CEO Insights Magazine

In the realm of pharmaceutical operations, inspiration is the catalyst for transformative change. Leaders like Ahmed Jaleel, Director of Operations at Shubber Scientific Bureau, embody the significance of visionary guidance. His indelible mark on the Iraqi pharmaceutical industry is a testament to the impact a dedicated leader can have. Ahmed's journey serves as a beacon, highlighting the crucial role inspiration plays in propelling not only organizational success but also influencing positive change within the broader landscape of pharmaceutical operations, both regionally and globally.

Ahmed's journey with Sanofi was characterized by key milestones, including recognition as one of the top 10 future leaders for the Sanofi ITC region. Ahmed completed his MBA from International American Theism University in 2020, he further enhanced his expertise through modules at IMD University in Lausanne, Switzerland, specializing in ‘Business for Tomorrow.’ Earning 21 certificates of training, including seven courses from the Harvard Manage Mentor program, Ahmed fortified his knowledge base, preparing him for the dynamic challenges of the pharmaceutical industry.

Below is an excerpt of Ahmed Jaleel’s exclusive interaction with CEO Insights ASIA magazine.

Could you give a brief account of your professional background and experiences? What is the motivation that fuels your daily routines?

My professional journey commenced with the attainment of an M.B. CH. B degree from the College of Medicine, Baghdad University in 2006. Venturing into the pharmaceutical realm, I swiftly ascended the ranks, from a Medical Representative for Sanofi to Field Manager within nine months. Another nine months saw me leading as Sales Manager in the Kurdistan region, and within two years, I became the Head of Sales for Sanofi in Iraq, overseeing a team of 40 managers and 220 representatives. Key milestones include recognition as one of Sanofi's 10 future leaders in the ITC region and completion of modules at IMD University in Lausanne, Switzerland. Armed with 21 certificates, including Harvard Manage Mentor courses, I am currently in my sixth year at Shubber SB, evolving from Sales and Marketing Director to Director of Operations. My daily motivation stems from a passion for setting and achieving goals, employing decisive decision-making to navigate challenges and foster continuous personal and professional growth.

Could you tell us about the unique experiences the University of Baghdad Iraq offers and what you learned from the campus beyond academics?

Enrolling at the University of Baghdad (UOB), Iraq's premier academic institution, was an unparalleled opportunity. As the top university in Iraq, UOB instilled in us the art of setting audacious goals, fostering a mindset that transcended conventional boundaries in our strategic planning. The experience was akin to entering the elite levels of European universities. Joining the College of Medicine demanded the highest scores, a testament to the university's commitment to excellence. This elevated expectation became a guiding principle, teaching me to set lofty standards for quality and achievement. Beyond academics, UOB sculpted a culture of relentless pursuit and shaped my outlook, infusing every endeavour with a commitment to surpassing expectations.

How would you define Shubber Scientific Bureau as an organization and its current position in the market?

Shubber Scientific Bureau stands as a prominent force in the Iraqi pharmaceutical landscape, distinguishing itself as a leading distributor representing eight major pharmaceutical giants, including Pfizer, J&J, Sanofi, Eli Lilly, Organon, Viatris, P&G, and Moleac. Commanding a substantial 7% market share (as a group), Shubber SB ranks among the top three players in Iraq's pharmaceutical distributor's domain. Our influence extends beyond mere infrastructure or the number of principal companies represented; it encompasses the sheer scale of our operations. Operating as alshubbergroup with two distinct arms - Scientific Bureau and Drugstore - we cover nearly all pharmacies in Iraq. This places us at the forefront of pharmaceutical distribution, underscored by ISO GDP certification, a testament to our unwavering commitment to high standards and compliance in collaboration with multinational pharmaceutical entities.

Tell us about your leadership approach & the guidelines or methodologies you follow to lead your team.

My leadership approach revolves around painting the big picture, listening attentively to my team, and fostering strong relationships to nurture happiness and promote cross-functional collaboration. In managing large teams, particularly overseeing 260 individuals at one point, I emphasize aligning objectives, strategy, and tactics to achieve overarching company goals. By focusing on deliverables, revenue expectations, and team qualifications, I ensure a clear path for development in collaboration with the HR department. Through structured team meetings, I guide my teams toward strategic execution, maintaining a balance between individual growth and the collective success embedded in the broader organizational strategy.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?

In the next five years, my focal point will remain within the Shubber Scientific Bureau. The ethos here is akin to believing that the sky's not the limit, and continuous process improvement propels us forward. With sustainable businesses flourishing, meeting and exceeding expectations is paramount. However, there's a possibility of venturing beyond Iraq, leveraging my international training from IMD and Harvard. Moving to another market would provide a global perspective, enhancing my understanding of international trade and business dynamics, and ensuring adaptability and a broader spectrum of professional experiences.

Ahmed Jaleel, Director – Operations, Shubber Scientific Bureau

Ahmed Jaleel, Director of Operations at Shubber Scientific Bureau, is a dynamic leader with a stellar background in pharmaceutical operations. A graduate of Baghdad University's College of Medicine, Ahmed's journey encompasses strategic roles at Sanofi and a transformative tenure at Shubber SB. His visionary leadership propels the company's success in Iraq's pharmaceutical landscape.