Exclusive Interview Archives

Leonardo DE MURO: The Maverick Man, Successfully Spearheading the Globally Renowned Brand for Ceramics Lifestyle Solutions – RAK Ceramics

What distinguishes a successful business leader from an ordinary business owner? A short and simple response is to find creativity and profitability in the mundane. However, it’s much more than that when you look at it critically. Trailblazers have a unique perspective on the world. They effectively transformed novel concepts, things, and discoveries into something more valuable and alluring because they could see their potential.

Introducing Leonardo DE MURO, an inspiring business leader and Vice President of RAK Ceramics, who is an astounding entrepreneur scaling a niche in the industry. His venture, RAK Ceramics, is one of the largest ceramics brands in the world and has established itself as a leader in the manufacture of ceramics for bathroom fixtures, flooring, and wall coverings.

Leonardo DE MURO, a seasoned professional with excellent organizational abilities, has extensive expertise in managing the sales network and collaborators, launching new markets, and expanding existing markets. Although he has accomplished intense and immersive stints in sales, he was working for a leading company in the production of catering equipment. Returning from a business trip, he had the pleasure of meeting the sales director of Pastorelli Ceramiche, and in a few months, Leonardo found himself in an entirely different sector, which he has never left.

RAK Ceramics – In a Glance

RAK Ceramics has become a world reference in the production of ceramics for floor and wall coverings and bathroom furnishings because it never stops seeking innovation in products and systems. Unglazed porcelain, ceramics, sanitary ware, furnishings, and accessories under one great concept Imagine your space offering all clients ongoing lifestyle solutions.

The RAK Ceramics brand is gaining increasing strength and recognition in European and world markets, especially for the company’s strong ability to experiment, produce, and distribute hi-tech innovations for contract, residential, and commercial projects.

They include the most recent ceramic technologies developed in R&D labs, such as ORBIT 3Rs, Klima, and Absolute Matt, as well as the creation of big slabs in an enormous format.

“During the pandemic, we were the first to suggest antibacterial solutions, and we just unveiled the RAK Ceramics Smart Factory, which combines automation and IoT technology to modernize the production of tiles and satisfy our clients’ changing needs. Our factory, which is outfitted with the newest equipment and technology, optimizes production, lowers waste, and improves product quality, said the forward-thinking executive.

From the Founder’s Desk

I enjoy working with curious people, and when I connect with someone, I give them the freedom to make suggestions, come up with new ideas, make mistakes, and learn from them. Although I have worked in my field for a long time, I am constantly learning new things because of the benefits that a trustworthy relationship provides me.

I am lucky enough to work for a multinational group with more than 12,000 employees of 40 different nationalities, where gender or social background matters less than personal skills and merit.

Impact of the Pandemic on RAK Ceramics

Indeed, the epidemic has had an impact on the entire industry, but it has also given businesses the chance to experiment with new products and business models. Less than a month after the lockdown, RAK Ceramics was the first company in the world to introduce a virtual showroom. Instead of cutting back on meetings with its global branches, they have made use of remote work to boost them. Surprisingly, they have performed better during times of crisis management by being more active and effective. They have also introduced total novelties like Rak-Sanit, a line of 99.9% effective antibacterial tiles, slabs, and bathroom accessories. Of course, the pandemic provided a chance to reconsider how they tackle global issues and how to catch the primary adversaries off guard with fresh, more potent strategies.

The Hurdles Along the Way

At RAK, innovation and design are equally valued, and the marriage of these two components ensures the production of modern, high-quality pieces. The company debuted an innovative on-demand 3D printing production system last month at the ISH exhibition in Frankfurt. It is a development of digital technology used in washbasins and was developed in the group’s labs. shorter delivery times, the ability to produce even one piece to the architects’ specifications, and a reduction in material waste due to the addictive nature of the process.

Definition of Success

To be aware of one’s success is to look back. Leonardo likes to think that he has never reached it and that he continues to look ahead, looking for personal success every day in what he does.

Characteristics of a Successful Leader

Nothing is more powerful than setting a positive example for others to emulate. People in positions of leadership must constantly take the initiative and engage in first-person narratives. In an effort to direct all the energies in the proper directions—which only experience allows you to trace—young talents contribute fresh ideas, and managers bring their stories and make them available to their teams.

“We must always be consistent in the choices we make. Apologizing for something you are convinced of is a sign of weakness.” Leonardo DE MURO

The Future Outlook

The company opened its first Design Hub last year, measuring 700 square meters, in Clerkenwell, a design hub in London, with the intention of providing architects and interior designers with a showroom with global specifications.

“As happened for 2022, I would like to end 2023 with financial results that set a new record.” “The urge to tackle fresh subjects, like taps and dinnerware, on which the group is giving me the chance to prove myself, is one of the objectives I’ve set for myself,” shared Leonardo.

“There are numerous practical projects for architecture and settings that demonstrably highlight the enormous potential of RAK Ceramics products. We will launch in Dubai very soon, and after that, we’ll consider establishing a physical presence in another major city for architecture and design”, he further added.

John Miniotis: An Inspiring Emblem of Excellence, Dedication, and Dynamic Leadership in the Mining Industry

Here is the inspiring journey of John Miniotis, the President and CEO of AbraSilver Resource Corp. With his extensive experience of over 18 years in the mining industry, he is now spearheading AbraSilver into an industry-leading exploration company and aiming to continue to take the company to new heights. Mr. Miniotis’ background has primarily focused on mergers & acquisitions, equity capital markets, investor relations and corporate finance, and he has worked in a wide variety of companies in the mining industry including Lundin Mining, AuRico Metals, Aethon Minerals and Barrick Gold. Mr. Miniotis holds the title of Certified Financial Analyst and graduated with honours from the University of Toronto with a degree in business administration.

Achievements & Accomplishments Along the Way

With his extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, Mr. Miniotis became CEO of AbraSilver in December 2019 through the merger of Aethon Minerals. The merger was an excellent opportunity to create a company focused on a world-class silver and gold project with excellent exploration upside potential. Since the merger, AbraSilver has established a proven track record of consistently delivering drill results that are among the best in the industry, which has allowed the company to experience rapid growth.

Prior to Aethon Minerals, he was the vice president of corporate development at AuRico Metals where Mr. Miniotis was instrumental in the company’s acquisition by Centerra Gold which purchased AuRico in January 2018 for $310 million in cash.

