Sumaira Isaacs, Regional Managing Director MCI Middle East & India

26/03/2010 United Arab Emirates

“We want to grow by 30% year on year”

On the occasion of this Gulf dedicated newsletter, BWMN decided to explore the talent of a key player in the region: Sumaira Isaacs, Regional Managing Director for MCI Middle East & India. The company first entered Dubai in 2006 and has strongly been expanding since. Isaacs defines for BWMN MCI’s strategy in the challenged market that is the Middle East.

BWMN: The MCI Dubai office opened in 2006, followed the year after by Abu Dhabi. Why did MCI decide to enter the Middle East Market in the first place?

Sumaira Isaacs: Dubai sits at the crossroads of the world between Asia/Europe/Africa. It was then an obvious choice. And we were right! In spite of the economic meltdown 2009 we broke even and in 2010, we will over perform, so it was the right decision. Our focus is primarily on Healthcare, but not ignoring the ICT sector.

BWMN: What solutions and consulting do you provide to corporate companies and association as a PCO and a DMC?

Sumaira Isaacs: We are trying to offer International best practices and solutions, but tailored on a local level. The bandwidth that we enjoy as being part of the MCI Group is much broader and holistic, when compared to our competition. Our accessibility and connectivity to instant knowledge and information is just one of the key factors why our clients choose us over other companies.

BWMN: How would you define MCI’s Middle East strategy for the next 2/3 years?

Sumaira Isaacs: Just one word: Bullish. We want to grow by 30% year on year, and have just finalized our 5-year business plan. Based on this, we are looking to expand in Saudi, Lebanon, Qatar and Jordan. Our region just received a major boost as it has been expanded to include India. So we are currently exploring common synergies and platforms with our 50 colleagues spread over 3 offices in this major growth economy.

www.mci-group.com