Meet Karim Belouadi, Digital Performance Manager at Keyade Middle East
Karim joined Keyade Middle East in May 2017 as an intern and has successfully grown to his current position. He had the opportunity to work across different verticals, including e-commerce, travel, telco, and more, which allowed him to learn about people and their online behavior to drive better results.
“Karim is an example of dedication and hard work. His eagerness to learn and his data-driven approach have allowed him to progress rapidly within the organization. Karim strives to drive real business impact for his clients and always does that with a great attitude,” says Hicham Auajjar, Keyade Managing Director MENA.
Why did you join this industry?
I wanted to join this industry because I was always fascinated by how advertisers use and develop creative solutions to reach the right people at the right time.
How did you land your first job?
I moved to Dubai to pursue a Master’s degree in Marketing, and I felt that applying for an internship was the best move to strengthen my knowledge about the industry. I began building my network on LinkedIn and sent my resume and targeted cover letters to the agencies that offered opportunities I was interested in.
Who do you look up to?
People who set a goal in life and put all the means to achieve it despite the difficulties they may face. Mohamed Salah is one of the best examples as he started from nothing and is now the key player of one of the best football teams in the world.
What’s the best advice you have received so far?
It was from my uncle who said, “Learn something new every day.”
What’s the best advice you have given so far?
One of the best advice I always give is to make progress slowly but surely to avoid making any wrong decisions.
How do you feel about the stigma sometimes associated with Millennials and Gen Z?
I think every individual and generation have their own characteristics. Successful organiza- tions are the ones that use this diversity and differences, and turn them into a strength.
What do you think you specifically bring to the organization you work for?
Strong expertise and a problem-solving mindset, which enables me to translate objectives into successful outcomes.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned at work?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned at work is not to jump on subjective decisions and always base my judgement on data and numbers.
What’s the most rewarding thing about your job?
The most rewarding thing is that my company invests a lot in providing all kinds of training and development programs that enable us to strengthen our knowledge and always be on top of new emerging trends and technologies.
What’s the most frustrating thing about your job?
Honestly, nothing frustrates me about this job as I’ve always loved what I’m doing. However, sometimes we receive the creatives late from the creative agencies, which can delay launches, especially during key seasons.
If not this, what would you be doing?
I’ve dreamt of being a football player since I was a kid.
Would you start your own venture in the future?
Definitely. There is a lack of specialized digital agencies in my home country (Morocco) and I believe that the experience I acquired with Keyade Middle East will help my business stand out in the future.
