CEO Insights Magazine

In any organization, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) plays a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and strategic initiatives that are essential for sustained growth and profitability. Firoze Mohammad, currently serving as the COO at Apex Footwear, exemplifies this critical role through his extensive experience and impactful leadership across diverse sectors.

As a COO, Firoze brings over 20 years of expertise in transforming businesses across Consumer Electronics, Footwear, and Furniture industries. In Consumer Electronics, he led strategic initiatives that not only expanded product portfolios but also increased market penetration and enhanced brand visibility. His approach included fostering local manufacturing partnerships, which not only bolstered sustainability efforts but also contributed to economic growth in local communities. Under his guidance, his teams set industry standards for service quality, establishing benchmarks that continue to influence retail practices today.

Transitioning into the Footwear sector, Firoze introduced innovative retail concepts and marketing strategies that redefined market dynamics. By spearheading the launch of large format retail stores and concept stores, he positioned brands for sustainable growth amidst competitive landscapes. His visionary leadership and operational acumen enabled Apex Footwear to strengthen its market position and adapt swiftly to evolving consumer preferences.

In the furniture industry, Firoze's focus on operational efficiency and strategic decision-making proved transformative. His initiatives not only optimized manufacturing processes but also streamlined retail operations, leading to significant improvements in profitability and overall business performance. By implementing robust strategies tailored to market demands, he successfully navigated challenges and steered the company towards profitable growth.

Throughout his career, Firoze has been recognized for his ability to drive organizational change and deliver results that exceed expectations. His leadership at Apex Footwear continues to exemplify his commitment to operational excellence, strategic innovation, and sustainable business practices, making him a driving force in the global retail industry. Let’s hear more from him in this one on one interaction.

How have your experiences shaped your approach to leadership as COO at Apex Footwear?

Since the beginning of my career, I've had the opportunity to work across a wide range of functions including sales, product management, marketing, visual merchandising, and ultimately general management. These diverse roles in various industries have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of business operations and consumer behavior. This broad perspective allows me to align operational strategies with Apex Footwear Ltd.'s long-term business objectives effectively. Whether it's optimizing supply chain efficiencies, driving product innovation cycles, or cultivating a culture of continuous improvement, I draw upon my past experiences—both successes and challenges—to foster organizational excellence and sustainable growth.

From your perspective, how do you guide employees towards achieving company goals, and how do you assess their progress?

As a leader, I believe in empowering teams through transparent communication, mentorship, and creating a collaborative work environment. I establish goals that are closely aligned with the company's strategic roadmap. Regular performance reviews and constructive feedback sessions are integral to ensuring that team members clearly understand their roles in driving organizational objectives forward. By fostering accountability and acknowledging accomplishments, I aim to nurture a culture of high performance within the team. For me, two fundamental criteria for professional success are honesty and performance, which I consistently emphasize to all team members as crucial drivers of growth and excellence.

How do you manage the high stress that comes with the responsibilities of a COO, and can you share your approach to resolving complex issues?

The role of a COO indeed carries high-pressure responsibilities. To maintain balance, I prioritize effective time management, delegation, and open communication with stakeholders. I rely on data-driven insights and cross-functional collaboration to proactively address complex challenges. By fostering a supportive work culture that values well-being and encourages creativity, we can mitigate stress and enhance team resilience. Personally, I take micro breaks to play the guitar or share a laugh with my team, ensuring much-needed emotional refreshers.

What are your expectations for the market moving forward?

The Bangladesh market has experienced significant fluctuations over the past decade, influenced by factors such as COVID-19 and global currency fluctuations. Despite these challenges, we are witnessing a resurgence in GDP growth and industry expansion. Looking ahead, I anticipate ongoing shifts in consumer preferences towards sustainability, digitalization, and personalized experiences. At Apex we are strategically positioned to capitalize on these trends by innovating our product offerings, enhancing omnichannel capabilities, and bolstering our brand presence both domestically and internationally. We recognize the importance of strategic partnerships and investments in technology to maintain our competitive edge and drive market expansion.

Looking ahead, what is the future plan you have outlined for your journey?

As current market leaders with a team exceeding 4000 employees, we are committed to maintaining and expanding our national leadership while strategically entering emerging markets. My vision is to solidify Apex Footwear's reputation for innovation, quality, and customer-centricity. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of agility and adaptability within our organization. Our growth strategy will be anchored in long-term sustainability initiatives and robust talent development programs, ensuring our resilience in the face of industry challenges.

Given your extensive professional experience, what guidance would you offer to emerging industry leaders?

To be candid, I hesitate to offer advice on professional conduct to industry leaders. Instead, I would like to emphasize my personal philosophy on professional growth: wholeheartedly embracing a commitment to Honesty and Performance. This mindset has consistently guided my approach to every professional challenge I've encountered.

Firoze Mohammad, COO, Apex Footwear

Firoze Mohammad, a visionary business leader from Bangladesh, embodies transformative leadership and strategic acumen across a diverse career in Electronics, Footwear, & Home Solutions. With an MBA from East West University, Firoze pioneers retail strategies & large-format concepts, enhancing market presence & profitability. In his current role at Apex Footwear, he drives the company's success, recognized with awards like 'Most Loved Footwear Retail Brand' in 2023. Firoze fosters integrity, performance, & innovation, promoting a culture of collaboration and growth. Beyond business, he pursues creativity as a guitarist and artist, committed to advancing ethical business practices and community impact.