Learning in the Automotive Industry Continuous learning is important in Hussam's professional development as the foundation for personal growth and effective leadership. Staying updated with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices is essential in the fastpaced automotive industry. By committing to lifelong learning, he stays prepared to make informed decisions and drive innovation within his organization. His recent experience with the Stanford GSB LEAD executive program has profoundly influenced his approach to leadership. The program provided valuable insights into leadership dynamics, change management, and strategic decision-making. It encouraged him to reflect on his leadership style and adapt it to meet the growing needs of his team and the industry. The collaborative discussions with diverse peers also enriches his perspective, highlighting the importance of different viewpoints in problem-solving and decisionmaking. Overall, this experience reinforced his commitment to continuous learning and inspired him to cultivate a similar culture within his organization, encouraging his
Hussam’s focus on cul va ng a collabora ve and empowering work culture has strengthened his team and contributed significantly to the overall success of his ini a ves in the industry.
team to seek knowledge and grow both personally and professionally. Commitment to ESG and Emiratization Initiatives Hussam highlights that today’s automotive industry faces several challenges, particularly in the Middle East, including the transition to electric vehicles, growing consumer preferences, and the need for workforce development in response to technological advancements. As the market shifts toward sustainability, driven by a growing awareness of environmental concerns and the expansion of supportive infrastructure, companies must adapt their business models to remain competitive. Additionally, the rise of digitization is transforming consumer behaviour, necessitating a strong online presence and streamlined purchasing processes. Arabian Automobiles is strategically positioned to tackle these challenges by aligning with Nissan’s initiatives to enhance its electric vehicle offerings and drive growth. The focus is on large-scale product launches and innovative manufacturing techniques to meet increasing market demand. Understanding the region’s strong preference for luxury and performance vehicles, the company ensures that premium brands, like Nissan and INFINITI, provide the latest innovations, including the All-New Nissan Patrol and the All-New INFINITI QX80. Arabian Automobiles is also committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, emphasizing Emiratization by attracting and empowering local talent. Investments in workforce development, particularly in areas such as AI, software engineering, and sustainability, equip teams with the necessary expertise to steer industry changes.
Con nuous learning is important in Hussam's professional development as the founda on for personal growth and effec ve leadership.
From 2021 to 2023, 195 trainees were welcomed through specialized training programs for Emirati graduates, demonstrating a commitment to building a skilled workforce that contributes to national goals. By proactively addressing these challenges, Arabian Automobiles strengthens its market position and contributes to shaping the future of mobility in the region. Balancing Work-Life and Driving Growth Maintaining a healthy work-life balance while driving growth in the automotive industry is essential. As a leader, Hussam recognizes the significance of setting ambitious yet achievable goals and effectively communicating them to his team. By aligning everyone around a shared vision, the company inspires and motivates team members to contribute their best, creating a strong sense of purpose and commitment. At Arabian Automobiles, there is a commitment to creating a supportive environment rooted in empathy, understanding, and a culture of trust. This allows team members to ask questions, take risks, and grow from both successes and challenges without fear of judgment. AW Rostamani commitment to diversity ensures that every employee is treated with dignity and respect, which leads to a culture of openness and collaboration. This holistic approach prioritizes employee well-being while enhancing engagement and productivity, driving collective efforts toward achieving objectives. Arabian Automobiles aims to make people feel seen and welcomed, creating a genuine sense of belonging. Mentoring Future Leaders for Adaptable Leadership Hussam prioritizes learning from his team as much as from formal education. This reciprocal relationship creates an environment where empowerment, empathy, and constructive feedback thrive. By mentoring the next generation of leaders and incorporating their insights, his leadership remains relevant and adaptable. These principles have been fundamental in his journey from a sales consultant to the Senior Director of Arabian Automobiles, forming the foundation of his career growth and enhancing his effectiveness as a leader in the automotive sector.
Hussam’s primary aspira on is to leave a legacy of excellence, innova on, and empowerment.
Lifelong Learning for Effective Leadership Hussam’s advice to aspiring leaders in the automotive sector revolves around embracing continuous learning and cultivating strong relationships. The industry continuously grows, especially with technological advancements and consumer preference shifts. It is essential to stay curious and commit to long-lasting learning through formal education, executive programs, or informal avenues like workshops and industry events. This knowledge equips one to make informed decisions and drive innovations effectively. Building a robust professional network is also crucial; nurturing relationships within the organization and with peers and industry leaders can provide invaluable insights, support, and collaborative opportunities. Equally important is the need to remain adaptable in this fast-paced environment. The ability to pivot and embrace new ideas will set one apart as a leader. By being open to change and flexible in approach, one can steer the challenges of the automotive sector more effectively. Focusing on continuous learning, adaptability, and strong relationships will enable aspiring leaders to position themselves for success while inspiring their teams to achieve common goals. Commitment to Environmental Practices Hussam’s primary goals for Arabian Automobiles center around elevating market leadership through strategic initiatives focused on innovation, sustainability, and exceptional customer experiences. On the ESG front, the company is committed to implementing practices that minimize environmental impact. This includes optimizing operations for energy efficiency and investing in eco-friendly technologies. Arabian Automobiles is committed to enhancing customer experiences through data-driven insights. By analyzing customer preferences and behaviors, we aim to tailor our offerings and streamline the purchasing process. Prioritizing customer feedback will allow us to continually refine our services and exceed expectations. This strategic approach will not only boost customer satisfaction but also drive long-term loyalty and revenue growth.