Mr. Miniotis also played a crucial part in Lundin Mining’s execution of many acquisitions totalling more than $2 billion, which helped the business grow in an accretive manner. The driven leader is constantly searching for fresh possibilities to generate value and increase shareholder value.

AbraSilver in a Glance

AbraSilver is an advanced-stage exploration company focused on rapidly advancing its 100%-owned Diablillos silver-gold project in the mining-friendly Salta province of Argentina. The business is run by a seasoned management team, and Mr. Eric Sprott is one of its long-standing, devoted stockholders. The silver-gold project hosts Measured and Indicated resources of 109 million ounces of silver and 1.3 million ounces of gold, with significant further upside potential based on recent exploration success. The company also holds a portfolio of copper-gold properties, including the La Coipita copper-gold project, which is an earlier-stage exploration company. The company is publicly traded, under the ticker “ABRA” on the TSX-Venture and “ABBRF” in the United States.

John’s Unique Definition of Success

Mr. Miniotis recognizes that success can mean many different things to different people, but for him, success can be defined as the act of turning a vision into reality, by means of perseverance and in spite of failure.

A Piece of Advice by John Miniotis to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

“Never give up! If you are passionate about realizing your dream or entrepreneurial vision, then it’s just a matter of time, hard work, and —most importantly—resiliency before that vision becomes reality.”

The Future Outlook

AbraSilver’s objective is to see the Diablillos project develop into a top-tier producing silver-gold mine over the course of the next five years. The stockholders, the local communities, and the provincial and federal governments of Argentina will all greatly gain from this. The company will also keep looking for new opportunities to expand its business in nations with favourable mining laws.

Before signing off, Mr. Miniotis reflected on the lessons learned from his experiences in the business world:

“Life has taught me that success is not always linear, therefore learn from your failures and re-calibrate your approach. It also does not occur in a vacuum – surround yourself with the right people and most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the journey!”

Ray Singh: Remarkable Journey with Russell Finex

Our mission is “Customer Trust. A Russell Must” We want our customers to trust us in everything that we do and know that we are there to support them, asserted Mr. Ray Singh.

Ray Singh is a successful business leader who has been described as a pertinacious visionary leader, inspirational persona, innovative entrepreneur, and many other terms. He is a prominent and renowned leader with an extensive 43-year career and substantial expertise in the industry. In 2011, he was appointed as the Managing Director of Russell Finex, and since then he has proven his extraordinary competencies in enhancing the business’s performance, where revenue generation and market expansion come effortlessly. Under his direction, the group’s revenue has virtually tripled, and its profits have increased sixfold. The company has recently launched subsidiaries in China and India, and it is planning to do the same in Brazil.

In academics, Ray Singh has a Mechanical Engineering degree (B.Sc. ), and after his studies, he began working in an engineering capacity. After working for the company where he was employed for approximately a year, he started to become bored and started looking for other technical jobs. Later, he found a desk-based sales clerk position with Russell Finex, which he accepted with the idea that it would be a stopgap until he could find another “real” engineering position. He entered a commercial setting thanks to the sales clerk position. At that time, a US company producing high-speed mixers and bead mills had just sold Russell Finex the rights for Europe and Africa. He was a qualified candidate to manage this product line for the firm, given that these were technological products and he had engineering training. He was rapidly promoted to a technical sales position on the front lines.

Further explaining his professional journey, the remarkable man explained, “Growing up, I always wanted a job that allowed me to travel abroad. This was ideal for me because I got to travel, put my engineering expertise to use, and have an enjoyable commercial engagement. Before being promoted to various sales management jobs, I served the company in a variety of capacities over the years. I was appointed to the Board of Directors in 1997 as Group Sales and Marketing Director to oversee our global sales and marketing activities as well as our subsidiaries in the USA and Belgium.”

Russell Finex Ltd., Delivering Custom-built Solutions

Russell Finex, a leader in the production of sieving and filtration technologies, was founded in 1934. It was envisioned to be the preferred supplier of choice for sieving and filtration equipment in all of the markets that they serve. They have a global presence, with headquarters in the United Kingdom and subsidiaries in the United States, Belgium, India, and China. More than 140 nations across the world receive the equipment. In addition to having the broadest selection of sieving and filtering equipment in the business, Russell Finex takes pleasure in delivering the client custom-built solutions that are tailored to their specific needs. They guarantee and enhance the reputation of businesses in nearly every process industry around the world, from food and beverages to pharmaceuticals and metal powders, and have supplied household names like Nestlé, Heinz, and Unilever.

Overcoming the Hurdles Along the Way

Within this competitive business, the past several years have unavoidably brought their share of difficulties. Over the years, they have faced various challenges, including the unpredictable effects of COVID-19, Brexit, and a wide range of other challenges. But they have persevered through adversity that defies success. Despite the difficulties that the future may bring, they have been able to maintain exceptional levels of growth throughout these periods, and they hope to keep doing so.

Healthy Work Culture at Russell Finex

The company’s operations put teamwork and a positive workplace culture first; after all, without those two things, they would not be where they are now. They are adamant that teamwork is essential for achieving their goals and objectives because it not only enhances productivity but also innovation and creativity. This enables the sharing of fresh concepts and motivation within the company. Similarly, a healthy work environment and growth mentality are fostered by a positive work culture, which is vital for team morale. At Russell Finex, they uphold this by offering chances to learn and develop in a supportive environment that encourages a can-do mentality.

Diversity and Inclusion at Russell

Ray Singh and his team pride themselves on the diversity and inclusion that is evident throughout the workplace. Having a work environment filled with exceptional people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skills brings forward a unique set of creative and innovative ideas that wouldn’t have been able to be achieved otherwise. The range of skills present at the company allows a wide variety of different perspectives and viewpoints to be brought together, whether it’s for the purpose of brainstorming, problem-solving, or developing new ideas for a common goal.

“What makes us so successful in this profession today is our emphasis on togetherness despite our numerous variances”, quoted Ray Singh.

Road Map to Moving in the Future

“Our plans include increasing our global footprint as well as continuing to bring the most innovative products in our field to the marketplace. I would expect us to be fully established in Brazil and have our own entity in Southeast Asia. Since my personal and professional lives are so intertwined, this would also be a personal victory for me”, shared the inspiring leader when being asked about his future plans.

