Newsletter—Third Quarter, 2012
In this Edition
2
Welcome Message from Chairman
4
AmCham Abu Dhabi launches Business Visa Program with US Embassy
5
US-UAE Economic Policy Dialogue
6
2012-2013 Board of Directors Strategic Planning Meeting
10
Inside AmCham Abu Dhabi
12
Name our Newsletter Twitter Contest
14
AmCham Abu Dhabi Internship Program
15
The Middle East: The Aerospace Industry’s Fountain of Youth? By: Jeffrey Johnson, President of Boeing ME
17
Member Focus with Roy Panzarella, Vice President Middle East & Africa, Lockheed Martin
20
AmCham Abu Dhabi Committees
28
Upcoming Events & Sponsorship Opportunities
32
Past Event Photos
36
New Members
38
Member Discounts
40
Embassy News
Welcome Message from Chairman Welcome to our newly revamped AmCham Abu Dhabi quarterly Newsletter! I hope that you like the new look and feel as well as the expanded content as much as I do. I say, “our” new Newsletter, but really it is “your” Newsletter, as AmCham Abu Dhabi is only as strong as its over 450 committed members. In that spirit, I invite you to submit your suggestions via Twitter (@AmChamAbuDhabi) for the name of our online publication for the chance to win a helicopter ride over Abu Dhabi! This issue is jam-packed with information about the work of our members, staff, and Board in furtherance of the AmCham Abu Dhabi mission. We also feature excellent contributions from two of our Platinum Members and key supporters, Jeff Johnson of Boeing and Roy Panzarella of Lockheed Martin. We continue to work closely with our great partners at the U.S. Embassy to strengthen and expand the commercial relationship and economic ties between the United States and the United Arab Emirates. Ambassador Michael Corbin invited AmCham Abu Dhabi to participate in a September event held in connection with the second US-UAE Economic Policy Dialogue (EPD) in Washington, DC to provide private sector input to U.S. and U.A.E. government officials regarding key concerns for U.S. companies doing business in the U.A.E., as reflected AmCham Abu Dhabi’s 2012 Roundtable Summit Report. In another Embassy partnership, AmCham Abu Dhabi launched the new Business Visa Program (BVP) through which employees of our corporate members can receive expedited visa interview appointments. AmCham Abu Dhabi is also an important voice on Capitol Hill for American’s living and working abroad in the MENA region. In April, a delegation from our U.S. Public Affairs Committee traveled to Washington, DC on behalf of our regional partners at AmCham
MENA for the 2012 Advocacy Week.
AmCham
The membership of AmCham Abu Dhabi continues to play a key role in introducing senior U.S. government officials and leading executives of U.S. companies to Abu Dhabi and the UAE, highlighting for them the strong commercial, security, and cultural ties between our two nations. In 2012, AmCham Abu Dhabi hosted a number of exclusive events in which our Platinum members welcomed distinguished guests such as U.S. Senator John Kerry of Massachusetts, U.S. Senator Rob Portman of Ohio, Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Robert Hormats, Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman, and, most recently, a delegation from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport led by CEO Jeffrey Fegan and Mayor of Fort Worth, Texas Betsy Price. Following the elections this past spring, our new Board of Directors took office in July. We also welcomed a new Executive Director and some great new staff. I want to thank all of my colleagues on the Board from the 2011-2012 term as well as the 20122013 term for devoting their time and talents to the AmCham Abu Dhabi mission, and I encourage all of our Members to get involved in AmCham Abu Dhabi through participation in one of our many Committees.
We have some exciting events surrounding the fast approaching U.S. elections in November, be sure to save the date for the events (p. 28) including a Mock Debate and joint event with U.S. Embassy. I am proud of the work of AmCham Abu Dhabi over the past year and am looking forward to closing 2012 on a strong note. I value your support and wish to assure our members that we will continue to find new and innovative ways to serve our members’ interests and further our shared mission of promoting commerce, investment and goodwill between the U.S. and the U.A.E. Sincerely,
Gregory J. Golden Chairman
AmCham Abu Dhabi still provides numerous events for the entire Abu Dhabi community. In July, we celebrated American’s Independence Day at the beautiful new St. Regis Hotel on Saadiyat Island with a recordbreaking attendance. After summer hiatus, we kicked off Q4 with our annual “Welcome Back Strictly Social” at the new Eastern Mangroves Hotel. Wow, what a turn out! Many thanks to our headline sponsor, Qatar Airways, for donating great prizes.
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New Member Service
AmCham Abu Dhabi launches Business Visa Program with U.S. Embassy The U.S. Embassy may grant expeditious nonimmigrant
visa
application
appointments
to
employees of AmCham Abu Dhabi corporate members who have an urgent need to travel to the United States for a valid business purpose. As only consular officers can determine visa eligibility under the law, participation in the Business Visa Program in no way guarantees the issuance of a nonimmigrant visa. To allow for adequate processing time of any approved visa applications, AmCham Abu Dhabi encourages applicants to apply well in advance of their intended date of travel.
Some
applications will require additional processing which may take weeks or months.
The need for this
processing cannot be predicted or expedited. AmCham Abu Dhabi will offer the Business Visa Program to its corporate members to assist them in obtaining
expedited
visa
interview
appointments. Eligibility for the program is limited to employees
of
current
AmCham
Abu
Dhabi
corporate members who meet the criteria. Platinum members may submit an unlimited number of appointment
requests
in
a
year.
