Arab Finance: The management consulting sector in the Middle East is growing, fueled by robust economic growth, regulatory shifts in the financial sector, digital transformation initiatives, and increased public investment. The management consulting services market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is projected to reach $9.75 billion in 2023, with expectations to grow to $11.98 billion by 2028, according to McKinsey Market Research and Reports.

In light of this trend, Arab Finance interviewed Mamdouh Anbar, Founder of Mad-Era, as he shares insights into the company's unique offerings and innovative approaches that distinguish it from conventional consulting firms.

In the interview, Anbar emphasizes Mad-Era's dedication to sustainability. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities currently facing businesses in Egypt, particularly in the real estate, manufacturing, and technology sectors, where the firm aims to foster growth and innovation.

1-What inspired you to establish Mad-Era, and what gap in the market did you aim to fill?

The inspiration behind establishing Mad-Era stems from our commitment to "Making a Difference," as reflected in the company’s name, with "Mad" standing for this mission and "Era" symbolizing a new covenant in business practices.

Our founders recognized a significant gap in the Egyptian market, particularly the need for transparency and efficiency in business operations.

In the rapidly evolving landscape driven by technology, many businesses were still entrenched in outdated practices. We aimed to bridge this gap by introducing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and adapt quickly to market demands.

Our focus is on addressing the critical challenges of project management, particularly as outlined in the Project Management Triangle, which emphasizes the balance of scope, time, and cost.

2-Can you explain Mad-Era's unique value proposition in the consulting industry within Egypt and the MENA region?

Mad-Era's unique value proposition in the consulting industry stems from its status as the first platform of its kind in Egypt, offering a comprehensive suite of up to 45 services across eight different sectors. This extensive range allows Mad-Era to cater to a diverse clientele, addressing various business needs effectively.

The firm prides itself on providing a "Bird’s Eye View" of the market, leveraging the extensive experience and expertise of its large team, which includes both local and international professionals. This breadth of knowledge enables Mad-Era to deliver insights and solutions that are not only innovative but also tailored to the specific challenges faced by businesses in the region.

By combining this wide array of services with a deep understanding of local market dynamics, Mad-Era positions itself as a pivotal partner for organizations looking to navigate complexities and achieve sustainable growth in Egypt and the MENA region. This approach ensures that clients benefit from both strategic oversight and practical support, making Mad-Era a distinctive player in the consulting landscape.

3-How does Mad-Era differentiate itself from other consulting firms operating in Egypt?

Mad-Era differentiates itself from other consulting firms by positioning itself not merely as a consulting entity, but as a collective of companies dedicated to serving all types of businesses with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

While many consulting firms focus solely on providing advice, we go beyond that by integrating sustainable practices into our services. This commitment ensures that our clients not only achieve immediate business goals but also contribute positively to their communities and the environment.

Our diverse and innovative 45 services include establishing investment and offshore companies. This service includes navigating legal requirements, facilitating the registration process, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. By assisting clients in this area, Mad-Era enables them to expand their operations and access new markets effectively.

Another innovative service offered by Mad-Era is its consulting on business management systems. This involves analyzing a company's existing processes and recommending tailored solutions that enhance operational efficiency. The focus is on integrating technology and best practices to streamline workflows, improve productivity, and foster sustainable growth.

4-In what ways does your partnership with international firms enhance the services offered by Mad-Era?

Mad-Era works with many well-established companies and government institutions in Egypt. Our partnerships with international companies like Lafarge are instrumental in enhancing the services we offer at Mad-Era.

These collaborations play a crucial role in several key areas:

• Cultural Enrichment: By working with international companies, we bring diverse perspectives and practices into our organization. This cultural exchange enriches our team and improves the overall work environment, fostering innovation and creativity.
• Technological Advancements: International partners help us stay abreast of modern technologies and best practices in the consulting industry. This allows us to integrate cutting-edge solutions into our services, ensuring our clients benefit from the latest advancements.
• Global Recognition: Partnering with well-known international firms accelerates the spread of our brand on a global scale. This increased visibility not only enhances our reputation but also instills confidence in our clients regarding the quality of our services.

5-Can you share some success stories of businesses that have benefited from your consulting services?

One notable success story involves a coffee factory located in the Fifth Settlement. Our partnership with this business began with crucial steps, including the allocation of land and the appointment of a qualified quality manager to oversee operations.

We helped the factory implement ISO standards, ensuring that their processes met international quality benchmarks. This focus on quality not only improved their production but also enhanced their marketability.

As a result, their products are highly sought after both in Egypt and internationally. The factory has successfully expanded its reach, with products being exported outside Egypt, reflecting a strong demand for their offerings.

Currently, we are assisting them in the expansion phase of their second branch, further solidifying their position in the market. This success story exemplifies how our tailored consulting services can drive significant growth and open new opportunities for businesses in the region.

6-How does your team approach consultation differently when dealing with startups versus established companies?

At Mad-Era, our approach to consultation is tailored to meet the distinct needs of both startups and established companies, reflecting our commitment to fostering a diverse business ecosystem.

For startups, our team, comprising both employees and consultants, serves as their primary support system. We recognize that startups often face unique challenges, and one of our core principles is to fight against monopolies while promoting equal opportunities.

We focus on empowering these emerging businesses by providing them with the resources, knowledge, and mentorship they need to navigate the market effectively. This includes helping them refine their business models, develop innovative products, and establish a strong market presence.

In contrast, when working with established companies, our approach shifts towards supporting and enhancing their existing products and services. We aim to improve operational efficiencies and drive innovation, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing market.

Our goal is to help these companies adapt to new trends and challenges, ultimately contributing to a stronger national economic interface.

7-What challenges do Egyptian businesses face today, and how can consultation help them navigate these challenges?

Egyptian businesses today face several significant challenges, with currency instability and routine operational practices being among the most pressing issues. These factors can hinder growth and competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic market.

Mad-Era, as an experienced consulting firm, addresses these challenges through a robust approach that emphasizes strong structuring and the effective application of sustainability principles. By focusing on these areas, Mad-Era helps businesses navigate the complexities of the current economic landscape.

The firm works closely with clients to create greater export opportunities, which is essential in mitigating the impact of currency fluctuations. By enhancing operational efficiency and adopting innovative practices, Mad-Era equips businesses to adapt to market changes and seize new growth avenues.

8-What skills or methodologies do you believe will be crucial for consultants to stay relevant in the coming years?

To remain relevant in the coming years, consultants must focus on several key skills and methodologies aligned with the directives and vision of the Egyptian state. These include:

• Localization of Industries: This involves understanding regional needs and tailoring strategies that resonate with local consumers, ensuring that products and services are culturally relevant.
• Export Support: Consultants should be skilled in supporting businesses to enhance their export capabilities. This includes navigating regulatory requirements, identifying target markets, and developing strategies for successful market entry.
• Business Sustainability: This involves advising companies on how to implement sustainable practices that not only comply with regulations but also contribute to long-term profitability and environmental stewardship.
• Climate-Friendly Business Practices: This includes integrating green technologies and sustainable resource management into business operations.

9-Finally, what advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs or business leaders in Egypt?

My advice to young people and startups in Egypt is simple yet powerful: “Tomorrow is too late; it is now or never.”

In today’s fast-paced business environment, taking initiative, leveraging technology, commitment, and building a strong network are crucial to start a successful business.

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