Interview with Ms Maheen Rahman — CEO, Alfalah GHP Investment Management Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]About Alfalah GHP Investment Management Limited: The Company is licensed by SECP under the Non-Banking Finance Companies (Establishment and Regulation) Rules, 2003 (NBFC Rules). It was incorporated on October 18, 2004 as a public limited company under the Companies Ordinance, 1984. The sponsor of Alfalah GHP Investment Management Ltd is Bank Alfalah Limited. Other shareholders include GHP Beteiligungen Limited and MAB Investments Inc. At present, the company is managing total assets of PKR 50 billion (approx USD 474 million) through various mutual funds schemes…
Author: Khalil Ahmed
Interview with Dr Amjad Waheed — CFA, Chief Executive Officer, NBP Fullerton Asset Management Limited (NAFA) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Dr Amjad Waheed holds a doctorate in Investments & Finance from Southern Illinois University, USA, and is also a Chartered Financial Analyst. For last eleven years, he is CEO of NBP Fullerton Asset Management Ltd (NAFA), which is a subsidiary of National Bank of Pakistan, with Fullerton Fund Management Company of Singapore as the other joint venture partner. NAFA is presently managing twenty mutual and pension funds, and several portfolios. Total assets under management of NAFA are presently about…
MUFAP is making significant contributions and regulated the industry norms to great extent Interview with Ms Mashmooma Zehra Majeed — CFA, FRM, Chief Executive Officer, Mutual Funds Association of Pakistan (MUFAP) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Ms. Mashmooma Zehra Majeed joined MUFAP in 2012 as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the association. She has been associated with the asset management industry in Pakistan for over fifteen years with her forte being investment management and product development. She has played an instrumental role in launching the first Islamic open-end mutual fund in Pakistan as well as the launch of the…
Interview with Mr Khalid Tawab (Sitara-e-Imtiaz) – Chairman, Tawab Group of Companies [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Khalid Tawab is Chairman of Tawab Group of Companies which is renowned for the manufacturing of paper, board and steel. He has served as Senior Vice President and Vice President of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) and Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry ( KCCI). He is also an honorary Consul General of Mozambique since 1989. President of Pakistan awarded him Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2009 in recognition of his outstanding public services. His company got two times FPCCI Export…
Interview with Sheikh Nisar Ahmed ParchamWalay – Managing Director, VIP FLAGS [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Sheikh Nisar Ahmed ParchamWalay was born in Delhi, India in August 1947. He completed graduation in 1965 and migrated to Pakistan in 1967 with no money in hand. He started his business first by taking experience in a textile mill and after two years, he was able to start his own factory initially with 4 power looms and then gradually increased number of looms and production in cloth industry. In 1985, he set up his company named VIP FLAGS and started his flag business.…
Interview with Muhammad Talib Ahmed – Chief Executive Officer, Affan Traders [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Muhammad Talib Ahmed, a young entrepreneur, set up his organization named Affan Traders in 2016, which is a surgical items’ wholesale supplier in Karachi and Lahore and would be giving service throughout Pakistan in future.[/box] PAGE: WHAT ARE YOUR FEELINGS AS YOUTH REGARDING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE INDEPENDENCE DAY? MUHAMMAD TALIB AHMED: 14th August may be an ordinary date of the English calendar for the rest of the world but it holds immense importance in the life of every Pakistani as it is the independence…
Interview with Dr Syed Arif Hussain – CEO, Excel Insurance Company Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Dr Syed Arif Hussain is a motivated person bringing to Excel Insurance Company Limited his expertise in management, resource development, marketing and execution of business strategies. His professional experience is spread over 20 years at progressive senior level positions and has the experience of underwriting, reinsurance, claims management and marketing with the State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan. He has been proactively involved in the operations of a Family Takaful Company, Dawood Family Takaful Limited since its inception and as a Chief Executive…
Interview with Mr Hasanali Abdullah — Managing Director, EFU General Insurance Ltd and Chairman, Insurance Association of Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Hasanali Abdullah is Chartered Accountant and Certified Director from Pakistan Institute of Corporate Governance (PICG). He has been associated with EFU General Insurance Limited since 1979 and is Managing Director & Chief Executive of the Company since 2011. He is also a Director of EFU Life Assurance Ltd, Allianz EFU Health Insurance Ltd, EFU Services (Private) Ltd, Tourism Promotion Services (Pakistan) Limited (owners of Serena Hotels), Honorary Treasurer of Aga Khan Hospital & Medical College Foundation,…
Gov should take responsibility of financial expenses of at least 25pc of students studying in the private sector Interview with Professor Mohammad Rais Alvi — Director, KASBIT PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND KASBIT, PLEASE: PROFESSOR MOHAMMAD RAIS ALVI: I have been working for the last 51 years in the field of education. I worked as college professor, Additional Secretary Government of Sindh, Executive District Officer (EDO) CDGK, Registrar University of Karachi, Guest Professor Tokyo University, Vice Chancellor Qalandar Shahbaz University and Rector Newports Institute. Currently, I am working as Director KASBIT (Khadim Ali Shah Bukhari Institute of Technology). I…
Interview with Mr Saim Amin –Manager Training, CORPORATE FORUM [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Saim Amin is one of the dynamic young entrepreneurs of Pakistan. He is co-founder of CORPORATE FORUM, one of the leading corporate training organizations in Pakistan. Having completed his education, he came up with an idea to launch a quality corporate training organization. He is hardly 29 years of age with a success story. His aim was to ensure quality corporate training with individual attention so that learning actually takes place.[/box] PAGE: WHAT MADE YOU COME UP WITH AN IDEA TO LAUNCH A CORPORATE TRAINING…