Corporate
members are limited to ten appointment requests in
“The U.S. Embassy is pleased to partner with AmCham Abu Dhabi to help ensure timely visa appointments for legitimate business travelers. The Business Visa Program will allow us to be responsive to the needs of the U.S. business community, while maintaining visa security standards. We hope the Program will directly encourage and support the continued growth of U.S.- U.A.E. business relationships.� Christine Harold Aluyen U.S. Embassy Consul General
a year. Contractors, subcontractors, and other applicants who are not employees of current
Click here to learn more
AmCham Abu Dhabi corporate members are not
about this exciting new
eligible
to
participate
in
the
Business
Visa
Program. AmCham Abu Dhabi does not charge a
program.
fee in connection with any expedited visa interview appointment request.
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Economic Policy Dialogue AmCham Abu Dhabi attends U.S.-U.A.E. Economic Policy Dialogue Dinner Roundtable Discussion In September 2012, government representatives from the United States and the United Arab Emirates met in Washington, DC for the second U.S.-UAE Economic Policy Dialogue (EPD). The meeting, led by U.S. Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs Jose W. Fernandez and U.A.E. Assistant Minister for Economic Affairs H.E. Khalid Al Ghaith, built upon the inaugural meeting held last March in the U.A.E. During the first session of the EPD, both delegations discussed greater cooperation to facilitate increased business and investment between the two nations. The second dialogue expanded on these themes to promote a stronger bilateral economic relationship, including finding innovative ways to enhance the role of the private sector in promoting economic growth. The EPD serv es as a coordinating and convening mechanism and provides a regular forum to focus on a number of new and ongoing initiatives. These initiatives are aimed at deepening economic and commercial ties between the United States and the U.A.E. and will foster economic growth and job creation in both countries. At the dialogue, officials discussed ways to strengthen the legal environment for businesses, support U.S. and Emirati small and medium enterprises, improve protection of intellectual property rights, and cooperate on development projects in North Africa. 5
On September 12, the U.S.U.A.E. Business Council hosted an exclusive roundtable dinner discussion on the eve of the EPD in order to facilitate interaction for the government participant in the EPD with the business community. AmCham Abu Dhabi Chairman Greg Golden was honored to be invited to attend this dinner that included senior government officials and business executives from both countries, including Assistant Secretary Fernandez, U.S. Ambassador Michael Corbin, H.E. Khalid Al Ghaith, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy H.E. Mohamed Abdulaziz Al Shihhi, U.A.E. Director for International Relations at the Ministry of Finance H.E. Majid Omran, U.A.E. Commercial Counselor to the United States Saud Al Nowais, and President of the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council Danny Sebright.
AmCham Abu Dhabi was invited to provide private sector input to U.S. and U.A.E. government officials regarding key concerns for U.S. companies doing business in the U.A.E., as reflected in AmCham Abu Dhabi’s 2012 Roundtable Summit Report. AmCham Abu Dhabi would like to thank Danny Sebright and the US-UAE Business Council for hosting this event and Ambassador Corbin for inviting AmCham Abu Dhabi and others in the private sector to contribute to this important bilateral dialogue.
(From left to right) The U.S. U.A.E. Business Council roundtable dinner on September 12th in Washington, D.C.: Gregory Golden, Chairman of AmCham Abu Dhabi; Danny Sebright, President of the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council; Jose W. Fernandez, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Business & Economic Affairs; H.E. Khalid Al Ghaith, U.A.E. Assistant Minister of Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Mohamed Abdulaziz Al Shihhi, U.A.E. Undersecretary at the Ministry of Economy; Anne Jafery, representative of ABC Dubai; and the Honorable Michael H. Corbin, U.S. Ambassador (photo credit: Nick Khazal Photography)
Strategic Planning Meeting
The AmCham Abu Dhabi Board of Directors held its annual Strategic Planning Meeting (SPM) at New York University - Abu Dhabi on Saturday, September 8, 2012 to discuss programs and initiatives for the upcoming year and to further develop AmCham Abu Dhabi as a leading professional organization. The Board was honored to be joined by U.S. Ambassador Michael Corbin, who is an Honorary Member of the Board, for the morning session of the SPM. After hearing reports from Greg Golden, Chairman; John Simmons, the U.S. Embassy Representative; Cassandra Gaudin, Executive Director, and other members of the AmCham Abu Dhabi staff regarding developments and accomplishments over the summer months, the Board was briefed by each Committee Chair regarding the committee's strategic plan for the 2012-2013 term. By setting aside an entire day for the Board to consider in detail AmCham Abu Dhabi's vision, mission, and values, as well as our strategies for achieving our ambitious goals, AmCham Abu Dhabi is wellpositioned to serve the needs of our members over the next year.
New York University Abu Dhabi
September 8, 2012
Board of Directors 2012-2013 Officers
Gregory J. Golden Chairman Partner, Baker Botts L.L.P.
Peter Rafferty Vice Chairman Fund Manager, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
Yassin Y. Yassin Treasurer Financial Advisor, Abu Dhabi Police - GHQ
Natasha Kohne Secretary Managing Partner, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
Members-at-Large
Souad Al Hosani Chair, Nexus Business Services
Lina El Labban - Lampkin Project Manager, Executive Council
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Matthew E. Byrd President and CEO, Gulf Alliance Company A Perot Company
Tracy Lavin Director, Community Relations, New York University Abu Dhabi
Jeffrey Decker Developer Sector Leader, RW Armstrong
Robert K. Lunday Chief Liaison Officer Consultants/ Advisors Department, Emirates Advance Investments
Ronald Herman CEO, Mubadala GE Capital PJSC
Morten Mauritzen President of ExxonMobil Affiliates in Abu Dhabi, Exxon (Al Khalij) Inc.
