The ability to navigate through complex challenges, harness emerging technologies, and deliver patient-centric solutions is what sets successful leaders apart. A striking example of such leadership is found in the approach of Eng. Mohd Kenanah, the CEO of Emitac Healthcare Solutions (EHS). In his leadership, EHS has become a market leader in Middle Eastern healthcare, characterized by innovation, quality and regional expansion.
Kenanah’s journey at EHS is not just a story of business success; it is a narrative of transformation, both for the company and the industry it serves. His leadership philosophy centers on the seamless integration of technology and healthcare, fostering a culture of innovation that empowers employees and enhances patient outcomes. This approach has been instrumental in guiding EHS through a period of significant expansion and adaptation, solidifying its position as a trusted partner to healthcare providers across the region.
In addition to his engineering and management background, Kenanah brings strategic foresight and technical acumen to his role. His tenure at EHS is characterized by a fierce pursuit of excellence, not only in terms of financial performance but also in the company’s broader impact on the healthcare sector.
Let’s delve into the key aspects of Kenanah’s leadership, exploring the strategies, challenges, and successes that have defined his time at EHS and offering insights into the future of healthcare in the Middle East under his guidance!
Visionary Leadership and Strategic Transformation
When Kenanah assumed the role of CEO at Emitac Healthcare Solutions, he inherited a company with a strong foundation but facing the need for strategic evolution. Recognizing the shifting dynamics of the healthcare market, he implemented a comprehensive transformation strategy that would ensure the company not only stayed relevant but also led the market. Central to this transformation was a focus on strengthening the core business while expanding into new, high-potential areas.
His strategic vision was clear from the outset: to position the company as a leader in delivering integrated healthcare solutions that address the specific needs of the Middle East. This vision involved diversifying the company’s portfolio, traditionally focused on imaging and laboratory solutions, by expanding into areas such as complementary solutions consumables and imaging (Masimo), Dental, CSSD, Physiotherapy Outsourced Services, Digital Healthcare Services and added services and products to complement our already complete & state-of-the-art solutions. These expansions were not just about entering new markets but were part of a broader strategy to provide holistic healthcare solutions that could meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers across the region. “The healthcare industry is evolving rapidly, and we must evolve with it. By expanding our offerings and embracing new areas, we ensure that we can meet the diverse needs of our clients and continue to deliver value in a changing environment.”
Driving Innovation Through Technology
Innovation is a central focus of Kenanah’s leadership philosophy. He understands that in an industry as dynamic as healthcare, staying ahead requires more than just keeping up with technological advancements—it requires leading them. This understanding has driven EHS to not only adopt but also pioneer new technologies that enhance the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery.
“One of our core beliefs is that technology is not just a tool, but a catalyst for change. By integrating the latest technologies into our solutions, we can transform healthcare delivery, making it more efficient and effective for both providers and patients,” he emphasizes. One of the key areas where the company has made significant strides under his leadership is in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into its solutions. AI has become a game-changer in healthcare, particularly in areas such as diagnostics and imaging. By incorporating AI into its product offerings, the organization has been able to provide healthcare providers with tools that not only improve the accuracy of diagnoses but also streamline workflows, leading to better patient outcomes and increased operational efficiency.
His commitment to innovation goes beyond just the adoption of new technologies; it also involves rethinking how these technologies are integrated into the broader healthcare ecosystem. This holistic approach to innovation is evident in the way the company has developed solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also user-friendly and easily integrated into existing healthcare systems. This focus on seamless integration is crucial in ensuring that the benefits of new technologies are fully realized in the day-to-day operations of healthcare providers.
Moreover, the innovative vision is not limited to the present. Kenanah is acutely aware of the future trends shaping the healthcare industry, including the increasing importance of digital health, telemedicine, and personalized medicine. By positioning the company at the forefront of these trends, he is ensuring that it is well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare sector in the years to come. “We are not just preparing for the future; we are actively shaping it. Our goal is to lead the industry in embracing new trends and technologies that will define the next era of healthcare,” he says, reflecting on his forward-thinking approach.
