This interview is with Maxim Sheaib, Senior Strategic Advisor & Multidisciplinary Leader.

Maxim Sheaib, Senior Strategic Advisor & Multidisciplinary Leader

Maxim, can you share with our readers a bit about your background and what led you to become a global leader in strategy, business development, and transformative policy?

My journey began with a strong operations and hospitality-asset-development foundation, including management. This allowed me to gain a deep understanding of service excellence and leadership by managing multicultural teams across different divisions and leading cross-departmental collaboration.

Over the years, I expanded the competencies gained and this expertise in the hospitality and tourism industry to establish my own business ventures in Southeast Asia, pivoting to a completely new industry, developing my skills further, and turning modest investments into successful businesses.

Building on my entrepreneurial journey, I found myself drawn to opportunities where I could make a broader, more impactful difference. This led me to transition into a government role, starting with Qatar Tourism, the Ministry of Tourism of Qatar. There, I led and shaped transformative national strategies and introduced policies to redefine the country’s international presence, positioning Qatar as a premier global destination. Inspired by the opportunity to contribute to something significant and manage complex projects, one of the most rewarding experiences was leading collaborations with diverse stakeholders in both the private and public sectors, such as ministries, municipalities, and businesses of all sizes, to align public- and private-sector efforts. At this pivotal moment in my career, I realized the power of combining private-sector innovation with public-sector vision to drive transformative change on a national scale.

I’ve always believed that impactful leadership requires vision, resilience, and the ability to inspire collaboration across boundaries. With these achievements paving the way, I was driven by a greater desire and purpose to be part of something visionary that could shape the future more than a national scale and make a significant impact on a global scale. This led me to the world’s largest transformative project in Saudi Arabia, which has the potential to redefine global standards for health, sustainability, and innovation.

I’m leading multiple initiatives to establish a world-class health-tourism ecosystem within the Health & Wellbeing sector, overseeing a multi-million-dollar budget and capex. My role involves developing foundational strategies and policies from scratch and creating innovative, viable solutions to make a lasting impact. I believe that every policy, strategy, and geopolitical move is to improve the lives of future generations.

Your career journey, spanning from leading large-scale projects like NEOM and Qatar's national tourism strategies to advising startups, is truly impressive. Can you walk us through some pivotal moments that shaped your path and expertise?

Maya Angelou wrote, “I come as one, but I stand as ten thousand.” That resonates deeply with me because success is never a solo journey. People shaped my career at every step of the way: mentors who shared their wisdom, teammates who worked alongside me, and peers who pushed me to grow have all been instrumental in shaping the person I am today and who I could become.

Personality is not about who you are but about who you could be. Some of my most valuable lessons came from people whose perspectives made me rethink and refine my approach. The people you surround yourself with shape your trajectory, so I have been very fortunate to work in different regions, countries, and cultures and learn from many in various industries.

A significant turning point in my career was pivoting from hospitality and tourism to starting a manufacturing business in Southeast Asia. It was a new industry for me, and I had to wear many hats and take on every role, such as marketing, finance, logistics, sales, human resources, all business-development aspects, and more.

It was challenging, but it taught me how to adapt, learn quickly, and handle the demands of running a business from every angle. Not every project succeeded, and I encountered failures. The experience reminded me that failure is a critical part of success, and you need to learn to enjoy the journey. Those failures were humbling, but they taught me resilience.

Living through the impact of war has also left a lasting mark on my personality. It taught me that resilience is about discovering the strength you have, and because I enjoy solving complex problems, resilience helped me navigate all types of work-related complexities. I transitioned into government and mega-projects roles, which allowed me to navigate challenges with a strategic perspective, steady patience, and a determined focus on finding innovative or creative solutions that drive meaningful impact.

Life and work complications are about finding clarity in chaos and facing challenges with courage and purpose. My experience shapes how I approach life, pushing me to overcome obstacles to build something meaningful and make a real difference.

