Hamad Almass Email & Phone Number

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

Since July 2021, I have been serving as the Executive Director of the Commercial Affairs Sector at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development. In this role, I returned to spearhead the department's initiatives to enhance Abu Dhabi’s commercial environment, a testament to my ongoing commitment to the emirate's economic prosperity and alignment with Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030.Key Responsibilities:- Strategic Leadership: I lead the strategic development and implementation of policies aimed at fostering a vibrant business ecosystem, facilitating ease of doing business, and ensuring competitive practices within the emirate.- Regulatory Oversight: My role involves overseeing the issuance of commercial licenses, ensuring consumer and trade protection, and conducting business inspections to uphold market integrity and compliance with regulations.- Stakeholder Engagement: I actively engage with the business community, understanding their needs and challenges, to develop supportive initiatives that encourage innovation, investment, and growth.Achievements:- Business Ecosystem Enhancement: I have been instrumental in creating a more streamlined and efficient process for business licensing and operations, significantly reducing the time and complexity for entrepreneurs and businesses to set up and expand.- Consumer and Trade Protection: Under my leadership, the sector has enhanced mechanisms for consumer and trade protection, ensuring fair practices and fostering consumer confidence in the marketplace.Returning to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, I continue to leverage my extensive experience and insights into the commercial sector, driving initiatives that support the emirate's vision for a diversified and sustainable economy. My role is pivotal in shaping policies and frameworks that ensure Abu Dhabi remains a competitive and attractive destination for businesses globally.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

As the Executive Director of the Commercial Affairs Sector at the Abu Dhabi Business Center (ADBC), I led the organization in becoming a cornerstone for Abu Dhabi's economic development, aligning closely with the ambitious Economic Vision 2030. My role was pivotal in transforming ADBC into a dynamic facilitator for businesses, ensuring a seamless and supportive environment for investors and entrepreneurs alike.Main Responsibilities:- Business Facilitation: Directed the provision of essential services and approvals for businesses, enhancing Abu Dhabi's appeal as a business-friendly environment.- Economic Vision Contribution: Launched key projects and initiatives aimed at bolstering Abu Dhabi's position as a competitive global economic hub, supporting the realization of the Economic Vision 2030.- Regulatory Oversight: Managed the regulation and administration of commercial licenses, consumer and trade protection, and business inspections, ensuring compliance and promoting fair practices across G2B, B2B, and B2C platforms.Achievements:- Successfully positioned ADBC as a pivotal entity in facilitating business operations, significantly contributing to Abu Dhabi’s journey towards economic diversification and competitiveness.- Enhanced the efficiency and accessibility of business services, streamlining the process for obtaining commercial licenses and offering robust consumer protection measures.- Fostered a transparent and regulated business environment, ensuring the integrity of commercial activities and supporting the growth of legitimate business practices across all sectors.In this role, I utilized my leadership and strategic planning skills to significantly advance Abu Dhabi's economic ambitions, promoting a vibrant business ecosystem conducive to growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

As the Executive Director of the International Economic Relations Sector, I led the charge in showcasing Abu Dhabi's vibrant investment landscape on the global stage, focusing on sectors pivotal to the emirate's transition towards a diversified, knowledge-based economy.Main Responsibilities:- Global Promotion: Spearheaded events and overseas delegations to highlight Abu Dhabi's specialized sectors, demonstrating the emirate's commitment to economic diversification.- Emiratization Initiative: Actively contributed to the Emiratization project, aimed at bolstering employment opportunities for UAE nationals, enriching the private sector with local talent, and supporting the career advancement of fresh graduates.- FDI and SME Support: Directed efforts to enhance Abu Dhabi's economic development by attracting foreign direct investment and bolstering SME growth through dedicated Export Promotion programs.Achievements:- Successfully positioned Abu Dhabi as a premier destination for international investment, emphasizing its transition from an oil-centric to a diversified, knowledge-based economy.- Made significant strides in the Emiratization initiative, fostering job creation and skill development for UAE nationals, thus strengthening the local workforce and private sector.- Enhanced Abu Dhabi's global economic presence, attracting substantial FDI and supporting SMEs, which are crucial to the emirate's sustainable economic growth and diversification efforts.In this role, I utilized my expertise in international economic relations to significantly contribute to Abu Dhabi's strategic vision, fostering an environment ripe for investment and economic expansion.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

