With more than 30 years in the automotive industry, Mohammed Zaki’s vast experience spans across the globe makes him an ideal fit for the General Manager of First Motors, the exclusive dealer of Hyundai, Genesis and Geely vehicles in Bahrain. Kristian Harrison sat down with him to find out more about his career and leadership style.
Born into a family with deep roots in the car business, Mr. Zaki’s career began in the United States, where he handled Nissan for 13 years. Following this, he moved to Warrington, UK, where he managed Volkswagen for seven years, and later transitioned to Bahrain. “I’ve been in Bahrain for 14 years, working initially with Zayani Motors before moving to First Motors about seven months ago,” he shares.
“Bahrain is one of the safest countries with low crime rates and a welcoming community for expats. It’s a stress-free place, and I’ve decided to make it my home.”
Mr. Zaki’s extensive experience is not just limited to managerial roles. He is a graduate in automotive and heavy equipment engineering from Ferris State University in Michigan, USA, an academic background which laid a strong foundation for his practical experiences. “I saw an ad in the newspaper to sell cars, which caught my interest. Thankfully, I excelled in the field and gradually moved up the ranks,” he recalls. This progression saw him handling various brands and taking on increasing responsibilities, eventually leading him to his current role at First Motors.
The automotive industry has evolved significantly since Mr. Zaki started his career. “The technology in the automotive industry is advancing rapidly, especially with brands like Hyundai and Genesis,” he notes. “They are premium brands, competing with and bettering its competitors in their segments, and they offer exceptional comfort and advanced technology.”
Managing three brands comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. “I have managers handling each marque, and my role is to support them by negotiating with manufacturers on volume and pricing. It’s about having a good team that can drive the business forward,” he explains. “My leadership style emphasises teamwork and an open-door policy, allowing anyone in my team to approach me directly with ideas or concerns.”
One of the key factors that sets First Motors apart is its commitment to customer service. “We were awarded International Dealer of the Year in 2023, a testament to our excellent customer service,” Mr. Zaki states proudly. “We follow up with our customers and resolve any issues immediately, ensuring they are satisfied not just at the point of sale but throughout their ownership experience. If they are treated well, there is a good chance they may come back to us five or even 10 years later to upgrade, or recommend us to their family and friends.”
As for his future plans for First Motors, Mr. Zaki aims to increase the market share of Hyundai and Genesis in Bahrain. “My ultimate goal is to establish ourselves as the top brands in the country,” he declares. “I have an extremely strong relationship with our global headquarters in Korea and I know the manufacturers really believe in the Bahrain market and our team.”
Outside of his professional life, Mr. Zaki is actively involved in the community and enjoys singing and sponsoring various cultural events. “I love to network and meet people. I sponsor programmes across different languages and religions to create awareness for our brands,” he says. “I take an active participation in various societies, including the Bahrain British Business Forum and several Indian communities, as I love to help others and give back to this great country.”