Education has been another cornerstone of my journey. Every success, failure, and challenge has been part of a larger mosaic. My journey has been about people, resilience, education, adaptability, and perseverance. I believe growth has no finish line; each step is towards something greater and the best is yet to come.

You've worked on projects impacting entire countries down to individual startups. What have you learned about tailoring strategies for different scales of impact?

Strategy is deeply human at its core. Understanding people, their needs, aspirations, and what makes them “tick” is the crucial piece of the puzzle. You need a key to open a door, and a people-centric approach is the most critical ‘key’ element in developing any policy, process, or strategy.

While leading national strategies for Qatar Tourism, particularly during the FIFA World Cup 2022, I saw firsthand how strategy can unite thousands of voices under a single vision. It was about working with ministries, businesses, and communities to create something that reflected the nation's heart. I learned that strategy is about legacy at this scale, building something that will inspire and impact future generations.

Tailoring strategies is about converting a vision into reality and focusing on what truly matters by finding the best way forward. At its core, strategy is about creating something meaningful that drives impact and you can execute. However, in our current world, strategies need to be constantly revisited to adapt to our fast-paced environment, including volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity.

On the other hand, when I started my manufacturing business in Southeast Asia, the experience couldn’t have been more different. There were no grand-visions but survival, grit, and a constant need to adapt. Every decision was personal, every mistake felt like a step backward, and every success felt monumental, no matter how small. It was a crash course in resilience and staying focused on what truly matters.

I’ve learned that tailoring strategy isn’t about the size of the project but about the people involved. Nations need inspiration and unity, and startups need agility and determination. But in both, success comes down to listening, understanding, and creating something that truly connects. Whether the goal is to leave a legacy or build from scratch, the heart of any strategy lies in its ability to serve and uplift others.

Many of our readers are looking to make a difference in their own industries. From your experience, what's one key ingredient for transforming an idea into a successful, large-scale project?

Two deeply connected ideas: “embracing challenges” and “building a shared vision.” Tony Robbins once said, “Every problem is a gift, and without problems, we would not grow.” Embracing challenges as opportunities to grow and innovate is the first step to turning an idea into something big and transforming it into a large-scale success.

Startups, and generally most projects, succeed when they solve problems, making a real difference. Focusing on unique challenges can help in standing out and finding the path to success. One of the most essential pieces of the puzzle is shifting focus from obstacles and challenges to solutions and inspiring others.

The second statement that goes hand in hand with the first is what Henry Ford once mentioned: “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is a success.” It starts with a vision that feels bigger than you, and the real power lies in bringing people together who believe in it. Then, the real magic happens when that vision stops being just yours and becomes something others believe in.

Every successful project begins with focusing on the greater good, creating solutions that improve lives today, and setting a strong foundation for the well-being of future generations. It’s about addressing real needs in a way that inspires hope and progress. It’s about inspiring others to see the possibilities and making them feel part of creating something extraordinary. When people see their hopes and dreams reflected in the vision, they’ll carry it forward with a passion that no strategy alone could achieve.

Belief is just the beginning, and it must be followed by action. Passion and resilience are key, as success is rarely easy. Big ideas grow through consistent effort and perseverance. You must adapt, stay flexible, and keep going when things get tough. Big ideas grow slowly, built step by step with focus and effort.

The key is to focus on the people and the problem you’re solving. When your purpose drives value, the impact naturally grows, transforming a simple vision into a movement that leaves a legacy.

You've successfully navigated the intersection of geopolitics, international policies, and economic development. What advice would you give someone looking to better understand and leverage those dynamics in their own ventures?

The relationship between geopolitics, international policies, and economic development is deeply connected and impacts every aspect of our lives. Professor Georg Wernicke has explored the complexities of CEO activism, examining when business leaders should engage in sociopolitical issues, and argued that, most times, businesses and politics should remain separate. Separating the two overlooks a critical reality.

