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GCC Leadership Series: Waleed AlBanawi – Lessons on Resilience, Impact, and Innovation

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Manage episode 483819182 series 2983427
Content provided by INSEAD Emerging Markets Podcast by Nick Lall. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by INSEAD Emerging Markets Podcast by Nick Lall or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

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In this episode, we are joined by Waleed AlBanawi, an INSEAD 05D, Executive Chairman & CEO of Banvest Group, and former chairman of Young Presidents' Organization (YPO) MENA. Waleed has deep experience in traditional industries, venture capital, and regional economic transformation.

We discuss:

  • His father’s entrepreneurial journey – pioneering industrial business in Saudi Arabia before the oil boom, securing funding when banks wouldn’t lend to industry, and overcoming regulatory and workforce challenges.
  • Lessons in resilience – how early exposure to adversity through boarding school, competitive sports, and business challenges shaped Walid’s leadership style.
  • Transitioning from family business to venture capital – after 26 years in manufacturing, Walid moved into VC to support tech entrepreneurs and invest in disruptive businesses across MENA.
  • Challenges for startups in the GCC – why many founders fail due to a lack of market fit, the importance of adaptability, and how capital mismanagement affects long-term success.
  • Investment philosophy – key criteria he looks for in startups: sector growth potential, path to profitability, strong governance, and building scalable teams.
  • Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 – how government reforms, digital transformation, and policies are accelerating private-sector growth and attracting investment.
  • Future opportunities in MENA – why fintech, health tech, tourism, and entertainment are among the region’s most promising sectors for entrepreneurs.
  • Advice for young entrepreneurs – the importance of lifelong learning, stepping out of comfort zones, and innovating rather than just renovating.

A must-listen for investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in business transformation in the Gulf region.

  continue reading

32 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 483819182 series 2983427
Content provided by INSEAD Emerging Markets Podcast by Nick Lall. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by INSEAD Emerging Markets Podcast by Nick Lall or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Send us a text

In this episode, we are joined by Waleed AlBanawi, an INSEAD 05D, Executive Chairman & CEO of Banvest Group, and former chairman of Young Presidents' Organization (YPO) MENA. Waleed has deep experience in traditional industries, venture capital, and regional economic transformation.

We discuss:

  • His father’s entrepreneurial journey – pioneering industrial business in Saudi Arabia before the oil boom, securing funding when banks wouldn’t lend to industry, and overcoming regulatory and workforce challenges.
  • Lessons in resilience – how early exposure to adversity through boarding school, competitive sports, and business challenges shaped Walid’s leadership style.
  • Transitioning from family business to venture capital – after 26 years in manufacturing, Walid moved into VC to support tech entrepreneurs and invest in disruptive businesses across MENA.
  • Challenges for startups in the GCC – why many founders fail due to a lack of market fit, the importance of adaptability, and how capital mismanagement affects long-term success.
  • Investment philosophy – key criteria he looks for in startups: sector growth potential, path to profitability, strong governance, and building scalable teams.
  • Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 – how government reforms, digital transformation, and policies are accelerating private-sector growth and attracting investment.
  • Future opportunities in MENA – why fintech, health tech, tourism, and entertainment are among the region’s most promising sectors for entrepreneurs.
  • Advice for young entrepreneurs – the importance of lifelong learning, stepping out of comfort zones, and innovating rather than just renovating.

A must-listen for investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in business transformation in the Gulf region.

  continue reading

32 episodes

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