Interview with Mr Shamsuddin A. Shaikh – CEO, Engro Powergen Ltd, Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company & Thar Power Company Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE OF SHAMSUDDIN A. SHAIKH: Mr Shamsuddin A. Shaikh is the CEO of Engro Powergen Ltd, Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company & Thar Power Company Ltd. Prior to his current position, Mr. Shaikh was Senior Vice President at Engro Foods. He is Chairman of the Board of Directors of Engro Powergen Thar (Pvt) Limited and Engro Powergen Qadirpur Limited while he also serves on the Board of Directors of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company, Thar…
Interview with Mr Mahmood Baqi Moulvi – Chairman, M. M. Group of Companies PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR ORGANIZATION: MAHMOOD BAQI MOULVI: Allah ta’aIa has been very kind to me. I started my career as a cadet in the Merchant Navy in 1977 and after that joined a shipping company in Karachi. In 1985, I opened my own shipping company and then in 1995 became a ship owner and expanded my shipping business into ship demolishing as well. In 2000, I diversified into rice trade and Alhamdulillah became the top rice exporter from Pakistan for two consecutive…
Interview with Mr Irfan Siddiqui — President & CEO, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Irfan Siddiqui is the founding President and Chief Executive Officer of Meezan Bank. His educational background includes a Foundation Course in Accountancy from Sunderland, UK and he is a Fellow Chartered Accountant from Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales. He has served at a number of senior management positions including Chief Executive Officer at Al-Meezan Investment Bank Limited, as a General Manager at Pakistan Kuwait Investment Company, Manager Finance and Operation at Abu Dhabi Investment Company and Senior Business Analyst at Exxon…
Setting up export-oriented industries is the only way for economic growth for our country Interview with Mr Tanweer Haral — Head Strategic Marketing, National Rural Support Program (NRSP) Microfinance Bank Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Tanweer Haral is currently working as Head Strategic Marketing at NRSP Microfinance Bank Limited. He also worked for MCB Arif Habib Savings and Investments Limited spanning over 11 years where his last assignment was Head of Sales, Marketing. He even had the privilege of gaining a lot of experience in Corporate Banking with the leading banks for more than 6 years after completing…
Local food outlets taking more profits as to their foreign counterparts Interview with Mr Naim Anwar — President & CEO, Crescent Star Foods Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Naim Anwar has been in business for over last thirty years in various trades out of which major part of 22 years has been in insurance working in various roles from an agent to the current CEO level with an accounting background with vast corporate experience spread over all areas of finance to underwriting to reinsurance to sales and operations. CSIL (Crescent Star Insurance Ltd), the parent company is in…
Interview with Mr Rafiq Rangoonwala – President, Pakistan Food Association [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Rafiq Rangoonwala has been associated with the restaurant industry for last 37 years. He started his career with KFC in Houston, worked in Carribbean Region looking after English speaking island before moving to Cairo, Egypt as Franchise Service Manager for Egypt and Saudi Arabia, and then was promoted as Marketing Director for Middle East for KFC International in 1991. He overlooked KFC, Hardees, AMERICANA Chicken Tikka, TGI Fridays, and Harry Ramsdens in UAE before taking over KFC business in Pakistan as CEO for 15…
Interview with Muhammad Jawed Bilwani – Chairman, Pakistan Apparel Forum & spokesman of seven Industrial Associations of Karachi [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Muhammad Jawed Bilwani is the proprietor of M/s. J.B. Industries, one of the leading and prominent manufacturers and exporters of knitted garments and dyed fabric specializing in high quality knitting, stitching and dyeing with latest hi-tech machines. He is Chairman of Pakistan Apparel Forum; former Central Chairman & presently Chief Coordinator of Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers & Exporters Association; Board Member of SITE Ltd; President Haji Abdullah Haroon Muslim Gymkhana; former President Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and…
Interview with Mr Shamim Ahmed Firpo – President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry PAGE: KINDLY TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF: SHAMIM AHMED FIRPO: Besides discharging my services as President of Karachi Chamber, I am also the Chairman of M/s Firpo Private Limited and M/s Saeed Ghani. I am also the President of Pak-Ukraine Trade & Culture Information Center. My association with Karachi Chamber dates back to 2007 when I became part of Businessmen Group being led by its Chairman Mr. Siraj Kassam Teli. I have also served the business and industrial community of Karachi as Former Senior Vice Chairman KCCI,…
Under current plan, Sindh Bank foresees consumer financing to increase significantly by 2020 Interview with Mr Tariq Ahsan — President & CEO, Sindh Bank Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr. Tariq Ahsan has joined Sindh Bank Limited as Executive Vice President and Head of Treasury at its inception in December 2010 and was later appointed as its acting President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on April 15, 2016 and confirmed as its President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on July 29, 2016. During his tenure in the financial services industry, he has had versatile work experience of over 27…
Interview with Mr Gul Mohammad Lot – Chairman, Mehran Group of Industries [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Gul Mohammad Lot was born in Pakistan in the Diplo area of Thar District. At a very young age, he joined his father, Mr. Ghulam Muhammad Lot, in his business. He is currently a Chairman of Mehran Group of Industries. As far as education is concerned, he completed his Bachelors in Administration from the London School of Business and obtained Master’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Sindh, Hyderabad. As a student of Political Science and a compassionate patriot, he…
