Samir graduated with a Masters Degree from INSA School of Engineering in France. Following his graduation, Samir worked as a project manager for several internationally renowned companies such as Air France, France Telecom and Bouygues. He later on returned back to Lebanon and worked for FTML as OD Director - where he developed and implemented the company's TQM Model- before moving to INVESTOM (currently known as M1 Group) as director of HR & Organization. His prime responsibilities today include setting the organizational strategy of the group and developing the human talent methodology.
How do you like living and working in Lebanon?
Lebanon is a multicultural country lodging a pool of talented and energetic professionals, and despite Lebanon's continuous political instability, its citizens maintain a solid belief system in their country and this is the exact reason why I have returned to Lebanon in 1997. My aim was- and remains- to participate in the development of our nation by enhancing and promoting organizational awareness in national companies .
What is your average day at work like?
M1 maintains a family spirit that distinguishes it from other practices, thus allowing a balanced working life for all its staff. We believe in our people's capabilities, and thus, in return, job commitment and employee loyalty are always achieved. My day at work is like any other dedicated director, challenging, demanding and most definitely exciting!
What is your biggest professional challenge?
Globally, HR went through many transformations, from personnel administration to service provider to strategic business partner, managing and developing Human Capital. My challenge is to reinforce the positioning of HR as a strategic partner to any business.
What is the most important thing you look for in new hires?
Behavior is key. Technical skills and talent constitute a large fraction in the decision making process, however integrity and a “can do” spirit closes the deal.
What is the biggest challenge you face in hiring talent?
The nature of our business is somewhat complex. Finding the incumbent with the appropriate expertise, and cultural know-how takes quite some time.
What is your favorite part of your role?
Organization Strategy. Participating in the company's strategy analysis and definition is an essential and constant learning tool for any director, not only is it an exciting challenge but a gratifying development to one's function and career.
What has been the highlight of your career in HR?
When I worked in 1997 on Total Quality Management based on EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) model, I recognized that the management of human capital has a profound impact on any business. This intangible asset is the foundation for any company wishing to achieve an Economic Added Value.
What do you read to keep abreast of industry developments?
As many articles as possible, and certainly books. The last 2 were "Beyond HR"- John Boudreau, Peter Ramstad and "Brillant NLP"- David Molden
What is your advice to someone looking to enter the field of HR?
I would stress on the following attributes: Flexible, rigorous and methodical , culture conscious, tolerant, Compassionate, and exemplifies company's values.
How is the Middle East evolving as a place to practice HR?
There has been a drastic improvement in the Middle East, however some executives and entrepreneurs still regard Human Resources as a service provider rather than a Strategic Business Partner and are focused on profit margins rather than Human Capital. The corner stone of any sustainable organization remains talent management, and it is our responsibility to continue demonstrating to our business partners that investing in HR yields substantial returns.
If you could wave your magic stick and make a significant development in one specific area of HR practices worldwide, where would that fall?
HR should be an integral force of any institution, from analyzing to defining and implementing strategies.
Anything else you'd like to share with the community of Bayt.com Employers?
I wish to thank Bayt for its initiatives and for actively evolving the literacy on HR in the region.