During my secondment as Executive Director at the UAE Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology from December 2020 to June 2021, I played a foundational role in the establishment and launch of the ministry. This period was marked by intense strategic planning and collaboration, setting the groundwork for a ministry poised to drive industrial innovation and technological advancement across the UAE.Main Responsibilities:- Strategic Development: Led the formulation of the ministry's overarching strategy, aligning it with the nation's goals for industrial growth and technological excellence.- Objective Setting: Defined clear, actionable objectives to guide the ministry's operations and initiatives, ensuring focused efforts towards achieving significant industrial and technological milestones.- Policy Formulation: Crafted comprehensive policies to foster an environment conducive to industry and technology development, addressing current challenges and anticipating future needs.- Organizational Structure: Designed the ministry’s organizational structure, optimizing it for efficiency, responsiveness, and adaptability to the dynamic industrial and technological landscape.Achievements:- Successfully contributed to the ministry's launch, establishing a strategic framework that supports the UAE's vision for a diversified, knowledge-based economy.- Developed policies and objectives that set a clear direction for the UAE's industrial sector and advanced technology initiatives, positioning the nation as a leader in innovation.- Built a robust organizational structure capable of driving the ministry's ambitious agenda, fostering collaboration across industries and technology sectors.This role underscored my commitment to national development through strategic leadership, policy innovation, and organizational design, contributing significantly to the UAE's future in industry and advanced technology.

Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

As the Vice Chairman of Union Properties, I spearheaded strategic transformations and sustainable growth initiatives, reinforcing our status in the UAE real estate sector. Tasked with governance and compliance for this publicly listed company, I ensured adherence to the highest standards, fostering transparency and building investor confidence. My leadership in the Risk Committee was pivotal, where I developed comprehensive risk management strategies to safeguard against market volatilities, securing our operations and financial stability.My commitment extended beyond operational oversight to stakeholder engagement, where I championed our strategic vision and investment potential. This proactive approach solidified our market position, attracting new investments and reinforcing shareholder trust. Under my guidance, Union Properties embarked on innovative projects that set industry benchmarks for sustainability and design excellence, aligning with global environmental goals.Achievements during my tenure included strategic reorientation to exploit high-growth opportunities, enhancing efficiency and financial performance. My efforts in risk mitigation strengthened organizational resilience, while my focus on investor relations ensured sustained interest in our strategic direction. Leading by example, I advocated for sustainability, resulting in eco-friendly projects that underscored our commitment to corporate social responsibility and set new standards for livability.In navigating Union Properties through strategic, regulatory, and market challenges, I leveraged my extensive experience in real estate and corporate governance, driving the company towards unparalleled success and innovation in the competitive landscape.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

During my secondment as Executive Director of International Relations at the Abu Dhabi Energy Authority (ADEA), I was central to setting up the International Relations Department, focusing on establishing its legal and strategic frameworks to bolster Abu Dhabi's position in the global energy landscape.Key Responsibilities:- Crafted the department's legal framework to ensure alignment with international energy cooperation standards.- Developed the organizational structure, prioritizing efficiency and global engagement.- Strategized to enhance Abu Dhabi's energy sector through international partnerships and dialogues.Achievements:- Instrumental in launching the International Relations Department, facilitating Abu Dhabi's active engagement in global energy discussions.- Forged strategic alliances, positioning Abu Dhabi as a key player in international energy initiatives.- Advocated for sustainable energy policies, aligning with Abu Dhabi's vision for a diversified, sustainable energy portfolio.This role harnessed my expertise in international relations to establish a department that significantly contributes to Abu Dhabi's strategic objectives in the energy sector, emphasizing sustainability and global cooperation.

Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

As the Executive Director of the International Economic Relations Sector at the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, I played a strategic role in overseeing the emirate's international economic development. My leadership was instrumental in aligning with Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030, focusing on enhancing international agreements, attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), and boosting exports.I led the coordination of overseas trade missions, engaging with local government entities and ministries to showcase Abu Dhabi's investment opportunities globally. My efforts were pivotal in organizing investment forums both within and outside the emirate, effectively highlighting Abu Dhabi as a prime destination for investment.A key achievement was the strategic development and implementation of objectives that led to the establishment of two critical public agencies: the Investment and Export Promotion Agencies. These initiatives aimed at facilitating and promoting Abu Dhabi’s economic interests on an international scale, further attracting FDI and expanding the emirate's export capabilities.My tenure was marked by a strong commitment to fostering international cooperation, driving economic diversification, and positioning Abu Dhabi as a competitive and innovative global market player, in line with the ambitious goals set forth in the Economic Vision 2030.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