Board of Directors 2012-2013 Members-at-Large
Guy Mehula President, Parsons Middle East North Africa+
Gary Menke Director - Middle East, Raytheon International, Inc.
Clark Williams Chief Operating Officer, BPG Group
Non-Voting Members
Dr. Qaiser Anis Auditor Partner, Alliott Hadi Shahid
Cassandra Gaudin Executive Director, AmCham Abu Dhabi
John Simmons Commercial Counselor, US Embassy Abu Dhabi
Honorary Members
Honorable Michael H. Corbin Ambassador of the United States of America to the United Arab Emirates
H.E. Yousef Al Otaiba Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the United States of America
Danny E. Sebright President, U.S.-U.A.E Business Council
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Message from the Executive Director
Dear Members, As your new Executive Director, I want to thank you for the warm welcome. I have had the opportunity to meet many of you; for those of you I have not yet met, I look forward to meeting you in the coming months. I am particularly grateful to AmCham Abu Dhabi Chairman, Greg Golden, and the Board of Directors for their support in making the transition of executive leadership a smooth one. We have also welcomed some great new staff. Please take a look on the following page for an introduction to our new management team. My team and I have had a busy summer at AmCham Abu Dhabi working to increase member services such as our Business Visa Program with the US Embassy (p.4), as well as the standard of our communications, and quality of our events. We have recently launched an internship program with NYU Abu Dhabi where students are currently working on various projects and initiatives (p.14). To learn about our exciting upcoming events, please go to page 28 where you will also find great sponsorship opportunities. This issue features two Platinum Member contributions. The featured article by Jeff Johnson, President of Boeing Middle East, discusses challenges to the aerospace industry’s future workforce and how the Middle East’s young population is well poised to address them through education and training (p.15). In the Member Focus section on page 17, Roy Panzarella, Vice President of Middle East and Africa at Lockheed Martin, graciously offers insight about his journey to executive leadership. I invite you to reflect upon your own career and try to answer the questions we posed to Roy. If you have great answers, let me know and we may feature you in the next issue. I hope you enjoy the newsletter and share it with your friends and colleagues. I think you will agree that AmCham Abu Dhabi continues to raise the bar with innovative, value-added events, substantive programs and initiatives, which set our AmCham apart from the rest. Gather your friends to brainstorm names for our newsletter and enter our Twitter Contest for a chance to win a 30-minute helicopter ride over Abu Dhabi for you and four friends (p.12).
Warmest Regards,
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Meet the Executive Team Jennifer Cork, Membership Director Jennifer Cork is a human resource and finance professional with a background serving nonprofit and academic organizations for more than a decade. Jennifer believes a successful, lasting and comprehensive organization is built upon client relationships and has maintained service and facility operations in excess of 6.1M USD and 140,000 asf. Jennifer recently relocated with her family to Abu Dhabi from Columbus, Ohio where she served as the Assistant Director of Operations for the Health Sciences Library at Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University; she directed service points, communications & marketing, budgeting, strategic planning and facility design, operations and construction. Her degree is in Fashion and Retail Studies, The Ohio State University. Christina Villaluz, Accounts and Human Resources Manager Christina has been with AmCham Abu Dhabi since February 2009. She manages AmCham finances to ensure that AmCham can support its objectives and fulfill its mission. She received her bachelor degree in Accountancy at De La Salle University – Dasmariñas (Philippines). Christina is married to Mark and has two wonderful daughters named Kaycee and Khleyn.
Noor Barghouti, Events Manager Working for AmCham Abu Dhabi since January 2011, Nour Barghouti manages all the Business, Social and Community events for the organization. Prior to AmCham Abu Dhabi, Nour worked at Hill+Knowlton Strategies. Nour Barghouti graduated from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce, majoring in Marketing.
Tracey Corcoran, Communications Coordinator Tracey Corcoran is one of the newest additions to the AmCham Abu Dhabi team. After graduating from the University of Colorado, she moved to Abu Dhabi in 2010. She has worked diligently to increase the quality of our communications and create an interactive and substantive newsletter in order to engage AmCham Abu Dhabi’s members.
Muhammed Ali, Office Administrator Ali is from India and has been working with the staff and the Board of Directors at AmCham Abu Dhabi since 2000. Ali has studied at P.J.H.S Putiyangadi; Board of Higher Secondary Education in Kerala, India. He has two wonderful children, daughter Naja aged six, and son Nihal aged three.
Zarah Ramzanali, Executive Assistant Intern Zarah is a British student from the UK studying BSc Politics and Economics at the University of Bath. As part of her degree requirements, she is currently pursuing a one year work placement at AmCham Abu Dhabi.
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AmCham Abu Dhabi Contest
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Win a Helicopter ride over Abu Dhabi ! Tweet entries to @AmChamAbuDhabi using hashtag #NameThatNewsletter Contest ends November 30, 2012
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12
Inside AmCham Abu Dhabi
Internship Program
The AmCham Abu Dhabi (Executive Team recently attended the New York University Abu Dhabi (NYU-AD) Internship Fair in search for students to intern in various AmCham Abu Dhabi departments. Students of NYUAD, one of the top universities of the world were excited and enthusiastic and demonstrated profound determination to be involved in AmCham Abu Dhabi’s work of strengthening economic ties between the US and the UAE. As a result, students are currently working on different projects and initiatives in Membership Services, Events, Communications, Videography and Graphic Design.
