Author: CIO Times

It’s fascinating how our childhood experiences can shape our career paths in unexpected ways. Often, the passions and interests we explore as children lay the groundwork for the careers we pursue as adults. Childhood challenges and triumphs can significantly influence our professional trajectories. Even seemingly trivial hobbies and interests can leave lasting imprints. The curiosity and imagination that fuel these early passions often translate into innovative thinking and creativity in professional life.

As a young girl, Magdolin Boukhary would often visit her father’s office where she would watch him conduct interviews with potential flight attendants applying for Saudia Airlines. She was always intrigued by the questions he asked and the responses he received. Those moments left a lasting impression on me, though she eventually forgot about them, especially after her father passed away.

In her post-graduation days, Magdolin found herself working as an interpreter in the delivery ward of a large healthcare institution. Little did she know, she was gradually moving into a training and development role, which slowly drew her into the world of talent acquisition.

“A few years later, I received a call from my father’s secretary in Greece. She asked about how I was doing, and when I told her I was now working in HR, she burst out laughing. “I knew you would follow your passion,” she said. At that moment, I realized that HR had become more than just a job for me; it was a passion I had unknowingly pursued all along. Looking back, I see how those childhood experiences shaped my career path, connecting my past to my present in a way that feels both profound and meaningful,” recollects Magdolin.

Today Magdolin leads as the Chief People & Culture Officer at EVIQ, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering a positive and productive work environment. Her extensive career includes key HR roles at esteemed organizations such as King Abdulaziz Medical City, Saudi National Bank, and Binzagr Company. Magdolin is also a graduate of the 2030 Leaders program by MISK and a member of the Saudi Leadership Society. Known for her adeptness in navigating diverse cultural environments, she excels at unifying teams and dismantling barriers to enhance collaboration. 

Magdolin’s ability to synthesize analytical insights with interpersonal skills ensures robust support to management and the cultivation of strong, enduring relationships across all levels of a company.

The Company

EVIQ, the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company, is a joint venture between the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC). It is empowering the electric vehicle (EV) era in Saudi Arabia by operating in the infrastructure sector. As both a Charge Point Operator (CPO) and an eMobility Service Provider (EMSP), providing essential EV charging services to drivers across the kingdom.

Headquartered in Riyadh, EVIQ is dedicated to supporting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Saudi Arabia by building a nationwide network of fast-charging hubs. Its mission is to provide reliable, accessible, and wide-reaching EV fast-charging infrastructure, enabling EV drivers to confidently embrace electric mobility. By collaborating with various public and private players, EVIQ aims to create a robust EV ecosystem that aligns with the Kingdom’s sustainability goals.

Employee Engagement at EVIQ 

Magdolin and her team have implemented several key strategies at EVIQ to enhance employee engagement and retention. 

First and foremost, they prioritize open communication and feedback, creating a culture where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns. Regular check-ins and anonymous surveys allow them to gauge employee sentiment and address issues promptly. They also focus on providing meaningful learning and development opportunities, ensuring that employees have access to training programs that align with their career aspirations. This not only helps them grow professionally but also demonstrates our commitment to their success.

Additionally, EVIQ has introduced flexible work arrangements, recognizing that work-life balance is crucial for employee satisfaction. By offering options for remote work and flexible hours, it empowers employees to manage their personal and professional lives more effectively. To foster a sense of community, team-building activities, and social events are organized that encourage collaboration and relationships among colleagues. “We also celebrate achievements and milestones, which helps to create a positive and motivating work environment,” shares Magdolin.

Moreover, recognizing and rewarding employee contributions is a core part of EVIQ’s engagement strategy. Magdolin’s team is currently implementing a recognition program that highlights outstanding performance and encourages peer-to-peer recognition. This not only boosts morale but also reinforces a culture of appreciation. Through these comprehensive strategies, they aim to create an engaging workplace that values and retains its talented employees, ultimately driving organizational success.

Challenges as an HR Professional

Throughout her career as a Chief HR Officer, Magdolin has faced several significant challenges that have ultimately shaped her approach to leadership. One of the most prominent was navigating organizational change, especially during mergers and acquisitions. Aligning diverse corporate cultures while maintaining employee morale proved to be daunting. To overcome this, she implemented a comprehensive change management strategy that emphasized transparent communication. She involved employees in the transition process, fostering a sense of ownership and providing support. This approach not only helped ease the transition but also created a resilient workforce that embraced new directions.

