Saoud Ghandour, CEO of Norok Shipping, is an entrepreneur who spends most of the year in the triangle of Istanbul, Beirut and Dubai. Saoud Ghandour, who is a sought-after name in business and politics, has also been influenced by the magic of Istanbul, contributing to the Turkish economy and evaluating the city’s location and workforce opportunities, and has rolled up his sleeves to make new investments in Turkey.
Mr. Saoud Gandour, could you tell us a little about yourself so that we can get to know you better? What can you share about your journey into the business world and the key milestones that brought you to where you are today?
As the CEO of Norok Shipping, you have made significant investments and launched various projects, particularly in Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Turkey. Could you provide more details about your entrepreneurial journey and the scope of your activities in these three countries?
Mr. Saoud Ghandour is a highly accomplished individual with a strong academic foundation, having done a Bachelor’s degree in Business from the prestigious American University of Beirut (AUB), and higher studies in The London School of Economics and Political Science(LSE) and Mcgill university. The university programs and influential alumni network, provided him with the tools, insights, and critical thinking skills to thrive in the competitive business world.
With a sharp mind and a keen sense for entrepreneurship, he has navigated the complex business landscape of Middle East and beyond. Drawing from his education, which not only offered a deep dive into business fundamentals but also emphasized leadership, strategic thinking, and innovation, he has become a respected figure in his field.
His experience spans across a variety of industries—whether it's finance, real estate, technology, or trade—leveraging his deep understanding of both the local shipping, construction, food processing, finance, trade and regional markets. His professional journey has been marked by a drive for excellence and a constant pursuit of growth and innovation. Known for his strong leadership skills, he leads by example, guiding teams with both integrity and foresight.
His network extends across international’s dynamic business community, and his entrepreneurial spirit has helped create or grow numerous businesses. He has not only played a role in expanding companies but also in shaping major industries in all Middle East.
Culturally attuned and globally aware, he is also keen on international business relations, using his understanding of the region's unique economic and political dynamics to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. The businessman’s ability to adapt and innovate has been a key factor in his success, along with a commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and building long-term partnerships.
Mr. Ghandour is a seasoned entrepreneur, seamlessly integrating multiple roles in the global supply chain , shipping, logistic, manifactiring and construction sectors.
As a shipping magnate, he owns and operates a fleetof ships, facilitating the transport of goods across international waters. Their expertise lies not only in logistics and navigation but also in optimizing routes, handling cargo, and ensuring efficient and cost-effective shipping operations.
In addition to his maritime interests, this business leader is deeply engaged in trading building materials, acting as a key player in the import and export of building material in GCC. Their knowledge spans various materials like aggregate, sand and other bulk commodities, navigating the complexities of international trade laws, tariffs, and market fluctuations to ensure a steady and profitable flow of goods.
Mr. Ghandour’s shipping empire, Trading and crushers work in synergy, offering a vertical integration model where they control the production, transportation, and distribution of building materials, allowing for a competitive edge in terms of cost efficiency and market reach. Their ability to balance these diverse enterprises highlights a strategic mind, focused on growth, scalability, and adaptability in a dynamic, ever-changing global market.
Mr. Ghandour is a key figure in Qatar’s construction and infrastructure sectors, recognized as the owner of a fleet of trucks that play a pivotal role in the aggregate trade. His operations focus on transporting and distributing high-quality aggregates—such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone—essential for construction projects, road building, and other large-scale developments across Qatar.
With a well-maintained and diverse fleet, this entrepreneur ensures the reliable and efficient transportation of bulk materials, meeting the demands of construction companies, contractors, and developers in a rapidly growing economy. His fleet is equipped with a range of trucks, from tipper trucks for bulk material delivery to specialized vehicles for different types of aggregates, providing comprehensive solutions for the industry.
In 2017 Mr. Ghandour is a prominent figure in Oman’s construction and mining industries, serving as the owner of crusher lines based in Sohar, a key industrial hub in the Sultanate. Through these crusher lines, he plays a critical role in the production and supply of high-quality aggregates used for construction, infrastructure projects, and various industrial applications to be able to supply Qatari Market.
National Dialogue initiative by Mohammed El-Senoussi, Crown Prince of the Former Kingdom of Libya...
As the owner of crusher lines, this entrepreneur operates state-of-the-art equipment that processes raw materials like limestone and other types of rock. The crushed aggregates are then sold to construction companies, contractors, and infrastructure developers for use in everything from road construction to concrete production. By running efficient, large-scale operations, the businessman ensures that the demand for construction materials is met reliably and consistently.
