CEO TALK: Charting path to growth and people empowerment

APRIL 20

From humble beginnings as a rig worker to the helm of a diversified energy group, Azzan Moghrob Rashid al Asmy’s journey to leadership is a powerful testament to determination, grit, and vision. In 1998, Al Asmy began his career on the ground as a "roughneck" in a drilling rig, where he experienced firsthand the stark disparity in living and working conditions between junior and senior staff.

“We were four to a room in shared portacabins with limited showers and communal toilets. Even food was served differently. While senior staff had privacy and comfort, we had to queue for basic needs,” he recalled. But rather than discouraging him, these early hardships became the foundation of a dream—to one day become a leader who could change the status quo. Inspired not only by his personal experiences but also by the career path of his father, who rose from junior staff to Well Engineering Director at PDO, Al Asmy committed himself to education and professional development, eventually earning a BSc in Mechatronics from Caledonian University in 2006.

In an exclusive interview with the Observer, Al Asmy traced his path through the energy industry, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership philosophy. “I always asked myself—what do these people have that I don’t? That question became my driving force,” he said.

After rejoining the industry as senior staff, he quickly ascended through roles in well testing, business development, production technology, and asset management across companies like MBPS and Petrogas Rima. His career took a decisive turn when he accepted the role of General Manager at Hema Energy—a major shift he initially hesitated to take. “But with guidance from wise mentors and lessons from past leaders like Ahmed Al Kharusi, I took the leap,” he shared. Today, he serves as Group Managing Director at Hema Energy Group, which now spans 11 companies across consultancy, manufacturing, services, green energy, and exploration and production.

Among his proudest achievements at Hema Energy is the successful diversification of the company’s portfolio. “We have expanded our product lines, signed important agreements, and localized key technologies,” Al Asmy noted. He places significant emphasis on empowering his team, improving post-sales relationships, and investing in market intelligence.

Under his leadership, the company closed its 2024 financial year in the black—a milestone that brought smiles to shareholders and boosted team morale. “We’re already a year ahead in our strategy to expand into Bahrain and Kuwait, with pilot projects expected this year,” he said, adding that the positive energy within the office is palpable even to visitors.

Al Asmy attributes much of this success to his leadership style, which is rooted in empathy and teamwork. “The biggest challenge in leadership is managing people. You need to be part of the team. Praise in public, correct in private,” he advised. He believes in leading by example and encourages employees to learn from their mistakes.

“Welfare is my top priority. We are one of the few service companies that allow one day per week of remote work. And if someone finishes their tasks early, they can go home. It's about output, not hours.”

His early career highlight—a technical report praised by a GM as superior to the company’s own documentation—remains a reminder of the power of diligence. But Al Asmy is more focused on what lies ahead. “My vision is for Hema Energy to become a leading name in the regional energy sector and ultimately a globally recognized brand,” he said.

He also offered advice for aspiring CEOs: “Nothing is impossible. Step out of your comfort zone. Once you become a leader, give your people the chances you didn’t get—and watch the magic happen.” As for balance, Al Asmy lives by the mantra, “Make a life while you’re making a living.” Whether it’s a half-day break or time with family, he believes in recharging regularly to stay effective at work.

In an industry known for volatility and complexity, Azzan Moghrob Rashid al Asmy’s journey is a compelling reminder that leadership isn’t just about rising—it’s about lifting others along the way.