Modarabas are playing significant role for the promotion of Islamic finance within the country More availability of trained employees and awareness within the public key path to make progress Interview with Muhammad Shoaib Ibrahim — MD & CEO, First Habib Modaraba [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: During his service tenure, Muhammad Shoaib Ibrahim has worked in almost each and every department of the company and has gained extensive experience of banking and finance particularly in Islamic Finance both in support and core function of the institution. At present, First Habib Modaraba (FHM) is well positioned in Islamic financial market with…
Interview with Mr Pervaiz Ahmed – An Islamic Finance professional [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Pervaiz Ahmed is an Islamic Finance professional. He has over 28 years of leadership experience in local, multinational and government organizations. He is the founding Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful. Currently, he is associated with The Indus Hospital as Executive Director and with Al-Meezan Investment management as Independent Director.[/box] PAGE:YOUR VIEWS ON THE GROWTH OF ISLAMIC FINANCE IN PAKISTAN: PERVAIZ AHMED: In Pakistan, public by and large does not want to deal with products with Riba and its associated products. Hence, there…
Interview with Mr Irfan Siddiqui — President and CEO, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile: Mr Irfan Siddiqui is the founding President and Chief Executive Officer of Meezan Bank. His educational background includes a Foundation Course in Accountancy from Sunderland, UK and he is a Fellow Chartered Accountant from Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales. He has served at a number of senior management positions including Chief Executive Officer at Al-Meezan Investment Bank Limited, as a General Manager at Pakistan Kuwait Investment Company, Manager Finance and Operation at Abu Dhabi Investment Company and Senior Business Analyst at Exxon…
Gwadar port is the key to economic prosperity, regional connectivity and maritime development for Pakistan Interview with Mr Ahmed Chinoy, a renowned businessman [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Mr Ahmed Chinoy is a businessman by profession and social activist by nature. Being in his profession for over 25 years with a vast experience and knowledge, he is associated with the textile industry since the beginning of his career. His business has diversified into more categories that are: Construction Development, Project Management and Controlled Poultry Farms. He has served as the CPLC Chief for over 6 years and is associated with…
Interview with Mr Amir ul Ebad Khan – CEO, Raas Systems Inc [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE – Over twenty years of Engineering experience in Energy & Environment Management – Responsible for Implementing and monitoring strategies to improve Energy Mix and Energy Management within Environment & Cost Constrains – Successfully completed projects for Alternate Energy, Stand-alone units as well as Tie-Grid projects – In-depth knowledge of Energy Audit & Management – Well informed with KYOTO PROTOCOL & CDM Certification – Detail knowledge & Experience of Echo Industrial Development QUALIFICATION: – M.S Leading to Ph.D (Energy & Environment)Continue – Master of…
Interview with Sardar Shoukat Popalzai – President, Balochistan Economic Forum [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, President Balochistan Economic Forum, gained his degree in International Relations with major on diplomacy, economics and anti terrorism before spending nearly 24 years on professional career in the field of information service on International Diplomacy — Corporate Information and Media Monitoring. Over the years, he has made presentations at numerous important conferences and corporate briefings. He is also recipient of awards from USA, Great Britain, France, the People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Germany. BALOCHISTAN ECONOMIC FORUM: Formed in…
Interview with Syed Ali Raza Bukhari — Chief Executive, Vector Securities (Pvt) Ltd PAGE: KINDLY TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CAREER: SYED ALI RAZA BUKHARI: I have been associated with the financial sector for quite over a decade now and have been involved in addressing multiple dimensions from catering to specific client needs to diligently managing back office operations including risk management and compliance. It is a matter of great privilege and prestige for me to have been associated with the capital markets in various capacities. Being the front line manager of a stock brokerage firm and in particular…
Interview with Mr Faraz Hussain — SAP ERP Execution Head, TallyMarks Consulting PAGE: KINDLY TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CAREER: FARAZ HUSSAIN: In my humble opinion, I believe in always being open to knowledge as I am a staunch believer of the fact that mankind is disposable and what remains of us is merely what we leave behind. Hence, over the last decade and a half, I have immersed myself in learning and imparting the technical know-how to those under my wing. I manage a vigorous team of some of the most skillful SAP Consultants in South Asia and…
Interview with Mr Hamad Rasool Bhullar, Analyst [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Hamad Rasool Bhullar got his basic commerce education from Hailey College of Commerce and later on pursued professional education at ICMA Pakistan, ICSP and ICAP. In addition to that he did some post graduate Diplomas in IT, Islamic Finance and MPhil in Finance. He worked for a firm of Chartered Accountants for almost 12 years till 2003 after which he has been working in both private and public sectors. He has the privilege to issue first Sukuk in Pakistani market. He has been involved in training, advisory…
Interview with Mr M. Abdul Aleem – CEO, Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr M. Abdul Aleem is a Fellow Chartered Accountant (gold medalist) and a Cost and Management Accountant with over 40 years of experience in senior management positions in leading multinational and national companies. He served in a senior executive role in Exxon Chemicals Pakistan, now Engro Corporation, for over 16 years before joining Pakistan Tobacco, which led him to move to British American Tobacco subsidiaries overseas as a CEO for operating companies in Indo-China and Indian ocean region. On…
Interview with Mr Samad Habib — Chief Executive, Javedan Corporation Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE After completing his education in Business Administration, Mr Samad Habib started his career at the Arif Habib Group joining the brokerage business. He moved through various aspects of the business from an analyst to research and eventually moved towards leading the business. During the time in the financial services sector, he served as a core team member looking at various group investments at a strategic partnership level and developed a strong desire to see Pakistani businesses operate according to international standards. With time, the…
