CEO Insights Magazine

The Saudi Arabian construction market has witnessed remarkable growth over the years, driven by various factors. The country's ambitious Vision 2030 plan, aimed at diversifying the economy, has spurred significant infrastructure development. Projects such as NEOM and the Red Sea Development are transforming Saudi Arabia into a global economic and tourism hub. Additionally, a rapidly growing population and urbanization have fueled demand for residential, commercial, and industrial construction.

However, importing and sourcing materials for electro-mechanical projects in Saudi Arabia present unique challenges. Customs and import regulations can be intricate and time-consuming to navigate. The sourcing of specialized equipment and components may require international procurement, leading to logistical complexities and extended lead times. Fluctuations in global commodity prices can impact project budgets significantly. Ensuring compliance with local standards and regulations adds an additional layer of complexity. Successful navigation of these challenges often necessitates strong local partnerships, meticulous planning, and a deep understanding of the Saudi Arabian business landscape.

Amidst this landscape, Afaq Malaz emerges as a key player, specializing in electro-mechanical projects tailored to serve Saudi Arabia's construction sector. Offering a comprehensive range of products to address the evolving needs of the construction industry, Afaq Malaz plays a crucial role as a bridge between global suppliers and the local Saudi Arabian market. At the helm of this company stands Mohammed Rahbar Aman, the Chief Operating Officer (COO), whose leadership has been instrumental in steering the company toward greater heights. His journey in the trading industry began at an entry level position, but his unwavering work ethic and dedication allowed him to steadily ascend through various departments. Joining Afaq Al Malaz in 2014, when the company comprised only three individuals, Mohammed Rahbar Aman has played a central role in its remarkable growth and success. Under his leadership as COO, Afaq Al Malaz has emerged as a leading supplier of mechanical products in the Saudi Arabian market, satisfying approximately 60 percent of the construction sector's requirements.

In an exclusive interview with CEO Insights, Mohammed Rahbar Aman sheds light on his professional journey and offers valuable insights into the distinctive traits of Afaq Al Malaz.

Can you give us a brief account of your professional journey and what motivates your daily routines?

My professional journey has been filled with diverse experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. I began my career in the trading industry, starting from an entry-level position and gradually working my way up through various departments. Throughout this journey, I have always been motivated by my passion for continuous growth and development. I am driven by the opportunity to make a positive impact on the company, its employees, and the industry as a whole. My daily routines are motivated by a strong work ethic, a focus on operational excellence, and the pursuit of strategic goals.

Define Afaq Malaz as an organization and its position in the market.

Afaq Malaz is a company that deals with electro-mechanical projects and serves the construction sector of KSA. We started in 2014 with one branch and today, we have five branches with more than 68 mem bers. We offer a wide range of products catering to the needs of the construction sector. We serve as a bridge between global suppliers and the local market in Saudi Arabia, bringing materials from all over the world to cater to the needs of the construction sector.

What is the position of Afaq Malaz in the market? As the COO, what factors do you take into account when shaping the company’s policies?

shaping the company's policies requires a holistic approach that considers various factors. Firstly, we analyze market trends and customer demands to ensure our policies are aligned with the dynamic business landscape. Secondly, we closely evaluate the capabilities and strengths of our team, generating policies that empower and optimize their potential. Additionally, we prioritize operational efficiency, risk management, and compliance with industry regulations when shaping policies. Overall, our goal is to strike a balance between strategic objectives, customer satisfaction, employee welfare, and sustainable growth.

How do you guide employees to meet the company’s goals, and how do you measure their progress? What are the most challenging issues you encounter in your role, and what is the success mantra you use to draw positive outcomes?

Guiding employees to meet the company's goals involves setting clear expectations, creating a culture of accountability, and providing them with the necessary tools and resources to succeed. I believe in fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment that encourages open communication and empowers individuals to take ownership of their work. In terms of measuring progress, we establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with our organizational goals and regularly track and review their achievement. Feedback, coaching, and recognition play vital roles in ensuring continuous improvement and motivation within the team.

In my role as a COO, I encounter various challenging issues, such as adapting to market changes, managing a diverse workforce, and optimizing operational efficiency. To tackle these challenges, I follow a success mantra that consists of effective communication, strategic planning, and embracing innovation. I believe in fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, encouraging my team to think outside the box and proactively seek solutions. By staying focused, resilient, and maintaining a positive mindset, I have been able to overcome obstacles and drive positive outcomes.

What is the future destination you are headed towards, and what advice do you have for aspiring industry leaders venturing into new opportunities?

Our future goal is to make Afaq Malaz the benchmark for excellence in our industry. Currently, we cover 60 percent of the market, and we aim to expand it to at least 90 percent. My advice to aspiring industry leaders is to embrace change, remain agile, seek new growth opportunities, prioritize integrity, and adopt customer-centric approaches. Ethical practices and building strong relationships are key to long-term success in the trading industry.

Mohammed Rahbar Aman, COO, Afaq Al Malaz

Mohammed Rahbar Aman is a visionary leader navigating Saudi Arabia's surging construction market. As COO of Afaq Malaz, he has played a pivotal role in its remarkable growth. Starting from an entry-level position in 2014, he's risen through the ranks, now leading a company with five branches and over 68 members, serving as a vital link between global suppliers and Saudi Arabia's construction industry. Rahbar’s leadership emphasizes operational excellence and ethical practices, shaping Afaq Malaz as an industry benchmark.