We’re thrilled to welcome our new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Riz, to the SmartCrowd family!
First, a shoutout to our incredible co-founders, Siddiq Farid and Musfique Ahmed, and our esteemed Board of Directors, for their vision and leadership in building SmartCrowd.
Siddiq Farid expressed his excitement, stating: “As a founder, one of my core responsibilities is to attract and nurture top talent, and Riz’s appointment is a major milestone in our journey.
“With his impressive track record and experience, his willingness to lead our team is truly exciting for all our stakeholders and a major confidence boost to our young and ambitious team.”
Siddiq Farid further emphasized his commitment by mentioning, “I will remain on the board and provide support to Riz and the team.”
This transition enables the co-founder to redirect his focus towards more strategic initiatives. Siddiq’s pioneering efforts in shaping SmartCrowd’s business model have paved the way, leading both co-founders and the Board of Directors to entrust Riz with the day-to-day operations.
With Riz now at the helm, we’re energized by his passion and fully trust in his ability to take SmartCrowd to new heights. 🚀
Meet Riz Ahmed
With a SmartCrowd journey that began as a client, evolved into an angel investor, and later into an executive board member, Riz brings a wealth of experience to his role as CEO.
His background includes serving as the former Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the world’s largest private school group, GEMS Education. His expertise from PwC London, specializing in assurance, corporate finance, and restructuring, paved the way for over $5 billion of transactions under his leadership. Notably, he orchestrated one of the largest investments in a private company in the Middle East and spearheaded acquisitions across Europe and the MENA region, along with ventures in Education Technology.
However, Riz’s contributions extend far beyond the boardroom, he is a visionary with a heart for education. He is the founder of EqualEd, a pioneering education charity connecting volunteer teachers with schools globally and providing free teacher training through an innovative online platform.
Riz’s academic credentials are equally as impressive. He’s a qualified chartered accountant with a first-class Economics degree from UCL, a Certificate of Management Excellence from Harvard Business School, and an Executive MBA from the University of Oxford. His journey and dedication make him the perfect leader for SmartCrowd’s next chapter. Welcome aboard, Riz! 👋
SmartCrowd CEO Spotlight
So, what’s the biz with Riz? We’ve asked him a series of questions, and his answers might just inspire you. Keep reading to explore the insights and motivations of the man with a plan!
- Hi Riz! We’re super excited to have you on board as our CEO! What was it about SmartCrowd that attracted you to join our team? In your opinion, what sets SmartCrowd apart from other real estate investment companies?
Quite a lot, actually. As the first real estate crowdfunding platform in the MENA region, SmartCrowd has really dedicated significant time to collaborate with regulators and stakeholders to establish this innovative concept. I mean, its track record so far speaks for itself, but what I also think truly sets SmartCrowd apart is this commitment to transparency and prioritizing the best interests of its investors above all else.
- You’ve had a successful career spanning Education, Finance, and Executive Leadership. Could you share your biggest achievement and what you’re most proud of?
Honestly, my biggest achievement is my family. However, on a professional level, this new position at SmartCrowd is a significant milestone for me as I’ve loved the product right from the start and was excited just to be a customer. Now, to lead as CEO – that’s definitely a huge achievement.
- With that in mind, what advice do you have for budding entrepreneurs or professionals aiming to leave their mark?
Take control of your financial situation so that you can follow your passion and excel. I made it a priority to get my finances in order, and then put my money to work investing in different areas, including SmartCrowd. This generated a passive income stream, which allowed me to work on my passion projects.
- Now, onto lighter topics! What’s your top must-read, must-watch, or must-listen recommendation for everyone?
A few things come to mind, actually. My must-read would be Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, my must-watch would be The Office (US) and the Startup Theory Podcast is a must-listen!
- If you were an actual superhero, what would your superpower be, and what moniker would you go by?
I think I’d go for stopping time. I watched a TV show about it when I was a kid called Bernard’s Watch and have always wanted to do it. I guess my moniker would be StopWatch.
- Finally, as you embark on this new journey as CEO, what message would you like to convey to our SmartCrowd clients?
I put my money where my mouth is. I believed in this business as a client, as an angel investor, as a board member, and now as CEO. This is a platform that will look after you and your money, without a doubt.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from SmartCrowd under Riz’s leadership. Here’s to a bright future ahead!
