We recently interviewed Tarek Abou Zeinab, General Manager of Offices Zone Co-Working & Office Spaces. He also stays updated with the latest trends in the industry and follows the best practices to maintain exceptional position in the industry. Tarek shares a decade-long journey in this industry and has an impressive portfolio.
Besides that, he has gained an in-depth understanding and ideas about the industry internationally, having worked in several regions. His co-working space has excellent features that makes it unique and a top-notch one in the industry.
Join us as we dive deeper into his journey and learn more about Tarek Abou Zeinab through this interview below.
Tarek Abou Zeinab’s Co-Working Journey:
We started the interview by asking, “Can you share your journey as a Business Center/Co-Working Director and how you have effectively managed and grown co-working spaces?”
Tarek shared, “After joining IWG plc (Regus) in 2007, I started my journey in Bahrain. My main objective was to grasp the intricacies of the local business ecosystem. It was crucial to understand the unique requirements of our potential clients to cater to their specific needs. I realized the importance of providing flexible membership plans, state-of-the-art workspace designs, and impeccable customer service. As a result, our co-working spaces quickly became sought-after for professionals desiring flexible work environments.
As I transitioned to Oman and subsequently the UAE, I made it a priority to choose prime locations. Recognizing the significant role of technology, I ensured our spaces boasted high-speed internet and a top-notch tech infrastructure, making them alluring for digital nomads, startups, and established corporations alike. When I ascended to the role of Sales Director for Co-Working, I emphasized forging robust ties with corporate clients, understanding that providing customized solutions was the key to sustained growth.
This success was a stepping stone to my next role as the Country Manager, overseeing several nations in the MENA region. While each space embodied a distinct local charm, I was adamant about preserving the consistent global standards of our brand. One innovative step I took was introducing networking events, seminars, and workshops. These initiatives not only fostered a sense of community among our members but also became a hub for professional’s keen on collaboration.
To sum up, my journey in the co-working space realm was steered by an unwavering dedication to community-building, coupled with an agile approach to the ever-evolving market dynamics. This, I believe, has allowed me to create a significant and enduring imprint on the co-working industry across the MENA region.”
Approach To Leading Daily Operations
“With your focus on operations management, customer service, and business development, could you elaborate on your approach to leading teams and overseeing day-to-day operations?”
He replied, “Absolutely. When it comes to operations management, I firmly believe in setting a clear vision for the co-working spaces and ensuring the team comprehends this vision. Outlining specific goals and objectives that are congruent with the company’s mission provides a roadmap, ensuring everyone knows the direction they’re headed.
A significant part of my approach revolves around empowering team members. By delegating responsibilities and tasks based on their strengths and expertise, I instill a sense of ownership and trust. This not only bolsters morale but also allows the team to focus on more strategic aspects of the business.
Transparent communication stands at the core of my leadership style. This involves regular team meetings, focused one-on-one discussions, and maintaining open communication channels. Actively seeking feedback and practicing attentive listening ensures we maintain cohesion.
With a focus on customer service, I invest heavily in the team’s training and development. We consistently offer avenues for skill enhancement, ensuring our members experience top-notch service. After all, contented members are the backbone of our growth – they renew, they refer, and they spread positive word-of-mouth.
In terms of day-to-day operations, streamlining processes is crucial. I always emphasize reducing inefficiencies to ensure a consistent member experience. By closely monitoring critical metrics, such as occupancy rates, member feedback, and financial performance, we’re equipped with data-driven insights that inform our operational decisions.
The dynamic nature of the co-working industry necessitates agility. I always ensure we stay abreast of industry trends, adjusting our strategies to be in alignment with evolving market conditions and member needs.
A crucial part of overseeing operations is conflict resolution. I prioritize training my team to address issues promptly and professionally, ensuring member concerns are met with positivity and constructive solutions.
And while all these operational tasks are vital, I never overlook the importance of celebrating the team’s achievements. Acknowledging their hard work through verbal appreciation, tangible rewards, and career advancement opportunities reinforces a positive work environment. We also focus on fostering innovation and creativity, ensuring our co-working spaces stand out.
While short-term goals drive daily operations, I always keep an eye on the future. My strategic plan looks at market trends, potential expansion avenues, and possible challenges. This long-term vision acts as our north star, guiding sustainable growth. And as a final touch, I always champion the importance of a balanced life – leading by example and emphasizing the well-being of my team.”
First Co-Working Project for First Projects
We were intrigued to learn more about the importance of Tarek’s first co-working space project in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. We asked, “Could you share the significance of your co-working space project being the “1st Saudi Project” with complete Saudi ownership, development, and operation? How does this reflect the evolving business landscape in Saudi Arabia?”
He shared, “Launching the first co-working space project with complete Saudi ownership, development, and operation could carry several significant implications.
Saudi Arabia has been actively working towards diversifying its economy beyond oil dependency. Initiatives like this co-working project showcase the country’s commitment to nurturing local entrepreneurship and fostering a culture of innovation. Co-working spaces are ideal for small and medium businesses, large enterprises, government entities, startups, freelancers, to collaborate and grow. A project with complete Saudi ownership demonstrates a commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure for local entrepreneurs to thrive, marking towards job creation.