Mr. Ghandour’s expertise doesn’t just extend to crushing operations but also includes effective supply chain management, ensuring smooth logistics, transportation, and timely delivery of materials. Additionally, a focus on sustainability and
Mr. Ghandour is a key player in Gambia’s agricultural and food production industries, with a strong presence as the owner of a feed mill and rice mill. Through these enterprises, they contribute significantly to the country’s food security, supporting both local agriculture and livestock sectors.
As the owner of a feed mill, Mr. Ghandour produces animal feed, supplying essential nutrition for livestock farmers across Gambia. His mill processes raw materials like maize, wheat, and other grains, blending them into high-quality feed for poultry, cattle, and other livestock. By doing so, they play a vital role in supporting local farmers and ensuring the healthy growth of livestock, contributing to the nation's food supply and economy.
At the same time, as the owner of a rice mill, Mr. Ghandour is also involved in processing locally grown rice into the finished product that’s consumed by households and businesses throughout Gambia. His rice mill helps to reduce the country’s reliance on imported rice, promoting local agriculture and ensuring that Gambians have access to affordable, locally grown food.
Both businesses—the feed mill and rice mill—demonstrate a commitment to sustainable agricultural development. Through these operations, the entrepreneur is not only advancing the agricultural sector but also creating jobs, improving local economies, and fostering food independence in Gambia.
Additionally, Mr. Ghandour may be deeply invested in improving agricultural infrastructure, from enhancing farming practices to expanding mill operations and distribution channels. Their ability to adapt to the market, manage supply chains, and innovate in both milling and feed production solidifies their reputation as a driving force in Gambia’s growing agricultural economy.
You come from one of Lebanon’s most established families. How has your family influenced your career, both in business and in life? How do you balance your family ties with your professional and personal life?
Mr. Ghandour hails from one of Middle East’s most prominent and respected families, known for their longstanding legacy in the country’s business and industrial sectors. Raised in a culture of entrepreneurship and leadership, he has continued the family tradition of excellence, making significant strides in oil importation, steel manufacturing, and shipping, all of which have solidified his position as a key player in Middle East’s economy. As the owner and operator of oil importation businesses, he is deeply involved in the strategic import and distribution of oil and petroleum products across Middle East. His operations ensure a steady supply of fuel to meet the country’s energy needs, from industrial usage to transportation. His expertise in navigating global oil markets, managing complex supply chains, and complying with both local and international regulations has earned him a reputation for reliability and efficiency. In addition to family oil ventures, this businessman has also made a significant impact in the steel industry, owning and operating steel factories that produce high-quality materials used in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects across Middle East and the broader region. His factories are known for their state-of-the-art equipment, commitment to innovation, and adherence to international standards. By supplying the construction sector with vital materials like rebar and steel sheets, he plays a key role in shaping Middle East’s urban landscape and supporting the development of vital infrastructure. Furthermore, family is the owner of a oil tankers, leveraging his fleet to facilitate the transportation of oil, steel, and other critical materials to Middle Eastand to the south of america . Family shipping operations are crucial in maintaining a smooth flow of goods, supporting both importation and exportation processes. With strategic logistics and a deep understanding of international shipping regulations, his fleet ensures that vital resources reach Middle East’s markets and industries in a timely and cost-efficient manner. Family businesses are known for their commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement, with a focus on supporting local industries, creating jobs, and contributing to the national economy. With a clear strategic direction and a forward-thinking approach to business, Mr. ghandour continues to lead with a sense of integrity, vision, and social responsibility, ensuring that his family’s legacy remains a cornerstone of international’s industrial strength for generations to come.
SAUND GANDOUR CEO: "TURKEY'S DIVERSE ECONOMY OFFERS NUMEROUS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND INVESTMENT"
You have been actively contributing to the Turkish economy, particularly through your investments in recycling. Do you plan to expand into other industries? Can we expect to see you investing in tourism or other sectors in the future?
"Turkey's diverse economy offers numerous opportunities for growth and investment. While recycling is a vital sector, there are other industries worth exploring. The country has a strong "manufacturing sector", with notable presence in textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer electronics, and home appliances. Turkey is also a significant player in the global "automotive industry", with companies like Fiat/Tofaş, Oyak-Renault, and Hyundai operating in the country.
Tourism is another promising sector, with Turkey being the "fifth most visited destination in the world" in 2023, attracting 55.2 million foreign tourists ¹. The country's rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for travelers. So maybe in the future i will have to join this sector of work. And i will be more productive nşallah."
