A Legacy of Transformation and Leadership

Since joining the Port of Salalah in 1998, Issa Awadh Issa Mahfudh Alshaikh has been a driving force behind the port’s evolution into a global logistics hub. Rising through the ranks from HSSE Shift Leader and Operations Foreman to Superintendent, Operations, and now Continuous Improvement Leader, Issa has played a pivotal role in shaping the port’s operational strategy and culture. Today, he operates in an environment with over 2,600 employees, where his leadership and vision have a far-reaching impact.

Leading Continuous Improvement for a World-Class Workforce

As Continuous Improvement Leader, Issa coordinates all improvement activities, communicates the core concepts of Process Excellence (PEX), and ensures the successful execution of the port’s strategic goals. He has been instrumental in implementing the APMT HUB Excellence Program, supporting the adoption of best practices and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability. His expertise in Lean fundamentals, problem solving, 5S, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and transactional process improvement has empowered teams to achieve higher efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction. Notably, Issa is advancing through the APMT Lean Academy and is already reaching the level of Lean Agent, further solidifying his credentials as a leader in operational excellence.

Driving Process Excellence and Total Productive Maintenance

Issa’s impact is particularly evident in his leadership of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) programs and process reengineering initiatives. As PEX-TPM Leader, he led the rollout of TPM strategies that improved equipment reliability and operational uptime. He has championed Green Belt projects, such as vessel delay reduction, and has been a key instructor in the APMT Global Terminal Development Program, training the next generation of supervisors and managers in operational excellence.

Operational Expertise and Global Perspective

Issa’s operational acumen extends to planning, project management, and international collaboration. He has managed the day-to-day operations of the port, prepared staff for high-stakes operational challenges, and ensured a safe and productive working environment for thousands of employees. His experience includes supporting operations at APMT Bahrain, Aqaba Port in Jordan, and visiting major terminals like Suez Canal Container Terminal and Port Tanjung Pelepas, gaining valuable insights into global best practices.

Commitment to People Development and Knowledge Sharing

A passionate advocate for continuous learning, Issa has developed and delivered training courses in operations and leadership, helping employees transition into managerial roles and fostering a culture of teamwork and personal growth. His dedication to knowledge sharing and staff development has been critical in building a resilient, high-performing workforce at the Port of Salalah.

Inspiring Oman’s Next Generation of Leaders

Issa Awadh Issa Mahfudh Alshaikh’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to lead change, inspire teams, and deliver operational improvements has set new standards in Oman’s logistics sector and beyond.

Icons Oman proudly celebrates Issa Awadh Issa Mahfudh Alshaikh as a Top 100 Leader—a champion of continuous improvement, operational excellence, and leadership development whose legacy continues to shape the future of Oman’s maritime and logistics industry.