Furthermore, cultivating a culture of continuous learning within Arabian Automobiles’ workforce is essential for driving these initiatives forward. By providing people with access to training and development opportunities, including partnerships with world-class universities, Arabian Automobiles can develop a well-prepared, skilled workforce to meet future challenges. This commitment to learning empowers employees to stay ahead of industry trends and enhances overall organizational effectiveness. This comprehensive approach will position Arabian Automobiles for sustainable growth and success. Legacy of Excellence and Innovation His primary aspiration is to leave a legacy of excellence, innovation, and empowerment. With 30 years of experience at the company, he has been deeply committed to establishing a culture that prioritizes customer satisfaction, employee development, and sustainable practices. At the heart of his vision is the goal to build a resilient, adaptable organization that sets industry standards. Hussam aims to champion initiatives that drive digital transformation, expand market presence, and enhance operational efficiency. By mentoring future leaders and investing in workforce development, a new generation of professionals will share a passion for the automotive sector. He has contributed to Arabian Automobiles’ continued success and strengthened its reputation as a leader in the industry. By embracing innovation and promoting a customer-centric approach, he believes the company can create lasting value for clients, employees, and stakeholders, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive sector in the region.
A Guide for Building an Inspiring Company Culture
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nspiring company culture grows much more than an attractive mission statement or company perqs. This includes the working environment and values and motivates employees toward the achievement of organizational goals. Key business success drives everything from employee retention to productivity and innovation from a strong culture. Here's a step-by-step guide for developing an inspiring company culture that grows the business. Behind every business culture, there lies its vision as well as its core values. This principle explains the importance of the organization; that in essence, drive all of their decisionmaking activities. The leaders need to clearly determine what the company stands for, therefore need to explain the values to the employees, and the employees know which direction they are pursuing, and work on those values. Lead by Example This means that leadership creates company culture. Employees will look at the leaders as role models; actions speak louder than words. Demonstration of integrity, accountability, and dedication inspires similar behavior by employees in all levels within the organization. Authentic leadership encourages openness and shared commitment. Building Employee Welfare Focus There is an association between a culture of well-being within employees and job satisfaction, as well as loyalty. Organizations are required to care about their employees' mental well-being, flexibility in the working conditions, and ability to strike work-life balance. The organizations that present themselves as caring about their teams have obviously set spaces in which people feel valued and cared for.
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Cultivating Company Culture
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Open Communication Lines
Design a Positive Physical and Virtual Environment
Building up trust and engagement comes by opening up transparency and channels through communication. Channels opened for airing out opinions: regular check-ins, surveys, and town halls. If the voice of the employees is heard and matters, they would care about the success of the company.
Environment determines the culture of any workplace. Be it an office or at home, a space must be efficient as well as effective for both the body and the mind. Considering the case under discussion, space is highly designed to serve and facilitate the tools and technologies to support the employees to get the task done effectively and also lead an effective life.
Reward Contributions Tools and Technologies to Manage Conflict One of the ways to have a good working environment is by ways of recognizing the hard work and achievements of employees. That may be in a way of public recognition, rewards based on performance, or even appreciative notes. In that way, there is always a maintained morale, and an even keener push towards perfection comes along with constant celebration of success.
Conflicts are always bound to arise somewhere in an organization; however, culture can be defined by the approach used in dealing with conflict. Create a process for addressing conflict but always keep avenues of communication open so that issues can be dealt with before getting out of hand. The respectful manner of trying to settle disputes results in a knowledge and a teaming culture.
Collaboration and Teamwork Measure and Refine Culture Team work is the back bone of any thriving working environment. Opportunities to work with different teams either on cross department projects or on teamwork activities, aids in relation and bonding. Members always work well and effectively if connected with the other workmates.
Inspiring culture building has to be not once but an assessment and improvement over time. Provide channels for the employees to give feedback on the effectiveness of cultural initiatives to determine areas that may require improvement. Use that information as a direction toward the correction of something to achieve proper alignment with organizational goals.
Celebrate Diversity and Inclusion
Conclusion
Appreciate the views and the contribution from each employee. This diversity promotes open hiring practices, avenues for availability to underrepresented voices and growth in equal opportunities. Therefore, a diverse work place leads to creativity, innovation and powerful decisionmaking.
