< Previous140 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 Satish Sanpal, Chairman of ANAX Holding, is a man who has transformed ambition into achievement. With a natural flair for business and an eye for opportunity, Sanpal has become a figurehead of innovation, guiding ANAX Holding and its subsidiaries – ANAX Developments and ANAX Hospitality – to new heights. Sanpal’s rise to prominence is a testament to his vision and versatility. His business acumen extends across sectors and borders, making ANAX Holding a globally recognised name. Yet, Sanpal’s success is built on more than just business skills – it’s his unwavering commitment to excellence, his foresight in recognising future trends, and his belief that businesses can be powerful agents of change that define his leadership. Every venture under ANAX Holding reflects Sanpal’s philosophy: Innovation, integrity, and impact. Whether it’s luxury real estate develop- ments or ventures in hospitality, Sanpal’s touch is unmistakable. His leadership is characterised by a hands-on approach, constantly driving growth and ensuring that every project aligns with his vision of leaving a positive mark on the world. His ambitions stretch beyond the boardroom. Sanpal envisions ANAX Holding becoming a global leader in its fields, with his personal goal of being listed among the world’s top billionaires by 2034. Yet, wealth is not his only pursuit. Deeply invested in philanthropy, Sanpal believes in giving back, a value embodied by the Sanpal Foundation, which will be making strides in helping disadvantaged communities, starting in Uganda. His leadership, recognised recently with the pres- tigious Golden Excellency Award for his contributions to the UAE’s real estate sector, is set to drive ANAX Holding’s future. His vision for the company is to continually push boundaries, whether through cutting-edge real estate projects like the Vento Tower or through trailblazing hospitality concepts inspired by the best of Asian innovation. Sanpal’s approach to leadership is as inclusive as it is strategic. He firmly believes in empowering his team, foster- ing a culture of transparency, collaboration, and trust. For him, leadership is about inspiring others, and in every sense, he is the heartbeat of ANAX Holding. As Sanpal looks ahead, his journey as a serial entrepreneur only continues to inspire. With eyes set on London for the next chapter of ANAX Holding’s expansion, his operations in the UAE are built on excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference. About ANAX Holding ANAX Holding is a trailblazing investment firm rooted in the heart of Dubai, continuously pushing boundaries since its inception in 2018. Through a forward-thinking and sophisti- cated approach, ANAX Holding has consistently cultivated success, driven by an unwavering dedication to exceptional quality. Under the leadership of Sanpal, who injects bold ambi- tion and creative energy into the company, ANAX Holding remains at the forefront of innovation, fostering positive growth across its diverse sectors, including ANAX Developments and ANAX Hospitality. Satish Sanpal Chairman ANAX Holding Investment 97 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 140ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 14028/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35arabianbusiness.com 141 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 I n his role at Chalhoub Group, a luxury retail distribution company that traces its roots to 1955, Chalhoub has been instrumental in the growth and expansion of the business. The company’s journey began in Syria but later relocated to Beirut, Lebanon followed by a final move to the UAE in 1990. Chalhoub helped to develop a regional distri- bution platform within the Jebel Ali Free Zone and, by 2001, was appointed as co-CEO alongside his brother. In addition to overseeing multiple luxury brands in the region, Chalhoub has steered the development of home- grown luxury brands. He contributed to the turnaround of the Christofle brand, which is currently under the ownership of the group. Under his guidance, the group has exclusively collaborated with several key brands, including Sephora and Dior Couture, as well as fully owned concept stores such as the Level Shoe District at The Dubai Mall. Leading the way in sustainability and gender equality Chalhoub was pivotal in shaping the group’s sustainability strategy through Chalhoub Impact, which underlined its commitment to align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Global Compact principles that emphasise collaboration to drive meaningful change. In 2023, the group reported advancements in pay parity and gender equality, with women now representing over 32 percent of executive leadership. Additionally, it made strides in its commitment to reducing carbon emissions across its regional warehouses and UAE head- quarters. Notably, Chalhoub is a staunch advocate of servant leadership, reverse mentorship, and supporting start-ups in their scaling-up jour- ney. He has also been steadfast in his belief that the group puts its employees first. In February 2024, Chalhoub Group received the Parent-friendly Label (PFL) from the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) for its exemplary parent-friendly policies. This recognition identifies Chalhoub Group as an organisation supportive of its workforce, emphasising the company’s dedication to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of