CEO Insights Magazine

In the rapidly evolving landscape of business, characterized by intense competition and rapid market transformations, entrepreneurs and business leaders must place the utmost importance on an unyielding dedication to knowledge and perpetual learning. This resolute commitment is not merely optional; rather, it becomes a strategic necessity for achieving success. By wholeheartedly embracing the pursuit of knowledge and nurturing a culture that encourages continuous learning, visionary leaders, such as Khurshid Almeher, Founder & CEO of Kaymonto & Partners, can attain a distinctive advantage.

Khurshid Almeher's unique combination of knowledge, humility, empathy, entrepreneurial spirit, and integrity make him a truly exceptional leader in the business world. His leadership has propelled Kaymonto & Partners to new heights, making a lasting impact on the industry and inspiring those around him.

Below is an excerpt of Khurshid Almeher's exclusive interaction with CEO Insights ASIA magazine.

What is the motivation that fuels your daily routines?

The realm of project management truly captivates me with its inherent allure and distinct aura. As a stalwart in the service industry, it embodies an exhilarating prospect. Each project, a singular entity, possesses its own charismatic and idiosyncratic essence. Even when catering to a recurring client, the interplay of diverse stakeholders within an organization begets an ever-changing landscape. It's a perpetual voyage, where novelty permeates every dawn, and standardized solutions fall short. This perpetual dynamism serves as a perpetual wellspring of motivation, demanding unyielding creativity to navigate risks and surmount challenges. We may not wield bricks and mortar, but our contribution to crafting novel spaces or structures bestows a profound sense of joy akin to that of architects and artists. In the realm of project management, we revel in the exhilarating pursuit of birthing something new.

Could you tell us about the unique experiences The University of Tokyo offers and what did you learn from the campus beyond academics?

Japan's contributions to the global business world are remarkable, with philosophical and management principles like Ikigai, Ubuntu, and Kaizen setting them apart as a society. The University of Tokyo, usually ranking within the top 20 globally, signifies its academic prowess. My experience at this multicultural and bilingual institution emphasized the importance of learning the Japanese language to truly appreciate the essence of the community. Recognizing that I was the one encroaching the Japanese society, I embraced their values as much as possible. To me, the concept of 'Meiwaku Kakenai,' which literally means ‘not being a source of trouble for others’, somewhat summarizes the Japanese essence of their society. This societal DNA of consciousness and consideration is truly admirable. Learning these social principles has made me a happier person, allowing me to appreciate others and handle my problems privately. I am grateful to the Japanese government for the scholarship and the privilege to have studied at the University of Tokyo. Its multicultural environment, diverse interactions, and highly qualified professors make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking valuable academic experience.

How would you define Kaymonto & Partners as an organization and its current position in the market?

Kaymonto & Partners, the first pure-play project management consultant in the real estate industry in Bangladesh, has emerged as one of the top two firms in the country. While we are not perfect and face challenges like any other organization, our resilience during the COVID pandemic has proven our adaptability. One unique aspect that sets us apart is our work-from-home hybrid office concept, which we have implemented since our establishment in 2013. We prioritize work-based outcomes rather than rigid time-constraint office hours. Our teams enjoy flexibility and autonomy. We did a survey of hours put in by the Kaymontonians over the years, surprisingly it resulted in an average of seven and a half productive hours per day, even without any monitoring of hours. The secret ingredient we believe is 'mutual trust'. Building strong client relationships is crucial, and we encourage our colleagues to create a relationship of trust with our clients following in the footsteps of our organization itself. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility and leadership and thereby enhances job satisfaction. As a creative management organization, we have devised innovative solutions tailored to our needs, focusing on self-management and visible deliverables. This unique work environment has contributed to low attrition rates and a harmonious workplace.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?

It is crucial to distinguish between a boss and a leader. Humbly speaking, I consider myself a leader who sets an example and excels in delegation. After dedicating years of hard work and mentorship, my colleagues have blossomed into highly qualified, responsible individuals. By trusting and empowering them, we foster a work culture where everyone is dedicated and passionate. In a civil society, I believe, the only way to garner respect from your peers is through ‘knowledge with humility’. There is no other easy way than to continuously improve oneself with industry knowledge, especially in the business of management consulting. One must value the opinion of others. True leadership lies in possessing knowledge, respecting diverse viewpoints, and offering constructive feedback.

Khurshid Almeher, Founder & CEO, Kaymonto & Partners

An alumnus of the University of Tokyo, Khurshid Almeher (B.Arch, M.Engg, Ph.D., PMP) is the Founder and CEO of Kaymonto & Partners. In his vast professional journey, Khurshid Almeher has been part of various prominent companies like Index Consulting, Citigroup, Lehman Brothers, Barclays Global Investors, Barclays Capital, United Group, and so on. He also serves as adjunct faculty at several universities teaching project management.