Metal Scrap Trader of the Year – Engr. Salam Al Sharif
 
Engr. Salam Sharif, CEO of Sharif Recycling Group shared his milestone in starting on this industry.

“Slow and steady wins the race”

What brought you to recycling industry?

My Late Dad was my biggest inspiration, as he was running lead and cast iron foundry in the late 1950’s.

How long are you involved with this industry?

Since I was 11 years old. So it’s been 45 years. As a matter of fact, when I was 13 years old, I managed scrap yard operation on my own while my entire family were on 3 months long summer vacation.

What do you think are the most important qualities for someone to excel in this industry?

Quest for learning, Humility, Integrity and Hard work.

What is unique about your company?

Good legacy, contemporary management and Adore relationships.

Where do you see this company in the next few years?

Succession phase is my objective. Hand over to 3ed generation in good and smooth transmission.

How do the social, economic, environmental, technological, legal and political environments impact your business?

CSR is one of the key factors to carry out in our new modle of management. Yet coping with technology is the way to increase efficiency in a green and sustainable environment. Regulatory challenges remain to deal with while complying with regulations while you can afford it, help you to overcome obstacles.

Are there any ethical concerns that your type of business must deal with? How do you overcome these ethical problems?

Ethical business is our USP Unique Selling Proposition. We don’t look for short cuts and quick buck on the account of relationship. I have dealt with suppliers for over 35 years whom I nurtured in 1985 and running business through 2ed generation now.

How do you define success?

Sustainable all win relationship.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

Appreciation and acknowledgment from Recycling fraternity and foremost my late Dad (Mahmoud AL SHARIF Sr.) being proud of my achievements over the decades i.e. when I was nominated as vice president for BIR Non Ferrous Division back in 1996, it was an unprecedented post for any one from the Middle East and MENA region, and I could see the Glory and Pride in my late Dad’s eyes, is when he told me “you made me proud son”. Later on I was Chairman for BIR Ambassadors committee.
Another time when I was elected as President for BMR back in 2009 and my Late Dad attended the first BMR conference.

If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be?

Slow and steady wins the race.

 
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