Interview with Mr Abdul Sami Khan – Chairman, Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association and Chairman CNG Dealers Association [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Abdul Sami Khan (Alig), Sitara-e-Imtiaz, was born in India and belongs to the Kakar tribe. He completed his education from Aligarh Muslim University. His family migrated to Pakistan. His father, Mr Abdul Waheed Khan, started Terry Towel factory business and he also joined him in the business. Then he stepped into the petrol business and since then he has been very active in it. His designations are as follows: – Chairman, Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association – Chairman,…
Meezan Bank is leading the Pakistan’s banking sector to pass health benefits to the consumers Interview with Mohammad Raza — Group Head Customer Support, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mohammad Raza is currently serving Meezan Bank as the Group Head of Customer Support. He graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering from DCET-NED University of Engineering & Technology and holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from Institute of Business Management (CBM). He is a DAIBP and has also completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Islamic Banking and Finance from the Centre of Islamic Economics. He joined Meezan Bank…
Interview with Mr Sohail Butt – CEO, Energy Energetics Consulting [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE AND THE CURRENT ENERGY SITUATION: Mr Sohail Butt has spent over twenty five years internationally in the energy sector value chain as a finance professional, systems and business process improvement specialist and as a consultant/advisor working with senior oil and gas executives to develop and implement value creating strategies in transformational and business development mode. He is a UK-qualified Chartered Accountant and most recently his area of focus is to provide consulting and advisory services in the field of petroleum, power generation, transmission and distribution…
Interview with Mohammad Iqbal Ghori – FCMA, President ICMA-Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mohammad Iqbal Ghori has over twenty five years of diversified professional experience, including 15 years in the public sector regulatory bodies. He began his career quite early in 1990 and after 12 years in the private sector, he started his dynamic career in the public sector by joining the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company Ltd (FESCO) in 2002 as Manager Finance. In 2007, he took up the position of Director Performance Monitoring and Corporate Finance at Pakistan Electric Power Company (PEPCO) where he was later promoted to…
Interview with Dr Miftah Ismail — Minister of State/Chairman, Board of Investment [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Dr Miftah Ismail is currently working as a Minister of State/Special Assistant to the Prime Minister/Chairman Board of Investment, Pakistan. He is also a Chairman of the Sui Southern Gas Company. He did his Doctorate in Public Finance and Political Economy from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and also from the President of Karachi American School. He is also a member of the Advisory Committee of the Institute of Business Administration.[/box] PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT THE EFFORTS FOR THE PROMOTION OF…
Interview with Mian Zahid Hussain, (Sitara-e-Imtiaz, Hon. Ph.D), Former Minister of Information Technology, Government of Sindh [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mian Zahid Hussain belongs to Chiniot Shaikh family. He is a graduate and earned his degree from Karachi. He was born in Punjab in 1955. He has one factory in Korangi Industrial area Karachi and the second in Faisalabad. He deals in the manufacturing of industrial and automotive lubricants. He came into business when he was just 10 years of age while completing his education simultaneously. He took charge of his business when he was about to complete his…
Interview with Dr Amjad Waheed — CFA, Chief Executive Officer, NBP Fullerton Asset Management Limited (NAFA) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Dr Amjad Waheed is the CEO of NBP Fullerton Asset Management Ltd (NAFA). His organization is presently managing Rs 100 billion of investors’ funds in conventional and Islamic mutual and pension funds. NAFA is the fastest growing mutual fund company in Pakistan and their funds have been among the best performing in the country. Dr Amjad Waheed holds a doctorate in Finance & Investments and has published articles in top finance journals of the world.[/box] PAGE: HOW WOULD YOU…
Interview with Mr H. M. Shahzad – Chairman, APMDA [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr. H. M. Shahzad is in the automobile business since 1980 and this is the year when he established Shahzad Motors at New M. A. Jinnah Road where it is still located. They are mostly involved in the used car import business. He is the Chairman of the All Pakistan Motor Dealers’ Association (APMDA) and has been representing the association at government level and also at other forums for a long time. Due to his frank and candid demeanor, he has earned the respect in the…
Interview with Mr Barkatullah Lone, a Saudi Arabia-based Pakistani [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr. Barkatullah Lone is a qualified Chartered Management Accountant from UK, Chartered Global Management Accountant from USA, Chartered Certified Accountant from UK, Gold Medalist Cost & Management Accountant, and Public Finance Accountant and holds degrees of Law & Masters in Arts from Karachi University and Masters in Philosophy from Aleemiyah University. He has full command over five languages including Arabic and English. He was awarded three gold medals by ICMAP back in 2002 when he qualified Management Accountancy. He has worked in various industries as Chief…
Interview with Mr Sher Afgan Malik — Managing Director, International Spectrum Development Inc. [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Sher Afgan Malik graduated from Karachi University in 1965 and got his degree from the Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan in 1967. He started his professional career after getting Finance and Economics degrees in 1967 with an American Defense Contractor in Saudi Arabia. He remained with them for 16 years till the completion of their contracts with Royal Saudi Air Force. Then he joined a Saudi Group and was involved in trading of building materials, transport and steel…