The Pearls of Wisdom by the Visionary Leader

I would say, that you should have a vision and a goal. Back that up with a plan for how your goal is going to be achieved, and then make sure it is implemented with a clear action plan. Make sure you are in an upward cycle of investment for growth, and keep an eye out for regulated sustainable growth. Do not be discouraged by the knocks and bumps you may encounter along the way. Review your strategy on a regular basis; if it is sound, as well as your action plan, rewards will follow.

If times get tough, the tendency is to cut sales and marketing budgets first. This happens all the time and it’s the last thing you should do. You reduce your opportunities, and your business suffers if you do not invest in these areas. This will result in a downward spiral because if sales fall, you will need to make more cuts, and your business will suffer as a result.

Many younger people who have joined our organisation throughout the years have questioned me about what their future is in the organisation. I constantly assure them that they can have any future they want. It is in their own hands, not mine. Never turn down an opportunity, as it may not come again. It is a way to learn and become a more rounded person. Work hard and smart, and the opportunities will come!

Chiara Longhi: Leading with Grace, Grit, and Purpose

Chiara Longhi is the Innovation Principal Lead at Amazon Web Services (AWS) and has significant expertise in assisting enterprises in their innovation and transformation journeys. In her role, Chiara helps executive leaders across Asia, the Pacific, and Japan develop and launch innovative solutions that prioritize customer-centricity. Chiara also serves as an Amazon Bar Raiser and has evaluated almost 400 candidates during her time in the company.

Chiara’s passion for technology and international markets led her to live and work across the United States, Asia, and Oceania for the past 12 years. Before joining the AWS Innovation team, she was part of the team that helped launch Amazon in Australia in 2017 and Singapore in 2019. Previous to that, she worked for LinkedIn, based out of Hong Kong, supporting the business’ expansion across Japan and Korea. Chiara began her career in tech at AOL after earning her Economics Bachelor’s degree from Bocconi University, and her Master’s degree from New York University.

Chiara’s passion for innovation has also led her to establish the Moonshot Company, a tailored program that aims to enable people with the knowledge and tools they need to unleash their potential and reach their goals: from helping individuals land their dream job through 1-1 coaching, interviewing tips and resume reviews, to advising professionals and businesses on topics such as emotional intelligence for leadership and success, product strategy and customer-centricity innovation.

Recently we got an opportunity to sit down with Chiara to learn how she and her team are changing the world for the better.

Below are the highlights of the interview.

Q) How do you motivate creativity and innovation while maintaining a healthy work environment?

Chiara) They can absolutely co-exist, and I think they actually fuel each other! The healthier your environment is, the greater your abilities to be creative and innovative will be. The first step is to be intentional about prioritizing your well-being rather than working for and backwards from deadlines. I personally need a good dose of energy and a healthy one of stress as well to operate at my best. Multiple studies have actually shown how the sweet spot for an innovative mindset is that middle energy/middle-stress area: too little stress/ energy has a great chance of making you bored, and overly high stress/energy brings you into that wanky phase..both are not ideal when you are trying to encourage creativity. So my tip is to find what gives you energy (for me is spending time outdoors, exercising, and having quality time with loved ones), establish an ambitious but realistic plan, and then..kick it off! Something very important that I have learned at Amazon is the importance of being stubborn on the vision but flexible on the details. Not everything will work out exactly as you imagined it first, and that is not a bad thing. If you believe in your idea, don’t give up on following your north star, but be flexible in how you will get to it.

Q) What are the major challenges of the industry, in your opinion? How are you tackling those?

Chiara) When it comes to corporate innovation, the most common blocker I have noticed is actually not really linked to resources, funding, or technology limitations- it actually comes from the company culture. A company culture that hires talent but then doesn’t develop it, or doesn’t really enable and incentivize employees to experiment and innovate, will most likely struggle to bring any creativity or innovation out there. And company culture goes well beyond the free lunches, playful offices, or benefits businesses might offer their employees. Company culture starts with the type of talent an organization hires, the investment and commitment they show in developing and nurturing that talent, and the ability to create a safe environment where people are not scared to experiment and maybe fail, but are actually expected to do so.

When it comes to individuals trying to achieve their goals, the two common blockers I have noticed are impostor syndrome and fear of failing, and they both bring people to simply..never giving it a try. I always try to remind people that even if you try and don’t succeed, you are not failing, you are learning. There is a quote from Michael Jordan I love- “sometimes you win, sometimes you learn”. I wish more people could turn this into their personal mantra- I am sure we would have so much more innovation around us!

There are plenty of other challenges, but these are surely the top ones from my point of view based on the insights I gathered in years working directly in this field.

Q) What are your mission and vision? And what would be the best roadmap to achieve that?

Chiara) My mission is to enable as many individuals as possible to unleash their potential and get to what makes them fulfilled, but also provide actual tools and mechanisms for them to do so. I am a huge believer that real enablement occurs when after some time, people don’t need you anymore. It is very important to inspire and motivate others, but you need to provide people with actual tools, so they can proceed in their growing journey once you leave the room. A huge part of my mission involves helping corporations as well, as they are ultimately conglomerates of individuals and such key players in people’s life. We spend 70-80% of our time at work ( if not more)- if more individuals and businesses can master their ability to be creative and innovate while also thriving in doing so, it will genuinely be a better place for all of us.

Q) What milestones and achievements are you most proud of?

Chiara) The launch of Amazon.com in Australia has probably been one of the most incredible chapters of my professional experience. I remember when I first was contacted for the role, they couldn’t share many details about it due to its confidential nature. So they flew me to Sydney from Hong Kong to meet with the interview panel, and that is when I signed an NDA and was able to get a better understanding of it all. A couple of weeks later, I was getting ready to move with a one-way ticket to Australia, which was in itself something that had never been in my plans. The first few months on the job were pure adrenaline- it was only a few of us, and we often worked around the clock. That period was so tiring, and yet you could see how much we all were loving it: we were energized, motivated, inspired by each other, and definitely felt we were all in this journey together as a team, all thriving for a much bigger purpose. Being able to then re-live a similar experience couple of years later with the launch of Amazon in Singapore made it even better, as it allowed me to look at that launch with a much more “focused” (and also less stressful) approach.

