Navigating the Future of Talent Acquisition: Insights from a Visionary Saudi Leader

Introducing Fahad Alkastaban, a visionary Senior HR and Talent Acquisition professional in Saudi Arabia. With a decade of experience spanning diverse sectors, Fahad's journey has been marked by adaptability and versatility. In this exclusive interview, we delve into his insights on the future of Talent Acquisition in the context of Saudi Vision 2030.

From addressing the challenges of Saudization to the impact of AI, Fahad provides a unique perspective on the evolving HR landscape in the Kingdom. Join us as we unlock the keys to success in the dynamic world of Talent Acquisition.

Can you please introduce yourself and provide an overview of your career journey, including how you came to your current role as the head of Talent Acquisition? Has your career gone in the direction you thought it would, and what were the biggest things that helped you in getting where your role?

With over a decade of experience in Talent Acquisition, I initially began my career working on various projects within the telecommunications industry. As I progressed, I ventured into diverse sectors, including technology, food and beverage, and government. My career path has aligned with my aspirations, currently serving as the Decision Support Advisor at Saudi Exports Development Authority, overseeing all aspects of TA and HR advisory. My journey's success can be attributed to my versatility and adaptability, enabling me to thrive in a dynamic and ever-changing field.

What motivated you to pursue a career in talent acquisition, and what do you find most fulfilling about your role?

I was inspired to pursue a career in talent acquisition because I found it fulfilling to have the authority and support from management to make decisions and provide guidance to senior leaders. This dynamic aspect of my role is what motivates and satisfies me the most.

Could you share some of your career goals and objectives? Have you achieved what you initially set out to accomplish in this field? Who is your biggest mentor?

One of my significant career achievements is establishing a strong presence on social networks, with over 350K followers on LinkedIn and more than a million on other platforms. My primary career goal is to ascend to a senior-level position in HR within a respected organization. While I draw inspiration from various sources, I consider myself my biggest mentor. I continually challenge and motivate myself to improve each day. My true passion lies in assisting individuals in discovering the ideal career opportunities, and this drive fuels my professional journey.

In your opinion, what are the major challenges and opportunities for talent acquisition professionals in KSA, particularly within the context of Vision 2023?

In Saudi Arabia, the key challenge for talent acquisition professionals, especially in light of Vision 2030, is the demand for Saudization. There's a scarcity of local talent to meet these requirements. Many companies are bridging this gap by hiring international experts and simultaneously investing in the training and development of young Saudi talents. This approach aims to groom the next generation of leaders who will play a pivotal role in realizing the objectives set out in Vision 2030.

How do you see the future of talent acquisition evolving in Saudi Arabia, and what trends or technologies do you believe will have the most significant impact on your field?

The future of talent acquisition in Saudi Arabia will see significant AI investments by large organizations. However, the indispensable role of emotional intelligence in TA cannot be replaced.

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6- How do you balance the need for local talent with the need for global expertise in your talent acquisition efforts, especially in industries that require specialized skills?

The balance between local and global talent depends on the industry and seniority levels. In specialized industries, exclusive reliance on local talent may not be feasible. Hence, a strategy often involves hiring international experts and concurrently implementing succession planning to cultivate local talent.

What do you believe are the key qualities or skills that a successful Head of Talent Acquisition should possess in today's evolving business environment, especially as a Saudi national?

In the ever-evolving business landscape, a triumphant Head of Talent Acquisition, especially as a Saudi national, should be fuelled by unwavering passion, and grounded in a resilient attitude, attitude and attitude.

What Advice would you give your younger self?

While I've largely followed my path, I'd advise my younger self to prioritize and focus on one thing at a time for greater efficiency.

Many organizations use headhunting or executive search firms to identify and attract top talent. What is your perspective on the role of headhunting agencies in your talent acquisition strategy? Can you share any experiences or insights on when and how you collaborate with such agencies and the benefits you've seen from these partnerships?

I've had mixed experiences with recruitment agencies. While some have been excellent, there were instances where agencies advised candidates on interview responses, which I find ethically questionable. A reputable agency should trust in their candidates' abilities. I leverage agencies, particularly when hiring in unfamiliar geographic areas. My network and referrals are also valuable. Mackenzie Jones, known for their market reputation, is an agency I'd consider partnering with when the need arises, prioritizing professionalism in candidate and client interactions.

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