Interview with Mr. Anis Majeed– Chairman, Karachi Wholesale Grocers Association [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Anis Majeed is the Chairman of Karachi Wholesale Grocer Association (KWGA). He is the Chairman of Import and Export Pulses Committee of KWGA. He has remained a managing committee member of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and the member of taxation committee of KCCI. He was also the Vice Chairman of the Sub-Committee of FPCCI. Mr Anis Majeed has been in pulses business for more than 35 years. He and his brothers took over business from their father who established pulses processing…
Farmers need training and simple technology to immediately bring about increase in productivity and efficiency Interview with Ms Naheed Memon – Chairperson, Sindh Investment Board PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR VIEWS FOR THE BETTERMENT OF THE AGRICULTURE SECTOR OF SINDH, PLEASE: NAHEED MEMON: I believe in taking small steps towards a clearly identified goal. We have been unable to grow agriculture income equitably on account of two principal failures; firstly after the 60’s green revolution in Pakistan, which increased crop yields, there has been no significant and required technology intervention, and secondly, we have failed to add…
To curb smuggling of parts need to set out action plan Interview with Engineer M. A. Jabbar — Chief Executive, Qaim Automotive Manufacturing (Pvt) Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Engineer M. A. Jabbar is the Chief Executive of Qaim Automotive Manufacturing (Pvt) Limited, Chairman Karachi Tools Dies & Moulds Centre MOI&P-Karachi, Member of Board of Governors Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Honorary Consul General to Ukraine, Member Director Board SMEDA, Member Board of Director PSQCA, Member Privatization Commission of Pakistan, Member Senate NEDUET and Life Member SAARC CCI. He has held the positions of Vice President FPCCI, Chairman Site…
Interview with Dr Khusro Iqbal – Expert in Human Resources [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=”300″]Profile During his professional and personal interactions usually he was given a feeling by those with whom he interacts that they consider him a highly caring, law abiding and civilized person who is also an empathetic, experienced, motivated and result-oriented human resources professional. His, to-date, career accomplishments establish that he has always successfully contributed in the strategic business partnering, organizational and employee development, talent management, internal communications across functional lines and implementation of human resources information systems. He got opportunity to show demonstrated leadership and analytical…
Interview with Mr Abdul Rahim Janoo — Chief Patron, Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile CHIEF PATRON: RICE EXPORTERS ASSOCIATION OF PAKISTAN (REAP) CHAIRMAN: HAJI RAZAK JANOO MEMORIAL TRUST, KARACHI – PAKISTAN ECONOMIC FORUM – MASJID AL-RAZAK, S.I.T.E/ MASJID AL-HAMIDA, SUPER HIGHWAY/JAMA MASID HAIDER-E-KARRAR (CLIFTON)/JAMA MASJID MUSTAFA (NOORIABAD)/JAMA MASJID UMER (MANZOOR COLONY) EX-CHAIRMAN: FEDERATION OF PAKISTAN CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (FPCCI) EX-SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT: FEDERATION OF PAKISTAN CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY EX. VICE CHAIRMAN: PAKISTAN RICE BOARD, GOVT OF PAKISTAN EX-PRESIDENT: DHORAJI COOPERATIVE HOUSING SOCIETY MEMBER MANAGING: KARACHI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (1999-2002)…
Interview with Mr Zubair Tufail – President, FPCCI [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile A leading economic, finance and international trade expert, prominent businessman and President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). Mr. Zubair Tufail bears an impressive profile detailing an unprecedented track record finely bedecked and evenly interspersed with illustrious achievements and services on various fronts of human endeavor. Mr. Zubair has visited various countries in order to accomplish Prime Minister and President of Islamic Republic Pakistan objectives to enhance economic and trade relations especially with the China, Malaysia, Iran, United States, Egypt, Oman, Poland…
Interview with Mr Abdul Basit – President, Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Abdul Basit graduated from Forman Christian College Lahore. He is the founder Chairman of Big Bird Group of Companies which comprises Big Bird Poultry Breeders (Pvt) Limited, Grandparent Poultry (Pvt.) Limited, Big Bird Foods (Pvt) Ltd, Big Feed (Pvt) Ltd, Pak Tek Associates, Green Nature Farms and APOTHEKE Technologies. Other than earning a respectable name in corporate sector, he has been actively involved in trade politics. He served as Senior Vice President of Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI)…
Meezan Bank is running rigorous training programs for Islamic banking knowledge and skills and supports other institutions in image building Interview with Mr Irfan Siddiqui — President & Chief Executive Officer, Meezan Bank [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Irfan Siddiqui is the founding President and Chief Executive Officer of Meezan Bank. His educational background includes a Foundation Course in Accountancy from Sunderland, UK and he is a Fellow Chartered Accountant from Institute of Chartered Accountants, England and Wales. He has served on a number of senior management positions including Chief Executive Officer at Al-Meezan Investment Bank Limited, as a…
Interview with Mr Lal Dino Mari Baloch — Honorary Investment Counselor at Consulate General of Pakistan, Hong Kong [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Mr. Lal Dino Mari Baloch was born in Khairpur Mirs in a political/landlord family. He is much involved in business rather than going to political side. He has 28 years business experiences in various fields. He is the Chief Executive of Bizz & Trade International Ltd (BTI) and few other companies since then. Under his leadership, BTI was successfully providing consultancy services besides trading natural resources, energy products, agriculture commodities and electronic products between Hong Kong, China,…
