A Region on the move

Recently, I had the pleasure of having SMO Communications interview me about why the MEA Region needs more employees, the many different nationalities of team members, and why colleagues enjoy working there so much. I am happy to share all the interview content with you.

The Siemens Mobility (SMO) MEA (Middle East and Africa) Region comprises the Republic of Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Qatar. The Region has seen a lot of successful projects, some of which are still ongoing.?

Mr. Attia, SMO MEA is currently preparing an employer branding campaign focusing on Egypt and the Region. Why is there a need for more employees, in which country especially and for what exactly??

The MEA region is experiencing significant growth in transportation and mobility, with ambitious projects driving the demand for talent. In Egypt, for example, the construction of a vast high-speed rail network covering three lines over 2,000 kilometers is underway. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 government program prioritizes transportation infrastructure, including the development of the Riyadh Metro. Qatar and the UAE have established themselves as leading transportation hubs, investing in extensive infrastructure expansion. Türkiye’s strategic location and robust infrastructure make it an attractive market for transportation and logistics. South Africa’s advanced infrastructure positions the country as a gateway to the African continent. Engaging with top talent through targeted employer branding campaigns is essential to seize opportunities in this promising region.?

There are 14 different nationalities working side by side in the #movingEgypt project alone. How can people balance possible cultural differences, and how can they benefit from cultural exchange??

In my opinion, navigating potential cultural differences requires a foundation of understanding, respect, and open-mindedness. It is essential to invest time and effort in comprehending and embracing diverse cultural perspectives. By cultivating an inclusive mindset and actively engaging in cross-cultural dialogue, individuals can foster harmonious relationships in multicultural settings.?

Cultural exchange enriches the lives of individuals in several ways, promoting mutual understanding, personal development, and global awareness. This plays a vital role in building more inclusive societies, fostering international cooperation, and creating opportunities for both economic and cultural advancement.?

How about inclusion – does SMO MEA empower women in their workplace, and do you address women in the campaign, too???

Absolutely. SMO MEA is deeply committed to promoting gender diversity and empowering women in the workplace. We have implemented various initiatives to support professional growth and development for women across the organization. Through our employer branding campaign, we recognize the significance of inclusion and are dedicated to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace for all our employees.?

Can you please tell us about current initiatives at SMO MEA, such as “Fit4Rail”??

One of our key initiatives at SMO MEA is the “Fit4Rail” program, officially known as the Foundational Internship Track For Careers in the Railway Sector. This 45-day summer internship program offers hands-on experience across all the subsystems of the Egypt High-Speed Railway project and in our Egypt Regional Company. Fit4Rail has been specifically designed to target students of electrical, mechanical, electronics, mechatronics, IT engineering, and business/commercial majors, primarily university undergraduates as well as students at technical institutes.?

The program aims to achieve several key goals such as raising students’ interest in railway design, engineering, and maintenance, while also challenging their perception of railways as state-of-the-art mobility infrastructure solutions. Additionally, the program aims to familiarize students with the different subsystems of modern high-speed railway systems, ultimately creating a positive social image and brand for SMO. Last, but not least, the program serves to identify potential candidates and nurture their interest in working for SMO.?

Your own opinion please – why do you think people enjoy working in the region and what do you personally find inspiring??

In my view, there are several compelling reasons why individuals are attracted to working in the MEA region. Firstly, the region’s rich cultural diversity offers a dynamic and immersive environment for professionals who value exposure to different cultures and traditions. Secondly, the rapid economic growth in the MEA region presents numerous opportunities for career advancement, entrepreneurship, and professional development. Additionally, the geopolitical significance of the region, marked by its strategic location and influence on global affairs, provides professionals with the opportunity to contribute to significant global initiatives.??

Personally, I find inspiration in the diverse perspectives and talents of our team members, as well as in the innovative solutions we develop to address complex challenges in the region. It is incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact of our work on individuals and communities, and to play a role in the region’s growth and development.?

Thank you so much for this interview, Mr. Attia!?