Maurice has accumulated over six years of experience working with Publicis Groupe between Beirut and Dubai. As the team leader in his current role, he is responsible for overseeing a group of four to deliver exceptional programmatic campaign planning, execution, management, and reporting for the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). With a keen ability to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of technology and media, Maurice consistently delivers a strategic and effective output that aligns with DET’s objectives. He is known for his composure and meticulous attention to detail, which enable him to craft solutions even in the most demanding situations.

Why did you choose this career path?

It’s been six years now and I can confidently say that I’m still enjoying my journey in digital marketing, even though I had no experience in the field before joining Publicis Groupe. Prior to this opportunity, my only interaction with ads was through an ad blocker. Seeking advice from my friends, I was encouraged to take a chance and give it a try. They reassured me that if it didn’t work out, I could always return to my previous occupation, but it was worth exploring as I might discover a newfound passion.

How did you land this job?

I received a phone call from my cousin’s friend, who asked if I was interested in this job opportunity. It took me a couple of weeks to consider the offer, but after a call from my then-manager, who explained how it was a big opportunity to work in a multinational company, I was convinced to accept. Looking back now, I can certainly say that it was the right decision.

How do you compare your work life vs what you imagined it would be?

Working with Publicis Groupe has been an amazing experience that has brought both personal and professional growth – which can be hard to come by in the fast-paced digital marketing environment. I am incredibly grateful to be in a supportive and welcoming environment that has opened many doors for me. I am confident that I am making significant progress and excited about the future opportunities that lie ahead.

What do you wish you had been told before you started working?

The grass is not always greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water it.

What is the best thing someone could tell you about your work? Receiving positive feedback is always a great feeling and can motivate me to continue to improve my skills.

However, the best thing I can personally hear is when I receive compliments regarding the work of my team. This means I’m passing my knowledge to them.

What is the worst thing someone could tell you about your work?

The worst thing to me is someone criticizing my work without offering constructive feedback about it.

What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned at work so far?

Working smart is always better than working hard, especially in our industry where time is crucial, deadlines are always tight, and every request is urgent. Without working smartly, I wouldn’t have been able to progress as I envisioned.

Who’s your role model?

There isn’t any specific person, but I have gained valuable experience from each and every manager/lead I have had since I started working part-time in various jobs, and full-time after I graduated.

If not this, what would you be doing?

As mentioned earlier, I would have completed my career path within the computer science/ IT industry.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

In ten years, I see myself as a business owner, managing a company that I built from the ground up. Having honed my skills and experience in the industry, I am confident that I have what it takes to succeed.