Interview with Mr Shamim Ahmed Firpo – President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Besides discharging his services as President of Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), he is also the Chairman of Firpo Private Limited and Saeed Ghani. He is also the President of Pak-Ukraine Trade & Culture Information Center. His association with Karachi Chamber dates back to 2007 when he became part of Businessmen Group being led by its Chairman Mr. Siraj Kassam Teli. He has also served the business and industrial community of Karachi as Former Senior Vice Chairman KCCI, Former…
Interview with Mr Muhammad Farooq Afzal — President/CEO of ITN Group of Companies [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Mr Muhammad Farooq Afzal belongs to Hyderabad, Sindh and after his B.Com in 1983, he moved to Karachi for Chartered Accountancy and after articleship did his Master’s degree in Business Management from Philippines in 1989. He is also a Doctor of Homeopathic Medicine. He is a professional in the realm of textile sourcing and exports. Having worked for over 12 years with the leading textile companies in Pakistan, he started his own business in 2001 and established Integrated Textiles Network – textile…
Terminal has the capacity to receive mother ships Interview with Capt. Rashid Jamil – CEO, South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPT) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Capt. Rashid Jamil is the Chief Executive Officer of South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPT), a member of the Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH) Group, since April 2015. He joined the HPH group in 1997 as the Terminal Manager of Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT), the first project of the group in Karachi. After gaining vast experience of KICT’s operations, working on this position for 9 years, he became the Chief Operating Officer of the…
Interview with Mr Majyd Aziz – President, Employers’ Federation of Pakistan (EFP) [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE Mr Majyd Aziz is head of his family business Group that is involved in textiles, commodities, shipping and cargo handling, etc. He has recently been elected President of Employers’ Federation of Pakistan. He is Member of Board of Directors of the government-owned Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited and former chairman of the government-owned SME Bank Limited. He is also a former president of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), former chairman of SITE Association of Industry, and former director of KESC and SITE…
Interview with Syed Muhammad Talha – CFO, International Builders and Developers (Pvt) Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Syed Muhammad Talha is Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Arif Habib Corporation Limited, a holding company of Arif Habib Group and also the CFO of Javedan Corporation Limited, Safemix Concrete Limited and International Builders and Developers (Pvt) Limited. He is associated with the group for more than 8 years. He has working experience of 15 years in various diversified capacities. [/box] NAYA NAZIMABAD: Naya Nazimabad (NN) as appearing from its name is a well planned community living boundary wall concept wherein every…
Interview with Mr Kashif Habib — Chief Executive, Power Cement Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Kashif A. Habib is the Chief Executive of Power Cement Limited & Safemix Concrete Limited. He completed his article ship from A. F. Ferguson & Co. Being a member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan, he gained experience pertaining to different sectors serving clients spanning to financial, manufacturing and service industries. His experience includes being Executive Director of different cement and fertilizer companies of the Arif Habib Group. Power Cement Limited aims to be recognized nationally and internationally as a successful cement producer.…
KITCC has been endeavoring hard on the prevention, awareness and treatment of thalassaemics for the last 18 years Interview with Muhammad Iqbal — Chairman, KITCC PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND KASHIF IQBAL THALASSAEMIA CARE CENTRE (KITCC): MUHAMMAD IQBAL: I was born as thalassaemia minor and so was my wife. As a result of that we got two daughters as thalassaemia minor and one son named Kashif Iqbal as thalassaemia major. My son lived for sixteen years and died in London. During this period we as a parent remained worried and running around. I decided to serve the ailing community…
Interview with Dr Abdul Bari Khan – CEO, The Indus Hospital [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Born in Karachi in 1961, Dr. Abdul Bari Khan has a long history of community service and philanthropy geared towards social upliftment. Dr. Bari completed his medical education from the Dow Medical College in 1986 and received a fellowship in Cardiac Surgery from The College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan in 1995. Passionately driven towards social welfare activities even as a medical student, Dr Bari became an active member of the Dow Medical Patients’ Welfare Association (PWA) and soon its focal person for the…
Interview with Mr Abdul Haseeb Khan – President, Brookes Pharma PAGE had an exclusive conversation with Mr Abdul Haseeb Khan regarding the recent development in the pharma sector. Excerpts of the conversation are as follows: Pakistan makes its own laws about pharma and does not follow the rules of the world. Pharma is not like the business of leather or garments. It is medicine. In the entire world, there are same standards for pharma. There are not specific separate standards of pharma for Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, India etc. Pharma is the only thing in the world for which there are…
Interview with Mr Ahmed Chinoy – Director, Pakistan Stock Exchange [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Ahmed Chinoy is a businessman by profession and social activist by nature. Being in profession for over 25 years with a vast experience and knowledge, he is associated with the security investments and textile industry since the beginning of his career. Today, his business along with his family has diversified into more categories that are Real Estate Development, Project Management and Controlled Poultry Farms. He has served as the CPLC Chief for over 7 years and is associated with multiple NGOs working for the…
Interview with Mr Nasim Beg — Chief Executive, Arif Habib Consultancy [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Nasim Beg qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1970 and has worked in the automobile industry as well as financial services including some time in the UAE and the UK in financial services. He has been with the Arif Habib Group for last seventeen years, having joined it to set up an asset management business. He is currently engaged in setting up its business consultancy unit and is also advising and supporting the group’s entire range of financial services activities. In addition, he…