From left: Jennifer Cork, Membership Director; Craig Breckenridge, Student, NYU-AD; Cassandra Gaudin, Executive Director; Guinandra Jatikusumo; Student, NYU-AD.
“I am delighted to partner with NYU-Abu Dhabi and other universities to host young people during their internships. Students come to organizations with fresh ideas and such engagement in the work we do. It also provides me with an opportunity to contribute to their educational experience and to hear about what they're learning in their studies, a great way for me to stay abreast of the best practices and new research in their chosen field.” Jennifer Cork, Membership Director, AmCham Abu Dhabi
From left: Cassandra Gaudin, Executive Director; Hyung-Il Kim, Student, NYU-AD.
“I chose to work for AmCham Abu Dhabi because of its tight knit working environment and the opportunity to influence the organizations development. AmCham AD has given me the opportunity to interact with top business leaders, and learn more about the way US companies do business here in the UAE.” Craig Breckenridge, Student, NYU-AD
"As an intern for AmCham Abu Dhabi, my organizational, research, teamwork and critical thinking skills have been constantly honed since day one. I have learned not only from the projects I have been assigned to, but also from my great coworkers who are also my mentors and my friends. The exciting part of being an intern is that I get to know how businesses in Abu Dhabi operate from the perspective of the business leaders themselves." Guinandra Jatikusumo, Student, NYU-AD
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Member Contribution Feature Article
The Middle East: The Aerospace Industry’s Fountain of Youth? Jeffrey Johnson
Over the past decade, the Middle East has consistently been in the aviation industry’s spotlight as countries in the region invested heavily in passenger airplanes for their airlines --some of which are amongst the largest and fastest growing in the world--, and state-of-the art equipment for their defense forces. In recent times, however, the region has evolved from being perceived as a significant customer for the aerospace industry, to becoming a partner of choice. This is highlighted by a number of agreements in place between global aerospace leaders and regional entities such as Mubadala Aerospace in the United Arab Emirates and the Alsalam Aircraft Company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These agreements cover a range of areas for collaboration ranging from Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) to the manufacturing of vital components for both defense and commercial needs. In fact, aerospace companies, such as Boeing, have traditionally had an interest in supporting and contributing to the region’s efforts in establishing and sustaining regional aerospace capabilities. This is currently being achieved through sharing knowledge with academic institutions and supporting research and development efforts –but also by encouraging the development of local manufacturing hubs and creating jobs working with local companies, such as STRATA in the UAE, to produce high-tech components for the 787 Dreamliner.
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Yet, there is more that the region can offer the global aerospace industry: its talent. It is a matter of concern that the traditional aerospace development and manufacturing hubs in Europe and the United States are seeing a significant slowdown in birth rates. This factor, combined with an ageing population and a failure to attract the decreasing pool of young professional into engineering, have a direct impact on the number of young professionals being introduced to the industry and consequently, in the long-term, on the very future of aerospace. As demand for airplanes continues to grow, the industry needs highly qualified people to manufacture those products and then support them once they enter into service. Consider this: the Global Megatrends 2009 report published by Ernst & Young revealed that “nearly 60% of the US aerospace industry is aged over 45.” The study, published in 2008, also reported that 25 percent of all the aerospace workers in the United States would be eligible for retirement by 2009. Four years later, the situation remains a matter for acute concern, not just in the United States but also in Europe. Conversely, the Middle East is one of the few regions in the world where almost half the population is under the age of 25 and, by some estimates, 15 million young people are expected to enter the workforce over the next decade, creating an immense amount of pressure on efforts to create new jobs.
These factors alone place the Middle East in a strong position to help, in no small way, the global aerospace industry meet its future workforce challenges. It is clear that the region’s visionary leaders have already recognized the opportunity that the aerospace industry presents, as part of their economic diversification plans. This is apparent in the intensive and timely investment in infrastructure to support the development of a wide range of capabilities; it is evident in the region’s efforts to engage and collaborate with global players, such as Boeing, which are already seeing success; and it is also noticeable in parallel efforts to develop and introduce educational programs designed to train students looking to pursue careers in aerospace. The combination of a young population, visionary leadership and the transfer of world class knowledge and expertise, through education and training, are already resulting in the creation of local pools of talent. While still at a very preliminary stage, it is not far-fetched to say that the region has the long-term potential to become a major source of skilled aerospace professionals capable of taking on roles anywhere in the world. This would go a long way in mitigating, at least in part, the effects of the ageing workforce challenge that the industry is facing.
In conclusion, the young population of the Middle East presents an opportunity for the aerospace industry to replenish its own youthfulness. By continuing to collaborate with entities in the Middle East to nurture and nourish an interest in aerospace, it is helping create its own ‘Fountain of Youth’ to rejuvenate itself, which is a win-win situation for all – the region, its youth and the future of industry.
Jeffrey Johnson is the president of Boeing Middle East and a vice president at Boeing International.
