Interviewer: Hatem Dowidar, thank you for joining us today. Your leadership as Group CEO at e& has garnered significant attention. To start, could you share a bit about your background and what initially sparked your interest in the telecommunications industry?
Hatem Dowidar: Thank you for having me. My journey in the telecommunications industry began with a strong interest in technology and its potential to transform businesses and societies. Early in my career, I joined Vodafone Egypt, where I had the opportunity to work on various projects that deepened my understanding of the industry. This experience, combined with a passion for innovation and strategic management, naturally led me to pursue more significant roles in the field. Telecommunications fascinated me because it’s a sector that is always evolving and has a profound impact on everyday life and business operations.
Interviewer: You’ve had a remarkable career, with significant achievements at Vodafone Egypt and now at e&. Can you discuss some of the key milestones you’ve reached as Group Chief of Staff at Vodafone and how those experiences have shaped your current role as Group CEO?
Hatem Dowidar: At Vodafone Egypt, one of my key milestones was overseeing major strategic initiatives that enhanced operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This role provided me with a comprehensive view of the telecommunications landscape and allowed me to lead critical projects that shaped the company’s direction. These experiences were instrumental in preparing me for my current role at e&. They taught me the importance of strategic vision, operational excellence, and the need for continuous innovation. As Group CEO at e&, I apply these lessons to drive the company’s growth and navigate the complexities of the global telecommunications market.
Interviewer: Under your leadership, e& has made significant strides in the telecommunications sector. What strategies or initiatives have you found most effective in driving growth and innovation within the company?
Hatem Dowidar: Driving growth and innovation at e& involves a multifaceted approach. We’ve focused on leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance our service offerings and operational efficiency. Investing in digital transformation and expanding our network capabilities have been crucial in staying ahead of market trends. Additionally, fostering strategic partnerships and collaborations with key players in various markets has helped us expand our reach and enhance our service portfolio. We’re committed to continuous improvement and adapting to the evolving needs of our customers, which has been central to our success.
Interviewer: Your role also involves sitting on several subsidiary boards in Egypt, Pakistan, and Morocco. How do you manage to balance these responsibilities and what impact have these roles had on e&’s overall strategy?
Hatem Dowidar: Balancing these responsibilities requires a strategic approach and effective time management. Each subsidiary has its unique market dynamics and challenges, so I focus on understanding these specifics to provide valuable insights and guidance. My involvement in these boards allows me to ensure that our global strategy aligns with local needs and opportunities. This hands-on approach helps us create synergies between different markets and drive cohesive growth strategies across the regions. It’s been instrumental in fostering collaborations and aligning our efforts to achieve our broader company goals.
Interviewer: Looking ahead, what are your primary goals for e&? Are there any specific projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about?
Hatem Dowidar: Looking ahead, our primary goals include accelerating our digital transformation efforts and expanding our presence in emerging markets. We’re particularly excited about projects that focus on enhancing our technology infrastructure and developing innovative solutions for our customers. Additionally, we’re committed to sustainability and exploring ways to reduce our environmental impact. These initiatives are crucial for ensuring long-term success and maintaining our leadership position in the telecommunications industry.
Interviewer: Hatem, it’s clear that your leadership has had a significant impact on e& and the telecommunications sector. Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We look forward to seeing the continued success and growth of e& under your guidance.
Hatem Dowidar: Thank you for the opportunity. It’s been a pleasure discussing our work and sharing our vision for the future. I appreciate your interest and look forward to continuing our efforts to drive innovation and growth at e&.