Building a Culture of Excellence
A prime element of his leadership is the belief in the power of people. He understands that the success of any organization ultimately depends on the commitment, creativity, and capabilities of its employees. This belief has driven him to cultivate a culture of empowerment, where employees are encouraged to take ownership of their work, think creatively, and contribute to the company’s ongoing success. “Our people are our greatest asset. By empowering them, we unlock their full potential, which in turn drives our success as an organization,” Kenanah states.
His approach to employee empowerment is encapsulated in what he describes as the T.E.A. philosophy—Trust, Empowerment and Acknowledgment. This philosophy is based on the idea that when employees are trusted to make decisions, empowered with the tools and knowledge they need, and acknowledged for their contributions, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and productive.
This approach has had a transformative effect on the company’s culture. By creating an environment where employees feel valued and empowered, he has been able to build a team that is not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to the company’s mission. This culture of empowerment is reflected in the company’s impressive productivity gains, with EHS reporting a 97% increase in productivity between 2019 and 2024.
In addition to fostering a culture of empowerment, Kenanah has also placed a strong emphasis on continuous learning and development. Recognizing that the healthcare industry is constantly evolving, he has implemented a comprehensive Training Need Analysis process, which helps identify the specific skills and knowledge that employees need to stay ahead. This process is followed by customized learning programs designed to ensure that the workforce is always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. “Continuous learning is not just an option; it’s a necessity in today’s fast-paced world. We invest in our people because we believe that their growth is key to our success,” he notes.
The results of these efforts are evident in the high levels of employee satisfaction and engagement. The company’s Happiness Index—a measure of employee satisfaction—has reached 86%, reflecting the positive impact of this leadership on EHS workplace culture.
Commitment to Quality
Quality is a non-negotiable aspect of healthcare, and the company has established itself as a benchmark for quality in the industry. He believes that in healthcare, quality is not just a standard but a responsibility. This commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of EHS’s operations, from the products and services offered to the processes and systems that support them. “We are in the business of saving lives, and that demands an unwavering commitment to quality. For us, quality is not just a metric; it’s a moral obligation,” he emphasizes.
The organization’s commitment to quality is underpinned by a rigorous quality control process that ensures that every solution delivered meets the highest standards of excellence. This process involves regular audits, continuous monitoring, and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing potential issues before they impact the end-user.
Kenanah understands that quality is not just about the products themselves but also about the support and service that accompany them. This is why the company places a strong emphasis on after-sales support, ensuring that healthcare providers receive the guidance and assistance they need to get the most out of the solutions they purchase. This commitment to ongoing support is one of the reasons why the organization has earned a reputation as a trusted partner in the healthcare industry.
The dedication to quality is also reflected in its approach to partnerships. The company works closely with leading global healthcare technology providers to ensure that it can offer clients the most advanced and reliable solutions on the market. These partnerships are carefully selected based on a shared commitment to quality and a mutual desire to improve healthcare outcomes. “Partnerships are at the heart of our business. By working with the best in the industry, we ensure that our clients receive solutions that are not only innovative but also reliable and of the highest quality,” he explains.
Overcoming Challenges in a Complex Industry
The healthcare industry in the Middle East is characterized by its complexity, with varying regulations, economic conditions, and healthcare needs across different countries. For EHS, operating in this environment requires not only a deep understanding of these complexities but also the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Under Kenanah’s leadership, the company has successfully navigated these challenges, emerging as a leader in the regional healthcare market.
One of the key challenges faced by the organization is the diverse regulatory environment in the Middle East. Each country has its own set of regulations governing the healthcare industry, and ensuring compliance across multiple jurisdictions can be a daunting task. To address this challenge, Kenanah has established a dedicated regulatory affairs team that works closely with local authorities to ensure that all products and services meet the necessary standards. This team also plays a crucial role in keeping the company informed of any regulatory changes, allowing EHS to adapt quickly and efficiently.
