“Empowering women will empower the economy,” says Dr. Nairouz Bader, Chief Executive Officer of Envision Partnership, who offers a unique blend of knowledge, business acumen, and a deep understanding of leadership in both developed and developing markets.
Dr. Nairouz is highly committed to justice and steers her advocacy for female leadership empowerment, aiming for parity in all aspects. Recently, they celebrated achieving gender parity in their leadership placements.
The story of Dr. Nairouz’s beginnings – how did she get started?
Dr. Nairouz’s journey, shaped initially by a healthcare background, led her to embrace servant leadership and a purpose-driven life in executive search. Merging pharmacy expertise with strategic thinking, she transitioned to leadership advisory, refining her skills through mentorship and continuous learning.
“I fell in love with leadership while pursuing my post-graduate studies. Guided by a passion for empowering others and creating an impact, I followed my career in executive search, serving our clients as a strategic advisor and enabler of strategy implementation from a leadership agenda,” says Dr. Nairouz.
She started her executive search and leadership practice in New York a couple of decades ago, then in Canada and Europe, and moved to Dubai, heading Envision Partnership MENA.
Motivating factors to embark on the entrepreneurial journey
Dr. Nairouz’s educational background and skills as a pharmacist, complemented by several post-graduate degrees in Managerial Leadership from the U.S.A., have uniquely equipped her to embark on the entrepreneurial journey, in addition to being a DIB (Diversity, Inclusion, and belonging) Catalyst, her mission for gender parity and advocacy for female leadership and minority-owned enterprises align seamlessly with the multifaceted challenges of entrepreneurship. This combination of healthcare expertise, leadership acumen, and a commitment to diversity positions led her to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship with a holistic and inclusive perspective.
Early lessons in entrepreneurship
“Facing gender biases, limited opportunities, and work-life balance challenges, I’ve triumphed through resilience, determination, and strategic actions. Against gender biases, I’ve actively advocated for equal opportunities, challenging stereotypes, and earning respect,” says Dr. Nairouz.
Viewing limited advancement opportunities as chances for growth, Dr. Nairouz invested in continuous learning, sought leadership roles, and showcased her abilities. These challenges fuelled her resolve, and with a strong support network, Dr. Nairouz continued to grow personally and professionally. Inspired by Justice RBG Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Dr. Nairouz is motivated by her commitment to breaking barriers and defending women’s rights. Her life exemplifies that women can pursue aspirations without sacrificing family life, reinforcing the idea that women can excel in influential positions despite challenges. “Thanks to her, I’ve learned that personal commitments, social barriers, and challenges can be overcome with determination and a will to make an impact,” says Dr. Nairouz.
Envision Partnership is a global executive search and talent management consultancy that provides tailor-made services to help clients find and attract the best executive talent fit for their mission. The company offers executive search, talent assessment, leadership development, and organizational consulting services, focusing on quality, professionalism, and personalization. With a global presence and experienced consultants, Envision Partnership has a strong track record of placing top-level executives across different industries, making them a trusted partner for talent management services.
Staying motivated to maintain a work-life balance
Dr. Nairouz is a proud mother of two young ladies, Luna and Lynn. She is passionate about leaving a legacy and impacting everyone around her: her family, colleagues, clients, candidates, coaches, the economy, and society.
Maintaining work-life balance is a top priority, and this recognizes the intensity of her role. To achieve equilibrium, Dr. Nairouz engages in activities outside work that bring joy and recharge her energy. Involvement with non-profit organizations like Rotary, Corporate Champions, Menopause Foundation, and regular nature walks contribute to her emotional well-being and physical fitness. Prioritizing quality time with loved ones, whether through family dinners or weekend getaways, reinforces the importance of meaningful relationships beyond work.
“I’ve established boundaries and embraced time management strategies, including dedicated “me-time,” ensuring a balance between personal and professional fulfillment. I aim to refine and optimize these strategies, exploring new avenues for personal fulfillment and stress reduction. Professionally, I seek growth opportunities aligned with my values to harmonize career and personal goals,” says Dr. Nairouz.
Responsibilities as an influential and dynamic women Entrepreneur
As a woman entrepreneur, Dr. Nairouz brings a dynamic and innovative approach to business. With a clear vision, adaptability, and resilience, she successfully navigated challenges and fostered a culture of creativity within her teams.
“We have survived and thrived over several financial crises over the decades. Committed to continuous learning, I integrate financial acumen into strategic decision-making and prioritize networking to cultivate meaningful connections. Embracing calculated risks and leading with empathy, I create collaborative environments that drive results, reflecting my passion and commitment to success in the entrepreneurial realm,” asserts Dr. Nairouz.
According to Dr. Nairouz, a vital characteristic of women entrepreneurs is exhibiting compassionate leadership. This involves focusing on relationships through careful listening to, understanding, empathizing with, and supporting other people, enabling those we lead to feel valued, respected, and cared for to reach their potential and do their best work.
Influencing a change in this generation: Dr. Nairouz’s Advice
Dr. Nairouz says that you believe in yourself and your abilities. Have confidence that you have what it takes to succeed in the business world. Trust in your skills, knowledge, and unique perspectives. Remember that self-belief is a powerful tool that can propel you forward, helping you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
Pursue your passions. Choose a career path that aligns with your interests and values. When you’re passionate about your work, it becomes easier to stay motivated, engaged, and committed. Seek opportunities that allow you to combine your skills and passions, as this will contribute to a more fulfilling and rewarding career journey.
Build a robust support system and network. Surround yourself with mentors, role models, and like-minded individuals who can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights. Seek mentors who can offer diverse perspectives and help you navigate the complexities of the business world. Additionally, network and build relationships within your industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with professionals who can open doors to new opportunities, mentorship, and valuable connections.
By believing in yourself, pursuing your passions, and building a strong support system, you can embark on a fulfilling and successful career in business. Remember to stay true to your values, embrace continuous learning, and advocate for diversity and inclusion. With determination, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth, you can make your mark in the business world and contribute to positive change within the industry.
Future Picture
“As someone who is deeply committed to professional growth, I have set some ambitious goals that I am eager to accomplish in the next two years,” expresses Dr. Nairouz.
“My goals are to drive positive change and create an impact through my work. I am committed to expanding the reach and impact of Envision Partnership, a women-focused organization that empowers and supports women to achieve their full potential. Specifically, I plan to develop new programs and services to help clients prioritize sustainability and collaborate with other organizations to achieve collective impact. In addition, I aim to reduce the environmental footprint of Envision Partnership and lead by example in our own business practices,” she assured.
Dr. Nairouz catalyzes positive change at Envision Partnership by innovating programs that empower women and emphasize sustainability. She intends to extend their impact through strategic collaborations by partnering with organizations that align with their mission.
