Five minutes with Marwan Othman, Imdaad

Marwan Othman, executive director of human capital, Imdaad.

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What does your role involve?

My role requires me to stay involved in every aspect of an employee’s journey within the organisation, and extends to planning, directing, and coordinating the administrative functions of the company. I am responsible for overseeing the recruiting, interviewing, and hiring new staff. I also meet and consult with top management on strategy, and act as a link between the organisation’s management and employees.

What do you love most about your job?

Being in human capital means that you have to deal directly with people daily, the idea of listening to someone, trying to solve their problem, giving them guidance where needed is something that I really enjoy. Having more than 5,000 employees from more than 30 nationalities means there is always something happening, it keeps me busy and I learn new things every day.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Mobilising manpower to execute new contracts, particularly when the time is short. Retaining skilled technicians is a challenge as there is a skills shortage. Recognising such challenges has led to the introduction of advanced and innovative methods to retain talent and work around the mobilisation issue. 

What has been your most memorable project so far?

Although I have been with Imdaad for a relatively short time, there have been several memorable projects. One of them is Tatwir — a learning and development program that was launched to shape the Imdaad’s future. In every organisation, there are people who stand out in terms of performance, people who are eager to take that next step and who are ready to fight and win when faced with a challenge.

Where do you see the FM industry in five years?

We are witnessing a wave of automation in most aspects of FM. Imdaad has, hence, stepped up its focus and investment in technology to complement the UAE’s smart government initiatives. In addition, the sector is moving towards energy management. And this could have an impact on human capital in terms of recruitment of skilled and knowledgeable employees who are able to evolve their learning to meet changing needs.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy the various activities and facilities in Dubai — going skiing at the Mall of the Emirates and visiting the natural landscapes in the UAE like Sir Bani Yas Island also count among my favorite pastimes.