Q) What would you like to be remembered for by your peers?

Chiara) I hope I will be able to be remembered as somebody that never compromised on their values for the sake of easier or faster success. A courageous leader that was able to show up in the moments that mattered. I hope I will be remembered not just for my achievements but also for the ethic, respect, and humanity I carried throughout their pursuit. And lastly, with themoonshotcompany.co, I hope I’ll be able to broaden my own legacy, having positively influenced the path of thousands of others.

Q) What are you looking to accomplish in the next 5 years from a personal as well as professional point of view?

Chiara) There is some big news coming up on both fronts- I am an extremely superstitious person, so I tend not to speak about anything until I see it live! But you can follow/reach out to me on Linkedin or visit chiaralonghi.com to be up to date!

Himanshu Marwaha: A Steadfast Leader Exhibiting Proficiency

Master mariner with nearly two decades of experience at sea and over eight years of experience in several marine-related endeavors ashore, Capt. Himanshu Marwaha is the Managing Director of CHM Global LLC, a QFC-registered LLC company. Established in 2019, CHM Global is licensed to carry out business activities by providing services concerning sea cargo vessels, shipping agencies, and Marine Warranty Surveys, including advisory/consulting / survey and loss adjusting. It also extends its services to LNG vessels, tankers, dry cargo vessels, Insurance surveys, pre-shipment surveys, method statements, loading & unloading supervision, condition surveys, and other services.

Born and brought up in a nondescript village in Himachal Pradesh, India, Himanshu never expected to be going to sea or establish himself in Qatar. He shifted from sailing to the shore industry in 2014 and ventured into loss adjusting. Eventually, he continued his journey to establish an independent status and portfolios with a strong presence in On-shore, Off-Shore, Loss Adjusting, Legal Consultancy, Ports & Terminals, Risk Surveys and

Marine Warranty Surveys.

“Entering a completely unknown field when I moved to Qatar over eight years ago, the environment and the new job profile were a bit overwhelming. By god’s grace and the blessings of my elders, I learned my way around Qatar and the Middle East and, along the way, built skills, competencies, and qualifications, which, now looking back, I feel humbled by and proud about at the same time. The determination and grit that the sea builds into any seafarer helped immensely in the journey,“- he remembered.

Helping with Onshore and Offshore Marine Warranty Surveys

Himanshu’s 15 years of experience at sea, especially on Energy Vessels (VLGCs), helped shape the profile of CHM Global. While the organization started small, it is presently involved in all kinds of Onshore and Offshore Marine Warranty Surveys for a wide range of clients in Qatar and the Middle Eastern Region.

Simply put, the organization aims to be the one-stop solution for all marine matters in Qatar and the Middle East. It predominantly deals with; P & I Clubs, H & M Underwriters, Cargo Insurers, Ports & Terminals, Rig moves. MWS, Offshore Installations & Client Rep assignments, Vessel Owners/ Operators, Ports & Terminals, Insurers and Recoveries, Risk Assessment, Project Monitoring, Technical Superintendent, Seabed Surveys, bathymetric surveys, Chartering, Sales and purchase of ships.

“We work with all the major marine, oil, and gas companies based out of Qatar and the Middle East. Specifically, we have had an excellent track record working with Qatar Energy and other related companies in the same field,“- explained Himanshu. “We have always endeavored to provide timely and high-quality service while maintaining consistency and reliability in what we deliver to our clients. We acknowledge that the area of work in which we operate requires professionalism and diligence, and we strive always to build confidence with our stakeholders.”

Tackling Initial Challenges

When Himanshu started his business, it was in an entirely new field, in a completely new country. He had to find out the local customs, regulations, and how the marine industry operated in Qatar. It was quite difficult for him to make inroads into areas he had never dealt with. There were already several established players in the market, and many times, Himanshu was discouraged and dissuaded from pursuing what he felt was the natural course.

His primary inspiration was his father, who pushed him to achieve success beyond his comfort zone. While that may have been the primary inspiration, Himanshu’s innate desire to excel in any field fuelled his determination and passion and allowed him to stay on his course.

“My consistent support and sounding board have been my wife, Anshu, who had to bear the brunt of all my experimentation in setting up the company in Qatar,” – he said.

Gender Diversity is the Key

CHM is engaging with the market leaders and influencers in Qatar to understand how the new generation female workforce look at opportunities. CHM recognizes the immense value that the presence of women in the office brings to the organization. And the empathy and compassion that automatically then becomes part of the company culture. In endeavoring to support gender parity, CHM has gradually increased women’s participation in the office.

“My only word of advice to all concerned would be that while we may wish for a utopian world where everyone is equal, the fact remains that the challenges and the glass ceiling that women entrepreneurs and employees face in the workplace are undeniable. However, the only way to get beyond that is to have a strong spirit, remain determined, and build a reliable support structure that encourages and supports all your endeavors. And nurture a supportive work environment for yourself and other women,“- said Himanshu.

“I’m also gravely concerned about this because I have two young daughters for whom I desire a world of fair opportunities.”

Looking at the Future

In the future, Himanshu aspires to find a good work-life balance, fostering excellent relationships both at work and in his personal life, and simply enjoying every day as it comes and goes. Himanshu recognizes that it is no longer about his personal growth. Instead, the lives of people in CHM and their families are intrinsically linked to him. So, his future goal is to grow the company in keeping with the vision of Commitment to continuously improving service quality to be a leader and reliable provider of turnkey, customized, and high-quality marine services while maintaining profitability.

Khalil Hassan Oudah: A Visionary Business Leader, Taking His Father’s Legacy Ahead in Contracting Solutions with Asqalan

There is a wave of inspirational business leaders who are making a difference in their industries and beyond. They have not only accomplished their own personal goals thanks to their resilience, creativity, and will, but they have also made it possible for future generations of business leaders to follow in their footsteps.

In this article, we will explore the story of one such remarkable businessman – Khalil Hassan Oudah, CEO of Asqalan. He begun his victorious journey from scratch by joining Asqalan, a specialised building construction company that provides top-quality services together with outstanding communication and peace of mind.