Interview with Mr Sohail Butt — CEO, Energy Energetics Consulting PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR CONSULTANCY FIRM, PLEASE: SOHAIL BUTT: I believe that having spent over twenty five years internationally in the energy sector value chain as a finance professional, I owe it to the oil & gas industry to make a contribution in, whatever, little way I can, based on my experience and knowledge that I have acquired over the years primarily for the benefit of my country. My intention is to provide consulting and advisory services in the field of energy focusing on sectorial reforms, governance…
Interview with Dr Mujtaba Yousuf Arain — Entrepreneur, Alternate/Renewable Energy International [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Dr Mujtaba Yousuf Arain is the first young international Pakistani entrepreneur holding shares and partnerships in over 10 reputed multinational companies such as Gulf Korea Group of Companies and Ministry of Renewable Energy, Thailand. He started his business career in 2002 at the age of 16 and during his 15-year tenure he has learnt about international businesses and his objective is to work on lucrative business ideas especially in health and technologies. He is currently involved in investment consultancy in Middle East and Asian…
Interview with Mr Gul Mohammad Lot – Chairman, Mehran Group of Industries [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Gul Mohammad Lot was born in Pakistan in the Diplo area of Thar District. At a very young age, he joined his father, Mr. Ghulam Muhammad Lot business. As far as education is concerned, he completed his Bachelors in Administration from the London School of Business and obtained Master’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Sindh, Hyderabad. As a student of Political Science and a compassionate patriot, he joined politics in Pakistan as a member of the Pakistan’s People Party.…
Interview with Mr Khushnood Aftab — CEO and Founder, Viper Technology (Pvt) Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Khushnood Aftab is the CEO and Founder of Viper Technology (Private) Limited. He may be called one of the pioneers in the field of hardware promotion in Pakistan. Viper Technology has been promoting the local hardware industry in Pakistan since 1993.[/box] PAGE: YOUR VIEWS ON THE BRANDED IT PRODUCTS IN PAKISTAN: KHUSHNOOD AFTAB: The local market for IT products has seen a positive growth trend and brands like QMobile, Waves, Dawlance, Orient, and Viper have contributed to this significantly. One area of…
Interview with Mr Abdul Ahad Shaikh – CEO, Mehfil Pvt Ltd PAGE: TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF PLEASE: ABDUL AHAD SHAIKH: I am 35 years of age and have done graduation & diploma in business administration. I belong to a Sindhi family (Sukkur, Sindh). I have two brothers and two sisters. My father is a doctor. I started business of Event Management Mehfil Event Planner (www.mehfil.com.pk) in 2005. We are one of the few leading caterers in Karachi. We are a group of professional and experienced individuals who have joined hands to bring quality and grace in catering. Our top management comprises…
An exclusive interview with Muhammad Lukman – CEO, National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Muhammad Lukman is currently a Chief Executive Officer of National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL). He is also a fellow member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP), Institute of Cost & Management Accountants of Pakistan and a Certified Director from ICAP. He became part of NCCPL in 2004, joining the company as Chief Operating Officer and then subsequently moved on to the position of Chief Executive Officer in July 2006. His professional career started with A.F. Ferguson…
Interview with Haji Ghani Osman — Senior Member of Pakistan Stock Exchange [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Haji Ghani Osman started his career in 1958 for a meager salary of Rs.15/- per month in Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) in the office of Mr. Wahid Jaleel, Senior Member of KSE. After passing his matriculation examination, he joined HBL in 1962 as an Office Clerk. As a result of his hard work and devotion to duty he was promoted to Grade-I Officer in the Bank in 1982. During 1982, after buying membership of Karachi Stock Exchange , he started his Brokerage House…
Interview with Mr Basharat Khan — Executive Director & Head of Equities Din Capital [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Mr Basharat Khan is currently working as Executive Director & Head of Equities at Din Capital, a corporate brokerage house on Pakistan Stocks Exchange (PSX). Prior to joining it, he worked at Askari Investment Management as Chief Investment Officer and before that he was associated with Arif Habib Investments for 8 years where he served on various positions-head of research, head of equity funds and CIO.[/box] PAGE: YOUR VIEWS ON CHINESE INVESTMENT IN PAKISTAN STOCK EXCHANGE: BASHARAT KHAN: Selling of 40% holding…
Interview with Syed Ali Raza Bukhari – CEO, Vector Securities (Pvt) Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]PROFILE: Syed Ali Raza Bukhari has been associated with the financial sector for more than a decade. Prior to being a part of Vector Securities (Private) Limited (member firm of the Pakistan Stock Exchange), he was associated with the then IGI Funds Limited, National Investment Trust (NIT), ABL Asset Management Company and NBP Fullerton Asset Management Company. Being part of Vector Brand, he has showcased the capital markets on myriad investment forums in Pakistan as well as in the Emirates. He holds an MBA…
Country’s youth is brimming with talent and ideas, just need to channel their energies the right way Interview with Dr Zeeshan Ahmed — Acting Rector & Dean, Karachi School of Business and Leadership [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Dr Zeeshan Ahmed is acting Rector & Dean, Karachi School of Business and Leadership (KSBL). Having a PhD from Mississippi State University, USA, an MBA from Institute of Business Administration, Karachi, Dr. Zeeshan Ahmed currently heads the leading business school in Pakistan. With special interest in the area of Earnings Management, Islamic Finance, Microfinance, Capital Markets, Personal Excellence and Business Ethics, Dr.…