Economic challenges are another significant factor that has impacted the healthcare industry in the region. The Middle East has experienced economic fluctuations in recent years, which have affected healthcare spending. Kenanah has responded to these challenges by implementing a flexible business model that allows the company to adjust its offerings and pricing in response to changing economic conditions. This flexibility has been key to maintaining the company’s growth even during periods of economic uncertainty. “In a dynamic region like the Middle East, flexibility is key to success. We have built a business model that allows us to adapt quickly to changing economic conditions, ensuring that we can continue to deliver value to our clients,” he remarks.
Tackling Workforce Challenges
Attracting and retaining skilled talent is a challenge across many industries, but it is particularly acute in healthcare. The demand for highly skilled professionals in areas such as medical technology, diagnostics, and healthcare management often outstrips supply. Kenanah has tackled this challenge head-on by creating a work environment that not only attracts top talent but also encourages long-term career growth.
One of the ways he has achieved this is by encouraging a culture of continuous learning. The company offers a range of professional development programs designed to help employees enhance their skills and advance in their careers. These programs are complemented by a strong focus on mentorship, with senior leaders actively involved in mentoring and coaching employees. In addition to professional development, there is a strong focus on creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, which has resulted in high levels of job satisfaction and low turnover rates.
The emphasis on continuous learning and professional development has not only helped attract talent but has also played a key role in retaining it. Employees at EHS are given the opportunity to grow and advance within the company, which has led to a high level of loyalty and commitment among the workforces. This commitment is reflected in the company’s low turnover rates and high levels of employee satisfaction.
“Healthcare is a rapidly evolving field, and our people are at the forefront of this evolution. By investing in their development, we ensure that they have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this dynamic environment,” he notes. This approach has paid off, with the company regularly recognized as one of the top employers in the region.
The Future of EHS Under Kenanah’s Leadership
As EHS looks to the future, Kenanah’s leadership will continue to play a critical role in guiding its growth. The healthcare industry is poised for significant change in the coming years, driven by technological advancements, shifts in patient expectations, and evolving regulatory landscapes by implementing new business models. With a clear vision for the future, he is committed to maintaining the company’s position as a leader in the Middle East healthcare market.
Looking ahead, one of the key areas of focus will be the continued expansion of digital healthcare offerings. Digital health is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern healthcare, offering new ways to deliver care, improve patient outcomes, and enhance operational efficiency. Kenanah is committed to positioning the company at the forefront of this trend, with plans to introduce new digital health solutions that leverage the latest technologies.
Another area of focus will be the expansion of the company’s presence in new markets. While EHS has already established a strong foothold in the Middle East, there are significant opportunities for growth in other regions, including Africa. Kenanah is actively exploring these opportunities, with a view to establishing the company as a global player in the healthcare industry. “Our journey doesn’t end here. We have our sights set on new markets and new opportunities, and I am confident that with the right strategy and the right team, we will continue to grow and thrive,” he concludes.
In addition to its strategic initiatives, Emitac Healthcare Solutions has undergone a significant transformation in its business model. “We are no longer just box movers,” Mr. Kenanah emphasized. “Our evolution into a solutions and value provider reflects our commitment to addressing the broader needs of the healthcare industry.” This shift has allowed EHS to offer more comprehensive and tailored solutions, enabling healthcare providers to achieve better outcomes and operational efficiencies. As the company moves forward, the leadership and vision will undoubtedly continue to shape its path. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and people, Kenanah is well-positioned to lead the company into a new era of success, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the healthcare industry for years to come.
Honored Among the Best
Mr. Mohd Kenanah has been honored as one of Forbes Middle East’s Top 100 Healthcare Leaders of 2024. This recognition highlights his exemplary leadership in advancing healthcare solutions, driving company growth, and expanding operations across the GCC, Pan-Africa, and MENA regions.
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