its employees. The group has established comprehensive parental leave poli- cies, providing 90 days of paid maternity leave and 14 days of paid paternity leave. In addition, Chalhoub Group has introduced an Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential mental health support, counselling, and therapy from psychologists. A Wellbeing Academy has been established to provide access to resources and training on mental, physical, financial, social, and professional well-being. The group also encourages a culture of collaboration through ’Culture Labs’, designed to promote dialogue between employees and management to improve policies, procedures, and operational practices. Beyond his responsibilities at Chalhoub Group, Chalhoub serves as a board member of the UN Global Compact and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry and is a coun- cil member of the UAE’s Circular Economy. Moreover, in recognition of his endeavour to promote cross-cultural under- standing between France and the Middle East, the French government awarded him with the French National Order of Merit and the National Order of the Legion of Honour, the country’s highest civilian distinction, alongside his entrepre- neurial wife, Ingie. Patrick Chalhoub Group President Chalhoub Group Retail 98 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 141ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 14128/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35142 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 99 Captain Pradeep Singh, a natural leader, has been pivotal in steering companies through various growth stages, from startups to market leaders, by crafting and executing strategic plans that drive business expansion and profitability. With a sharp eye for brand creation, he has successfully developed a portfolio of notable brands such as Aethon, Karma, and Spectrum Networks across diverse industries. Singh’s expertise in acquisitions has elevated his companies, securing favorable terms with investors, banks, and third-party vendors. He excels at forming joint ventures and strategic alliances, leading to numerous partnerships that enhance living experiences for end-users. His focus on accelerating project deliverables while maintaining top-tier quality has been instrumental in building a substantial customer base and launching an ambitious project pipeline valued at over AED4bn ($1.09bn). Extensive knowledge An alumnus of T.S. Chanakya (IMU) maritime school in Mumbai, Singh has earned qualifications from prestigious global institutions, including an MSc in Finance, MBA, and LLM from Manchester, Northumbria, and Northampton Universities. A firm believer in lifelong learning, he is currently pursuing the Owner/President Management Programme at Harvard Business School. Singh is also a Chartered Accountant, with fellowships from CPA Australia, CIMA UK, CGMA, and a Doctorate from City University, Malaysia. In 2013, Singh co-founded Kar ma Real Estate Development Group, a company with a significant presence in the UK, Cyprus, Romania, India, and the UAE, capitalising on the rapidly growing real estate sector. His expertise in joint ventures and strategic alliances has resulted in partnerships that deliver exceptional living experiences. His ability to fast- track project completion while maintaining high standards has been key to building a large customer base and advancing a project pipeline across continents. In 2018, Singh expanded into the technology sector by acquiring Spectrum Networks. Under his leadership, the company was transformed into an award-winning, professional certification-oriented technology training and consulting firm, establishing strategic partnerships with leading global technology companies. His flagship company, Aethon Marine Services, ranks among the world’s top risk management firms, serving a client portfolio that includes international oil companies and shipowners. Singh also played a crucial role in establishing Karma as a distinguished name in the competitive UAE luxury residential market, earning recognition at the Ultimate Realty Awards in 2024. Maximising real estate potential Singh further expanded his operations by setting up a real estate bridge finance company in the UK and investing in numerous startups. The group has centralised its key functions in Dubai, leveraging the UAE’s robust economic growth and business-friendly policies. The group’s proposed billion-dollar investment in the region underscores the strategic importance of the Middle East to its future. Singh also developed an eye for talent, and over the years built and nurtured a committed and well-trained team, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and excellence within the group. His journey from a Master Mariner to a visionary entrepreneur is the result of his strategic insight, innovative thinking and unwavering commitment to excellence and hard work. Captain Pradeep Singh Founder and Chairman Aethon Group Co-founder Karma Realty Developers Real estate ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 142ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 14228/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35arabianbusiness.com 143 100 Inspiring Leaders 2024 U AE-headquartered News Group International (NGI) is a leading communications, media, and digital intel- ligence firm, which boasts notable subsidiaries such as CARMA and SOCIALEYEZ. Since their incep- tion in 2016, NGI has achieved remarkable