Being the first Saudi-owned co-working space project that involves development, fit-out, facility management, customer service, technology integration, and community building, may position Saudi Arabia as a competitive player in the global co-working industry, which showcases the country’s ability to create, manage, and deliver modern workspace solutions that meet international standards while catering to local needs.
Co-working spaces often serve as hubs for innovation and collaboration, contributing to a culture of innovation and creativity within Saudi Arabia. A successful Saudi-owned co-working space project could attract attention from international investors, signaling a favorable environment for foreign investment and partnerships. The project’s success could encourage the growth of a broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The government’s Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at achieving economic and social transformation, emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship, private sector growth, and creating an environment conducive to innovation – all of which a significant co-working project can contribute to.”
Having gathered extensive experience and knowledge in the co-working industry, Tarek found his next big opportunity in joining “First Projects” in December 2022. When asked why he chose to join this particular company, Tarek said, “First Projects presented a unique challenge and an exciting opportunity. Upon exploring their ongoing projects at www.almashria.com, I was deeply inspired by their vision and the scale at which they operate. The projects showcased not only the potential of the company but also resonated with my personal aspirations in the industry. Their dedication to innovation, community-building, and elevating the industry standards made my decision to be a part of their journey an easy one.”
He further added, “Following the success and learnings from our initial endeavors, we are thrilled to announce our upcoming project due by Dec 2023. This will be strategically located on Olaya Street, facing the iconic Kingdom Tower. With this addition, we are not only expanding our footprint but also bringing our unique coworking vision to one of the city’s most prestigious locations.”
Visualizing The Overall Functionality
“The project covers a substantial area of 50,000 square feet. How do you envision this space contributing to the overall experience and functionality of the co-working center?”
He shared, “A co-working space covering a substantial area of 50,000 square feet offers tremendous potential to create a dynamic and multifunctional environment that enhances the overall experience for its members. Here’s how this extensive space could contribute to the co-working center’s functionality and member experience.
- With such a large area, you can designate different zones for various types of work including, dedicated quiet zones for focused work, collaborative zones for team projects, etc. ensuring different work styles and preferences.
- A spacious co-working space allows for flexible design and layout options. This customization enhances the overall comfort and productivity of members.
- The substantial area can accommodate multiple meeting rooms of varying sizes. Having ample meeting spaces adds value to members who need professional settings for client meetings or team collaborations.
- With space to spare, you can include specialized facilities such as soundproof phone booths, video conferencing rooms, podcast studios, and creative rooms equipped with design tools, enhancing the convenience and capabilities of members.
- An ample co-working space is ideal for hosting regular networking events, workshops, and seminars, offering benefits from valuable learning opportunities and establishing a collaborative community.
- An expansive co-working space encourages member interaction and collaboration. Common areas like lounges, kitchenettes, and breakout zones become natural places for members to connect, exchange ideas, and form partnerships.
- Larger spaces allow for the inclusion of private offices and semi-private workspaces, accommodating a higher privacy level.
- Local art and cultural elements into the design with ample wall space can also be incorporated. This adds aesthetic appeal and creates a sense of place and identity for the co-working center.
- A significant area provides room for expansion and growth. As membership grows and evolves, you’ll have the space to accommodate new members and adapt to changing demands.
In summary, a co-working space covering 50,000 square feet offers the opportunity to create a versatile, inclusive, and vibrant workspace that caters to a diverse range of professionals and their needs, enhancing the overall experience and functionality of the co-working center.”
Planning To Provide Better Working Experience
To learn more about his plans to offer a better experience to his team members, we asked, “How do you plan to provide a convenient experience for the people working in your co-working space?”
Tarek shared, “Creating a convenient experience for people working in a co-working space is crucial for member satisfaction and retention. Here are several strategies we consider implementing to provide a seamless and convenient experience:
- Streamline the membership sign-up process with an online platform with clear instructions and guidance that allows potential members to easily browse membership options, select plans, and make payments.
- Develop a user-friendly mobile app that allows members to provide real-time updates on events, networking opportunities, reserve workspaces, and special offers.
- Implement an advanced booking system for meeting rooms, workstations, and other facilities.
- Utilize modern access control systems that allow members to enter the co-working space with a smartphone app or an access card, eliminating the need for physical keys and ensuring a smooth entry process.
- Offer reliable and high-speed internet connectivity throughout the co-working space, a prerequisite in today’s time.
- Have an on-site tech support team available to assist members with any IT-related issues, from setting up devices to troubleshooting connectivity problems.
- Provide access to collaboration tools and software facilitating remote work, communication, and project management.
- Create well-designed workspaces with ergonomic furniture, ample power outlets, and adequate lighting, to ensure convenience.
- Offer personalized services such as mail handling, phone answering, and virtual office services.
- Provide convenient amenities like printing and scanning services, stocked kitchenettes, and refreshment stations.
