The General Manager of First Motors shares his family passion for cars and talks about his impressive career, the Korean automotive market and his many hobbies!

Your new role at First Motors is an exciting opportunity. How do you plan to tackle the challenges of keeping the dealership competitive in today’s fast-changing market?
I’ve been in the automotive industry for almost 27 years. My career started in America, then I moved to the UK in 2005 and to Bahrain in 2011. My passion has always been automotive. I’m an automotive and heavy equipment engineer by profession and I also hold an MBA.
At First Motors, dealing with Hyundai and Genesis has been a learning experience. The Korean market is growing rapidly and their cars are well-engineered and offer great comfort at a good price. I see Hyundai as a premium product and Genesis as a luxury product with plenty of growth opportunity. The key to staying competitive is leveraging Korean technology, which is taking over the world with its user-friendly gadgets and well-engineered, comfortable cars. Additionally, focusing on excellent customer service and building long-term relationships with customers is crucial. We aim to sell not just a car but a lifetime of value and satisfaction to our customers.

With an impressive career of more than 20 years in the automotive field, what drives your passion for the industry?
My passion for cars also comes from my family; my grandfather and dad were in the car business, so it runs in my blood. The automotive industry is dynamic and ever-evolving, which keeps me motivated and passionate. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to innovate and improve. I love meeting people and networking, so dealing with manufacturers, negotiating and providing excellent customer service are very fulfilling aspects of my job.

If you could take any car on a cross-country road trip, which model would you choose and why?
All Hyundai and Genesis models are exceptionally exciting to drive, each with unique features. However, for a cross-country road trip, I would choose the Santa Fe. It is ideal for different terrains and has a lifetime warranty and a five-year service package, making it a great choice for such a journey. The Santa Fe’s advanced safety features, comfortable interior and powerful performance make it perfect for long drives across diverse landscapes.

What are you driving at the moment and what is your favourite feature about the car?
I don’t personally own a car but I drive different Hyundai and Genesis models every three months. The most exciting cars for me are the G90 Genesis and the GV80 Coupe. They’ve got tons of features, are very user-friendly and offer an unbelievable driving experience. Rotating between these models allows me to experience the best of both worlds in terms of performance and luxury.

Shifting gears, what’s your ideal weekend getaway or favourite hobby to relax outside of work?
I’m passionate about singing and have performed in some concerts with female playback singers, even though I’m not formally trained. I also enjoy boating, fishing and travelling. In Bahrain, my top hobby is networking and interacting with the community, which aligns with my passion for meeting people and building connections. ✤