In a remarkable tale of perseverance and adaptability, Niyaz, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Ooredoo Maldives, exemplifies how dedication and seizing opportunities can lead to extraordinary career achievements. His journey, shaped by unexpected turns and significant challenges, began under the presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom when a government policy placed young Maldivians into government-bonded jobs after completing school.
A Military Beginning
Fresh out of school in 1993, Niyaz was among the students enrolled in military training under this policy. While his passion leaned towards technology, circumstances led him to join an electronics course in the military. Over the next 12 years—well beyond the initial five-year bond—he honed his technical skills, fixing TVs and walkie-talkies.
“I never really liked military work. I’m more of a tech enthusiast,” Niyaz admits, reflecting on his early career.
Despite his affinity for technology, military work offered limited growth opportunities. Eager for change, Niyaz pursued jobs at prominent institutions like Dhiraagu and the President’s Office. His breakthrough came when he learned about the launch of Wataniya, now Ooredoo, in the Maldives.
A Game-Changing Opportunity
Joining Wataniya as a network deployment technician in 2005, Niyaz became part of a pioneering team tasked with launching telecommunications services in the Maldives. Back then, the industry was in its infancy, with phone booths serving as the primary means of communication for most.
With the newly acquired service license, the Wataniya team had only six months to roll out operations. The challenges were immense: island travel, minimal infrastructure, and resource scarcity. Yet, the team’s perseverance and the islanders’ cooperation prevailed. Niyaz recalls how entire island communities would rally to help install transmission towers.
Rising Through the Ranks
Over the past 19 years, Niyaz has climbed the corporate ladder, overcoming challenges with unwavering resilience. From a technician to the CCO of Ooredoo, his trajectory is an inspiring example of commitment and adaptability.
Education played a pivotal role in his journey. While Niyaz began with a diploma, he pursued higher qualifications, eventually earning a master’s degree in telecommunications. Leadership training in Singapore and a year-long program in Qatar further refined his skills.
The Keys to Success
Niyaz attributes his success to several principles he follows rigorously, many of which stem from his military background:
- Punctuality:
“I prioritize punctuality, a trait likely influenced by my military background,” he says, acknowledging that his strict adherence to timeliness sometimes annoys others. - Efficiency:
He encourages his team to complete daily tasks promptly and prepare for the next day, emphasizing that this approach sustains productivity and enthusiasm. - Teamwork:
Niyaz credits much of his success to his team, highlighting their motivation and cooperation as vital factors in his growth.
A Day in the Life
Niyaz’s day begins at 8:30 AM with coffee and casual conversations to nurture a friendly work environment. By 9:00 AM, he dives into task approvals before attending back-to-back meetings. He ensures work is wrapped up by 4:30 PM, keeping evenings free for planning and personal time.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Niyaz’s story reflects a deep gratitude towards his parents, whose guidance laid the foundation for his success, and his wife and children, who have supported him throughout. His children are continuing the family legacy, one in marketing and the other in coding, tying back to their father’s early interest in electronics.
A Vision for a Digital Future
Looking ahead, Niyaz envisions a fully digitalized Maldives. He dreams of 24/7 public service accessibility and sees Ooredoo leading the charge toward this goal. The company’s ongoing shift to digital services reflects this ambition, as they gradually phase out physical customer service offices.
Niyaz’s journey from military training to becoming a top executive at a multinational company is a testament to the power of adaptability, hard work, and vision. As he continues to push for technological advancements in the Maldives, he remains a source of inspiration for aspiring professionals across the nation.