Asqalan is the brainchild of Khalil’s father, who was a visionary and an entrepreneur and laid the foundation of Asqalan in Abu Dhabi. He started with humble beginnings, but his hard work and determination propelled him to success. Growing up, Khalil Hassan saw firsthand the difficulties he encountered while starting the business from scratch. Asqalan still stands tall as evidence of Khalil’s father’s unwavering dedication to excellence. “I am proud to be associated with the legacy that my father left.” This has driven me to follow the field that is important and in a way that looks after our bread and butter—the construction business,”, quoted the man behind the idea.

Khalil obtained a worldwide perspective on engineering while studying electrical engineering in Toronto. Then he enrolled at Queens Business School for a Master’s programme in management and finance. Currently, he is pursuing a doctorate in project management while managing Asqalan Construction. He explained, “Although it takes a lot of my time and effort to juggle, the rewards of personal development and improved knowledge can ultimately benefit both myself and the organization.

The transition from being the son of a business entrepreneur to now becoming a business leader involves ongoing learning, and the development of leadership abilities that determine being an engineer provides a solid foundation for becoming a CEO.

Asqalan Construction at a Glance

Established in 1994, Asqalan Construction is a specialized building construction company that is currently active in all seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. This construction firm offers a broad range of services and focuses on both residential and commercial projects. The team of skilled experts will complete the project correctly, regardless of its size or scope.

Asqalan’s persistent dedication to client satisfaction sets them apart from other construction firms. To make sure that their particular demands are satisfied, they work closely with the clients. In addition, they provide a comprehensive range of services, including project management, design, and construction.

Asqalan specializes in offering top-notch services that are tailored to each client’s unique requirements. Their excellent customer service includes giving each client the individual attention they deserve. Asqalan’s dedication to quality is one of the things that sets it apart from competitors in the market. The company makes sure that every project is built with top-quality components and is thoroughly inspected for compliance with safety regulations. Another thing that distinguishes Asqalan Construction is its team of highly qualified experts who have years of expertise in the industry, allowing them to remain ahead of trends and keep a competitive advantage with their capacity to tailor plans in accordance with client’s particular needs.

“The dedication we share with our customers to continually improve has helped our firm grow into what it is today. We stand by our objectives of providing for clients as well as the quality level of satisfaction and dependability of our personnel“, quoted Khalil Hassan Oudah.

Growing as an Inspiring Leader: The Key Highlights

Khalil Hassan has had the honor of leading and expanding businesses over the years as a CEO. Several key highlights have fostered his professional growth:

Firstly, building a skilled team has been instrumental in Khalil’s success. Attracting and maintaining top talent has allowed visionary leaders to trust others with their responsibilities and focus on strategic endeavors.
Secondly, embracing innovation has been critical to staying ahead of the curve. By constantly exploring new practices and trends, the team has been able to adapt quickly to changes in the industry.
Thirdly, fostering a culture of transparency and open communication has been paramount. Encouraging feedback from clients and employees at all levels has allowed them to determine areas for improvement and make the required changes.
Lastly, maintaining a strong work-life balance has helped him stay focused and grounded in all aspects of his life.

Asqalan’s Innovative Initiative to Deal with the Shortage of Skilled Employees

The construction industry is one of the most important sectors of any economy. But it must also deal with difficulties, just like every other industry. The struggle with the shortage of skilled people is one of the primary problems. In recent years, there has been a shortage of skilled personnel, which has increased costs and slowed down projects. Safety on construction sites is still a major concern because accidents happen often.

Many steps can be taken at various levels and are being used with Asqalan to address these issues. Employing appropriate training programs for all levels of workers entails regularly informing workers about potential workplace dangers. Another strategy is to perform routine site inspections.

Overcoming the COVID Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone so greatly. Like any other business, Asqalan struggled to keep running due to problems with the supply chain, a labor shortage, and regulations requiring social segregation. Using modern technologies to enable remote team cooperation and communication has proven to be one of the most successful tactics. Also, all workers should have access to the following fundamental safety precautions: face masks, face shields, and safe distances from everyone.

The Future Plans

From a personal and professional perspective, Khalil Hassan has set a number of ambitious goals for himself over the next five years. His primary goal is to use cutting-edge tactics to guide his business towards sustainable success. It will lead them to increase revenue and create more job opportunities for their employees.

On a personal level, he is planning to improve his leadership skills by attending conferences or seminars that focus on effective communication, team building, and decision-making. Additionally, he also plans to put a priority on work-life balance by routinely taking time off to spend time with his family and engage in hobbies that make him happy. Also, he hopes to contribute to society through zakat donations and government programs.

Ultimately, Khalil’s goal as CEO would be to create value for all—customers, employees, and partners—while contributing positively to society!

Dr. Laura M. Giurge : Creating a Positive Impact on People’s Lives

Dr. Laura M. Giurge is an award-winning behavioral and organizational scholar. Currently, she serves as an assistant professor of Behavioral Science at the London School of Economics and Political Science. She has a Ph.D. in Management from Erasmus University Rotterdam and two cum laude Master’s degrees from the University of Groningen in Economics and Business and Human Resources Management (NL). Before joining the London School of Economics, she worked as a post-doctoral research fellow at Cornell University (USA) and London Business School (U.K). She was also a visiting scholar at Harvard Business School (USA).

Laura’s research has been published in several top academic journals, including the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Nature Human Behaviour, Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, and The Leadership Quarterly, and it is often featured in the media. She is highly passionate about communicating her research to organizational leaders and the general public and has written about her work in the Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes

Recently, we got a chance to sit down with Dr. Giurge to learn more about her work to address ongoing challenges in the workplace.

Below are the highlights of the interview.

Please tell me your story. Or how did you get your start?

Dr. Giurge: I’m currently an assistant professor at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). I am also a behavioral scientist and academic advisor for different organizations, including MoreThanNow, and a Research Affiliate at the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford. On the side, I’m a photographer and artist and have already had my own photography exhibit in 2016. I’ve started my multiple careers by pursuing my interests and exploring my curiosity. It hasn’t been easy, and it is still challenging to wear so many hats simultaneously, but each hat brings something unique to my life.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment?

Dr. Giurge: Thus far, my greatest accomplishment has been the scholarships I’ve won to study abroad.

Being a key person in this environment is challenging and all-consuming—are you prepared for the challenge? (How would you Control the Situation)

Dr. Giurge: Various experiences taught me some difficult and painful lessons. So, I seek to control the situation by being extremely careful who I work with. To me, people are everything

What does success look like for you?

