As the Chairman of Maridive, Shahira Zeid has had many years of remarkable accomplishments as a successful businesswoman and industry leader in the oil and gas sector. Egypt Oil & Gas was given the exclusive opportunity to uncover her personal story as a woman competing in a male-dominated field.

Can you share your journey in the offshore marine and oil services industry, and what motivated you to take on leadership roles?

My journey in the offshore marine and oil services industry has been deeply rooted in my upbringing. I was born into the oil and gas sector, with my late father, Magdy Zeid, being one of the founders of Maridive & Oil Services and a well-respected figure in the industry. He worked for Shell and the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC), which gave me early exposure to the intricacies of this field. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the dedication and passion required to succeed in this dynamic industry.

The motivation to take on leadership roles came naturally as I sought to continue my father’s legacy while contributing to the company’s growth and success. I recognized the need for strong leadership to drive innovation, ensure safety, and maintain the values that Maridive was built upon. Taking on a leadership role allowed me to shape the future of the company, honoring both my father’s vision and my own aspirations to make a meaningful impact in the industry.

What challenges did you face as a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry, and how did you overcome them?

As a woman in a male-dominated industry, there have certainly been challenges which are common in many industries, including oil and gas. However, I chose to view these challenges as opportunities to prove my worth. However, I focused on demonstrating expertise, building strong professional relationships, and advocating for more inclusivity. Over time, results and leadership qualities spoke louder than gender.

Maridive & Oil Services has been a key player in the offshore marine sector. What do you believe sets your company apart from other companies in the market?

Maridive & Oil Services has always been at the forefront of innovation and excellence in the marine sector. What truly sets us apart is our ability to adapt to the evolving demands of the energy industry, alongside our unwavering commitment to safety, environmental sustainability, and cutting-edge technology. As a family-owned business, we benefit from unique agility in decision-making while maintaining a strong long-term vision. Above all, our dedicated and highly skilled workforce is the backbone of Maridive, enabling us to deliver high-quality services that exceed client expectations worldwide.

What are your strategic goals for Maridive & Oil Services over the next five years?

In the next five years, our strategic objectives for Maridive & Oil Services are to broaden our international footprint, upgrade and modernize our fleet, and prioritize sustainability across our operations. Additionally, we plan to explore opportunities in renewable energy while continuing to cultivate innovation within our team to ensure we remain leaders in the ever-evolving industry.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter leadership roles in industries like oil and gas?

My advice is to stay committed, embrace challenges, and build expertise. I encourage young women to pursue their passions and never shy away from challenging themselves. Don’t let gender norms dictate your path, be confident, assertive, and focused on delivering results. Additionally, remember that leadership is about influence, not authority; it’s about inspiring others and creating an environment where everyone can succeed.

Looking back at your career, what are you most proud of, and what lessons have you learned along the way?

I am most proud of the legacy we have built at Maridive & Oil Services and the lasting impact we have had on the offshore marine and oil sectors. In terms of lessons, I’ve learned that adaptability is key to success. The industry is constantly changing, and the ability to evolve with it whether through new technologies or shifts in market demands is essential. I’ve also learned the importance of leading with integrity and ensuring that every decision made aligns with the values and vision of the company.