Shadi Kuzam, a Canadian Lebanese serial entrepreneur based in Dubai, has been nominated for the Outstanding Leadership Award at the Influencer Magazine Awards 2026. The nomination recognises his remarkable journey as a freestyle CEO who has founded and scaled up multiple companies across construction, project management, consulting, training, and landscaping. With a Civil Engineering degree and a PhD in Project Management, Shadi holds an impressive portfolio of certifications including PMP, PSP, EVP, CCP, and CEP, demonstrating his deep technical expertise and commitment to professional excellence across the industries he operates in.
Shadi is the founder and CEO of several successful enterprises including Gulf Modern Contracting (GMC), Grüner Meister, GrünMe, PMO, MindShift, Schneizer, iFix, AMEP, and Pocket Office. His strategic vision and diversified experience have enabled him to successfully deliver hundreds of projects and services across the MENA region, Canada, and Africa. His ability to navigate different markets and industries speaks to his versatility as a leader and his deep understanding of the construction and project management sectors. Beyond his business ventures, Shadi serves as a Senator and jury member at the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF), where he contributes his expertise to support entrepreneurship and innovation on a global scale.
What distinguishes Shadi Kuzam is his exceptional ability to build and scale organizations from the ground up. He has extensive experience in mentoring, innovation, founding, leading, restructuring, and rebranding organizations, making him a valuable asset to the business community. His reputation in the business environment is built on a foundation of integrity, strategic thinking, and a hands on approach to leadership. He has cultivated excellent personal branding and is well connected worldwide through events, LinkedIn, and social media, allowing him to leverage his network for business growth and collaboration.
Shadi’s leadership style is characterised by his ability to think outside the box and approach challenges with a freestyle yet strategic mindset. He has successfully navigated the complexities of the construction and project management industries, delivering value to clients and stakeholders across multiple continents. His companies are known for their commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction, reflecting his personal dedication to excellence in everything he does. His work with Grüner Meister and GrünMe in the landscaping sector has brought a fresh perspective to green spaces and sustainable development in the region. His role as a Senator and jury member at WBAF highlights his commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting the next generation of business leaders. He brings his wealth of experience to the table, helping to evaluate and mentor emerging entrepreneurs and startups. His involvement in the global investment community demonstrates his belief in the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing to drive economic growth and innovation. Shadi is also deeply committed to training and development, using his expertise to help organizations and individuals reach their full potential through his consulting and training initiatives.
Shadi’s ability to restructure and rebrand organizations has been a key factor in his success as a serial entrepreneur. He has a keen eye for identifying opportunities and turning around underperforming businesses, breathing new life into them and setting them on a path to sustainable growth. His strategic approach to business has earned him a good reputation in the business environment, with clients and partners trusting his judgment and expertise. He is known for his ability to build strong teams and foster a culture of innovation and excellence within his organizations. In addition to his business achievements, Shadi is committed to making a positive impact in the communities where he operates. He believes in using his platform and resources to support social causes and contribute to the development of the regions he serves. His philanthropic efforts, combined with his business acumen, make him a well rounded and respected figure in the business community. He is a strong advocate for sustainable development and environmental responsibility, values that are reflected in his work in the landscaping and construction sectors.
Shadi Kuzam’s nomination for the Outstanding Leadership Award at IMA 2026 celebrates his extraordinary contributions to the business world and his unwavering commitment to excellence in leadership. From his early days as a civil engineer to his current role as a serial entrepreneur and global business leader, Shadi has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a true leader: vision, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a difference. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, strategic thinking, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in everything he does.
