Visionary leaders lead by example, setting a high standard for commitment, hard work, and dedication to the vision. They empower their teams by giving them autonomy and trust, believing in their abilities and experience, providing the necessary support for them to succeed. Emad Bukhamseen embodies these qualities of a visionary leader.
He is a dynamic and visionary businessman who has made significant contributions to the growth, development, and fortification of the Kuwait’s economy. With a wealth of experience and a keen strategic outlook, he has played a pivotal role in enhancing the supervisory functions of multiple companies, both locally and in the Arab world.
Emad’s journey in the business world commenced during his high school years. After completing his university education, he wasted no time in immersing himself in the world of business under the wise guidance of his father, Mr. Jawad Ahmed Bukhamseen, the Chairman of Bukhamseen Group Holding. Emad’s career has been marked by his ability to lead and manage teams of varying sizes, from small project groups to large corporate divisions and companies. This breadth of experience has equipped him with invaluable insights into effective leadership and the art of motivating teams.
Emad is best described as a dynamic executive who has played an active and integral role in the growth, development, and fortification of the Bukhamseen Group. His motivation to join the family business was profoundly influenced by his father, who shared his vision for the Bukhamseen Group with Emad and his brothers. Together, as the Group Board of Directors, they embarked on a journey to pioneer and diversify the core business, ultimately transforming it into the conglomerate it is today.
Throughout his career, Emad has faced numerous challenges and navigated economic recessions across various business sectors. However, his unwavering vision has driven him to develop strategic approaches, take calculated risks, and adapt to the ever-evolving business landscape. Emad Bukhamseen is committed to preserving and furthering the legacy of the Bukhamseen Group, alongside his brothers, as they continue to shape the future of their business empire.
Emad’s Transformative Leadership
Emad’s journey within the family business began in 1994, during a phase when the family enterprise was primarily focused on real estate development. This pivotal period marked the start of Emad’s involvement, and it coincided with a vision and tireless dedication from his father. Together, with Emad’s unwavering commitment and the support of his brothers, they embarked on a transformative journey that led to the diversification and expansion of the business into multiple sectors.
The Bukhamseen Group’s growth story is a testament to the visionary leadership of Emad’s father, whose foresight paved the way for the group’s remarkable success. Their journey also involved the implementation of strategic performance management techniques honed over the years. These techniques played a pivotal role not only in Emad’s personal growth but also in driving the group’s accomplishments.
In his role as the CEO and Vice Chairman of the Bukhamseen Group, Emad has played a significant role in enhancing the group’s oversight and strategic development. His efforts have extended beyond local boundaries, encompassing the Arab world and even international markets. Emad’s approach involved consolidating the various sectors within the group under a unified umbrella, fostering synergy and cohesion across the organization’s diverse portfolio. This strategic approach has contributed to the sustained success and growth of the Bukhamseen Group.
Legacy of Vision and Diversification
The Bukhamseen Group traces its roots back over fifty years to the visionary leadership of Mr. Jawad Ahmed Bukhamseen, a renowned and pioneering businessman recognized for his astute business sense. In 1957, he laid the foundation for the Jawad Bukhamseen Commercial Corporation, a modest family business. Under his capable leadership, this enterprise expanded and evolved into a comprehensive institution with diverse interests across various economic sectors.
From its inception, the group engaged in a wide range of commercial endeavors, including car sales, retail, real estate, hotels, travel, and tourism. Mr. Jawad Bukhamseen’s vision propelled the development of real estate ventures, resulting in the construction of approximately 425 residential and commercial buildings in Kuwait. This marked the group’s emergence as a trailblazer in the real estate development sector within Kuwait. By the 1970s, the group expanded into contracting, specializing in real estate projects such as office buildings, hotels, and malls. Throughout this journey, the group remained committed to contributing to the national economy, striving to make a meaningful impact.
Over the years, the Bukhamseen Group diversified its interests into various economic sectors, including banking both locally and regionally, investments, hospitality, travel, and tourism, insurance, industrial production, media, and communication. Additionally, the group ventured into consultancy services related to urban planning, civil engineering, and significant development projects. This multifaceted approach has solidified the group’s presence and influence across different industries, further establishing its reputation as a prominent and dynamic conglomerate.
Gratitude for Collaboration
Emad is grateful for the collaborative environment at the Bukhamseen Group, where he and his brothers work as a cohesive team. They’ve faced challenges like expanding business coverage, workforce, and capital. This required restructuring, with external experts’ assistance and a strong core team. Some ventures were built from scratch, others acquired. Diversification is tough but their success comes from understanding new markets and their unique requirements, establishing them as significant players.