Key Responsibilities:- Forum Establishment: Spearheaded the creation of the Abu Dhabi Quality Forum, a pioneering initiative aimed at promoting excellence and best practices in quality management among the emirate's business community.- Team Leadership: Led a team of dedicated professionals, each responsible for different facets of the forum's operations, ensuring a collaborative effort towards our common goals.- Strategic Planning: Oversaw the development of the forum's strategic direction, including setting clear objectives, mission, and vision, aligned with Abu Dhabi's broader economic goals.- Operational Management: Managed all aspects of the forum’s operations, from financial budgeting and staff recruitment to the execution of marketing and media strategies to engage the business community and stakeholders.Achievements:- Quality Advocacy: Successfully established the forum as a central platform for dialogue and development in quality practices, significantly contributing to the awareness and adoption of quality standards across various industries.- Strategic Impact: Through strategic planning and execution, laid a solid foundation for the forum’s mission and vision, aligning with the emirate's aim to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in business practices.- Community Engagement: Implemented effective marketing and media campaigns, significantly increasing engagement and participation among businesses in quality improvement initiatives, thereby fostering a competitive and efficient business environment in Abu Dhabi.In this role, I was instrumental in promoting a culture of quality and excellence within Abu Dhabi’s business community, contributing to the emirate’s reputation as a leading destination for quality and innovation. My leadership in establishing the Abu Dhabi Quality Forum underscored my commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in professional practices.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

During my tenure, I focused on enhancing the value and support provided to the emirate's top entrepreneurs. My role was pivotal in bridging Abu Dhabi's business community with international markets and expertise, further solidifying the emirate's position as a global business hub.Key Responsibilities:- International Delegation Meetings: Orchestrated a series of high-profile international delegation meetings, facilitating dialogue and fostering partnerships between Abu Dhabi entrepreneurs and their global counterparts.- Advisory Services: Provided strategic advisory services to entrepreneurs, assisting in project development, execution, and expansion strategies to ensure their ventures’ success on an international scale.- Contract Facilitation: Played a key role in the negotiation and signing of contracts with international companies, ensuring favorable terms that supported the growth and global reach of local businesses.Achievements:- Global Business Engagement: Successfully enhanced the global engagement of Abu Dhabi's business community, organizing meetings that led to fruitful partnerships and expanded market access for local entrepreneurs.- Strategic Advisory Impact: My advisory role was instrumental in the successful launch and expansion of several significant projects, directly contributing to the growth and diversification of Abu Dhabi's economy.- Contractual Milestones: Facilitated numerous contracts with international firms, securing advantageous terms that promoted the sustainable growth of local businesses and attracted foreign investment to the region.In this capacity, I leveraged my expertise in international business and strategic consulting to provide invaluable support and opportunities to Abu Dhabi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering a culture of innovation and global collaboration. My efforts not only supported individual business ventures but also contributed to the broader economic objectives of Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

I played a foundational role as a Founder and Member of the Founding Committee at Manazel Real Estate PJSC, an Abu Dhabi-based firm that has since become a benchmark in the real estate development sector across the UAE. This role involved pioneering the company’s business model, orchestrating its strategic financial planning, and executing one of the region’s most successful private placements.Key Responsibilities:- Company Establishment: Spearheaded the creation of Manazel Real Estate, defining its strategic vision and business model focused on developing innovative real estate solutions for middle-income families and commercial entities.- Financial Strategy: Formulated and implemented a comprehensive financial plan, setting the stage for the company’s long-term success and sustainability.- Capital Raising: Led the successful execution of a private placement that raised AED 2.3 billion from local and international institutional investors, a testament to the compelling value proposition and trust in Manazel’s strategic direction.Achievements:- Successful Launch: The establishment and successful funding of Manazel Real Estate marked a significant milestone in the UAE real estate sector, demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic planning capabilities.- Stock Exchange Listing: The strategic decisions and financial groundwork laid during the founding period paved the way for Manazel Real Estate to be listed on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange, highlighting its industry leadership and financial stability.In this capacity, I utilized my strategic insight, financial acumen, and real estate development knowledge to establish and grow Manazel Real Estate into a leading entity in the real estate sector, significantly contributing to the region's development and providing valuable housing and commercial solutions.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

