CEO Insights Magazine

Project leadership is not about titles, it's about taking accountability, inspiring others to act, and achieving results. Finding a balance between the day-to-day tasks and the bigger vision is necessary to become a great project leader. It entails setting clear expectations, anticipating problems, and quickly adapting when conditions change. However, building trust is crucial because when followers trust their leader, they will go above and above without being asked. This conviction is the basis of Yahya Al Rawahi's career path. He has almost 25 years of experience, and project leadership has been the main focus of his work. He started his career with PDO, Oman's top Oil and Gas E&P company, where he worked his way up through the ranks for almost 15 years. Later, he oversaw the development of Oman's first commercial crude oil park. One of his major accomplishments was managing the Amin Renewable Energy project, the nation's first solar PV Independent Power Project (IPP), signalling his entry into the renewable energy market.

Yahya has had the honour of overseeing many innovative initiatives in Oman over his career. These include the country's first solar PV IPP linked to the main national grid and a pioneering gas compression plant that set records at its time for gas compression of up to 300 bar, a first for the area. These achievements have been pivotal points in his career, demonstrating a continuous history of creativity and first-of-its-kind project management.

In a personal interview with us, Yahya shared his incredible journey and also his plans for further expansion of the business.

Describe your style of leadership. What rules or procedures do you adhere to as a leader?

Effective leadership, in my opinion, entails leading from inside the team rather than from the front or rear. Although there is a wealth of literature that makes a distinction between managers and leaders, I disagree with those conventional viewpoints. A leader is, in my opinion, first and foremost a team member. Instead of being viewed as superior to them, I try to be one of them.

To create a stronger, more effective team, I also make it a point to surround myself with team members who are more knowledgeable or experienced than I am. Clearing the way for my team by removing roadblocks and making sure they can work without interruptions is, in my opinion, my responsibility as a leader. I give them the freedom to succeed because I trust them to execute their jobs. This strategy has so far been effective.

What key attributes do you prioritise when evaluating fresh candidates?

The most important factor to me when considering new applicants, particularly those from the Gen Z generation, is their degree of self-motivation. People who can operate independently, including those who take charge, comprehend their jobs, and see things through to completion without continual supervision, are the ones I choose. I also look for candidates who are humble, grounded, and willing to learn from people of all ages and backgrounds.

How do you keep up with the most recent advancements and trends in your field?

I use a variety of sites to keep abreast of market developments. As a graduate of the Royal Academy of Management's Oman National CEO Program, I have a solid professional network spanning the nation's many industries. We get together frequently to share updates and insights, both domestically and globally, using common channels. I also subscribe to prestigious periodicals that cover topics that interest me, such as renewable energy and solar photovoltaics. To keep up with the most recent advancements in my industry, I am also a member of several project management organisations and reputable organisations like the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

What viewpoint or approach do you take in advancing sustainability?

I constantly attempt to keep up with the most recent advancements in sustainability from the perspective of the industry. Whether it's utilising natural resources, energy-efficient techniques, or renewable energy sources, I try to integrate these principles into our projects wherever I can. My general approach to sustainability in our work is guided by these concepts.

What future objectives or paths are you pursuing?

I have established a solid reputation for completing projects successfully in Oman thus far. I am well known for that. I've led and completed all of the nation's significant solar PV IPP projects over the past few years, earning me the moniker 'the Sheikh of Solar PV IPPS' between industry colleagues. I now wish to broaden my focus to include the broader sustainability and alternative energy such as Green Hydrogen in addition to renewables.

I find my worth in spearheading national projects and becoming a recognised authority in this field. I think I've already accomplished it to a large degree because stakeholders from the public and private sectors frequently come to me for guidance, consultation, and support on sustainability and renewable energy projects. Additionally, I actively participate in some committees that influence this industry's development in Oman.

What advice would you give aspiring leaders in this profession based on your vast industry experience?

Being knowledgeable in your profession is a must for any good leader, it is crucial to keep up with the most recent advancements in your industry. Maintaining a tight relationship with your team and exercising humility as a leader are equally crucial. I think a leader should lead from inside, not above, and a leader and their team members should not be separated. And always be willing to learn, regardless of your role. Everyone you encounter has something important to teach you, regardless of their position or background. Continue to be inquisitive, grounded, and always evolving.

Eng. Yahya Al Rawahi, CEO, Wadi Noor Solar Power Company

Having worked in Oman's energy industry for more than 25 years, Eng. Yahya Al Rawahi is an accomplished leader. He is well known for his contributions to sustainability and renewable energy, having spearheaded many ground-breaking projects, including the first solar PV IPP in the country.