This would be an extremely long process where developing an inspirational company culture involves commitment from the leadership team and active participation from all the members of the team. An organization will easily create an avenue whereby people thrive as well as the company succeeds through a set of values, open communication, employee well-being, and growth opportunities. Realitybuilding the corporate culture drives business success, striking the psyches of employees for long periods of time in order to give them that feeling of pride to transcend the workplace.
Build a Sense of Purpose Employees work harder and feel more motivated if they see how their efforts fit into a larger whole. Make it clear how each person's role fits into achieving the company's mission and thus helps to accomplish broader goals. That way, team members take pride and feel satisfied because they can clearly see what their efforts contribute toward creating the final product.
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CEO Leadership Influence
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The Impact of Inspiring CEOs on Business Success
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he role of a CEO extends far beyond setting the strategic direction of a company. The leadership style and decisions of a CEO can significantly shape the culture, operational efficiency, and financial performance of an organization. In fact, an inspiring CEO can act as the catalyst for business success, driving innovation, enhancing employee engagement, and strengthening the company’s position in the market. Shaping the Company Culture One of the key responsibilities of a CEO is shaping the company’s culture. Culture influences how employees interact with one another, how they approach their work, and how they align with the organization’s overall goals. A CEO’s vision and behavior serve as a model for employees to follow. An inspiring CEO creates a culture that values collaboration, accountability, and transparency, which not only enhances employee satisfaction but also improves organizational performance. Inspiring CEOs encourage a positive and inclusive culture that attracts top talent. By focusing on employee development and providing growth opportunities; these leaders foster a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated to contribute their best. When employees feel
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engaged and aligned with the company’s vision, they are more likely to go above and beyond in their roles, leading to better business outcomes.
pandemic, or handling a public relations crisis, a CEO’s leadership during tough times is a defining factor in the company’s long-term viability.
Driving Innovation and Growth
Inspiring CEOs use crises as opportunities for growth and improvement. They communicate openly with their employees, stakeholders, and customers, ensuring that everyone understands the steps being taken to address the crisis. They also encourage adaptability and agility within their teams, helping the company pivot and thrive in challenging circumstances.
Innovation is at the core of any successful business. Inspiring CEOs understand that growth and innovation go hand in hand. They encourage risk-taking and experimentation within their organizations, creating an environment where new ideas are welcomed and creative solutions are actively sought. By empowering their teams to think outside the box, CEOs can help their organizations stay ahead of the competition and open new revenue streams.
Empowering and Developing Leaders Another significant impact of inspiring CEOs is their ability to identify and develop leadership potential within their teams. They know that building a strong leadership pipeline is crucial to long-term success. By mentoring and empowering other leaders within the organization, inspiring CEOs ensures that there is a continuous flow of skilled managers who can drive the company forward.
For example, CEOs who prioritize research and development (R&D) often enable their companies to lead their industries by introducing groundbreaking products and services. An inspiring CEO encourages employees to embrace change and use technology to improve products, services, and processes. By focusing on innovation, these CEOs create a business model that adapts to shifting market demands and stays competitive in the long run.
Through leadership development programs, mentoring sessions, and fostering a culture of accountability, inspiring CEOs groom future leaders who share their vision and leadership values. As a result, the company benefits from a more capable and committed leadership team that can execute the CEO’s strategic initiatives with precision and dedication.
Building Strong Relationships Effective CEOs understand that building strong relationships with employees, customers, investors, and other key stakeholders is crucial to a company’s success. They engage in meaningful communication and strive to create a sense of trust and loyalty among all parties involved. Inspiring CEOs recognize that long-term success is built on strong partnerships and collaborations.
Conclusion The influence of an inspiring CEO on a company’s success cannot be overstated. From shaping company culture to driving innovation, building relationships, and navigating crises, these leaders play a key role in shaping the future of their organizations. By leading with integrity, vision, and empathy, inspiring CEOs create an environment where employees are motivated, customers are satisfied, and shareholders are confident in the company’s long-term success.
An inspiring CEO is often the face of the company, actively engaging with stakeholders to ensure their interests are met. Whether it is maintaining a strong customer service culture, encouraging investor confidence, or fostering positive relations with suppliers, CEOs who lead with integrity and transparency enhance the company's reputation and business performance. Leading Through Crises In times of crisis, the true leadership ability of a CEO is put to the test. Inspiring CEOs show resilience, maintaining focus and calm under pressure. Their ability to make quick, effective decisions during critical moments can determine the survival or collapse of the company. Whether it’s managing a financial downturn, navigating a global
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“The true test of leadership is how well you function in a crisis.”
“A leader is best when people barely know he exists. When his work is done, his aim fullled, they will say: We did it ourselves.”
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