Boeing in the Middle East Boeing’s relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave King Abdulaziz Al Saud a DC-3 as a gift. Since then, Boeing has established a number of offices across the region, first in Riyadh in 1982, then a dedicated Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) office in Abu Dhabi in 1999, a regional headquarters in Dubai in 2005 and a new office in Doha in 2010. In addition, Boeing has field service teams across the region and two distribution centers for airplane spare parts in Dubai. Boeing works with a variety of customers and partners in the Middle East: with the region’s ambitious airlines that have successfully made the Middle East a global air transport hub; with defense forces that use state-of-the-art technology to secure their land and sea borders, while providing humanitarian assistance where required; with communications enterprises using satellite technology to link the region with the world; and with schools, universities and charities that are making a visible difference in their communities. 16
Member Focus
Lockheed Martin: One Hundred Years of Accelerating Tomorrow Tell us a bit about Lockheed Martin’s business in the UAE. Lockheed Martin is a proud strategic partner to the UAE in which all our key business areas and lines of business are robustly engaged: Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control, Information Systems and Global Solutions, Space Systems, MS2, and Global Training and Logistics. Our footprint includes hundreds of employees dedicated to providing best value solutions to the most complex requirements.
Mr. Roy Panzarella Vice President Middle East & Africa, Lockheed Martin Global Inc
“
“
Leadership is as much an art as it is a science
What are the culture and core values at Lockheed Martin Inc? We have built a strong and thriving enterprise by living our values “doing what’s right, respecting others, and performing with excellence” while putting the needs of our customers first. And we “walk the talk” with our employees and consultants with our ongoing training programs covering topics such as ethics, FCPA, and diversity. Our culture is framed by the responsibilities that come from the privilege of being an integral part of America’s global security team. We have enjoyed 100 years of accelerating tomorrow and we are powered by innovation and guided by integrity. What is some advice you would give to someone looking to get into your industry? If that someone is an honest, diligent, conscientious and thoughtful individual who is self-motivated to make a difference, has a desire to contribute to national and global security and who gets excited by the value and role of technology, I would ask for their resume/CV. Over the course of your life, what do you consider some of the most important leadership lessons you’ve learned? I have learned that leadership is as much an art as it is a science and that a competent leader understands that most situations require varying amounts of humility, humor, inspiration, cultural sensitivity, and clear communication. Under a successful leader an ethos of followership means that everyone is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Any feedback over the years about your leadership style that prompted you to make some adjustments? In the area of clarity and communication, I learned later that active listening is not only a critical skill set for a leader, but also it has been the most difficult for me to inculcate. However, I have discovered that active listening is a priceless instrument in my leadership toolbox.
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Member Focus
What has been the best day of your career? In the summer of 1994, I was privileged to participate in the emotional commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of D-Day on Omaha Beach, France with a group of returning veterans during which I learned the profound meaning of leadership, patriotism and brotherhood.
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AmCham Abu Dhabi is the definition of
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What was your first job? As a young paperboy, my character was developed delivering newspapers during the worst blizzards in Buffalo, New York. As a young Second Lieutenant, my first posting was with the German Bundeswehr in Bavaria enduring some of the harshest winters in history. I love Abu Dhabi.
‘perpetual motion’
Looking back on your career would you do anything differently? Yes. I would have delayed the acquisition of my first Blackberry. What do you do to relax? I enjoy spending time with my wife and connecting to family. I play a lot of tennis and I am passionate about skiing and golf. During those rare quiet moments, I enjoy reading nonfiction and sketching in charcoal. What is your favorite thing about being a member of AmCham Abu Dhabi? AmCham Abu Dhabi is the definition of “perpetual motion”. I admire AmCham Abu Dhabi’s broad and consistent engagement across a variety of sectors.
Lockheed Martin Global Inc Lockheed Martin Corporation is one of the world’s premier advanced technology and systems enterprises with leadership positions in aeronautics, electronics, energy systems, information systems, integration and management, technology services, and space and missile systems. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global leader with more than 200 partners worldwide. It employs over 123,000 people throughout the 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as, within 75 countries globally. Departments of the U.S. Government such as Defense, Homeland Security, Energy, and the National Air and Space Administration consistently select Lockheed Martin as a leading choice for advanced technology solutions and account for over 50% of the company’s business. Lockheed Martin’s international business contributes approximately 15% of the company’s total annual sales and is steadily increasing each year. 18
AmCham Abu Dhabi Committees
To learn more about our committees, click here
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Legal Corner
featuring
AmCham Abu Dhabi Legal Affairs Committee Natasha Kohne Chair, LAC, AmCham Abu Dhabi Managing Partner, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
Roberta Wertman Co-Chair, LAC, AmCham Abu Dhabi Associate, Reed Smith LLP
The Legal Affairs Committee (LAC) serves as a forum for legal professionals operating in Abu Dhabi, enabling them to discuss issues of common interest. The LAC provides a vehicle to engage Abu Dhabi institutions and further facilitate the development of the Abu Dhabi legal framework. In addition to launching the first annual AmCham Abu Dhabi-UAE University Internship Program, the LAC has activated a forum for legal professionals to discuss cutting-edge issues. LAC has also worked to address key concerns for US companies doing business in the Emirate, as identified in our report from the 2012 Roundtable Summit. Through partnership with the US Embassy, and key Abu Dhabi Government Institutions, the LAC seeks to improve and strengthen the economic ties between the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
For more information about the LAC, click here.