Another challenge was adapting to technological disruption. In an era of rapid technological advancement, Magdolin found it crucial to integrate new tools and systems without losing sight of the human aspect of HR. She tackled this by investing in training programs that taught employees how to use new technologies while emphasizing the importance of interpersonal skills. This dual focus helped bridge the gap between digital transformation and human connection, fostering a harmonious workplace.

Fostering diversity and inclusion has also been a complex challenge. She recognized that creating a truly inclusive workplace requires sustained effort and commitment. To address unconscious biases within hiring practices and company culture, Magdolin championed diversity initiatives by implementing robust training programs and reevaluating recruitment strategies. Establishing metrics to track progress allowed her to foster an environment where diverse voices were heard and valued, driving meaningful change that enhanced both innovation and employee satisfaction.

Lastly, balancing compliance with employee advocacy has been a tricky endeavor. The ever-evolving landscape of labor laws and regulations often presents a challenge to maintain compliance while advocating for employees’ well-being. I adopted a proactive approach by staying informed about legislative changes and fostering open dialogue with employees. Involving them in discussions around policies and practices ensured that our compliance measures reflected our commitment to the workforce, ultimately cultivating trust and loyalty.

The Evolving Role of HR with Technology

The role of HR is evolving significantly with the rise of digital transformation and AI in the workplace. One of the most notable changes Magdolin observes is the shift toward data-driven decision-making. HR can leverage AI and analytics to gather insights from employee data, enabling more informed decisions regarding recruitment, performance management, and employee engagement. This transition allows HR to move from intuition-based decisions to data-driven strategies.

Additionally, AI tools are streamlining the recruitment process by automating resume screening, identifying the best candidates using predictive analytics, and enhancing candidate experience through chatbots. This automation frees HR professionals to focus more on strategic aspects of hiring rather than administrative tasks. Moreover, digital tools enable HR to offer personalized learning and development opportunities tailored to individual employee needs and career goals. AI can suggest customized training programs, helping employees grow and advance within the 

organization.

Improved employee engagement, says Magdolin, is another key benefit of digital transformation. Digital platforms facilitate better communication and feedback channels, promoting a more engaged workforce. HR can use AI-driven surveys and sentiment analysis to gauge employee satisfaction and address concerns proactively. The emphasis on flexibility and remote work has also become paramount. HR will play a crucial role in creating policies that support flexible work arrangements and ensuring that remote employees feel connected and engaged.

Keeping a Human-centric Approach 

Balancing the integration of technology with a human-centric approach in HR practices is essential for creating a supportive workplace. Magdolin and her team at EVIQ recognize that while technology can enhance efficiency and streamline processes, the human element remains vital to fostering strong relationships and understanding employee needs. To achieve this balance, they leverage technology to automate routine tasks, such as payroll and data management, which allows HR professionals to dedicate more time to personal interactions and strategic initiatives.

They also use technology to enhance communication, providing platforms for employee feedback and engagement that facilitate open dialogue. However, they ensure that these tools complement rather than replace personal connections. Regular face-to-face meetings and team-building activities are prioritized to maintain the interpersonal relationships that are crucial for a cohesive work environment.

Additionally, they emphasize training for HR staff to develop their emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, enabling them to use technology effectively while remaining empathetic and responsive to employee concerns. “By combining the efficiency of digital tools with a strong focus on human interactions, we create an HR approach that values both technological advancements and the essential human touch, ultimately fostering a more engaged and satisfied workforce,” says Magdolin.

Supporting Diversity and Inclusion

EVIQ is deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the organization, recognizing that a diverse workforce drives innovation and enhances overall performance. To support this commitment, it implements a range of initiatives aimed at creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and respected.

One of the primary ways EVIQ promotes diversity is through its recruitment practices. It actively seeks to attract candidates from varied backgrounds, ensuring that its hiring processes are free from bias. This includes utilizing diverse interview panels and employing recruitment strategies that reach underrepresented communities. By prioritizing diversity in its talent acquisition efforts, it aims to build a workforce that reflects the diverse perspectives and experiences of the broader society.

In addition to recruitment, EVIQ invests in training and development programs that emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion. “We offer awareness initiatives that educate employees about unconscious bias and cultural competency, fostering a culture of awareness and understanding. These programs encourage open dialogue about diversity-related issues, empowering employees to engage in meaningful conversations and learn from one another,” shares Magdolin.

Thoughts on the Future of Work 

The future of work, believes Magdolin, is set for transformative change, driven by technology advancements, shifting demographics, and evolving employee expectations. Key skills will become increasingly valuable as we navigate this landscape. Adaptability, she feels, will be essential; the ability to pivot in response to new technologies, market trends, and organizational changes will set successful professionals apart. This adaptability pairs with continuous learning, necessitated by the pace of change.

