Empowering Future Leaders

In a rapidly evolving world, the values and principles that shape a visionary leader are the driving force behind progress and innovation within organizations and communities. During a panel discussion at the Misk Global Forum, Abdullah  Al-Badr, CEO of Almarai, shared his career journey, which began at the company's headquarters in Al-Kharj. He reflected on the challenges of working in the private sector at the time, recalling how people would say, "Poor guy, working for a company!"

These words capture the struggles many face in their pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment. However, by gaining experience and understanding employee priorities, leaders can be cultivated to drive real change in their industries.

Key Factors in Leadership Development

Al-Badr outlined several critical factors to consider when choosing a job, emphasizing that these elements not only shape career growth but also enhance leadership skills:

1. Opportunities for Learning and Growth – For fresh graduates, the primary goal should be gaining new knowledge and leadership skills. A successful leader never stops learning, and selecting a job that offers continuous development opportunities enhances decision-making abilities and overall impact.
2. Company Culture – The values and work environment of a company play a crucial role in shaping future leaders. It is essential to ensure that a company’s culture aligns with your personal values and professional aspirations. A leader who thrives in a collaborative and innovative setting is better equipped to inspire and lead others toward excellence.
3. Salary as a Motivator, Not the Sole Factor – While financial compensation is important, an effective leader understands that long-term success is driven by more than just monetary rewards. Values, leadership opportunities, and personal growth contribute significantly to lasting impact within an organization.
4. Job Security – Stability in the workplace is a fundamental component of leadership. A leader who feels secure in their position is more likely to take initiative and implement long-term strategies with confidence.
5. Career Progression and Continuous Development – Ensure that your job provides ongoing professional growth opportunities. A leader with a clear vision for their career progression is better positioned to inspire and motivate their team toward shared goals.

Core Leadership Qualities

 Al-Badr emphasized that authenticity and the courage to admit mistakes are among the most essential leadership traits. A true leader does not simply set the course but creates an environment where teams can thrive by practicing the following principles:

Adaptability and Resilience
In today’s world, adaptability is a key survival skill for organizations. A leader must embrace diversity in decision-making, ensuring that strategies remain flexible and responsive to evolving challenges.

Emotional Intelligence: The Key to Effective Leadership
A leader who demonstrates emotional intelligence in interactions can create meaningful connections with their team. Intelligence alone is not enough; a leader must also master active listening, empathy, and genuine engagement, whether through small gestures like a greeting or simply being present.

Delegation and Talent Development
Delegation is a fundamental leadership skill. A leader who takes on all responsibilities alone denies their team the opportunity to grow. Delegation empowers employees, allowing them to develop their abilities while building trust within the team.  Al-Badr emphasized this principle, stating, "If someone else can do the task, then you shouldn’t be doing it yourself."

Lifelong Learning: The Cornerstone of Leadership
No leader is ever fully developed—continuous learning is essential. A deep understanding of the professional landscape requires curiosity and ongoing exploration.  Al-Badr reflected on this concept:

"If you think you’ve learned everything, you actually know nothing. True knowledge isn’t just about information—it’s about wisdom and sound judgment. Your mind is like a vessel—when you fill it with valuable insights, over time, your skills and behaviors become more refined."

Three Considerations When Choosing a Career Path

Alrashid concluded by highlighting three critical factors that professionals—whether employees or entrepreneurs—should consider when selecting a job or career path:

1. Room for Creativity and Innovation – A job should provide space for creativity and fresh ideas, allowing employees to contribute meaningfully.
2. Clarity of Responsibilities – Understanding the scope of responsibilities ensures efficient performance and effective leadership.
3. Impact and Influence – The ability to see the results of one’s work fosters motivation and a sense of purpose.