Mohsin, reflecting on your journey from a Business Management graduate to becoming the CEO of MHD ACERE, how do you believe your educational background has influenced your leadership style and decision-making within the conglomerate?
My education at Brunel University London and later at Kings College London has profoundly shaped my leadership style and decision-making at MHD ACERE. Through an interdisciplinary approach, I’ve learned to assess challenges and opportunities from various perspectives, considering their societal, economic, and political implications. With a background in politics, philosophy, and economics, I’ve honed critical thinking skills crucial for effective leadership, enabling me to analyze complex situations and devise innovative solutions for MHD ACERE’s adaptability in dynamic markets. My deep understanding of political economy, particularly in the Middle East, equips me with insights to navigate the region’s unique business landscape, anticipating regulatory changes, geopolitical risks, and socio-economic trends. Ultimately, my educational journey forms a solid foundation for leading MHD ACERE, blending analytical rigor, ethical leadership, and strategic foresight to drive sustainable growth and success.
When you first stepped into the role of CEO at MHD, the economic landscape was beginning to feel the impact of the global pandemic. Can you share your initial thoughts and strategies for navigating the company through such turbulent times?
The Covid-19 pandemic was personally humbling for me. In response, we merged several of our verticals to optimize operations. Shifting all customer communications to digital mediums such as websites and social media became imperative during this time. This adaptive approach not only ensured continuity but also enhanced our reach and engagement with customers in a rapidly changing landscape. Stepping into the role of CEO at MHD during the onset of the global pandemic, I recognized the urgent need for innovative strategies to navigate through turbulent times. Understanding the significance of technology and digital transformation, I introduced initiatives like launching e-commerce operations for Jaguar, Land Rover, and MG Motors, simplifying the car purchasing process to just three clicks.
Your tenure has seen the introduction of specialized companies like ABB EV Chargers, and Weir Trio to Oman, contributing significantly to the socioeconomic development of the nation. What motivated you to bring these brands under MHD ACERE’s umbrella, and how did you identify them as key players for Oman’s growth?
Bringing specialized companies like ABB EV Chargers, and Weir Trio to Oman was motivated by a dual commitment: to contribute to Oman’s socioeconomic development and to lead the private sector in implementing sustainable business practices. Recognizing the imperative for sustainable energy solutions amid global warming, MHD established the Renewable Energy and Electric Vehicles Division, pioneering clean energy innovation in Oman. The recent partnership with ABB for high-power EV chargers’ underscores MHD’s dedication to advancing e-mobility and sustainability locally. These initiatives align with MHD’s vision to drive technological innovation and economic growth while promoting environmental responsibility.
The expansion of MHD ACERE’s sales and aftersales network has been remarkable under your leadership. Can you discuss the challenges and successes in doubling the number of aftersales areas and adding new sales locations throughout Oman?
Under my leadership, MHD ACERE has experienced remarkable expansion in both sales and aftersales networks throughout Oman. Doubling the number of aftersales areas and adding new sales locations posed significant challenges, but our commitment to providing exceptional customer satisfaction drove our success. Winning the Best Customer Satisfaction Award for MG Motors in the Middle East for 2023 affirmed the effectiveness of our efforts. The expansion of the aftersales network, with 14 service centers now available countrywide, reflects MG’s dedication to delivering hassle-free experiences to customers. Moving forward, we remain focused on expanding MG Motor Oman’s aftersales network to ensure timely and high-quality service, staffed by trained professionals equipped with the latest technology.
Bringing together the Tires and Batteries business with Automotive to foster growth for brands like Michelin and BF Goodrich represents a strategic consolidation. What was your vision behind this integration, and how has it impacted the company’s market position?
The integration of the Tires and Batteries business with the Automotive division was driven by a strategic vision to foster growth for brands like Michelin and BF Goodrich while enhancing the company’s market position. By consolidating these complementary businesses, we aimed to streamline operations, leverage synergies, and maximize efficiency across our product offerings. This integration allows us to provide customers with a comprehensive range of products, including world-renowned brands like Michelin, BF Goodrich, and others, backed by professional after-sales service. By offering a one-stop solution for automotive needs, we have strengthened our market position and enhanced customer satisfaction, positioning MHD ACERE as a leader in the automotive industry in Oman.
The foundation of MHD Leasing LLC. is a significant diversification move? How does this subsidiary support Oman’s domestic tourist industry, and what future plans do you have for it in the changing landscape of travel and tourism?
