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Letters from leaders: Dr Maged El-Hawary – bridging academia and industry in global construction

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Welcome to the “Letters from Leaders” series, where we spotlight inspiring Heriot-Watt alumni who are leading change, driving innovation, and shaping the future across industries. These blog posts go beyond traditional profiles, offering a behind-the-scenes look at alumni journeys, challenges, and advice for the next generation of leaders.

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In this edition, we explore the journey of Dr. Maged El-Hawary, Managing Director of Analytica Management Solutions. A Heriot-Watt PhD graduate in Project Management, Maged shares his experiences in connecting academia with industry, leading innovative solutions in construction, and advocating for sustainable practices across the Middle East and beyond.

Early Life

Maged has always been academically inclined, excelling in school and securing a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He then pursued a graduate diploma in Project Management before moving to the UAE, where he completed his master’s and PhD at Heriot-Watt University. Maged chose Heriot-Watt for its international reputation, global recognition, and accessibility, with campuses in Dubai and the UK offering him the flexibility he sought.

Career Advancements

In 2023, Maged founded Analytica Management Solutions, a management consultancy and construction firm that now operates in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, despite being only in its second year of operation. Reflecting on his time at Heriot-Watt, Maged credits the university’s strong industry links for providing him with valuable summer placements, which gave him practical experience and insight into the construction industry.

As a business owner, Maged believes that there needs to be a stronger connection between academia and industry. This symbiotic relationship benefits everyone involved—students, universities, industries, and businesses. He points out that businesses benefit from graduates who bring fresh, modern perspectives to problem-solving, while universities gain insights into the skills and knowledge employers seek, which they can then incorporate into their curricula. This ensures that graduates are highly employable and that businesses are confident in the capabilities of Heriot-Watt alumni.

Maged also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, advising students to seek mentors who can provide guidance, support, and industry insights. He suggests that social media is a great place to start when looking for a mentor, encouraging students to reach out to professionals in their field. Many industry leaders are willing to give back and mentor the next generation, especially if they have benefited from similar support in their own careers.

Sustainability

Maged is passionate about sustainability and believes that it is not taken seriously enough on a global scale. At Analytica Management Solutions, they have implemented simple but impactful sustainability measures, such as eliminating plastic bottles in the office and using solar panels to reduce reliance on diesel generators. Inspired by the COP27 and COP28 conferences held in their operating regions, Maged and his company are committed to furthering their sustainability efforts, though he acknowledges that there is still a long way to go.

Advice for Students

Maged offers several pieces of advice for current students:

  • Travel: He encourages students to take advantage of the Go Global Programme at Heriot-Watt. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet new people, experience different cultures, and grow in independence. The exposure to different environments can be invaluable in both personal and professional development.
  • Stay Industry Focused: Once you’ve identified your area of interest, Maged advises making connections, attending conferences, and learning everything you can about the field while still at university. This proactive approach will equip you to enter the workforce with a strong foundation and relevant knowledge.
  • Mentorship: Finding a mentor is crucial. A mentor can offer invaluable advice, answer your questions, and provide insights into the industry. They can also help you build connections that could lead to future opportunities.

Dr. Maged El-Hawary’s journey from a dedicated student to a successful entrepreneur highlights the importance of academic excellence, industry connections, and the continuous pursuit of learning. His story underscores the critical role that Heriot-Watt University plays in preparing its students for successful careers and fostering strong ties between academia and industry.

Written by Amelie Marr