CEO TALK: Transforming leadership: The power of cultural shift

Observer

16-03-2025

MUSCAT: Cultural transformation is one of the most powerful drivers of business success, and Mohammed al Hinai, CEO of Marsh McLennan Oman, has made it a cornerstone of his leadership. Since taking the helm in 2021, he has led a fundamental shift from a complacent mindset to a proactive, client-focused culture—an approach that has fueled double-digit growth for three consecutive years. In an interview with Oman Observer, Al Hinai shared how this transformation, alongside strategic talent development and a commitment to continuous learning, has shaped both his leadership and the company's trajectory.
Al Hinai's leadership journey is one marked by continuous learning and strategic reinvention. From investment analysis in the oil and gas sector to managing mega projects with Rio Tinto Alcan in Montreal, and later completing an Executive MBA at INSEAD, he has cultivated a broad perspective on leadership. His participation in the prestigious National CEO Programme further refined his approach, allowing him to collaborate with top Omani executives and gain global insights from London and Sweden.
REBUILDING ORGANISATIONAL CULTURE
Reflecting on his impact, Al Hinai identified the cultural transformation as a defining milestone. 'When I joined in 2021, I recognised that there was a sense of complacency that needed to be addressed. We had to shift the mindset towards proactive client service and continuous improvement,' he said. This cultural overhaul not only improved service delivery but also translated into sustained business growth.
A key element of this transformation was prioritising a consultative approach over a purely transactional one. 'We moved beyond just providing insurance solutions—we embedded ourselves in our clients' journeys, ensuring that risk management became an integral part of their business strategy,' Al Hinai explained. A major focus was enhancing claims management, reinforcing the company's role as a trusted advisor rather than just a service provider.
INVESTING IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
Beyond client relations, Al Hinai's leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in talent development. Under his direction, Marsh McLennan Oman launched a Graduate Development Programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of industry leaders. 'Investing in young talent is one of the most impactful things we can do as leaders. We created an 18-month programme to bring in top graduates and equip them with the skills to drive our business forward,' he shared.
This focus on talent development extends beyond his current role. During his time at OQ and Oman Oil, Al Hinai ensured that young analysts and fresh graduates were given leadership opportunities early in their careers. 'I made it a point to push young professionals into high-stakes environments—getting them to lead presentations and manage key projects. Today, many of them are running major departments, and that, to me, is a legacy worth building,' he said.
OVERCOMING RESISTANCE TO CHANGE
The journey of transformation, however, was not without challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was shifting entrenched mindsets resistant to change. 'There is always hesitation when you try to disrupt the status quo. But by promoting accountability, curiosity, and adaptability, we gradually built a culture where innovation and service excellence became the norm,' he noted.
For aspiring CEOs, Al Hinai's advice is clear: embrace discomfort and seek diverse experiences. 'Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Take on roles that challenge you, work with teams that push your thinking, and never shy away from calculated risks,' he advised. He also underscored the importance of resilience. 'Every leader will face setbacks, but the key is to view them as learning opportunities rather than failures.'
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, Al Hinai envisions continued innovation and growth. As industries navigate increasing complexities—ranging from regulatory shifts to digital transformation—he believes risk advisory services will play an even more critical role. 'We want to be more than just a safety net for businesses; we want to be the strategic partner that empowers them to thrive in uncertain environments,' he said.
Beyond corporate success, Al Hinai maintains a firm commitment to personal growth and balance. He prioritises continuous learning through reading, networking, and reflecting on experiences. Travel, he noted, has been a powerful tool for gaining fresh perspectives. 'Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about evolving as a person. Ensuring that I dedicate time to learning, to my family, and to new experiences helps me stay grounded,' he reflected.
Ultimately, Al Hinai's leadership exemplifies the impact of cultural transformation. By fostering a mindset of innovation, accountability, and client-centricity, he has not only driven business success but also reshaped the company's future. As he succinctly put it: 'Great organisations aren't built on transactions; they're built on trust, and trust is built through consistency, engagement, and a relentless commitment to excellence.'