In the realm of retail, there exist individuals who ascend beyond their peers, showcasing remarkable leadership skills and an unwavering dedication to excellence. Among such notable figures is Hisham Qasim, a Saudi citizen and alumnus of King Abdulaziz University. Dr. Hisham Qasim trajectory from a temporary data entry position to the role of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Toys R Us stands as a testament to his ambition, resolve, and unrelenting pursuit of success. Alongside his outstanding accomplishments in the retail sector, Hisham has pursued a Professional Doctorate in Business Administration, further elevating his expertise and impact in the business arena.
The Early Years
Embarking on his journey from modest origins, Dr. Hisham Qasim’s story unfolded after completing his Biochemistry degree at King Abdulaziz University. Eagerly anticipating a government job, he temporarily joined Toys R Us as a data entry employee. In an era where the company predominantly employed foreigners due to limited Saudi engagement in the private sector, Hisham perceived this as a chance to thrive in a dynamic setting, demonstrating his robust work ethic and a keen aptitude for continuous learning.
Embracing the Retail Industry
Dr. Hisham Qasim’s unwavering dedication and commitment to his work garnered recognition from both colleagues and superiors, who identified his potential as a valuable asset to the company. Within a remarkably short span, he received a long-awaited response from the government, approving his application for a Laboratory Specialist position at a hospital. However, opting for his passion within the retail industry, he made the bold decision to decline this opportunity.
This decision faced skepticism from family and friends who questioned his choice to stay with Toys R Us. Undeterred, Hisham confidently asserted his ambition to lead the company and eventually become its General Manager. Despite doubts from those around him, he remained resolute in the pursuit of his ambitious goals.
Climbing the Ranks
In the pivotal year of 2013, Hisham attained a significant milestone in his professional journey by assuming the role of General Merchandise Manager (GMM) at Toys R Us. This achievement not only underscored his capabilities but also marked the initiation of his upward trajectory within the company.
Hisham’s unwavering dedication and noteworthy accomplishments drew the attention of industry professionals, culminating in his appointment as the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) for Toys R Us and Babies R Us in Saudi Arabia in March 2019. In this influential role, he played a pivotal role in reshaping the company’s operations. He spearheaded the streamlining of processes and introduced an omni-channel approach, consolidating diverse systems into a unified ERP system with multiple touchpoints. Under his adept leadership, Toys R Us witnessed remarkable growth, significantly enhancing the overall customer experience.
Recognition and Influence
Hisham’s influence transcends his position at Toys R Us. He has evolved into a distinguished public speaker, disseminating his expertise and insights at prominent events within the region and international podcasts. His LinkedIn profile (www.linkedin.com/in/hisham-qasim) stands as a testament to his remarkable achievements and the high regard he has garnered within the industry.
Global Leader of the Year Award
In recognition of his outstanding leadership and contributions to the retail sector, Hisham Qasim has been honored with the prestigious Global Leader of the Year Award at the International Prime Awards 2023. This esteemed accolade is reserved for individuals who have exhibited exceptional leadership qualities and have left a significant impact in their respective fields.
The International Prime Awards ceremony, held in GOA, India, on January 25th, 2024, served as a gathering for industry leaders, innovators, and visionaries from across the globe. This event provided a platform to celebrate excellence and acknowledge those who have achieved remarkable success in their careers.
Hisham’s reception of the Global Leader of the Year Award stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. It symbolizes recognition of his exceptional leadership skills and the positive influence he has had on the retail industry, not only in Saudi Arabia but also on a global scale.
A Journey of Learning and Growth
Hisham’s journey towards leadership was propelled by his unwavering commitment to continuous learning and personal growth. He immersed himself in expanding his knowledge and honing his skills through certifications, extensive reading, and formal education. While excelling in his role at Toys R Us, he embarked on a journey to earn a Professional Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) from the prestigious European International University in Paris.
The DBA program presented Hisham with a unique opportunity to delve deeply into both the theoretical and practical dimensions of business management. Engaging in rigorous coursework and collaborating with industry experts, he cultivated a comprehensive understanding of strategic leadership, organizational behavior, and innovation management. This pursuit of advanced education further solidified his foundation for effective leadership in the dynamic business landscape.
Executive Education: Global C-Suite Program
Beyond his accomplishments in the retail sector and the pursuit of professional development through the DBA program, Hisham has demonstrated a commitment to personal growth through executive education initiatives. Notably, in 2023, he initiated participation in the Global C-Suite Program offered by the esteemed Wharton Business School. This program afforded him valuable insights into strategic leadership, organizational management, and prevailing global business trends.
Partaking in the Global C-Suite Program provided Hisham with the opportunity to engage with top-level executives from diverse industries, fostering a network of like-minded professionals. The program equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to adeptly navigate the complexities of the ever-evolving business landscape.
Hisham’s involvement in the Global C-Suite Program underscores his dedication to continuous learning and his aspiration to remain at the forefront of industry trends and best practices. Through his investment in professional development, he demonstrates a commitment to staying informed and evolving in tandem with the dynamic business environment.
The Impact of Hisham’s Leadership
Hisham Qasim’s leadership style is distinguished by a fusion of visionary thinking, strategic decision-making, and a robust focus on employee development. He is a firm believer in empowering team members and cultivating a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
Under Hisham’s guidance, Toys R Us has achieved noteworthy success. Through strategic partnerships and the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, the company has firmly established itself as a leading retailer in Saudi Arabia.
The prioritization of customer-centricity and personalized experiences has translated into heightened customer satisfaction and strengthened brand loyalty.
