My Farewell Message as CEO of Sharqia Development Authority

Dear valued colleagues,

Just over three years ago, I stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer of Sharqia Development Authority | ???? ????? ??????? ??????? , and today it is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my departure from this position. Unlike in the past, this time, as I sit down to pen this farewell message, I find myself experiencing a mix set of emotions. While I am excited to embark on my next adventure, bidding adieu to a team of exceptional individuals who have become like family is no easy act.

As the CEO, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented and dedicated professionals in the field. It has been an honour to walk alongside you as we tackled complex challenges every day. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I am proud of the work we have done as a team. I will forever admire the memories we have made together and hold the lessons learned close to my heart.

Together, we have accomplished significant feats in demonstrating our values as an organisation while strengthening our positioning in the ecosystem. From establishing our identity to creating a distinguished work environment and being flexible and adaptable to emerging challenges and circumstances, I've been constantly moved by the dedication, passion and capabilities of several groups of individuals who have come together to build a fully functioning organisation from the ground up.

During my time at SDA, I not only gained expertise in several fields, but also formed lasting professional relationships. I was able to refine my skills and identify areas for improvement, with unwavering support from some of you. I shall also mention the endless support from my colleagues at other agencies and the provided mentorship by our board and executive committee.

Along the journey, there are some old lessons that I remembered and new ones that I learned:

• Prejudice/pre-judgement is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible.
• My patience with certain matters and people was longer than necessary, and resolution could’ve been more appropriate.
• It is crucial to focus on what really matters by controlling what you can and letting go of what you cannot. Prioritising tasks is essential to avoid getting bogged down in tasks that have little effect.
• Celebrate achievements on time, no matter how small they are, in order to balance criticism when shortcomings occur.

As we part ways, I am filled with confidence that this is just another beginning for all of us. As a team, you have consistently proven your skills, drive, and determination to succeed. I have no doubt that you will continue to push boundaries, break down barriers, and make a real and positive difference in the surrounding world. I am leaving the organization with a conviction that it is in a well-established stable state than when I first arrived in 2019, and I am proud to say that it is now in the capable hands of all of you and together, all of you will take the organization to new heights.

As I prepare to bid farewell, I leave you with one last message: Have faith in yourself and your capabilities, trust each other and do not hesitate to take risks. Keep in mind that our work is about creating prosperous opportunities, designing the future of a thriving and liveable communities, serving millions of people to find peace and comfort, and with dedication and persistence, there is nothing you cannot achieve. May the future be filled with even more success, by the grace of God.

Fahad S. Almutlaq