Legal Affairs Committee AmCham Abu Dhabi-UAE University Legal Internship Program
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AmCham Abu Dhabi-UAE University Legal Internship Program AmCham Abu Dhabi Legal Affairs Committee launched its first annual AmCham Abu Dhabi-UAE University Legal Internship Program through which Emirati law students at the UAE University College of Law had the opportunity to work at leading international law firms in the UAE. The inaugural session of the AmCham-UAE University Legal Internship Program included a broad cross-section of AmCham Abu Dhabi member law firms which hosted Emirati students and assisted with the administration of the program. In addition to experiencing the day to day practice of law at an international law firm, students benefited from numerous group activities throughout the program, such as seminars, panel discussions, brown bag luncheons, and the opportunity to observe live court proceedings. In addition, the program featured:
Supervision and mentoring by an assigned lawyer-mentor A variety of substantive legal assignments, based upon the student’s interest Opportunities to observe or participate in meetings, negotiations, and court hearings “Soft skills” training, such as CV review and mock interviews Regular feedback and evaluation
The Legal Affairs Committee is honored to partner with UAE University with regard to this groundbreaking program that furthers Abu Dhabi’s goal of providing training and employment opportunities for Emirati students and preparing the next generation of leaders of the UAE legal community.
Thank you to the law firms that hosted these valuable internships for Emirati students, the next generation of potential lawyers!
"Thank you for all your effort and assistance in trying to improve the UAE's young local population. Your commitment to helping us is truly humbling. I hope to see that these types of seminars become a regular occurrence across the UAE.“ Marwan Al Rasheed, Akin Gump Intern, Emirati Student
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Member Posting
‘
NFL SUNDAY NIGHT ‘LIVE’ FOOTBALL The Clubhouse Restaurant Tennis Center Complex, Zayed Sports City
Come for a chance to win tickets to the
On October 27, 2012
GAME DAYS October 14th October 21st Pre – Game: 8:00 p.m. Kickoff: 9:00 p.m.
Join us for food & drinks as we watch a live broadcast of NFL football! ›
Drink specials, and percentage of food purchases benefit scholarship.
Proceeds to support Mary Ellen Upperco Scholarship Fund
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AmCham Abu Dhabi USPAC
AmCham Abu Dhabi US Public Affairs Committee The U.S. Public Affairs Committee (USPAC) is responsible for AmCham Abu Dhabi’s participation in regional trade associations such as the AmCham MENA Regional Council and for leading AmCham Abu Dhabi’s advocacy efforts in Washington, DC. For many years, the USPAC organized a delegation from AmCham Abu Dhabi to participate in what began as a traditional “DC Door Knock” campaign, and which in recent years has evolved into a sustained year-long advocacy campaign as well as an intense “AmCham Advocacy Week” in Washington organized and directed by AmCham Abu Dhabi on behalf of the eight business councils of AmCham MENA. Our advocacy efforts are primarily directed toward preserving U.S. policies that promote U.S. exports and achieve the ambitious goals contained in the President’s National Export Initiative (NEI). Being heard in Washington, DC can be hard to do from our home here in Abu Dhabi so the USPAC take advantage of its strong relationships with an array of strategic partners in the US that we have developed over the years. First and foremost, in 2012, the committee engaged a Washington, DC based government relations expert that provides strategic guidance so that our message is conveyed to the right policy makers and so that we make the most of our time on the ground in DC. Further, the UPSAC cooperates with other strategic partners in Washington, DC both within and outside of government that share our goals, such as the Commerce Department, State Department, UAE Embassy in Washington, the US-UAE Business Council, the National Governors Association, US Chamber of Commerce, National Foreign Trade Council, and the American Business Group of Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The USPAC is a neutral player with regard to domestic partisan politics and is committed to working with the leadership of both leading parties in both chambers of Congress on issues of taxation, international trade, exports, and foreign direct investment in order to address the unique concerns of U.S. citizens and businesses working abroad.
Tracy Lavin Chair, USPAC, AmCham Abu Dhabi; Director of Community Relations NYU-AD
In the coming year, the USPAC intends to increase collaboration with AmCham MENA and host additional events here in Abu Dhabi that inform our members about electoral and legislative developments back in Washington, DC. This will include our annual tax seminar (which last year was offered as a free event at the America Community School of Abu Dhabi open to all US taxpayers living in Abu Dhabi) as well as a postelection analysis event. In the immediate future, please plan to attend the Mock Debate on October 17 hosted by AmCham Abu Dhabi and SNR Denton at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr as well as the Election Breakfast held in collaboration with the US Embassy on November 7 at the Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi.
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AmCham Advocacy Week 2012 About AmCham Advocacy Week 2012
For over twenty years, AmCham Abu Dhabi has advocated for pro-export, pro-expat laws and policies in Washington, DC by carrying the message that Americans abroad increase U.S. exports and create jobs at home. In recent years, our message has been amplified as AmCham Abu Dhabi has joined forces with the other business councils of the AmCham MENA Regional Council (www.AmChamMENA.org) to represent the interests of our members and all overseas Americans living across the Middle East/North Africa region. In April 2012, a delegation from AmCham Abu Dhabi’s U.S. Public Affairs Committee (USPAC) traveled to Washington, DC on behalf of the AmCham MENA as part of AmCham Advocacy Week 2012.
The delegation included: - Greg Golden, Chairman, AmCham Abu Dhabi; Partner, Baker Botts L.L.P.
The delegation in between meetings on Capitol Hill: From left: John Gilliland, Kent Huntington, Greg Golden, Nick Mercado, Elias Sayah, John Habib, Ron Jazzar, Bob Lunday, Ron Jazzar.
- Elias Sayah, President, Sayah Engineering Consulting Bureau - Bob Lunday, Managing Director, Emirates Advanced Investment - Ron Jazzar, General Manager, FTR International - Nick Mercado, Corporate Strategy and Development, LeasePlan Emirates LLC - John Habib, MENA Bridge Advisors - Kent Huntington, MENA Bridge Advisors - John Gilliland, Gilliland Consulting
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The delegation meets with AmCham MENA supporter, Representative Mick Mulvaney of South Carolina: From left: Kent Huntington, Bob Lunday, Nick Mercado, Rep. Mick Mulvaney, Elias Sayah and Greg Golden.
