Whenever Abou Ghaly Motors is mentioned, it brings to mind industry-defining innovations in mobility and a legacy of excellence. For over 30 years, Mohamed Abou Ghaly has not only transformed his company but reshaped Egypt’s automotive landscape by introducing cutting-edge mobility solutions. As CEO, Board Member, and Senator, he has led AGM’s evolution from a traditional automotive dealer into a leader in integrated mobility, forging partnerships with global brands and pioneering initiatives like London Cab and SIXT.
In this exclusive conversation with ELLE, Mohamed Abou Ghaly reflects on his leadership journey, his company’s growth, and his vision for the future of mobility in Egypt.
A JOURNEY DEFINED BY COMMITMENT AND CONSISTENCY
Abou Ghaly’s mantra, “Commitment will make you start, consistency will make you finish,” serves as a guiding principle in both his personal and professional life. “When you commit to something, you take the first step,” he reflects. “But it’s the consistency, the ongoing effort, that allows you to reach your goals. It’s a crucial part of any business journey, and it’s how you continue to grow and succeed.”
“My first car was a Fiat Fiora 127.” “It was a famous car back then, and I always believed in starting small and growing bigger,” Abou Ghaly recalls, acknowledging the importance of gradual progress in any entrepreneurial venture.
NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND LEADERSHIP EVOLUTION
Abou Ghaly’s early career was marked by numerous challenges, but it was his ability to motivate himself and grow that allowed him to overcome obstacles. “The most challenging part was not the external hurdles, but how you grow as a person, how you stay motivated to be better every day,” he says, offering a glimpse into the mindset that has driven his success.
His management style, which has evolved over the years, is now more collaborative. “Well, I could initially describe it as a very tactical and directive approach, but over time, I shifted towards a more collaborative and transformational leadership style,” Abou Ghaly explains. “The ability to work with others, share ideas, and empower your team is key to achieving sustainable success.”
THE KEY TO SUCCESS IN EGYPT’S AUTOMOTIVE MARKET
According to Abou Ghaly, agility is the secret to success in the ever-changing Egyptian automotive market. “The market is full of surprises, with constant changes and shifts. If you’re not agile, you’ll be wiped out,” he asserts. “At AGM, we focus on adaptability and quick responses to market trends, which is vital in staying ahead.”
When discussing the gaps in the Egyptian car market, Abou Ghaly highlights the need for finance solutions to make cars more accessible. “Five years ago, we opened our own financing solutions “Abou Ghaly Finance” to bridge this gap and help more Egyptians own cars,” he says, stressing the importance of customer satisfaction in driving the success of his business.
LOOKING AHEAD: AGM’S AMBITIOUS FUTURE
As Abou Ghaly Motors continues to grow, Abou Ghaly envisions AGM expanding into a comprehensive mobility solutions provider. “We’re not just about cars anymore. We’re focused on offering integrated mobility solutions that make our customers’ lives easier and more connected,” he shares.
Looking to the future, Abou Ghaly has ambitious goals for the next 5 to 10 years. “We want to expand our services across the region,” he says confidently. “The products and services we offer are highly suitable for regional markets, and we plan to build on our success to make a real impact in the broader Middle East and Africa.”
HUMILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY AT THE CORE
Despite his remarkable achievements, Abou Ghaly remains grounded. “I don’t like the word ‘proud,’” he admits. “There are always seeds of failure within success. Success should never make you complacent.” For him, true fulfillment comes not from pride, but from the growth of his team and the positive impact they have on their customers’ lives.
Abou Ghaly’s dedication to improving the lives of his customers is reflected in the company’s efforts to offer tailored solutions. “The most rewarding part of my work is making a positive difference in people’s lives,” he says. “Whether it’s through providing affordable mobility options or creating a sense of trust and reliability, we are always focused on delivering value.”
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