I was privileged to serve as the leading Project Manager and Founder for the Khalifa Fund for SMEs, having been seconded from the Abu Dhabi Chamber. My role was instrumental in laying the groundwork for KF, an initiative designed to be a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's economic strategy focused on empowering the SME sector.Key Responsibilities:- Initiative Development: Led the conceptualization and development of SKF, outlining its mission to support and encourage young Emirati entrepreneurs during the critical startup phase of their businesses.- Strategic Planning: Crafted the strategic plan and operational framework for SKF, ensuring it aligned with the broader objectives of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the SME sector.- Government Coordination: Coordinated closely with the Abu Dhabi Economic Department and other official government departments to secure necessary approvals and funding, advocating for the importance of SME development in economic diversification efforts.Achievements:- Successful Establishment: Played a pivotal role in the successful establishment of SKF, securing an initial budget of AED 300 million, which underscored the government's commitment to SME development and entrepreneurship.- Economic Impact: The fund has since become a critical instrument in Abu Dhabi’s economic development strategy, directly contributing to the growth of the SME sector and supporting hundreds of entrepreneurial ventures.- Empowerment of Emirati Entrepreneurs: By providing financial support and guidance, KF has empowered a new generation of Emirati entrepreneurs, facilitating the launch and growth of their businesses, thereby enriching the local economic landscape with innovative and diverse enterprises.In this capacity, I utilized my project management expertise, strategic insight, and dedication to economic development to contribute significantly to the establishment of the Sheikh Khalifa Fund for SMEs.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

Key Responsibilities:- Team Leadership: Managed a dynamic team of fifteen full-time and ten part-time employees, driving initiatives across marketing, public relations, media, translation, and design to effectively communicate the chamber's mission and services.- Strategic Marketing: Developed and implemented comprehensive marketing strategies to promote the chamber’s activities, services, and events to a broad audience, including businesses, investors, and the general public.- Public Relations: Directed public relations efforts to enhance the chamber's image and establish strong relationships with stakeholders, media, and the community, ensuring positive visibility and engagement.- Content Development: Oversaw the production of high-quality content, including press releases, marketing materials, and publications, to articulate the chamber's value proposition and achievements.- Brand Management: Managed the chamber’s brand identity, ensuring consistency and coherence across all communication channels and materials, including digital media and print.Achievements:- Enhanced Visibility: Successfully raised the chamber’s profile both locally and internationally, increasing awareness of its role in supporting Abu Dhabi’s business community.- Increased Engagement: Boosted engagement with the chamber’s programs and services through targeted marketing campaigns and strategic public relations efforts.- Collaborative Initiatives: Led collaborative initiatives with other departments and external partners to promote Abu Dhabi as a premier business destination.In this capacity, I leveraged my expertise in marketing, public relations, and strategic communication to significantly contribute to the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s mission of supporting and developing the local business community, enhancing its visibility, and fostering a conducive business environment.

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

I specialized in fundamental analysis of stocks in the American and Canadian markets. This role involved deep financial and strategic analysis to inform investment decisions, contributing significantly to the fund's performance.Responsibilities:- Conducted fundamental equity analysis using a bottom-up approach, focusing on financial health and growth prospects.- Assisted in economic and sectorial analyses to guide investment strategy.- Performed detailed valuations and strategic company analyses, employing advanced financial modeling techniques.- Presented investment findings and recommendations to senior management and the Investment Committee.- Engaged with senior corporate management and institutional sales representatives in North America to gather insights.Achievements:- Consistently outperformed benchmark indices through strategic stock selection, adding value to the fund.- Utilized leading-edge financial technologies, including Bloomberg and Reuters, enhancing analysis accuracy and efficiency.- Contributed to the strategic positioning of ADIA’s North American equities portfolio, influencing key investment decisions.My role at ADIA underscored my expertise in financial analysis and strategic investment, setting a foundation for excellence in investment management and economic development.

Disciplined Leadership, The Sandhurst Experience

Participated in an elite leadership program that emphasized discipline, strategic leadership, and the art of decision-making under.

Leadership Program

A comprehensive leadership development initiative that drew on the expertise of global academic institutions. Focused on holistic.

Leadership Program

An intensive program aimed at developing government leaders, this experience deepened my understanding of public administration and policy.

Master Of Science (Ms), Finance And Financial Management Services

Pursuing a Master of Science with a concentration in Finance simultaneously with my MBA, I delved deep into the quantitative aspects.

Master Of Business Administration - Mba, Business Administration And Management, General

During my tenure at Marylhurst University, I embarked on a transformative journey, acquiring an MBA with a holistic view of business.

Bachelor Of Business Administration - Bba

My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts concentrating in Management, where I laid the foundation for my career in leadership.