Meet Muhammad Shaikh, a business development professional committed to solving our clients' important problems. With a diverse skill set and a passion for creating meaningful connections, Muhammad is dedicated to empowering Saudi talent and making an impact in the KSA market.
Can you tell us more about your background and what inspired you to join the Business Development field?
Growing up, my father’s career in leading different organisations, with a speciality in business development inspired me, and highly influenced my career choice. His success and ability to empower Saudi talent through launching innovative initiatives, inspired me to pursue a career in this field. My father’s inspiration along with my passion in business development have equipped me with different skills that helped me identify new opportunities and build strong relationships.
Professionally, I focus on connecting, communicating, and understanding client needs. Outside of my primary role, I am actively involved with NGOs and business development associations that provide networking and educational opportunities for C-level executives. I also serve on the board of a local newspaper, which allows me to engage further with our community and industry.
For me, a career in business development is not just about business - it's about the people and partnerships that drive progress. I would also like to extend my gratitude for the constant support provided by my direct leader in the firm, who has helped me grow and lead a successful career in the field.
How do you ensure that your business development strategies remain effective in today’s rapidly changing market?
Staying ahead of the latest business development trends is key for delivering value to our clients and communities. Our approach combines a deep understanding of the evolving market with a commitment to meeting our clients' needs and priorities.
My team and I maintain regular contact with clients to discuss emerging global and regional trends. I personally value the power of connections and prioritise listening. Through travel and networking, I gather diverse perspectives and encourage my team to do the same, enhancing our global insight.
At PwC Middle East, our clients value our ability to understand and interpret worldwide industry trends. We actively inform and advise them on adapting to these trends, highlighting growth opportunities and aligning our strategies with their goals.
I always emphasise the importance of listening to our clients, understanding their priorities, and demonstrating how our services can meet their specific needs. This client-centric approach is key to our success, building long-term relationships and delivering sustainable results.
Through your conversations with different clients, how do you see our impact in the KSA market?
Our impact is truly remarkable, evidenced by the great number of entities choosing to partner with us. This level of trust both motivates us and places a responsibility on us to push further.
Clients value our support and witness how we bring our best to assist and support them, reinforcing our commitment to their service. Our ability to understand our clients really sets us apart. We believe in building strong relationships with our clients and earning their trust by listening and managing their demands.
Where do you get your inspiration in life?
My inspiration comes from my children and the team. As a father of three boys, I strive every day to be a good role model and inspire them, just as I aim to inspire my team to continuously improve and excel in their career journey.
What tips can you share with us on maintaining a healthy work-life balance while managing the demands of your job?
The first step for achieving a balanced life begins with identifying your priorities. Whether it's your family, your work, or other aspects that support your well-being, understanding what enables you to perform at your best is key. Once you have this clarity, you can find the appropriate time and attention to each one of your priorities and lead with a balanced manner.