Leading by Example
Emad’s father is an enterprising figure who leads by example. His influence has significantly impacted Emad’s professional life and leadership style. Emad has learned vital qualities like vigor, stamina, and wisdom from his father, shaping his own leadership attitude. His father’s vibrant attitude, remarkable people skills, and role as a prominent public and economic figure have contributed to major developments in their business. Emad acknowledges the pressure to meet his father’s expectations and standards but takes pride in fulfilling his vision and establishing a successful family business in Kuwait.
Key Success Factors for the Bukhamseen Group
Emad highlights key factors for maintaining a group of this size successfully. These include having a strong vision that adds value to the group and the country, fostering a principle of win-win for clients and colleagues. Emad acknowledges the significant contribution of his brothers, who oversee various sectors of the group.
The group’s reputation for fulfilling promises and standing by decisions is also essential. Building a robust core team in major divisions, including marketing, HR, engineering, and finance, is crucial for developing human resource potential. Proper pre-studies and follow-ups on new business ventures keep the group ahead of the competition. Lastly, staying true to traditions and core values while adapting to the times has contributed to the group’s regional success.
Expansion into the Media and Communication Sector
The Bukhamseen Group ventured into the media and communication sector with the intention of providing independent information across various sectors, including politics, local affairs, economics, and social issues. They established ‘Annahar’ newspaper, a political daily with a focus on local and regional events, which recently celebrated its 16th anniversary. ‘Annahar’ stands among the five original newspapers in Kuwait, collectively competing in the media industry for nearly four decades.
The newspaper is owned by an economic group that contributes to enhancing people’s knowledge, particularly in the realm of family-owned businesses. The group also publishes ‘Bariq Al Dana’ magazine,’ which covers social and artistic topics and has a substantial readership within Kuwaiti society. There are plans to further develop this sector by exploring and integrating digital platforms in the near future.
Role as Chairman and Business Management Strategies
As the Chairman of multiple companies, Emad emphasizes the importance of delegation when managing multiple businesses. Operational matters and daily managerial duties are entrusted to a trusted team, both by the group and himself. Additionally, the group has significant representation on the boards of these companies, allowing for strategic planning, profit management, organizational structure oversight, and goal monitoring.
Internal auditors, known for their competence and experience, conduct regular investigations into operations on a quarterly basis. Most of these companies provide performance reports against their budgets to track progress. Effective communication with the board ensures efficient management practices.
While the group’s primary focus has traditionally been on real estate, they recognized the growing needs of the economy and seized an opportunity to offer consultancy services. They established a consultancy bureau led by a highly experienced engineer who also serves as a board member, overseeing the management of existing and new projects. This move has elevated the standards of monumental buildings in Kuwait, thanks to collaborations with renowned international consultants, architects, and advisors.
One notable project is the ‘Crystal Tower’ in Sharq, Kuwait City, which has received awards for its execution and architectural design and is considered a landmark. The group’s consultancy services have raised the bar for quality and execution in the major development projects sector, earning them recognition and awards in engineering, architecture, and unique building designs.
Philanthropic and Personal Pursuits
Emad is a dedicated philanthropist with a strong passion for helping others. He actively volunteers his time and efforts in various humanitarian and philanthropic projects, including significant contributions to the Jawad Bukhamseen and Sons Charity Establishment, where he has made a positive impact on local, regional, and international communities. Emad also founded the Al-Resala Humanitarian Association group and serves as its chairperson, allowing him to focus on major philanthropic initiatives to give back to the community. Through the Bukhamseen Group, he has partnered with organizations like the United Nations and the ICRC to contribute to humanitarian activities, including aid for displaced refugees and medical assistance.
On a personal level, Emad has a deep love for the sea and is an avid collector of antique cars. His passion for cars led him to establish the Kuwait International Automobile Company (KT), where he serves as the chairperson. KT has represented Kuwait on a global level for nearly six decades, with affiliations with organizations like the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile and Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme. Emad has successfully continued this legacy and has organized racing car events in Kuwait through government support.
Emad is also actively involved as a board member, consultant, and advisor for various organizations, including the Kuwait Banking Association, World Union of Arab Bankers, International Federation of Journalists, Kuwait Clearing Company, Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company, and the College of Business Economics-American University of Kuwait. His diverse involvement reflects his commitment to contributing to the growth and development of various sectors and communities.
Expansion Plans for Bukhamseen Group
Emad shares that Bukhamseen Group envisions expansion in the health sector, recognizing the need for a new business approach in the private sector to complement the government’s efforts in meeting the healthcare requirements of Kuwaiti society. They also have plans to venture into the educational sector, aiming to bridge the gap between the government and private sectors and contribute to innovative thinking and education. The group is actively developing ideas and strategies to enter these markets and make a positive impact.