Building a regional brand with Omani values

Observer

6 hours ago

JOMAR MENDOZA
MUSCAT, JULY 27
Tariq Mohamed al Balushi, CEO of Molecules LLC, embodies the belief that business success lies not just in profit, but in purpose. His journey from a curious young innovator to the head of a fast-growing multi-sector Omani company is a testament to resilience, continuous learning, and a strong commitment to national pride.
'I've always believed that business should be about creating value and making a difference—not just generating revenue,' Al Balushi says. 'Innovation, leadership, and problem-solving were natural passions for me from a young age, and over time, these passions guided my path into entrepreneurship.'
In an exclusive interview with Oman Observer, Al Balushi shared how Molecules LLC — a 100% Omani factory— evolved from a startup into a diversified company operating in pharmaceuticals, FMCG, medical supplies, cosmetics, and more. He emphasised that the company's mission is to build a strong Omani brand with a footprint that extends across the region.
'Our vision was clear from the start: unite multiple sectors under one umbrella brand that people can trust,' he said. 'Key milestones like opening our new factory and establishing global partnerships have been transformational. These are not just business decisions—they are statements of intent to show what Oman can offer the world.'
Managing growth, however, was not without its challenges. Al Balushi recounted the difficulty of scaling operations while preserving quality and internal cohesion. 'As we expanded into new sectors and countries, the pressure to maintain control was immense,' he noted. 'The solution came down to three things: clear communication, the right people, and a well-grounded strategy. Those principles helped us navigate through complexity.'
Reflecting on the company's progress, Al Balushi considers the team culture his proudest achievement. 'Seeing Molecules grow is rewarding, but what truly matters to me is the culture we've built,' he said. 'We've created an environment where everyone believes in the vision and takes ownership of their role. That's what sustains growth—not just systems or products, but people who are motivated and aligned.'
As a leader, Al Balushi sees his role as a cultural architect. 'Culture starts at the top. I lead by being present, listening, and appreciating contributions,' he explained. 'When we launch new projects or navigate challenges, I'm actively involved—not just to guide the process, but to show that we're in it together.'
Looking ahead, Al Balushi's vision is to solidify Molecules as a regional leader known for quality, innovation, and trust. 'We aim to grow our manufacturing capacity, increase exports, and bring more Omani-made products to international markets,' he stated. 'But we also want to be a platform for local talent. Oman has incredible potential—we want to tap into that by creating jobs and building skills.'
For aspiring CEOs and young entrepreneurs, Al Balushi offers a simple yet powerful message: stay grounded. 'Focus on learning, remain humble, and don't be afraid to take risks,' he advised. 'Work with purpose, treat people with respect, and stay consistent—because success doesn't come overnight.'
Despite the demands of running a multi-sector company, Al Balushi is intentional about maintaining balance in his life. 'Leadership can be overwhelming, but I've learned to set priorities and take time to recharge,' he shared. 'I invest in personal development—through reading and reflection—and my faith and family are central in keeping me grounded.'
As Molecules sets its sights on regional expansion, Al Balushi is optimistic about the company's—and Oman's—future. 'We want to be an example of what Omani companies can achieve on a global stage,' he said. 'We're building more than a business. We're building a legacy that reflects Oman's values and potential.'