Dr. Giurge: One of my key measures of success is the number of people I’ve helped achieve their goals, professionally or personally.

What is your “vision” in life, e.g., what drives you to a Successful Journey?

Dr. Giurge: One piece of my vision is to leave Earth a better place by helping those without voice or agency.

What’s the best advice you’ve recently received?

Dr. Giurge: We create our meaning in life, and that is scary and liberating at the same time. Once you know what motivates you, it becomes clearer what you should say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to.

Give us advice that you would share with entrepreneurs just starting.

Dr. Giurge: One of my guiding principles is action because. I know from research that some of the most painful regrets in life are those of inaction rather than action. So, even when the outcome is painful, I’m grateful to have tried something than to have wondered what if.

You should reach Dr. Giurge through her website, e-mail, and LinkedIn for more details

Raj Sarangam: An Engineer’s Journey to Real Estate Investment

Engineer-turned-real estate investor Raj Sarangam is an excellent example of someone who has successfully transitioned from an engineering background to a thriving real estate investor. Raj had spent several years honing his Engineering & IT skills, but his restless spirit yearned for something more. He craved a new challenge that would allow him to apply his talents in a novel way, enter real estate. With a single-family home purchase and the establishment of ORP Investments Inc., Raj embarked on a thrilling new journey, one that would test his acumen and business savvy in exciting new ways. Now, as he looks back on his decision, he can’t help but smile at how far he’s come, and the endless potential that lies ahead.

Born and raised in India, Raj Sarangam moved to the U.S. after completing B.S. in Chemical Engineering from BITS, Pilani. He then completed M.S. in Chemical Engineering from Lamar University in 1993. His journey didn’t stop there. After completing his M.S., he began working at Ampacet Corporation and simultaneously pursued his M.S. in Computer Science from McNeese State University and MBA from the University of Houston. With more than two decade’s experience in SAP Business Software Consulting across various management roles, Raj has gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field. Throughout his career, Raj has demonstrated his unique ability to successfully lead large-scale SAP implementations for several top-tier clients, making him a sought-after professional in the industry.

Establishing ORP Investments

Raj started his real estate journey by establishing ORP Investments and acquiring a single-family home. Over time, Raj’s unwavering commitment and proficiency have stimulated the company’s expansion from humble beginning and culminating in an impressive collection of real estate holdings valued at nearly $250 million in assets under management. Having executed over 40 lucrative real estate deals, Raj’s repertoire encompasses various properties, comprising over 40 single-family residences, two shopping centers, and more than ten multifamily apartment complexes in Texas and Florida. Besides his real estate ventures, Raj has also established a thriving hard money lending company and a safety-focused portfolio, bolstering his reputation as a successful real estate entrepreneur.

Under Raj’s leadership, ORP Investments has become a thriving and highly focused real estate investment firm with a proven track record of success. With its focus on Texas and Florida, ORP Investments has gained extensive expertise in various real estate assets, such as retail, single-family rentals, and self-storage.

Bringing Change

Under Raj’s leadership, ORP Investment is fully committed to offering affordable and safe housing options for individuals and families through acquiring and managing single-family homes and multifamily apartments.

“Our focus is on creating value and investing capital wisely, which enables us to deliver consistent and stable returns for our investors. With considerable experience in the real estate sector, our firm has grown from $12 million to ~$250+ million in assets under management, managing over 1,500 units,“- explains Raj.

Raj also takes pride in ORP’s disciplined and performance-driven approach to real estate investment. ORP’s clientele can reap the benefits of its services if they seek a reputable, dependable, and skilled real estate investment company that prioritizes delivering consistent returns and generating value for its customers. Whether the customer is an individual investor or a financial institution, ORP Investments, Inc. can assist them in accomplishing their real estate investment objectives.

Leading the Charge

Raj’s growth and success can be attributed to his modest beginnings and financial discipline. His innovative and ambitious nature has driven him to constantly push the boundaries and find new and creative solutions for complex challenges. Furthermore, Raj’s profound spirituality and dedication have provided him with a solid foundation for his work, enabling him to pursue his business endeavors with a clear sense of purpose and unwavering commitment. These key characteristics have fostered Raj’s growth as a business leader and helped him build a successful and respected real estate investment firm with a rapidly growing assets portfolio.

“Through our focus on value-add investments and disciplined approach to risk management, our firm has grown from $12 million to over $250 million in assets under management. I am honored to be recognized as one of the most innovative business leaders to watch and am excited to continue pushing the envelope in the years to come,“- he says.

Major Challenges

Raj believes interest hikes, lender restrictions, and compressed CAP rates have created an enormous challenge to acquiring new properties. Additionally, finding good resources, high-quality vendors, and tenants creates massive challenges in the industry.

To overcome these difficulties while acquiring new properties, Raj is broadening ORP’s asset base by looking at other investment options, such as R.V. parks near Austin, extended-stay hotels, and farmlands. On the operational front, Raj aims to keep top talent by providing incentives like bonuses, time off, and other benefits.

Additionally, Raj and his team are now looking for innovative solutions to satisfy investor demands, such as increasing Reserves for investor distributions and interest rate fluctuations to counteract the possible effects of interest rate spikes and till lenders ease on the terms.

The Pandemic

The pandemic brought significant challenges for ORP Investments, just like everyone else. Despite having two multifamily properties under contract, lenders, investors, and other private equity individuals vanished, leaving the company in a precarious position. However, Raj and his team managed to renegotiate prices and timelines to close the properties, enabling them to stabilize the situation and re-open communication with lenders. Thanks to their bold and proactive strategy, ORP’s properties became oversubscribed, proving the company’s resilience and commitment to delivering results even in the face of adversity.

The Future

Raj has ambitious plans for the future of ORP Investments. Aiming to increase their AUM by $500 million within the next five years. Particularly focusing on multifamily properties in Texas and Florida. Additionally, he plans to venture into real estate development for build-to-rent (BTR) or build-to-own (BTO) workhorse housing, which is currently in high demand. He also intends to expand into a mixed-use, multi-modal development company. To weather these challenging economic times. Raj has also diversified ORP’s portfolio and purchased an I.T. company primarily operating out of India.