AmCham Abu Dhabi USPAC Americans Abroad = U.S. Exports = Jobs at Home AmCham Abu Dhabi and the other business councils of AmCham MENA support the goal of President Obama’s National Export Initiative (NEI) to double U.S. exports by 2015 by expanding trade in the MENA region. The key to achieving this goal is to have more Americans, like many of members, living and working in the MENA region and that this can be best achieved by preserving the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) under the Internal Revenue Code, which helps to make America workers competitive abroad, particularly in tax-free jurisdictions such as the UAE where non-US expats make tax free income. We also advocate for sensible improvements to both the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and the Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) form.
The delegation pays a visit to the U.A.E. Embassy: From left: Kent Huntington, John Habib, Bob Lunday, Greg Golden, Ron Jazzar, Nick Mercado.
Following the AmCham Advocacy Week, the USPAC distributed to the entire membership of AmCham Abu Dhabi the official Report prepared by Gilliland Consulting regarding the meetings and events of Advocacy Week 2012. That Report is available exclusively for AmCham Abu Dhabi members at www.amchamabudhabi.org.
If you are interested in learning more about the USPAC’s activities or Advocacy Week 2013 please contact the USPAC Chair, Tracy Lavin at uspac@amchamabudhabi.org Keynote Speaker at the Export Promotion Reception: Francesco Sānchez, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade.
Time to relax after the Export Promotion Reception: From Left: Greg Golden, Nick Mercado, John Habib, Ron Jazzar, John Gilliland, Kent Huntington.
Kick Off Meeting at NFTC
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Upcoming Events 2012
Oct 17
The US Elections: What Do They Mean to the Middle East? A Democratic and Republican Debate October 17, 2012 (5:30pm) Location: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
Nov 7
AmCham Abu Dhabi & U.S. Embassy Elections Breakfast November 7, 2012 (6:00am) Location: Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi
Nov 11
Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) Breakfast November 11, 2012 (7:00am) Location: Rocco Forte Abu Dhabi
Sponsorship Opportunities 2013 For Sponsorship opportunities, click here
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Sponsorship Opportunities 2012-2013 Breakfasts Sponsorship opportunities now available, click here
For more information on upcoming events, click here
Save the Date 2013 AmCham Abu Dhabi Excellence Awards January 25, 2013 (7:00pm) Location: TBC
International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) Breakfast February 17, 2013 Location: TBC
Masters Golf Tournament March 1, 2013 Abu Dhabi National Golf Club
Roundtables Summit March 26, 2013 New York University - Abu Dhabi
4th of July Celebration July 5, 2013 Location: TBC 17
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The US Elections: What Do They Mean to the Middle East? A Democratic and Republican Debate Presidential and Congressional elections in the United States will be held on November 6, 2012. SNR Denton & Co and AmCham Abu Dhabi are hosting this mock debate and cordially invite you to attend. Join us as we offer insights on the road ahead for the US elections and their impact on commercial and diplomatic relations between the US and the Gulf region. Our Election Insight Team comprised of veteran political strategists, advisors to US Presidents and elected leaders of both parties, and experts on US policy will offer hard-hitting analysis and commentary on how the US elections will shape world affairs through an engaging mock-debate format. The event promises to be an interesting, lively, informative, and entertaining discussion on the impact of the US elections in the region. We very much hope that you will join us. Dinner will follow the debate. Timings 17:30 Registration and refreshments 18:30 Debate 19:30 Dinner If you wish to attend, please RSVP to daniela.santamicone@snrdenton.com by no later than Monday, October 8, 2012. To find out more about our other Election Insight events in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, please visit www.election-insight2012.com.
To view more photos, please click here.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Abu Dhabi October 17, 2012 Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Ballroom C Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Map Please email us to RSVP. SNR Denton is an international legal practice serving clients from more than 60 locations worldwide, through offices, associate firms and special alliances in the US, the UK, Europe, the Middle East, Russia and the CIS, Asia Pacific and Africa. We offer our clients premier service in eight key industry sectors. For more information visit snrdenton.com.
Since 1996, AmCham Abu Dhabi has worked diligently to increase trade, investment, and goodwill between the US and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. AmCham Abu Dhabi is an independent, not-for -profit association comprised of Fortune 500 corporations, small and medium-sized companies, and prominent business leaders and entrepreneurs. Through the support of more than 450 members, AmCham Abu Dhabi is the recognized voice of US business in Abu Dhabi.
Recent Events
AmCham Abu Dhabi would like to thank our sponsors who helped to make this event possible
To view photos, click here.
