Name: Nourhan Ghareeb

Title: Head of Legal for Project Development

Oranisation: Infinity Power Holding B.V.

I am an ambitious and dedicated legal professional lady and mum with an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the reduction of carbon emissions and combating climate change, driven by an unyielding passion for environmental advocacy, I always believed that the sky is the limit when it comes to making a difference in Life in general.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Nourhan's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

There are various challenges honestly, but the most important challenge could be the Decision-Making process under some uncertainties; as I often face situations where there is ambiguity or uncertainty in the law or case outcomes; making sound decisions under such circumstances can be challenging and requires a careful analysis of risks, consequences, and legal precedents and balancing legal considerations with business objectives and ethical principles is essential in these situations.

another challenge is Leading a Team and being responsible for managing and motivating a team of legal professionals especially if they are your friends in terms of team dynamics, workload management, and ensuring that everyone is aligned with the organization's goals. Fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment, providing guidance, and recognizing individual strengths and contributions are crucial for effective team leadership.

Last but not least is Balancing Legal and Business Considerations as I often need to balance legal requirements with the organization's business objectives; this can involve making strategic decisions that involve legal risks, cost considerations, and potential impacts on the company's reputation. Finding the right balance between legal compliance and business goals can be a delicate challenge.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

I embraced leadership because I was fortunate to have a boss and co-founder who wholeheartedly believed in my abilities and consistently motivated me to reach my full potential. Their unwavering support and encouragement empowered me to become the best version of myself and had been instrumental in my journey towards success and the most significant part as well was the unwavering support and guidance I have received from my family. They have always provided a nurturing environment and ample space for me to grow, learn, and pursue continuous education. Their constant encouragement and assistance have been pivotal in my personal and professional development, enabling me to acquire knowledge and skills that fuel my success.

Self-confidence is the most important key by the way ;)

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

I begin each day with a sense of gratitude, cherishing the gift of a new day and the endless possibilities it holds. As I wake up, I embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. I follow a structured routine that helps me navigate through my responsibilities and priorities.

My day starts by consulting my planner, allowing me to identify and prioritize the tasks that require my attention. With a clear plan in mind, I dive into my work, dedicating myself to accomplishing each task with focus and determination.

Once the workday concludes, my attention shifts to my most precious role: being a caregiver to my daughter and husband. I eagerly retrieve my daughter from the nursery, ready to provide love, care, and joyful moments. We engage in play, sing, and dance, creating beautiful memories together. Later, I guide her into a peaceful sleep, knowing that I have nurtured her well-being.

With my daughter settled, I carve out a precious slice of time for myself. This is an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and indulge in activities that nourish my soul. I might choose to read a book, engage in meditation, or simply allow myself to be still and observe the world around me. It is during these moments that I find solace and rejuvenation.

As the night settles in, I make a conscious effort to switch off from the external demands of life and connect with my inner self. I express gratitude to the divine for the blessings received throughout the day. With a sense of anticipation, I eagerly look forward to the opportunities and experiences that tomorrow will bring.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

One important leadership lesson that I have learned is the power of empathy and active listening, teaches us that by genuinely understanding and connecting with others, we can build stronger relationships, foster trust, and create an inclusive and supportive work environment. It is a reminder that leadership is not just about authority and direction but also about understanding, valuing, and empowering the people we lead.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

One book that has had a profound impact on leadership is "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek. This book explores the concept of leadership and provides insights into creating a culture of trust, cooperation, and empowerment within organizations.

One story from the book that particularly impacted my leadership is the tale of a Marine Corps general named George Flynn. In the story, General Flynn emphasizes the importance of leaders taking care of their people. He shares an experience from his time in the military when he observed a young Marine who had been injured during training. Despite the severity of his injuries, the Marine's first concern was not for himself but for his fellow soldiers, asking if they were okay.

This story resonated deeply with me as a leader because it highlighted the significance of servant leadership and putting the well-being of others first. It reminded me that true leadership is not just about achieving personal success but also about caring for and supporting those under our charge. It reinforced the idea that leaders have a responsibility to create an environment where individuals feel safe, valued, and inspired to give their best.

The story of General Flynn and his emphasis on selfless leadership has influenced my approach to leading and managing teams. It has inspired me to prioritize the well-being and development of my team members, to create a culture of psychological safety, and to foster an environment where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

Never stop learning and expanding your knowledge and always seek mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in the field. Always believe in yourself and your capabilities as the limit is the Sky :)

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

During my time as a leader, one meaningful story that comes to mind is when I had to navigate a difficult situation within my team. We were working on several projects with very tight deadlines, and tensions were running high. There was a clash of ideas and personalities, leading to strained relationships and a decrease in team morale.

Recognizing the importance of addressing the issue promptly, I called for a team meeting to create a safe and open space for dialogue. I encouraged each team member to share their concerns, perspectives, and suggestions for improvement. As the discussion unfolded, it became evident that there were different communication styles and misunderstandings that had escalated the conflicts. Instead of assigning blame or dismissing the concerns, I chose to facilitate a constructive conversation. I actively listened to each team member, acknowledging their viewpoints and validating their experiences. I also emphasized the shared goal and the significance of collaboration in achieving success.

To rebuild trust and restore a positive team dynamic, I proposed implementing regular team-building activities, fostering open communication channels, and encouraging empathy and understanding among team members. I also ensured that everyone had an opportunity to contribute their ideas and be heard during project discussions.

Over time, as the team embraced these changes, we experienced a remarkable transformation. The once-strained relationships began to heal, and a sense of camaraderie and mutual support emerged. Not only did the team successfully deliver the project within the deadline, but they also developed a newfound respect and appreciation for one another's strengths and contributions. This story reminds me of the transformative power of effective communication, active listening, and fostering a supportive work environment. It highlights the importance of addressing conflicts head-on and encouraging collaboration to overcome challenges. By prioritizing open dialogue, empathy, and teamwork, leaders can create an environment where individuals feel valued, motivated, and empowered to achieve collective success.