The establishment of MHD Leasing LLC marks a significant diversification move, offering rental and leasing services for cars, commercial vehicles, and construction equipment to individuals and commercial establishments in Oman. Through key operational initiatives, we drive and maintain new business growth, supporting Oman’s domestic tourist industry by providing convenient, quality, and affordable vehicle rental services. Expanding to the airport underscores our commitment to accessibility, aiming to be a top choice for tourists and residents alike, promoting tourism for Oman with exceptional service and a diverse fleet. With the tourism ministry’s efforts to promote Oman as a tourist destination and projections of promising growth in the car rental market, MHD Leasing LLC is poised for a dynamic future in the changing landscape of travel and tourism.
Under your guidance, MHD ACERE ventured into the healthcare sector, partnering with leading international names to supply essential medical equipment across Oman. What inspired this expansion into healthcare, and how do you see this division evolving in the coming years?
Under my leadership, MHD ACERE embarked on a strategic expansion into the healthcare sector, driven by a profound commitment to enhancing access to vital medical equipment throughout Oman. Collaborating with esteemed international brands, our newly established HospiCare division delivers a comprehensive array of medical aids and services to hospitals across the country. This includes cutting-edge operation room surgical equipment from Spark Meditech Pvt. Ltd, critical care emergency devices by Comen, advanced healthcare communication systems by SchrackSeconet AG, state-of-the-art ultrasound imaging devices from FUJIFILM Sonosite, and more. Motivated by the opportunity to positively impact healthcare delivery in Oman, this expansion underscores our unwavering dedication to elevating patient care and supporting healthcare professionals. Looking ahead, we are committed to the ongoing evolution of the HospiCare division to meet the ever-changing needs of Oman’s healthcare landscape, ensuring continued delivery of innovative solutions and exceptional service to our valued partners in the medical community.
Auto Expert, offering high-end off-roading items and auto care products, is part of your vision to diversify MHD ACERE’s offerings. What gaps in the market were you aiming to fill with AutoExpert, and how has the consumer response been to this initiative?
Auto Expert was launched as part of our vision to diversify MHD ACERE’s offerings and fill key gaps in the market. Our aim is to become a one-stop-shop for scheduled maintenance, service, and repairs of all types of vehicles, catering to the growing demand for quality repairs in Oman’s transportation infrastructure. With new car sales on the rise each year, there is a need for sophisticated diagnostic equipment and trained technicians to maintain and repair modern vehicles effectively. Auto Expert addresses this need by providing advanced diagnostic training and development, ensuring that customers receive affordable and convenient car care solutions. The consumer response to this initiative has been positive, with drivers appreciating the comprehensive services and expertise offered by Auto Expert.
As a leader, you have steered MHD ACERE through significant transformations and expansions. Looking ahead, what are your key priorities for the company in the next five years, especially considering the dynamic nature of the automotive and healthcare industries?
Looking ahead, my key priorities for MHD ACERE over the next five years include aligning our strategies with Oman’s Vision 2040 and contributing to the Sultanate’s economic and developmental goals. We are committed to enhancing the role of the corporate sector and increasing our contribution to national initiatives. Recognizing the importance of youth in driving growth, we aim to empower and engage Omani youth, ensuring they play a significant role in shaping the future of Oman. In terms of industry focus, we will continue to navigate the dynamic automotive and healthcare sectors by prioritizing innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions. Our goal is to remain agile and adaptable, seizing opportunities for growth while maintaining our commitment to excellence and service.
What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs and business leaders in Oman who aspire to make a similar impact in their industries?
To young entrepreneurs and business leaders in Oman, I would advise embracing a mindset of agility, creativity, and resilience. Seize every opportunity, big or small, and use all available tools to drive growth and overcome obstacles. Remember that the role of a CEO extends beyond administrative duties; strive to be a friend, coach, leader, and motivator to your colleagues. Foster a culture where every employee is valued and encouraged to contribute to the company’s ideation and decision-making processes. By remaining focused on your goals and nurturing a collaborative environment, you can make a meaningful impact in your industries and achieve success in your endeavors.
Finally, as the newly elected Chairman of Al Amerat Club this year, how do you feel about assuming this role, and could you share your vision for the future of the club?
In January, HH Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth, announced the approval of the Council of Ministers to establish sports and cultural clubs in various Wilayats, including Al Amerat Club in Muscat governorate. This decision reflects HM Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s dedication to promoting sports and culture, recognizing their vital role in nurturing youth talents and providing platforms for cultural and sports activities. Al Amerat’s inclusion marked a historic milestone for the Wilayat, one of the most populous in Muscat governorate alongside Seeb, Bausher, Qurayyat, and Muttrah. With a focus on youth empowerment, aligned with Oman Vision 2040 under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s leadership, the youth of Al Amerat can anticipate an enriching schedule of sporting activities in the years to come. And as the Chairman of the club, I intend to bring the Oman 2040 Vision to its fructification.