She feels that collaboration and communication skills will also be crucial. As remote and hybrid work models become more prevalent, effective virtual collaboration will require clear communication and cohesive teamwork across diverse teams. Emotional intelligence will play a significant role, allowing professionals to navigate interpersonal dynamics and foster strong relationships in a digital environment.

Moreover, digital literacy will be foundational across all industries. As automation and AI tools become integrated into daily operations, employees will need to leverage technology to enhance productivity and decision-making. This includes not only technical skills but also critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

“Finally, a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion will be paramount. Organizations prioritizing these values will benefit from varied perspectives and ideas, driving creativity and innovation. Professionals championing inclusive practices will shape the future workplace. In summary, the future of work will demand adaptability, collaboration, digital literacy, and a commitment to inclusion, positioning those who cultivate these skills for success,” predicts Magdolin.

Staying Updated

To stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in HR and talent management, Magdolin prioritizes several key strategies that promote continuous learning and professional development. One of the most effective ways she does this is by actively participating in industry conferences and seminars. These events are invaluable, as they allow her to hear from thought leaders and experts who share insights on emerging trends and innovative practices. Beyond gaining knowledge, these gatherings also provide fantastic networking opportunities that can lead to collaborative initiatives and partnerships.

Magdolin also makes it a point to engage with professional organizations and associations, such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Being a member of these organizations grants her access to exclusive resources, research reports, and best practice guidelines that inform her strategic decision-making. Engaging with her peers in these networks allows for a rich exchange of knowledge, where she can learn from their experiences and successes.

Reading industry publications, blogs, and research papers is another crucial aspect of her approach. By subscribing to leading HR magazines and online platforms, Magdolin can keep abreast of the latest developments, tools, and technologies that enhance HR practices. This ongoing education fosters a culture of innovation within her HR function, encouraging her to explore new methodologies and approaches.

“I believe in the importance of soliciting feedback from employees and conducting regular surveys. Understanding employee sentiment provides real-time insights into their needs and preferences, helping me identify areas for improvement and adapt our HR strategies accordingly. By combining these various approaches—attending events, engaging with professional networks, consuming relevant literature, and listening to employees—I can effectively stay updated on trends and best practices, ensuring that our organization remains competitive and responsive in the ever-evolving landscape of human resources,” shares Magdolin.

Goals Ahead

Magdolin and her team’s primary goal for the next five years is to cultivate a high-performance culture that not only attracts top talent but also fosters employee engagement and retention. They aim to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to contribute their best work and pursue their career aspirations. To achieve this, they are implementing several key strategies.

First, they are focusing on enhancing EVIQ’s talent acquisition processes to ensure they attract diverse and skilled candidates. This includes refining their recruitment strategies, utilizing data analytics to identify the best sources of talent, and actively engaging with underrepresented communities. By building a diverse workforce, they believe they can drive innovation and improve overall team performance.

Second, they are committed to investing in employee development. They are designing comprehensive training and leadership programs tailored to meet the needs of their employees at all levels. By providing opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement, they aim to boost employee engagement and satisfaction, which are crucial for retention.

Additionally, they are prioritizing employee feedback and well-being. They plan to implement regular pulse surveys to gauge employee sentiment and identify areas for improvement. This feedback loop will allow them to adapt their strategies in real time and ensure that they are addressing the needs of their workforce.

“Finally, fostering a culture of recognition and appreciation is essential. We are developing a robust recognition program that celebrates individual and team achievements, reinforcing a positive work environment. By focusing on these areas—talent acquisition, employee development, feedback mechanisms, and recognition—we are laying the groundwork to achieve our goal of a high-performance culture over the next five years,” concludes Magdolin.

Words of Experience

For young professionals aspiring to lead in HR, here are some key tips by Magdolin:

1. Build Strong Relationships: Effective HR leadership relies on trust and collaboration. Invest time in understanding your colleagues and networking within and outside your organization.
2. Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay updated on industry trends, attend workshops, and seek mentorship. This commitment to lifelong learning will help you adapt and innovate.
3. Develop Strategic Thinking: Align HR initiatives with organizational goals. Cultivating a strategic mindset will enable you to contribute meaningfully to business discussions and showcase HR as a strategic partner.
4. Value Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Connect with others, understand their perspectives, and foster an inclusive environment. These skills will set you apart and enhance your leadership effectiveness.

“By focusing on these areas, you can build a successful career in HR and make a significant impact on your organization,” she says.

A Quote to Live By:

“You can’t stop the future, you can’t rewind the past, the only way to find the sweet spot is to press play.” – Jay Maisel.