“We have grown from 15 employees to 54 in one short year and are planning to acquire more companies in India which is heading towards being one of the economic powerhouses. We are expanding our services in the U.S. with a very attractive I.T. resource rate of $25+/ hour. We have signed up several projects in this regard utilizing our 20+ years of professional experience in this field,”- he concludes.

Jonathan Keyser: Changing Commercial Real Estate for the Better

Meet Jonathan Keyser, the founder and thought leader behind one of the largest independent commercial real estate tenant brokerage firms in the country, Keyser. Named “The Commercial Real Estate Disruptor” by USA Today, Jonathan also is a #1 Wall Street Journal Best Selling Author with his book: “You don’t have to be Ruthless to Win”.

Jonathan’s firm exclusively represents Tenants and Corporate users of space, eliminating the inherent conflicts of interest that exist in traditional broker/tenant relations. Including his international partners, his organization has over 570 people worldwide. As a globally recognized advocate for Corporate Tenants of office, industrial, healthcare and retail space, Jonathan is extremely passionate about helping Tenant’s avoid the pitfalls of poorly negotiated leases, and

Jonathan is a regular guest on broadcast news shows discussing commercial real estate topics, and he is a top-rated speaker on how to create a culture of selfless service within business today. Known for a quick laugh, a huge smile, a ton of energy and a big hug for everyone, Jonathan loves people and people love him back. It is really special to see.

It wasn’t always this way. In fact, Jonathan is a personal turn-around story. Raised by Christian missionaries parents in the jungles of Papua New Guinea, Jonathan was raised to love and serve others by his caring parents. However, when he returned to the states, he came to the realization that his parents were poor, and decided he wanted to do something about it. He poured himself into his education and ended up graduating Summa Cum Laude from UCLA. He stumbled into commercial real estate through a friend’s recommendation and learned quickly the ruthless nature of the industry. He became ruthless. And he had success. But he was miserable. He was miserable because he was misaligned with how his parents had raised him and his core values. But he felt trapped because he didn’t know another way. And then 25 years ago a speaker at a conference planted the seed within Jonathan of discarding his ruthless behavior and focusing on selflessly helping other…and the rest is history.

In discussing his former self, Jonathan holds no punches, describing himself as a Ruthless Jerk” who “would do anything to get ahead”. Fortunately, Jonathan underwent a radical change of heart, reinvented himself through the principle of selfless service, and has since created a world-class commercial real estate brokerage firm built upon a simple mission, and that is: “To change the business world through selfless service”.

I sat down with Jonathan recently to have a fireside chat, and I have shared some of the highlights below.

Below are the highlights of the interview.

Q) Please tell me your story. Or how did you get your start?

Jonathan: As Keyser just celebrated its 10-year anniversary, it seems it’s the perfect time to be asked about our beginning.

While it’s hard to unpack 10 years of successes, failures, and course corrections into an interview, I can tell you that in 2013, we founded Keyser with the belief that selflessly serving our community was the best way to create lasting business relationships. Now, eight figures later, I can prove that the strategy worked.

Keyser was built off of fifteen core operating principles that keep us aligned daily to the mission that we set out to accomplish— to change the business world through selfless service. These fifteen principles are the standard that we use to make cultural decisions like who to bring on, who to let go, and how to interact with our clients. Every single person on the Keyser team was brought on for two reasons: they are exceptional commercial real estate advocates, they are hard workers, and they fully believe in the Keyser mission.

Q) What motivated you to establish Keyser?
Jonathan: As I talk about in my book, I started Keyser because I was tired of being ruthless and I really wanted to find a better way. Before Keyser, I felt I was doing things to make the most commission, not to create lasting relationships. That type of behavior is common in the commercial real estate industry, and unfortunately, it is why the profession has a poor reputation. That’s why we started Keyser— to give tenants a ferocious advocate on the commercial real estate front that didn’t exist in the industry to date.

Q) How are you differentiating Keyser from its competitors?

Jonathan: Keyser’s main differentiators are that we only represent tenants, never landlords or developers, and we all operate under the principle of selfless service. It is embedded in our culture. It is who we are. We are the best and we honor ourselves, our partners and our clients by being our best.

Q) What are the primary challenges of the industry?

Jonathan: It is a tough industry dealing with constant change. Knowing how to help your clients navigate the uncertainty is paramount. It is also filled with conflict of interest and back door dealings. There is a lot of money to be made, so there are many that are in it who care solely about how much they can profit, rather than how much they can serve. We are changing that.

Q) What are your thoughts about the post-pandemic commercial real estate market? What are the key trends driving the sector?

Jonathan: In 2023, the commercial real estate industry is feeling the full effects of the pandemic— but not in the way you would expect when considering other recessionary periods. Hybrid work is causing rising vacancies. Traditionally, when vacancy rates rise, rental rates fall, but not this time. Why? Tenant improvement costs are almost double today than they were in 2020. When landlords have to cover those costs, they also have to find a way to recover those costs.

If commercial real estate trends are something you’re interested in learning more about, I recommend you check out Keyser’s Tenant Resource Center: https://keyser.com/tenant-resource-center/

We have a new 90-minute webinar chock-full of best practices and advice about the current commercial real estate trends.

Q) What are your priorities for 2023?

Jonathan: 2023 is a milestone for us here at Keyser; not only are we celebrating a decade of exceptional tenant-only representation, but we’re also undergoing a brand upgrade. We have gone back to our roots by asking ourselves the following question: if we were a start-up again today, would this __________ (process, person, tool, or technology) help get us to the next level? If the answer is no, we take swift action to course correct.

Q) As a source of inspiration for many, what would your advice be for entrepreneurs who are planning to enter the business world?

Jonathan: To new entrepreneurs, when choosing your company’s values, make sure they don’t just become words on a wall. A huge reason why we attract and retain top clients and talent is because we don’t just have principles, we have a thriving culture built upon solid core principles, and it’s something that flows through every member of the team. Get that right, everything else is easy. Get that wrong…and I have done it…and everything is hard.