growth, evolving from startups to respected global players serving both public and private sectors. This success is attributed to the visionary leadership, passion, and tenacity of founder and CEO, Mazen Nahawi. A lifelong resident of the UAE, Nahawi is driven by his mission to modernise legacy sectors with innovation and value-driven services. With 25 years of startup, strategic and leadership experience, Nahawi believes regional entities can compete globally, with his companies standing as testament to this belief. A vigilant global leader in communications and media intelligence and an industr y disr uptor, Nahawi has consistently been able to identify opportunities in the market. One of Nahawi’s key achievements is being the first individual to introduce a next generation portal to analyse and monitor all forms of media, with the goal of enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions that deliver on measureable and successful ROI. Global approach to business NGI, CARMA and SOCIALEYEZ’s success can be attributed to three of Nahawi’s management approaches: A relentless, ethics- driven focus on value and making a positive difference in the world through positive engagements with clients, and delivering services to the highest standards; creating, nurturing and empowering culturally diverse teams of owner-operators who can grow into senior roles and earn shareholding privileges, and taking a global view, with the understanding that the world has no borders with regards to business in general, and tech-media services in particular. As a result of his inspirational stewardship, today NGI operates 22 offices and employs more than 1,000 professionals worldwide and is a substantial investor in artificial intelligence (AI) and consulting, serving a diverse clientele spanning government, corporate, sports and NGO sectors. Over the past five years, NGI has increased its revenue by 300 percent to $63m in its most recent financial year. CARMA, with its state-of-the-art AI capabilities and consulting ser vices, has revolutionised research, and empowers 2,000 clients including Aramco, Emirates and HSBC with crucial reputational intelligence and competitor data. SOCIALEYEZ, which has made a name for itself by focusing on providing digital-first social media marketing and consulting solutions, is one of the largest and fastest-growing digital marketing groups in the MENA region, in terms of fees and headcount. The company serves an elite client base such as du, Emirates NBD and Emirates Islamic Bank. Nahawi also looks outwards with an eagerness to support the growth of the industry, and is a reputed global speaker who has spoken at leadership conferences including summits held by the Middle East PR Association, the European Association of Communications Directors, AMEC and FIBEP. He has also been a guest speaker at US Central Command, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), and other governmental and private sector events across the world. Mazen Nahawi Founder and CEO News Group International Media 100 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 143ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_120-143_entries 77-100_13363793.indd 14328/08/2024 12:3528/08/2024 12:35Leadership 144 100 Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 T he entrepre- neur ial spir it isn’t just bor n – it’s ignited by those who’v e w alked before, by a world-chang- ing idea, or sometimes by the simplest of things. For some of the most renowned business lead- er s across the globe, inspiration str uck in a moment, forever altering the course of their lives and, often, the world. Here’s a look at who lit the spark behind some of today’s most influential figures in business. SP A R K O WORDS BY KATE-LYNNE WOLMARANS The unexpected mentors, moments, and ideas lit the entrepreneurial fire in today’s most powerful business leaders Name Sir Richard Branson Company Virgin Group Net value $5.35bn Number of emplo y ees 70,000+ Source of inspiration His mother, Eve Branson Richard Branson, ever the daredevil, credits his mother for his fearless approach to business. Virgin’s forays into everything from records to space travel show that, like Eve, Sir Richard isn’t afraid to push boundaries – or jump out of a plane. In his own words “My mum taught me to never fear failure. She was always doing something outrageous, like building a glider in the garden. That spirit of bold adventure stuck with me.” Name Ratan Tata Company Tata Group Net value $1bn Number of employees 935,000 Source of inspiration J.R.D. Tata (Founder of Tata Group) Ratan Tata’s leadership of one of India’s largest conglomerates was deeply shaped by J.R.D. Tata’s philosophy of blending busi- ness with philanthropy. The Tata Group is renowned not just for its size, but for its commitment to social impact – a lesson deeply ingrained in Tata’s approach. In his own words “J.R.D. taught me that there is no greatness without a respon- sibility to others. He showed me that business must always aim to improve the lives of people.” Name Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai Company Dubai Holding, Emirates Airline Net value $14bn Number of employees 20,000+ Source of inspiration His father, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Sheikh Mohammed’s vision for Dubai as a global city was shaped by his father’s ambi- tion. Under his rule, Dubai has become synonymous with superlatives, from the tallest buildings to the largest malls, transforming it into an icon of modernity in the Middle East. In his own words “My father taught me that in Dubai, impossible is just a word. We build things bigger, better, and faster because that’s who we are.” ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_144-145_Business spark_13368896.indd 144ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_144-145_Business spark_13368896.indd 14428/08/2024 10:4328/08/2024 10:43arabianbusiness.com145 Leadership F GE N I U S Name Jeff Bezos Company Amazon Net value $163bn Number of employees 1.5 million Source of inspiration The internet Jeff Bezos had a stable career in finance, but the exponen- tial growth of the internet in the mid-90s was too tantalis- ing to ignore. He realised it was the perfect vehicle to revolutionise retail, and the rest is prime history. In his own words “I came across the startling statistic that web usage was growing at 2,300 percent a year. You don’t encounter that kind of rapid change often, and it was like seeing the future unfold in front of me. I knew I had to act.” Name Huda Kattan Company Huda Beauty Net value $560m Number of employees 350+ Source of inspiration Her father, Ibrahim Kattan The queen of beauty influ- encers, Huda Kattan, was propelled by her father’s belief in her. His encourage- ment gave her the courage to create a billion-dollar beauty empire, one lipstick swatch at a time. In her own words “My father always told me to pursue my passion, no matter what anyone else thinks. When I star ted posting makeup tutor ials, people said I was wasting my time . He’s the reason I ignored the noise and went for it.” Name Mukesh Ambani Company Reliance Industries Net value $92bn Number of employees 236,000 Source of inspiration Dhirubhai Ambani (Founder of Reliance Industries) For Mukesh Ambani, his father, Dhirubhai Ambani, was both mentor and inspi- ration. Mukesh took his father’s oil and textiles busi- ness and expanded it into telecommunications and retail, proving that in the Ambani household, ambition knows no bounds. In his own words “My father taught me the importance of dreaming big. He built Reliance with a vision that went far beyond anything I could imagine. It’s my duty to take that vision even further.” Name Elon Musk Company Tesla, SpaceX Net value $245bn Number of employees 127,000 Source of inspiration Isaac Asimov (Science fiction author) For Musk, childhood science fiction tales weren’t just fantasy – they were blue- prints for a future wor th building. Asimov’s visions of space exploration inspired Musk to turn dreams into rockets, steering humanity towards Mars and beyond. In his own words “Reading Asimov made me want to save humanity from extinction by making life multi- planetar y. It may sound ridiculous, but if you’re not aiming for the stars, what’s the point?” ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_144-145_Business spark_13368896.indd 145ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_144-145_Business spark_13368896.indd 14528/08/2024 10:4328/08/2024 10:43Leadership 146 100 Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 Name Mohed Altrad Company Altrad Group Net value $3.4bn Number of employees: 40,000+ Source of inspiration The Bedouin lifestyle Born into a nomadic Bedouin tribe in Syria, Mohed Altrad rose from extreme poverty to build a billion-dollar global construction empire. His upbringing taught him the power of resilience and adaptability, shaping his busi- ness instincts and drive. In his own words “As a child, I was a Bedouin with nothing. That taught me to be resilient, to adapt to any challenge. The desert was my first business school.” Name Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Company Biocon Net value $2.5bn Number of employees 11,000 Source of inspiration A brewery business rejection Denied a career in the male-dominated brewer y industr y, Kiran Mazum- dar-Shaw pivoted to biotech- nology, founding Biocon in her garage. That rejection turned out to be her greatest inspiration, propelling her to become one of India’s most successful entrepreneurs. In her own words “I was rejected from brewing simply because I was a woman. So, I decided to build something that no one could deny me – a biotechnology company.” Name Jack Ma Company Alibaba Group Net value $34bn Number of employees 250,000 Source of inspiration Forrest Gump Jack Ma found inspiration in the unlikely character of Fo r rest Gump. Despite facing countless rejections in his early career, Ma kept going, eventually creating Alibaba and revolutionising ecommerce in China. In his own words “I was inspired by For rest Gump – his belief that even when life knocks you down, you must get up and keep going.” Name Indra Nooyi Company PepsiCo Net value $290m Number of employees 267,000 Source of inspiration Her mother, Shantha Krishnamurthy Indra Nooyi’s leadership at PepsiCo was grounded in her mother’s influence, always urging her to think beyond the ordinary. Her pioneering strategies led PepsiCo to new heights, all while pushing boundaries for women in business. In her own words “My mother would always make me dream big. She’d ask, ‘What will you do to change the world?’ That question became my North Star.” S P AR K O F G E N I U S ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_144-145_Business spark_13368896.indd 146ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_144-145_Business spark_13368896.indd 14628/08/2024 10:4328/08/2024 10:43the only app you won’t silence this season Install nowNext >