In an exclusive interview, Basamh Group CEO, Khalid Temairik, reflects on his journey from Procter & Gamble to Basamh Group and how Saudi values have driven his transformational leadership.
Temairik embarked on a remarkable journey, transitioning from a decade-long career at Procter & Gamble to becoming the CEO of Basamh Group. This journey was rooted in his vision to transform the local brand, Goody, into a global powerhouse. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Goody has grown under his leadership to become the number two consumer brand in Saudi Arabia, with a rapidly expanding presence in South Africa.
Key to this journey, Temairik emphasizes two pillars: a relentless focus on people and a commitment to innovation. “Our goal was not merely to import multinational brands, but to export our knowledge and homegrown brands to the world,” he explains. This strategy has paved the way for Basamh Group’s evolution into a multinational enterprise.
Temairik also highlights the profound impact of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 on his career and the organization’s trajectory. The country’s inspiring transformation has encouraged him and his team to align their goals with the nation’s vision. “The inspiration the country provides, the rapid change we witness, all encourage us to follow suit,” he states.
He underscores the role of government support, digital transformation, and enablement in the country’s growth, accelerating Basamh Group’s own journey. He is proud of the nation’s dedication to growing talent and creating new opportunities across diverse sectors. A significant part of his leadership philosophy revolves around shared values.Temairik points to values like passion to excel, breaking norms, and driving change as common ground between the country and Basamh Group. He applauds the country’s encouragement of these values, which have translated into successful businesses and individuals alike.
Diversity is another value he respects, recognizing that each region in the Kingdom has its unique culture and needs. Basamh Group customizes its approach to cater to these diverse demands, demonstrating a commitment to respecting and embracing the richness of Saudi Arabia’s cultural tapestry.
Temairik reiterated that Basamh Group is particularly passionate about women empowerment, which has been a core aspect of the conglomerate. He believes that enabling women and recognizing their vital role in the workforce are essential for the organization’s continued success.
In a move beyond FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), Temairik ventured into the culinary world with Wakame, a chain of Japanese restaurants. His inspiration for this venture was to introduce an authentic dining experience that he felt was missing in the local market. He aims to create a unique atmosphere where hospitality and culture blend seamlessly.
His commitment to the community extends to his role as a Board Member at Ittihad Football Club, where he focuses on nurturing Saudi talent and developing a globally recognized league. This aligns with his vision of showcasing Saudi talent on a global stage. With a commitment to innovation, a focus on people, and an unwavering dedication to Saudi values, Temairik and Basamh Group continue to soar to new heights, with no limit in sight for their future endeavors.