Businesses influence politics through lobbying, investments, and advocacy, while politics shape the business environment through policies, regulations, and geopolitical decisions. Ignoring this relationship leaves ventures exposed to unnecessary risks and missed opportunities.

Professor Wernicke highlights the complexity of the business-political relationship and emphasizes that, rather than avoiding politics, businesses should engage responsibly, leveraging their influence to drive positive change while mitigating risks. From a liberal democratic perspective, CEO activism is seen as acceptable if it operates within the boundaries of the law.

From a republican democratic perspective, the focus shifts beyond legality to the ethical considerations and broader societal impact of such activism. When businesses influence politics, they must balance lawful engagement with their ethical and societal responsibilities. The world is deeply interconnected, like a domino effect.

Consider Taiwan, a vital hub for semiconductor production. Geopolitical tensions there have disrupted the global tech industry everywhere. Similarly, the Russian invasion of Ukraine caused energy crises far beyond Europe, forcing businesses worldwide to adapt to soaring costs and supply chain disruptions. Another example is Tesla, when it secured long-term battery-material contracts ahead of potential shortages, ensuring its leadership in the EV market.

This was a strategically calculated move anticipating global dynamics. Businesses must stay ahead by tracking global trends, adapting to policy changes, and preparing for the unexpected. Simply remember the massive effect of COVID-19 and government policies that impacted millions, if not billions, of businesses globally.

I advise staying informed, building resilience in your strategies, and never underestimating the power of connection. Geopolitics is about how the world works as one interconnected system. To succeed, you must think globally, act strategically, and always stay prepared for what's next.

Health tourism and medical wellness are growing fields. What exciting trends are you observing, and what advice would you give entrepreneurs looking to innovate in these sectors?

Health tourism and medical wellness are rapidly evolving, with several notable trends emerging and a global shift in how we think about health and travel. Entrepreneurs aiming to innovate in these sectors should consider current developments and what groundbreaking innovative solutions could be brought to this industry.

Once again, finding a solution to world challenges will give the venture more success. People want meaningful experiences and personalized solutions to improve their lives. Entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to innovate, solve real-world problems, and create something that can genuinely change how we approach well-being.

The latest trend and buzzword is “Longevity,” which is a growing market. People are becoming health-aware and they want to live longer and healthier lives. Clients are spending tens of thousands of dollars on so-called longevity services. This trend highlights the massive demand for proactive, science-based health solutions. For example, wearable devices are now integrated into wellness programs, tracking everything from heart rate to stress levels and giving people actionable insights into their health.

For entrepreneurs, the advice is simple but powerful. First, think about accessibility. Many wellness programs today are exclusive to luxury resorts and wealthy clients. Imagine creating a model that offers personalized care at a fraction of the cost, and this is where innovation can make the most significant impact. Second, focus on science. Clients are no longer impressed by vague promises and want data-driven, results-oriented programs.

Finally, don’t forget about technology. The future of wellness is in integrating cutting-edge tech, from wearables to AI-powered diagnostics, into a seamless, user-friendly experience. Entrepreneurs need to combine innovation, accessibility, and science to provide solutions that improve lives. This is an important shift toward a healthier, more connected world.

With fluency in five languages and experience across multiple regions, you have a unique perspective on global markets. What are some common pitfalls businesses should avoid when expanding internationally?

An ambitious entrepreneur decided to expand their business into a growing Southeast Asian market, but their journey revealed pitfalls that can make or break global ventures. Their feasibility study and market assessment fell short. They underestimated local competition and misunderstood consumer behavior. While customers at home valued premium offerings, the new market prioritized affordability, leading to disappointing sales and high costs. Complex policies and licensing requirements also proved challenging. Missing key filings caused delays and fines, adding financial pressure.