Dr. Nairouz Bader: Empowering Women Leaders to Rise Higher and Reach Further

Dr. Nairouz Bader is the C.E.O. of Envision Partnership, a female executive search and leadership advisory organization that she established in 1997. Envision Partnership is the first executive search firm in the MENA region to be certified by the AESC and WeConnect International, two prestigious organizations that recognized the company’s commitment to excellence and diversity. Since its establishment, the company has expanded to Dubai, serving clients across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Not only is Dr. Nairouz a successful businesswoman, but she is also a pioneer in her field and is the only Arab woman leader who has served on the global board of AESC and M.C.H. Global, the parent company of Art Basel. Under her leadership, Envision Partnership has also become the only expert in the MENA region certified by the Switzerland Global Enterprise as an Official Expert on International Human Resources.

A pharmacist by profession, Dr. Nairouz holds several post-graduate degrees, including a Master’s in Managerial Leadership from the U.S.A. She has lived most of her life in the U.A.E. but has also spent her time in Europe, Canada, and the U.S.A. Dr. Nairouz is a DEI Diversity & Gender Catalyst and is passionate about gender parity, advocating for female leadership and minority-owned enterprise.

For Dr. Nairouz and her team, walking the talk is not just a buzzword but a way of life. They are incredibly passionate about placing female executives in leadership roles, not just locally but also globally. Through their coaching and development programs, they aim to build a sustainable talent pipeline for future women leaders, empowering them to take charge and shape the future of their organizations. Also, as a founding member of Rotary International in Dubai, Nairouz is committed to positively impacting her community and beyond.

About Envision Partnership

Established in 1997, Envision Partnership is a global executive search and talent management consultancy providing personalized services to help clients find and attract the best executive talent. The organization strongly emphasizes quality, professionalism, and personalization, ensuring that each client receives tailored solutions to meet their unique needs. Envision Partnership’s extensive services include executive search, talent assessment, leadership development, and organizational consulting.

With its global presence and a team of experienced consultants, Envision Partnership has an impressive track record of placing top-level executives across various industries. The

organization’s expertise and commitment to excellence have made it a trusted partner for organizations seeking talent management services.

Under Dr. Nairouz’s leadership, Envision Partnership is entirely committed to driving sustainable change and creating a more inclusive future by promoting female executives in regional and global leadership roles. The Organization’s approach includes coaching and developing talented women and creating a sustainable talent pipeline for future women leaders. Also, by promoting diversity and inclusion, the organization inspires many more women to join the workforce and continue working for a better future.

“At Envision Partnership, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) are crucial components of success. Our innovative approach to leadership and commitment to D.E.I. will shape the future and create a more sustainable and inclusive world,”- explains Dr. Nairouz.

Navigating the Dizzying Environment

Leadership is a challenging and complex task in today’s fast-paced and constantly evolving world. As a seasoned leader, Dr. Nairouz has adopted an approach that revolves around several key principles to navigate this ever-changing landscape.

First and foremost, Dr. Nairouz prioritizes open communication and transparency. She always likes to keep the communication line open and transparent with her team and stakeholders, so they can work together to tackle challenges and capitalize on opportunities that arise from time to time.

Secondly, Dr. Nairouz firmly believes in leading by example. As a leader, she understands that her actions and behavior significantly impact her team and organization. Hence, she strives to embody the values and principles that she wants to see in her organization.

Thirdly, she believes in fostering a culture of innovation and creativity. By encouraging her team to think outside the box and explore new ideas, she ensures that Envision Partnership stays ahead of the curve and adapts to changing environments.

Lastly, she is a firm believer in continuous learning and development. As a leader, Dr. Nairouz recognizes the importance of ongoing personal and professional growth and strives to instill this mindset in her team. Overall, Dr. Nairouz’s approach to leadership centers on communication, leading by example, fostering innovation, and continuous learning and development.

Motivating Innovation and Creativity

As a visionary leader, Dr. Nairouz recognizes the importance of creativity and innovation in driving success, but she also understands the need for a healthy work environment. Therefore, she has implemented several strategies to achieve this perfect balance.

First and foremost, Dr. Nairouz fosters a culture of open communication and collaboration. She encourages her team to share their ideas and provide feedback, creating a safe space where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. This approach allows Envision Partnership to generate new and innovative solutions to complex problems.

Additionally, Dr. Nairouz encourages experimentation and risk-taking. She recognizes that not every idea will be successful, but she believes in learning from failures to drive future success.

To stay competitive in the rapidly changing world, Dr. Nairouz prioritizes training and development opportunities for her team, which helps them build new skills and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices.

Lastly, Dr. Nairouz is committed to ensuring work-life balance and stress management for her team. She understands that a healthy work-life balance is essential for productivity and well-being, and she strives to support her team in every way possible.

“I motivate creativity and innovation while maintaining a healthy work environment by fostering open communication, encouraging experimentation, offering training and development opportunities, and prioritizing work-life balance. By striking this balance, my team feels empowered to take risks and think outside the box while feeling supported and valued in their work,”- she explains.

Promoting Gender Diversity and Inclusion

Envision Partnership stands out in the industry with its unique focus on promoting gender diversity and inclusion, as well as its dedication to developing sustainable leadership pipelines. Envision’s team has valuable insights into women’s challenges and opportunities in leadership positions, allowing them to provide tailored solutions that genuinely help them succeed.

“Overall, Envision Partnership’s commitment to promoting gender diversity and inclusion, our focus on sustainable leadership pipelines, and unique insights about the challenges and opportunities facing women in leadership positions could all be key selling propositions that set us apart from other companies in the industry,”- says Dr. Nairouz.

Picture of the Future

On a personal level, Dr. Nairouz is determined to prioritize her well-being and continue investing in her personal development. This will involve pursuing new hobbies and interests that challenge her and allow her to learn new skills. Additionally, she recognizes the importance of self-care and nurturing her relationships with loved ones, which will be crucial for her mental and emotional health.

Dr. Nairouz intends to travel extensively and immerse herself in new cultures in line with her passion for exploration and learning. She believes this exposure will broaden her perspective and deepen her understanding of the world, undoubtedly enriching her personal and professional life.

“Professionally, my goals are to drive positive change and create impact through my work. I am committed to expanding the reach and impact of Envision Partnership, a women-focused organization that empowers and supports women to achieve their full potential. Specifically, I hope to develop new programs and services to help clients prioritize sustainability and collaborate with other organizations to achieve collective impact. In addition, I aim to reduce the environmental footprint of Envision Partnership and lead by example in our own business practices,”- Dr. Nairouz concludes.