Gulf Insider discusses leadership in the automobile industry with the CEO of Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE What was the best lesson in leadership you've learned? Leadership can be seen as a book with many dynamic lessons, but these lessons change over time with a changing environment. Having said that, there is not the ‘best’ lesson, but perhaps one that will never change, and for me it’s this: Give yourself time to listen carefully before you make any important decisions. What was the greatest challenge you have faced as the CEO of Porsche Middle East? In my opinion, challenges are often created by abrupt changes, that you didn’t anticipate, or have much time to prepare for. These changes or challenges can happen either in your current role – whether it’s a crisis in the industry, or a change in your career, particularly if that change includes additional challenges to face, like a new location, culture or language, or all three! The biggest challenge I’ve probably encountered so far was my move 5 years ago from being the Vice President of Marketing at Porsche China to becoming the CEO of a regional office that is responsible for 17 countries across the Middle East, Africa and India. Nevertheless, if you are passionate about your job, challenges are the best way to learn and grow quickly. To date, what has been your proudest moment leading Porsche Middle East? I really had to think hard for an answer here and I would like to replace “proudest” with “most memorable”. When thinking of my most memorable moments which include great achievements, they all have one thing in common: they were the result of great teamwork, which makes me very proud. Speaking honestly, what do you consider are the major difficulties in the automobile industry? Personally, I don’t like the word ‘difficulty’ very much. I believe that ‘challenge’ is a better word, as it’s more empowering and motivates you to master the situation. I think that the biggest challenge in today’s automotive industry is to ensure a smooth transition from the technology of combustion engines to electric engines. It marks the most significant change since I entered the industry 30 years ago. What do you most love about working in your industry and what do you most dislike about it? I love the products I am working with, which improve year by year with so many innovations, just as much as the personal contact with our business partners who are selling these products to our customers. Porsche has a strong history and legacy, paired with iconic products. The people working for this brand are a strong community who all carry the same passion. I can’t really say what I dislike about our industry, I even love the competition we face from other brands, Porsche has always been a competitive brand, on and off the race track. What according to you are the key qualities or skills that every leader should possess in order to thrive? Looking at the variety of successful leaders, they all have different qualities that have made them who they are today. Very often, it is the right mix of qualities that have made them successful. But the foundation for success is always the same: successful leaders build strong teams. This is why people and team management is probably the most important skill a successful leader can have. Is there a particular saying or motto that guides you? Never postpone and never take “No” for an answer!