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Welcome Back Strictly Social
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‘Super’ Strictly Social
Congratulations to our members who won a round-trip ticket to any Qatar Airways destination worldwide Cecilie Madsen Mejcaze and Walid Sidani
Qatar Airways is pleased to offer exclusive discounts up to 15% for AmCham Abu Dhabi members for tickets to all Qatar Airways online destinations. Book now at http://www.qatarairways.com/amcham-ae
From left: Fadi Hijazin, Commercial Manager, Qatar Aiways; Walid Sidani, CEO ADNIC; Greg Golden, Chairman, AmCham Abu Dhabi
From left: Fadi Hijazin, Commercial Manager, Qatar Airways; Cecilie Madsen Mejcaze, Jumeirah Etihad Towers; Greg Golden, Chairman, AmCham Abu Dhabi
To view more event photos, click here 32
Past Events U.S. Senator John Kerry Reception
AmCham Abu Dhabi Reception for U.S. Senator Rob Portman
AmCham Abu Dhabi and Gulf Alliance Company– A Perot Company host Dallas/ Fort Worth International Airport Delegation
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April 30, 2012, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
June 2, 2012, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
September 26, 2012, Emirates Palace
Signature Events AmCham Abu Dhabi Annual General Meeting
AmCham Abu Dhabi July 4th Celebration
June 5, 2012, Grand Millennium Al Wahda
July 6, 2012, St. Regis Saadiyat Island
To view more photos, please click here 34
New Members
Congratulations to our new in the 2nd and 3rd New Platinum Members
Walid Sidani Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company, CEO
Oytun Palas Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company, Senior Business Development Manager, Affinty Groups
Janice Phillips Olgoonik Global Security, General Manager
Saeed Ghanem Middle East General Enterprises, Business Development Director
Patricia Boatner Olgoonik Global Security, Deputy General Manager
New Affiliate Platinum Members
Orlando Vidal SNR Denton, Partner
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Hamad Ghanem Middle East General Enterprises, Local Affairs Director
Michael Kerr SNR Denton, Managing Partner
New
New Members
w members who joined Quarters of 2012! New Corporate Members
Yousef Abou Allaban American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology, General Director, Partner
Pep Lozano Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, General Manager
Dr. Jasem Al Zaabi
American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology,
Co-Founder, Partner
Ms. Christina Struller Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal , Director of Sales
Ashwini Kumar Hyatt Capital Gate, General Manager
Andreea Dumitrescu Hyatt Capital Gate, Sales Manager
Franziska Hoppe St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, Vice President Business Development
Edwena D’Souza St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, Director of Sales
New Affiliate Corporate Members
Dr. Essan Shanoudi Americana Computer Systems, LLC, President
Kaan Arioglu Americana Computer Systems, LLC, CEO
Mike Oswald Yas Waterworld, Park Manager
John Kerr Yas Waterworld, Sales Director
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New Members New Individual Members Allison Aab (USA)
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
Institute/Department Administrator
Tracy Lavin (USA)
New York University Abu Dhabi
Director, Community Relations
John Ohrnberger (USA)
Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)
Head of Performance and Reward
Tarek Abdalla (USA)
Reed Smith LLP
Partner
Roberta Wertman (USA)
Reed Smith LLP
Associate
Paul T. Retchless (USA)
Eagle Star Relocations
General Manager
Ken Kosak (USA)
Troon Golf
General Manager
Dr. Jessica P. Ashooh (USA)
UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Policy Analyst
Calin Lewis (USA)
Senior Project Manager
Kurt Reuman (USA)
Commercial Manager
Stacy Jackson (USA)
Exxon (Al Khalij) Inc
Vice President & Financial Manager
James Michael Cavanaugh (USA)
Holland & Knight
Partner
Tania Rana Jarjur (USA)
Holland & Knight
Associate
Ryan Garton (USA)
Commonwealth Education
President/ Managing Member
LIna Abuamer (USA)
Aabar Investments PJSC
Marketing and PR Associate
Mark Soohoo
Edelman
Director of Digital
Renee Dugan
NYU Abu Dhabi
Acting Assistant Dean of Campus Life
Greg Howell
Masdar Institute
Director, Research Administration
Jeff Liston
Olgoonik Global Security
Housing Specialist
Rasha El Khalil
Olgoonik Global Security
Procurement
New Affiliate Individual Members Allen & Shariff
Hussein Bataineh (Jordan)
Global Exclusive Management Con- Managing Director sultancy
Ian Gomes (UK)
KPMG
Head of Advisory - Lower Gulf
Dr. Arzu Topal (Turkey)
Department of Projects and Buildings Chief Corporate Marketing & Communications Officer
Abdel Aziz El Gamal (USA)
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC) Middle East Consulting and Trade Affairs Corp (MECATAC)
Sheldon Woldt (USA)
Northern Trust
Head of Middle East Region
Shaikh Ahmed (Canada)
Abu Dhabi National Insurance Com- Chief Distribution Officer pany (ADNIC)
Madeleine Yarrow (UK)
Troon Golf
Group Sales Manager
Waseem Anwer
Chicago Capital Group
Managing Director
George Ambooken (India)
Etihad Airways
Manager Sales - Corporate
Yarub Al Nuaimi (UAE)
Etihad Airways
Business Development Manager
Stephen Hibbert (Australia)
Patton Boggs LLP
Partner
Alex Iapichino
Aabar Investments PJSC
General Counsel
Abdulla Al Nuaimi (UAE)
Lara Kaddoura 37
Regional Business Development Manager
Hadi Tahboub (Jordan)
Managing Director
Gulf Diagnostic
Members Discounts
Below are just a few of the companies that offer AmCham Abu Dhabi members exclusive discounts upon presentation of your membership card. To view the complete list of member discounts, click here
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News From US Embassy
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Platinum Members Platinum members are corporate members who choose to go that extra mile to support AmCham Abu Dhabi. Their support is much appreciated.
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To promote commerce, investment and goodwill between the United States of America, the membership, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates.
AmCham Abu Dhabi Trademark of the American Business Group of Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 43710, Abu Dhabi, UAE | T: +917 2 6311 3604 | F: +971 2 633 0489 inquiries@amchamabudhabi.org | www.amchamabudhabi.org