Introducing Mai Dawood, a mother and an experienced professional who took a leap of faith by leaving her senior role in Egypt to start afresh in Riyadh, KSA. Now a valued member of our PwC Middle East community, Mai’s journey reflects her belief in the power of adaptability and the strength of prioritising what truly matters - family. Read on to learn about her inspiring path.
Can you share why you decided to leave your job in Egypt and some of the challenges you faced during that transition?
Two years ago, I was at the peak of my banking career, holding a senior position. Choosing to leave that role was a significant decision, but my family came first. I decided to relocate to Riyadh with my son, to be with my husband. The transition was challenging, especially during the first few months when I had no routine to fall back on, making me question whether I had made the right choice; impacting both my mental well-being and my family. I stayed at home for five months without work or a structured routine, which led to feelings of boredom and self-doubt. Sometimes, wondering, “What have I done with my life?”
Also, adjusting to life in a new country came with its own set of challenges, but with the support of family and friends around me, the transition became easier. However, the absence of a structured routine during the first few months tested my ability to focus, reminding me of the importance of resilience and well-being for both myself and my family.
Can you describe the challenges you faced when transitioning from a well-established career in banking to starting fresh in a new country and industry?
I started my career at PwC Saudi Arabia with the Risk Assurance team, where I was tasked with managing a team of nine people, a significant transition in itself, along with the personal challenge of adapting to life in a new country. In the first few months, I realised the importance of continuous learning and development. Despite having years of experience, there is always room for growth. For me, one surprising area of focus was improving my Arabic proficiency. Although Arabic is my mother tongue, using it in a business context was a learning experience, prompting me to invest time in my own development.
Additionally, I had to quickly learn meeting protocols and etiquette when engaging with high-profile clients, at the same time, balancing the expectations of the lead partner, project director, clients, and most importantly my team - while also fulfilling my role as mother and wife - was no easy task. Juggling all these responsibilities required resilience and exceptional time management skills.
Balancing work and personal life has been an evolving challenge. While my previous banking role had a fixed schedule that ended at five, my new role offers more flexibility, allowing me to choose my working hours to better accommodate personal and professional demands. Managing expectations from my family, team, and clients requires careful planning, but this flexibility has enabled me to find a balance that works for me. The transition from a senior role in banking to hands-on management in a new industry was initially daunting, but I’ve embraced this flexibility as an opportunity to adapt and grow, and I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.
How did you leverage your previous experience in banking and compliance in your new role at PwC Middle East, and how has this transition turned out to be rewarding for you?
Initially, I was hesitant to make such a big career change, but a friend’s encouragement led me to apply for a position at PwC Middle East. Despite my unfamiliarity with Risk Assurance and PwC’s structure, I was able to secure the role after a series of successful interviews. My background in banking and compliance turned out to be a natural fit for Risk Assurance, especially in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), which closely aligns with my expertise.
In this role, I’ve had the opportunity to assist other offices with their compliance work, allowing me to leverage my skills in new and exciting ways. The transition has been incredibly rewarding, as I’ve discovered new strengths and applied my experience in a different environment.
Starting a completely new career in a different industry and region at 38 was challenging, but I firmly believe in the human capacity to adapt. As long as we live, we have the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn - an approach that has been crucial in my journey.
How do you prioritise your time as an employee and mother while still leaving room for self-care and well-being?
I prioritise self-care by dedicating time to activities that help me recharge and stay balanced, like travelling on weekends to visit family and friends. These trips help me stay connected and provide a much-needed change of scenery, which helps me regain perspective.
At home, I dedicate time for relaxing activities that are essential for maintaining my well-being. Recently at PwC, I completed a mental health first aid course, which has been incredibly beneficial for me personally and the wider community. It gives me a sense of fulfilment to be able to support others.
What advice would you give to women who may be considering making a similar career or life-changing decision later in their professional journey?
My advice to women considering a major career or life change is to trust your strength and capabilities. Surround yourself with a network of supportive people who encourage you - whether it’s family or friends, this support network can significantly impact your journey.
Additionally, build relationships with those who share similar interests and values. Those connections will provide you with a sense of support and belonging. Taking a leap of faith in your career or life can be intimidating, but it's also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Embrace the challenges, learn from them, and move forward with confidence. It's also important to establish a routine that brings stability and to prioritise activities that bring you joy and relaxation. These are key to achieving work-life balance.
Finally, I've also come to realise that it’s perfectly acceptable - and sometimes necessary - especially for women to take career breaks. Balancing multiple roles, such as being a wife and mother, often requires it. Don’t hesitate to pursue what you want; with determination and the right support, you can achieve your goals and create a fulfilling life.
For more insights, be sure to read the women’s returners report titled: Navigating the Path Back: Women Returners in MENA.