Other sectors worth considering for investment include:
"Renewable energy": Turkey has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, aiming to increase its share in the energy mix.
"Infrastructure development": Turkey's strategic location between Europe and Asia makes it an important hub for trade and transportation, with opportunities for investment in infrastructure development. these sectors present opportunities for growth and development in Turkey's economy.
5. Beyond your busy professional life, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? Do you have any hobbies or interests in sports, arts, or other fields?
One of my hobbies is savoring with vintage cigars from my wide collection of Cubans vintage limited and regional elite cigars, in addition to vanishing aware in my very rare 140 feet Italian CANTIERI DI PISA yacht or racing away in my collection of ultraluxury cars collection.
6. Do you support any sports clubs or charitable organizations in Turkey? What are your thoughts on corporate social responsibility and philanthropy?
Regarding Sports club, we are working now to own one of the famous football team in Turkey since the kind of support is one of the main interests of our family in Middle East, we owend football and Basketball teams in the last 20 years. Regarding charity, I don’t like to speak about my charity activities since in our religion we should not disclose such information’s but I can tell you that we are supporting many organizations and individuals not only in turkey but also around the Middle East.
What are the core values and principles you consider indispensable in life? Are there any business or personal ethics you never compromise on?
As a successful businessman and I have my privileges in the business world.
I can provide you with a general outline of core values and principles that are widely considered indispensable in life and business:
CORE VALUES
1. *Integrity*: Acting with honesty, transparency, and ethics in all interactions.
2. *Respect*: Valuing diversity, inclusivity, and the dignity of all individuals.
3. *Empathy*: Showing compassion, understanding, and kindness towards others.
4. *Responsibility*: Taking ownership of actions, decisions, and their consequences.
5. *Fairness*: Promoting justice, equality, and impartiality in all dealings.
BUSINESS ETHICS
1. *Transparency*: Clearly disclosing information, intentions, and actions.
2. *Accountability*: Taking responsibility for business decisions and actions.
3. *Sustainability*: Prioritizing environmental, social, and economic responsibility.
4. *Innovation*: Encouraging creativity, experimentation, and continuous improvement.
5. *Customer-centricity*: Prioritizing customer needs, satisfaction, and well-being.
PERSONAL ETHICS
1. *Authenticity*: Being true to oneself, values, and principles.
2. *Self-awareness*: Recognizing one's strengths, weaknesses, and emotions.
3. *Continuous learning*: Embracing growth, development, and self-improvement.
4. *Gratitude*: Appreciating and expressing thanks for life's experiences and relationships.
5. *Mindfulness*: Cultivating presence, awareness, and compassion in daily life.
These values, principles, and ethics serve as a foundation for building trust, respect, and strong relationships in personal and professional life.
8. Finally, do you have a message for the Turkish people, particularly young entrepreneurs looking to build their own businesses? What advice would you give to the next generation on the path to success?
From my perspective as saoud Ghandour, I would like to share a message with the Turkish people, especially young entrepreneurs:
Message to Turkish Youth and Entrepreneurs
Turkey has a rich history of innovation, resilience, and entrepreneurship. As a nation strategically located between East and West, Turkey has the potential to be a hub for creative exchange, cultural fusion, and economic growth.
ADVICE FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
1. Embrace your heritage: Draw inspiration from Turkey's vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty.
2. Be curious, stay informed: Continuously update your knowledge and skills to stay competitive in the global market.
3. Foster a growth mindset: View failures as opportunities for growth and learning.
4. Build strong networks: Collaborate with peers, mentors, and industry experts to access valuable guidance and resources.
5. Pursue innovation and sustainability: Develop solutions that address social, environmental, and economic challenges.
6. Stay adaptable and resilient: Be prepared to pivot and adjust to changing market conditions and unexpected challenges.
7. Celebrate diversity and inclusion: Embrace the unique perspectives and strengths that diverse teams bring to the table.
PATH TO SUCCESS
1. Set clear goals: Define your vision, mission, and objectives.
2. Develop a strong work ethic: Be disciplined, persistent, and committed to your goals.
3. Cultivate emotional intelligence: Develop self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication skills.
4. Stay open to feedback and learning: Continuously seek guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.
5. Prioritize mental and physical well-being: Maintain a healthy work-life balance to ensure your overall well-being.
Turkey's young entrepreneurs have the potential to drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the country's economic growth. I encourage you to be bold, take calculated risks, and pursue your passions with dedication and perseverance.