“This inspires me to embrace change and innovation in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking in HR practices,” concludes Magdolin.

Quote: “We are proud to be building Saudi’s first Kingdom-wide rapid charging network to change the way we move and empower our transition to electric vehicles.”

Quote: “We are building 1,000 charging points consisting of 5,000 EV chargers across the Kingdom by 2030, so we’ll be everywhere you need to be.”

Quote: “Through various strategies, EVIQ strives to create an inclusive workplace where every employee can thrive and contribute to our collective success.”

In a world where healthcare innovation is a cornerstone of societal progress, Noura Al Meraikhi, Chairwoman of Nexba Healthcare Supplies Industrial LLC, stands as a pioneer. Her journey from a technology specialist to the leader of a groundbreaking healthcare company highlights her unwavering commitment to sustainability, innovation, and improving lives. Under her stewardship, Nexba Healthcare has become a hallmark of excellence, providing sustainable and natural solutions to modern healthcare challenges. The company also utilizes state-of-the-art technology for white labeling, enabling customers to produce their own branded products.

With a robust background in Artificial Intelligence, Nanotechnology and healthcare transformation, Noura brings over a decade of expertise to Nexba. Her passion for technological integration and green innovation has redefined industry benchmarks, enabling her to transform Nexba into a global player in healthcare products, personal care, Baby Care and Cosmetics.

Through her leadership, Noura is building Nexba as not merely a company—it is a movement for healthier living, one that aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development and global leadership in healthcare innovation.

Building a Strong Foundation: Career Milestones

Noura’s career is built on a solid foundation of expertise in healthcare technology. Her journey began with impactful roles at the Department of Health (DOH) in Abu Dhabi, where she held positions ranging from Supervisor to Head of Business Applications. In these roles, she spearheaded the development and implementation of advanced IT systems, ensuring they were user-friendly and operationally effective.

Her tenure with DOH allowed her to work closely with key stakeholders to enhance healthcare accessibility and efficiency. By designing solutions that streamlined processes, Noura contributed to significant improvements in public health service delivery.

In addition to her work at DOH, Noura played a vital role in several transformative projects at Abu Dhabi Ports Company. These projects honed her ability to analyze risks, manage cross-functional teams, and align technology with organizational objectives. Her capability to drive large-scale initiatives has been instrumental in shaping her leadership style and strategic outlook.

Furthermore, Noura’s consulting work with one of Abu Dhabi’s premier IT firms and her role as a Board Member at ENS Group enriched her experience in delivering cutting-edge, AI-driven business applications. These ventures solidified her reputation as a thought leader in the intersection of technology and healthcare.

The Birth and Expansion of Nexba Healthcare: A Holistic Vision

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic marked a turning point in Noura’s career. Recognizing the urgent need for safe, effective, and affordable hygiene products, she founded Nexba Healthcare Industries LLC. What began as a response to a global crisis has evolved into a beacon of innovation in the healthcare sector.

Noura’s vision for Nexba was clear: to create products that combine cutting-edge technology with natural, sustainable ingredients. Her mission was not just to meet immediate needs but to set new standards for health, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Under her leadership, Nexba introduced Green Nanotechnology to the UAE healthcare market, pioneering the development of advanced hygiene products. These include disinfectants and sanitizers free from harsh chemicals and high alcohol content, ensuring safety for users of all ages.

The company’s innovative approach was exemplified by the introduction of the Nanocare range, which integrates Silver Nanoparticles with natural ingredients. This product line provides affordable, effective alternatives to chemical-laden products, addressing the growing demand for safer, more sustainable personal care solutions.

Expanding Beyond Supplies: Nexba’s Entry into Diverse Industries

In just two years, Nexba Healthcare has grown from a supplier of hygiene and medical products to a multi-industry leader, diversifying its offerings to meet broader community health and wellness needs. These expansions reflect Nexba’s vision of redefining healthcare through sustainability and innovation:

1. Cosmetics and Personal Care:

Nexba has entered the beauty and skincare industry with Green Nanotechnology-powered products that address modern consumers’ demand for environmentally conscious and effective solutions. From anti-aging creams to hydration masks, Nexba’s cosmetics combine advanced scientific innovation with natural ingredients to deliver high-performing, eco-friendly products. The focus is on creating a balance between scientific advancement and sustainable practices, ensuring these products provide long-lasting results while minimizing environmental harm.