Conversation with Mr Rashid Hashmi – CEO, Muhammad Hashim Tajir Surma [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr. Muhammad Rashid Hashmi, belongs to the respectable and closely knitted legendary Hashmi Family. He is a renowned business executive in the economic arena of Pakistan. He got his secondary education from the Happy Home School, Karachi and graduated from National College, Karachi. He joined the Hamdard Tibb College, Karachi to fulfill his ambitions in Tibb, which is an Eastern Medicine System of Herbal remedies. Many government entities have acknowledged Mr. Rashid Hashmi and M/s. Mohammad Hashim Tajir Surma’s contribution/performance by awarding them with…
Interview with Mr Abdul Waheed Khan — Director Administration, Quaid-e-Azam Group of Schools and Colleges [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Over the period of last fifteen years, Mr Abdul Waheed Khan has worked in different capacities by starting his career as an English teacher, as a head teacher, as a Principal and currently he is working as the Director Administration of the Quaid-e-Azam Group of Schools and Colleges (QGSC). He has got passion for learning, teaching and academic-administration. He is quite glad for the recognition and the trust that the QGSC and the community have put in for his untiring…
Interview with Mr. Ihtsham Ul Haq Qureshi, CEO – Asia Insurance Company Limited ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2016: 1- Completion of company’s new head office named ‘Asia House’ in Lahore 2- Introduction of Group/Corporate Health Insurance 3- Launch of ‘Asia Window Takaful Operations’ 4- Increasing business portfolio resulted in enhancement to double the work force of the company 5- Opening of 10 new offices in different cities of the country now it came to 27 6- Business activities spread out to Azad Jammu and Kashmir 7- Agreement with Livestock Dairy Development Department Punjab for insurance coverage of Animals extending Asia Insurance coverage…
Interview with Mr Naim Anwar — Managing Director & CEO, Crescent Star Insurance Limited [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Naim Anwar experience spreads over 30 years of various exposures within Pakistan and outside Pakistan out of which 23 years have been in insurance in Pakistan. His insurance career spreads over various roles from a selling agent to the CEO level where he works now. In the process, he has vast experience and exposure of Sales & Operations including Underwriting, Claims, Re Insurance, Accounts and Financial matters and corporate affairs. Currently, his career in insurance has enriched with the addition…
Interview with Mr Tariq Hussain — Expert insurance industry [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Professional Qualification: FCMA, FCIS, FPA, CMILT-(UK) Academic Qualification: M.A. (Eco), MBA (Finance) Experience: Overall 25 years practical experience Worked on the following position: Currently working as an Executive Director/Head of Corporate Consulting Division at Damsel Consulting Previously – Director SECP – Group CFO- Manhill Group – CFO & Company Secretary at a leading pharmaceutical – Director Finance, SITE Ltd (Ministry of Industries – GS) – Head of Internal Audit-DHA Professional Activities – Vice President ICSP-2012 – Chairman Karachi Branch Council of ICMAP-2011 – Member National Council…
For modern trading platform PMEX be required to broadly help farmers Interview with Mr Zafar M. Sheikh — President & CEO, Security Investment Bank Ltd [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Zafar M. Sheikh is having a successful career spanning over three decades of international and domestic banking experience with primary emphasis on treasury and fund management covering both conventional and Islamic banking. Over the years, he acquired skills and expertise in setting up, organizing, managing and developing institutions in the government and non-government sector mainly to develop capital and debt markets along with corporate and retail marketing/financial strategy to…
Pakistan’s whole energy sector highly politicized, optimal utilization of our indigenous resources hard to meet Interview with Mr Abbas Bilgrami — CEO, Progas Energy Ltd PAGE: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF, PLEASE: ABBAS BILGRAMI: I have been educated in Pakistan, UK and Canada. I have invested heavily in the energy sector of Pakistan. I was backed by investors from the UK, Malaysia, Kuwait to build and operate a large and significant energy infrastructure. I was fortunate enough to be able to bring substantial Foreign Direct Investment to Pakistan and increased good quality employment opportunities. My company Progas Energy Limited is a project…
Interview with Mr Abdul Sami Khan — Chairman, Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association and Chairman, CNG Dealers Association [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Abdul Sami Khan (Alig), Sitara-e-Imtiaz, was born in India and belongs to the Kakar tribe. He completed his education from Aligarh Muslim University. His family migrated to Pakistan. His father, Mr Abdul Waheed Khan, started Terry Towel factory business and he also joined him in the business. Then he stepped into the petrol business and since then he has been very active in it. His designations are as follows: – Chairman Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association – Chairman…
Interview with Mr Adil Mirza — Equity Research Analyst [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr. Adil Mirza is a senior research analyst and currently working with Standard Capital Securities (scstrade.com). He is a member of ACCA. He has keen interest in financial modeling, valuations and analysis. He takes care for foreign clients at scstrade.com.[/box] PAGE: YOUR VIEWS ON RECENT TREND IN RISING OIL PRICES: ADIL MIRZA: Following the production cut from OPEC and non-OPEC countries, the oil prices rose in line of the expectations. The measure was cheered by oil dependent economies as things could have turn out very ugly for…
Interview with Mr Muhammad Azam Khan – CEO, Sunrise Capital [box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””]Profile Mr Muhammad Azam Khan is a well reputed and recognized name in capital markets of Pakistan. His vision and leadership always proved to be exceptional. He has constantly proved his expertise and intelligence. Sunrise Capital, under his guideline, is contributing finest administrative, operational, research, sales & marketing objectives in the financial world. He started his professional career with international exposure at Mashreq Bank Dubai in a highly professional environment with dedication and commitment. Subsequently, he contributed his skills in the growth and development of Atlas…