Case study
Abu Dhabi Ports Company: building local leadership capability
The client
Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC), responsible for the planning, construction, and operation of Khalifa Port—one of the world’s most advanced container ports, located on an artificial island five kilometres offshore. The port is designed to handle 35 million tonnes of cargo annually, representing a significant investment in Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure and logistics capabilities.
The brief
As ADPC transitioned from the construction phase of Khalifa Port to its commercial operations, the company faced the challenge of transitioning leadership from expatriate consultants to Emirati executives. Tony Douglas, the CEO of ADPC, needed to ensure that the Emirati managers, who had been part of the project since its inception, were adequately prepared to assume leadership roles. The goal was to build local leadership capability, ensuring that ADPC’s future was led by qualified Emirati executives in line with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to Emiratisation.
ig was engaged to assess the skills and potential of the selected Emirati managers and to prepare them for leadership through a structured development program.
What we did
We implemented our Executive Insights program for the selected Emirati managers. This program included a series of assessment exercises designed to evaluate their leadership and management capabilities. Following the assessments, we provided in-depth coaching tailored to each individual’s needs, helping them to develop their leadership skills and better understand their potential.
The program focused on self-insight, encouraging the executives to reflect on their behaviours in various situations and to consider feedback from key stakeholders. This approach helped the participants gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for growth, enabling them to take on greater leadership responsibilities within ADPC.
The results
Clearer leadership insights
ADPC gained a clearer understanding of the capabilities and potential of its Emirati executives, enabling more informed decisions about their leadership transition.
Successful leadership transition
The company successfully transitioned leadership from expatriate consultants to Emirati nationals, in line with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to Emiratisation.
Enhanced executive confidence
The Emirati executives who participated in the program gained greater confidence in their abilities, preparing them to take on higher levels of responsibility.
Sustainable leadership development
The program established a foundation for ongoing leadership development within ADPC, ensuring long-term sustainability in local leadership.
What our client had to say
In summary
ig played a critical role in helping ADPC build local leadership capability during a key transitional period. Through a tailored development program focused on self-insight and leadership skills, ig enabled the organisation to confidently transition leadership to Emirati executives. The result was a successful transfer of responsibility, ensuring that the future of ADPC is in the hands of capable and well-prepared Emirati leaders.