2. Natural Nutraceuticals:

Responding to the rising global demand for holistic health, Nexba has developed a range of natural health supplements. These nutraceuticals, infused with nanotechnology, focus on improving wellness by enhancing nutrient absorption and supporting immunity, skin health, and overall vitality. This line is designed for health-conscious individuals seeking safe and effective ways to elevate their quality of life. Nexba’s products in this category are crafted with precision, ensuring they cater to both general wellness and specific health needs.

3. Utilized Medical Graded Equipment:

Nexba’s foray into medical equipment includes manufacturing advanced, precision-engineered tools and devices that enhance clinical efficiency and patient care. These products, designed with sustainable manufacturing practices, reflect Nexba’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. From diagnostic tools to sterilization devices, Nexba’s equipment is built to meet the needs of modern healthcare facilities while maintaining affordability and reliability.

Nanotechnology: A Catalyst for Healthcare Transformation

At the core of Nexba’s success is Green Nanotechnology, a revolutionary approach to healthcare that enables solutions at the molecular level. By leveraging nanotechnology, Nexba creates products with enhanced efficacy, no side effects, non-alcoholic formulations, and bio-organic ingredients, all while ensuring greater sustainability.

Key Innovations by Nexba Brands:

• NanoSeha: A line of hygiene solutions, including disinfectants and sanitizers, designed to provide maximum protection while remaining gentle and eco-friendly.
• Nanocare: A personal care product range, including baby care, that caters to all skin types and age groups. It focuses on long-term benefits through advanced formulations.

Nexba’s state-of-the-art integrated R&D facility, the first of its kind in the Middle East for Green Nanotechnology in cosmetics and personal care, drives these innovations. This research hub enables Nexba to stay ahead of global trends, ensuring that its products consistently set new benchmarks for quality and sustainability.

Customers interested in creating their own brand or label products can take advantage of Nexba’s white labeling and private labeling services.

The integration of Silver Nanoparticles across product lines is a testament to Nexba’s dedication to harnessing technology for better health. These nanoparticles enhance antimicrobial properties, ensuring superior safety while protecting the skin’s natural barrier.

A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

Nexba’s commitment to quality and sustainability is unwavering. The company’s rigorous quality assurance processes, adherence to international standards, and certifications such as GMP & ISO ensure that its products are safe, reliable, and effective.

Nexba’s sustainability initiatives include:

• Using natural, biodegradable ingredients in product formulations.
• Implementing eco-friendly packaging to reduce environmental impact.
• Minimizing the use of harmful chemicals in manufacturing processes.

The company has also committed to reducing its carbon footprint by optimizing production methods and sourcing sustainable materials. These efforts underscore Nexba’s dedication to creating a healthier world, both for its customers and the planet.

Empowering Communities Through Innovation

Noura believes that healthcare innovation should serve the community. Nexba’s products are designed to address critical gaps in healthcare accessibility, particularly for vulnerable populations. By focusing on affordability and efficacy, Nexba ensures that high-quality healthcare solutions are within reach for everyone.

Beyond its products, Nexba actively engages with communities through public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations. These programs are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Future Vision: Scaling New Heights

As Nexba looks to the future, Noura’s vision is bold and transformative. The company’s goals include expanding its product portfolio, entering new markets across the GCC, MENA, and beyond, and enhancing its digital presence to reach a wider audience.

Nexba’s roadmap focuses on:

• Scaling production to meet growing international demand.

• Partnering with global organizations to introduce innovative, sustainable healthcare solutions.

• Developing customized products that address emerging healthcare challenges.

“Our mission is to redefine healthy living,” says Noura. “We aim to combine innovation with sustainability to create solutions that meet today’s needs while building a healthier tomorrow.”

Final Words from the Chairwoman

Noura Al Meraikhi’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and leadership. Her dedication to creating sustainable, natural healthcare solutions reflects her unwavering commitment to community well-being and environmental stewardship.

“Our success lies in our ability to innovate and adapt,” she says. “At Nexba, we are not just creating products; we are building trust and delivering solutions that make a tangible difference in people’s lives. As a proud ‘Made in UAE’ brand, we are committed to showcasing the best of what our region has to offer.”

On the role of nanotechnology, Noura adds: “NanoSeha and Nanocare are more than just product lines—they represent a new era of preventive healthcare. By leveraging nanotechnology, we address critical challenges in personal care and hygiene with products that are safe, effective, and sustainable.”

A Legacy of Excellence

Through her leadership at Nexba Healthcare Industrial LLC, Noura Al Meraikhi has redefined industry standards, proving that sustainability, innovation, and success can go hand in hand. Her vision ensures that Nexba will remain a trailblazer in the global healthcare landscape, empowering communities with sustainable, natural, and innovative solutions for generations to come.