Video Series | Leading Teams in Saudi Arabia
Reflections on Leadership in the Kingdom
As a C-suite international leader, conversations about "diversity" and "culture" are common.
Leading in Saudi is next-level challenging.
Imagine: 65% of the workforce is transient, foreign expats working 1 or 2 year contracts to send money home. In any one room there are at least two and likely 5 "first languages". The shared language, English, may be a "challenge" for half the participants. There is no common culture of work, and the various "tribes" among your employee community are often in conflict. The entire economy is new, and "we're learning" can be a synonym for "we're failing".
For international companies, the executive team "back home" may be uninformed, misaligned to Saudi laws and practices, and seek control in ways that may be illegal -- even placing you, the leader, in jeopardy.
Welcome to Leadership in Saudi Arabia. One of the youngest, fastest growing economies on the planet. Buckle up and give yourself credit for your courage and your commitment to the Kingdom
Photo: Rami, Concierge at the Mandarin Oriental in Riyadh, leads a multinational team to the highest levels of service.