A marketing campaign that worked well at home failed to connect with local consumers, feeling cold and impersonal. Hiring the right team became another hurdle. Local employees often left for larger companies with better benefits, making retention difficult. Just as the business started to gain traction, geopolitical tensions disrupted supply chains, raising costs and derailing pricing strategies. Relying on home-market strategies further created a disconnect with local values, compounding branding challenges.

Navigating the market became even harder without strong local networks, partnerships, and relationships with suppliers and stakeholders. Misaligned technology, such as payment systems from their home market, didn’t integrate with local infrastructure, frustrating customers and reducing sales. Fragmented customer experiences worsened the situation. Inconsistent online and in-store interactions eroded trust, requiring immediate adjustments to rebuild confidence. If we look at the big players in the market, such as Uber, Netflix, Airbnb, Ikea, Starbucks, Citi Group, and many others, we can always find at least one of these most common pitfalls faced in a foreign market.

Trust and meaningful connections with local stakeholders often determine success, especially in regions like the Middle East and Latin America. Uber's expansion into the Middle East faced local competition and regulatory challenges. In 2020, Uber merged with regional competitor Careem to strengthen its position. Companies that take the time to understand and respect local cultures thrive, while purely transactional approaches rarely succeed.

The key to international expansion is simple—adapt. Understand the culture, regulations, and people. Hire local experts, build lasting relationships, and treat each market as unique. Success is earned by listening, learning, and aligning with the world you aim to serve.

You've had a front-row seat to the evolution of various industries. What do you believe is the most crucial skill for leaders to cultivate in our rapidly changing world?

Dr. Jim Collins, author of “Good to Great,” wrote that the key to succeeding in business is not just about what you know, but how quickly you can adapt to change. Adaptability and resilience are the most critical skills for leaders in a rapidly changing world. Adaptability is being able to adjust quickly to new situations and new conditions, and resilience is being able to recover to move forward despite the challenges. Historically, we have seen companies go out of business for not adapting or facing challenges and not being able to recover. Leaders must possess these skills, especially when faced with the current environment that is predominantly volatile, uncertain, complex, and driven by technological advancements and changes in the global landscape.

These skills are critical and not optional. According to Harvard Business Review, adaptable leaders are better at understanding change and can pivot quickly, which is crucial for staying competitive. Resilient leaders can maintain emotional stability during tough times, helping them guide their teams through difficult transitions. Leaders who are both adaptable and resilient perform better in high-pressure situations, adapt quicker to technological shifts and market changes, and recover well from unexpected crises like the pandemic.

Resilience leads to better decision-making under stress, and adaptability supports innovation with long-term success. Leaders should focus on continuous learning and staying informed about market trends. Developing a growth mindset helps build resilience by viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. Planning for possible challenges ahead and staying flexible helps leaders adjust quickly when things change. Finally, practicing self-care and stress management can help leaders stay calm and grounded during tough times.

Looking back at your career, what advice would you give your younger self just starting on this path?

Personality is not just what you are, but what you could be and who you could become. Focus on one desire at a time, and if you really want that one desire, then it will come to you. Know how to let go of everything else and cancel the noise. Once you get it, move to the next desire, and keep repeating the process.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment because it doesn’t exist. Greatness lies beyond the jump, so don’t play it safe. Those bumps in the road will carry you to where you are meant to go. When you push through failure quickly, fast, and without hesitation, it will transform you. Always bet on your ability to adapt, learn, and rise again.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Thank you for the opportunity to share. If there’s one final thought I would leave with everyone, it’s this: We must constantly question our path, choices, and purpose, because growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable. True evolution happens through the resilience we build and the wisdom we gain by facing life’s challenges. Success is a journey of continuous learning, growth, and adaptation. Trust the process and never stop evolving.

Our impact will be defined by the legacy of how we’ve touched lives and how deeply we’ve lived our own. Learn to dance with failure—embrace it, hold it, let it go, and see each hardship not as an obstacle but as an opportunity to redefine our purpose and who we are always meant to become.