CEO Today Middle East Awards

www.ceotodaymagazine.com 46 CEO Today Middle East Awards 2018 QATAR a framework that helps us organise, define and standardise our business processes. Thus, we can plan effectively take control, ensuring that the business runs smoothly. We designed and planned our ERP with in-depth analysis and focus on how the data/information and processes can be handled effectively within the organization while maximizing its potential. ERP was implemented ensuring all the business functions that play a critical role are covered. Internal and external trainings were given to employees to ensure that the transition was successful. At its core, ERP helps employees do their jobs more efficiently by breaking down barriers between business units. More specifically: • It gives a global, real-time view of data that can enable companies to address concerns proactively and drive improvements. • It improves financial compliance with regulatory standards and reduces risk. • It automates core business operations, such as Project-to cash, and procure-to-pay processes. • It enhances customer service by providing one source for billing and relationship tracking. • It offer online approvals to speed up the process as project sites are spread across country. With these solutions, employees have access to accurate information that enables them to make better decisions faster. Additionally, the ERP software helps to eliminate redundant processes and systems, dramatically lowering the cost of doing business overall. I can say that the ERP is one of the best investments we’ve made and has made our daily operations much easier. Although it was quite expensive, the savings and benefits we’ve seen afterwards are really rewarding. What lies on the horizon for you and UCC and in the next year? The 2018 market in Qatar is looking vibrant. We are looking forward to contributing the best and are all geared to expand our business portfolio in providing construction & turnkey solutions, especially in projects where all our resources can be of support. With the Qatar Government’s keen interest in the development of the tourism sector, we see a lot of work coming in. As for now, we are eagerly waiting to commence work on the new prestigious project awarded to us last year. What was your personal career path? I started off as a Cost Control and Planning Engineer and worked through the ranks; serving in technical and managerial roles to deliver landmark construction projects. During my 33 years in the sector, I have had the opportunity to lead some of the prominent construction companies in the region which helped me develop into a resourceful and experienced professional. Over the years, I’ve further polishedmy skill set through continuous learning and education. Currently I am pursuing my Masters in Construction law & Dispute Resolution to stay ahead of my peers in the highly competitive construction industry. Having been very passionate about teaching, I was a visiting faculty at Damascus University for one year. If you could share one piece of advice with CEO Today’s readers, what would it be? To the future leaders, follow and join people with big dreams because they are the ones who will lead the future. Let every failure be an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and grow. Always remember to use your small triumphs as a guide to achieve your ultimate goal. Success is only possible if you don’t give up! To the leaders of today, value your team members as they are the company’s main asset. Prepare initiatives aimed to boost employee engagement to maximize productivity. When employees are engaged, they become the company’s competitive advantage. In addition, a great empire is not built overnight. It takes dedication and consistency in delivering the best to your stakeholders. Turn hard times into an opportunity to make a difference. All marketing stunts and promotional activities will fail if your work doesn’t speak for itself. “Good marketing starts with good service” and “If there is a will, there is a way”.