Interviewer: Mohammed, thank you for joining us today! You’ve had an impressive and diverse career, starting in the hospitality industry and evolving into various leadership roles across different sectors. Let’s begin with your journey. You started your career in 1995 with Marriott in Egypt and Dubai. Can you tell us about that experience and what it taught you?
Mohammed Helmy: Thank you for having me! My journey with Marriott was a fantastic start to my career. Being part of the Worldwide Sales Office in both Egypt and Dubai allowed me to immerse myself in the hospitality industry, which taught me a lot about customer service, attention to detail, and the importance of building long-term relationships. It was a great foundation for my later career shifts.
Interviewer: In 2001, you shifted gears to FMCG with Pepsi in Dubai. What prompted that move, and how did the transition go?
Mohammed Helmy: Moving to FMCG was a big change, but I felt ready for the challenge. I wanted to broaden my expertise beyond hospitality, and Pepsi offered the opportunity to work in a highly competitive and fast-paced industry. It was a steep learning curve, but I was eager to develop new skills and learn from a global brand like Pepsi. It gave me exposure to product marketing, distribution strategies, and the dynamics of the consumer goods sector, which were all valuable for my future roles.
Interviewer: You then took on an international role as Regional Sales Director for the Middle East and Africa between 2012 and 2016, working across the UK and US. How did that role shape your approach to leadership and sales?
Mohammed Helmy: That was a pivotal role for me. Being responsible for the MEA region while coordinating efforts in the UK and US taught me how to manage teams across different cultures and markets. Each region has its own unique challenges and opportunities, and understanding that was key to driving growth. It strengthened my strategic thinking and ability to adapt quickly, which is crucial in leadership positions. I also learned the value of empathy and clear communication when leading diverse teams.
Interviewer: In 2016, you became CEO of a vending company in Saudi Arabia, and two years later, you transitioned to lead a food company until 2022. What was the focus of these roles, and how did you navigate the responsibilities of being a CEO?
Mohammed Helmy: Leading the vending company was a unique challenge, as it required me to think about convenience, customer preferences, and logistics in a very different way compared to my previous roles. The role of a CEO brings a lot of responsibility, especially in making key business decisions that affect growth and sustainability. The food company had its own set of challenges, but by then, I had built a solid foundation in leadership. My goal was always to drive innovation, streamline operations, and foster a strong company culture. Both experiences were incredibly rewarding and prepared me for my next venture.
Interviewer: Now, in 2022, you’ve co-founded One Sixty One Interiors and serve as CEO. What inspired this move into the world of interior design, and what’s your vision for the company?
Mohammed Helmy: Interior design has always been a passion of mine, and founding One Sixty One Interiors felt like the right step after years in various industries. Our vision is to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, focusing on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. We aim to bring innovative design solutions to our clients, creating environments that inspire and elevate the everyday experience.
Interviewer: It’s been a remarkable journey, Mohammed! What advice would you give to young professionals looking to navigate their own career paths across multiple industries?
Mohammed Helmy: My biggest advice would be to stay open to new opportunities and not be afraid of change. Each industry and role comes with its own lessons, and those experiences collectively shape you as a professional. Always keep learning, stay adaptable, and surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Mohammed. Best of luck with One Sixty One Interiors!
Mohammed Helmy: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.
