Egypt faces many economic challenges, including high levels of poverty and unemployment, and a significant informal sector. There is limited foreign investment due to bureaucratic hurdles, which pose a significant challenge for companies seeking to do business here.
Nevertheless, there are also many prospects in Egypt. The country has a strategic location, a large and growing population, and the government has invested heavily in infrastructure, including transportation, energy and telecommunications. There is also an anticipated revival in the tourism industry as political stability improves. And despite the severe impact of the Russian war against Ukraine, I prefer to view this situation as an opportunity for companies to become more resilient, expand internationally and tackle new challenges.
I cannot recall a time when I have been in a comfort zone, as I continually seek out new challenges
I wanted to become an accountant because I saw the significant and vital contribution that they make to businesses, through managing financial operations and making strategic decisions. Completing the MSc in professional accountancy from the University of London offered me a deeper understanding of accounting and tax principles and practice, while the MBA enriched my business acumen and furnished me with the tools to become an effective leader. It also provided a great opportunity to network with other professionals from many diverse backgrounds.
I started my career in practice in 2006, working for KPMG, then for Deloitte and EY. After seven years, I decided to shift industry and joined Danone in Saudi Arabia, where I had many different assignments. I took on my current role with luxury goods retailer Chalhoub Group in Cairo in 2021, leading the finance function of the company’s operations in Egypt.
Education is vital in building a prosperous nation, and changes to our education laws are necessary
In my career I cannot recall a time when I have been in a comfort zone, as I continually seek out new challenges and opportunities. Even within the same position, I always look for problems to solve, which keeps me driven to deliver my best.
If I had law-making powers, I would impose strict penalties on corruption, which is a significant issue here. We must establish transparency and accountability in both government and business sectors. Furthermore, economic development laws should be reformed to foster economic growth, attract foreign investment and support small businesses.
Education is vital in building a prosperous nation, and changes to our education laws are necessary. I would improve access to education and increase funding for schools and universities, with some rationalisation alongside. My vision is to provide free education for all, with a minimum educational requirement for everyone.
I derive great satisfaction from nurturing my co-workers, watching them develop throughout their professional journeys
Amid the volatility and complexity of today’s world, particularly in the retail industry, I take pleasure in new challenges that need innovation. As a finance leader, my responsibility includes shaping the company’s strategic decisions while also identifying opportunities, which I also enjoy.
I am a lifelong learner, so my proudest achievement is successfully balancing my studies with family duties, while at the same time working to provide for my family. The satisfaction I get from accomplishing this balance is immeasurable.
If I weren’t in finance, I would probably have worked in human resources. I derive great satisfaction from nurturing my co-workers, watching them evolve and develop throughout their professional journeys.
During my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies and travelling. In the past decade I have had the opportunity to visit 25 different countries located across four continents.