- Maintain centralized communication channels such as email newsletters, in-app notifications, and physical bulletin boards to inform members about important announcements.
- Actively seek feedback from members on their experience and use the insights to make continuous improvements, leading to active participation.
- Establish partnerships with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts and perks to your co-working space members.
By focusing on these strategies, we can create a co-working environment that not only meets the professional needs of your members but also makes their overall work experience more convenient, efficient, and enjoyable.
Tarek further continued, “In line with our vision of continuous expansion and offering innovative spaces, we are also thrilled to announce that we’re adding another 15,000 square feet in a very strategic area, introducing the concept of co-living with Array Suites. This new addition aims to offer a unique experience, merging functionality with community and modern aesthetics.”
Effective Teamwork
Taking the business forward toward success involves the contribution of an entire team. To learn how Tarek ensures a healthy balance between the team, we asked, “With more than 100 co-working spaces accommodating up to 500 employees, how do you ensure a balance between creating a collaborative atmosphere and maintaining privacy for individuals?”
He shared, “Balancing collaboration and privacy in our large network is achieved through several strategies. We design each space with zones tailored for varied work styles, from open areas for group work to quiet zones and private meeting rooms. Our range of workspace options, from open desks to private offices, ensures everyone finds a suitable spot.
A centralized booking system lets members reserve spaces, aligning their day with their privacy and collaboration needs. We’ve implemented noise management via acoustic paneling and soundproof booths, ensuring focused work isn’t disrupted.
To foster community, we host regular events in communal areas, while dedicated zones remain undisturbed for focused work. Clear community guidelines ensure a harmonious environment. Privacy is further enhanced with amenities like soundproof phone booths and private lounges.
For larger teams, customizable office spaces allow for personalization. Our membership plans are diverse, reflecting different work needs. Regular feedback from members informs our adaptations, ensuring our offerings stay relevant. Lastly, we ensure each member is familiar with our facilities from the start, enabling them to choose how and where they work best.”
Exposure To The GCC Region
“Your international experience is impressive. How has your exposure to various GCC, Middle East, and North/West Africa and UK regions influenced your approach to managing co-working spaces?”
He shared, “My extensive experience across diverse regions has deeply informed my approach to co-working management. Understanding varying cultural norms and practices has been pivotal. Each region has its own nuances in workspace design, privacy preferences, and community engagement, and I’ve tailored our offerings accordingly.
Navigating distinct local laws and business customs has been crucial. This doesn’t just ensure compliance but also helps in seamless integration into the local business landscape. Being exposed to varied market trends has enabled me to make decisions about pricing and expansion with a keen awareness of regional demands.
Having overseen co-working spaces in multiple locales, I’ve grasped the distinct needs and preferences of members from different backgrounds, which has proven invaluable. This regional variation isn’t just about preferences; there are unique regulatory challenges in every market. My international experience has equipped me to navigate these challenges, ensuring that our co-working spaces meet local standards while delivering consistent quality experiences.
Moreover, this exposure has been a conduit for innovative ideas. By observing practices across regions, I’ve introduced unique services and offerings to our spaces, setting us apart in a crowded market.
Lastly, working in varied economic and social landscapes has honed my resilience and crisis management skills. I’ve learned to merge the best practices from each region, offering a comprehensive and appealing co-working experience to a wide clientele.
In essence, my international experience has not only enriched my understanding of market dynamics but has also refined my operational strategies, ensuring adaptability and success in co-working management across regions.”
Tips For Beginners
Beginners starting in a similar field will find it inspiring and helpful to hear from experts like Tarek Abou Zeinab. So we asked, “Do you have any advice for beginners?”
He shared, “Certainly, For those venturing into the co-working or business management industry, it’s essential first to get a firm grasp on the industry’s nuances. A thorough research into its trends and potential challenges will provide a solid foundation for any venture.
Understanding who your target audience is and what unique value you can offer them can make all the difference. In a competitive landscape, finding your niche is vital. Equally crucial is selecting the right location for your co-working space. A location with high foot traffic, close to transportation, and business hubs can be a game-changer.
Utilizing modern technology can optimize operations and elevate the member experience. In today’s world, sustainability matters. Adopting eco-friendly practices can resonate with a growing base of environmentally-conscious members. The ability to pivot as the business landscape evolves ensures you’re always meeting member needs. Building relationships both within the industry and with local businesses can open doors to collaborations and growth.
Of course, the backbone of any successful venture is sound financial management. Monitoring expenses, revenue, and cash flow can set you up for long-term success. And remember, challenges are inevitable. Instead of seeing setbacks as failures, view them as learning opportunities.
Starting a coworking space or pursuing a career in business management requires dedication, creativity, and a willingness to learn. By providing value to your members, fostering a collaborative environment, and staying adaptable, you can set the foundation for a successful and fulfilling journey in the industry.”
Find Tarek Abou Zeinab on LinkedIn.
Find First Projects on LinkedIn or visit http://www.almashria.com.
