Procurement and facilities management: Strategic tools for institutional efficiency
Al Masrouri, who has led transformative initiatives in facilities and procurement operations, argues that a new mindset is urgently needed: 'Facilities management is the invisible hand that keeps institutions functioning. Procurement, meanwhile, is the economic artery that ensures continuity and value.' According to him, when both functions are aligned and managed strategically, institutions unlock real, measurable performance gains.
He pointed out that despite growing awareness, key challenges persist. Among them: outdated perceptions of the role of support services, fragmented processes between operations and procurement units, a lag in digital integration, and a shortage of professionally trained local talent. 'Too often, these departments are seen as administrative overheads,' he noted, 'when in fact they are central to long-term institutional sustainability.'
Al Masrouri emphasised that Oman is equipped with the infrastructure and ambition to modernise these domains — but success depends on shifting organisational cultures. 'Digital tools like CAFM (Computer-Aided Facility Management) and ERP systems are only effective when embedded within a forward-looking governance model that empowers decision-makers on the ground.'
On the procurement front, he outlined three essential priorities for modernisation:
• Full automation of workflows to ensure transparency and reduce delays,
• Clear policies for fair competition and value-for-money contracting,
• A national supplier database that tracks performance and supports strategic sourcing.
He also stressed the need for performance-based contracts and cost–benefit analyses to become standard practices in both public and private entities. 'The system should reward results, not just compliance,' he added.
As for Omani talent, Al Masrouri is confident in the capabilities of the next generation but called for more applied training, international certification pathways (such as CIPS and IFMA), and clear professional tracks for career progression. 'This is a sector where hands-on problem-solving is just as important as academic qualifications.'
He concluded with a call to action: 'Leaders in both government and private institutions must revisit how they perceive these functions. Investing in procurement and facilities management is not an expense — it is an investment in operational resilience, public value, and national development.'
As Oman advances its Vision 2040 priorities, institutional effectiveness and sustainability will remain high on the national agenda. And as experts like Al Masrouri remind us, strategic efficiency often begins with the functions we least see — but most depend on.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Muscat Daily
24 minutes ago
- Muscat Daily
Performance-based increment for Omani workers in private sector
Muscat – Omani workers in the private sector will now be entitled to a performance-based periodic increment every January under new regulations issued by Ministry of Labour. Ministerial Decision No 317/ 2025, published in the Official Gazette (Issue 1606), sets out the minimum increment and conditions for disbursement. The regulation replaces Ministerial Decision No 541/2013 and comes into effect the day after publication. Under the new rules, an Omani worker must have completed at least six months of service at an establishment to qualify. The appraisal will be determined based on performance, with minimum increment of 5% of the basic for an 'Excellent' appraisal, 4% for 'Very Good', 3% for 'Good', 2% for 'Acceptable' and none for a 'Weak' rating. Workers have the right to appeal their appraisal results to the competent department at Ministry of Labour. In cases where a worker changes jobs within the year, the establishment where they spent the longer duration will be responsible for issuing the performance appraisal, while the new employer will be required to pay the allowance. The decision also allows employers to reduce the allowance due to economic reasons, subject to approval by the committee referenced in Article 45 of the Labour Law. Employers may suspend the increment if a worker is under investigation for a workplace-related offence, or if the employee takes unpaid leave or is absent for more than six months in the year. However, increment must be paid retroactively in case of an acquittal. An administrative fine of RO50 will be imposed on any employer who violates the provisions of the decision, and the fine multiplied by the number of workers against whom the violation occurred. The decision is part of continued efforts to enhance labour market regulation and ensure fair compensation linked to performance and service duration.
Observer
2 hours ago
- Observer
Training empowers exporters on customs and tariff procedures
MUSCAT: A specialised training programme on the "Harmonised System and Customs Tariffs" began on Sunday, 27 July 2025, at the Liwa Centre for Science and Innovation. Organised by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion in cooperation with Credit Oman — the government-owned firm specialising in commercial credit insurance — the four-day event runs from July 27 to 30 and is attended by a number of exporters and representatives from Omani exporting companies. The initiative aims to equip participants with the knowledge needed to navigate modern customs systems effectively and avoid procedural errors that could disrupt trade operations or result in shipment delays and financial penalties. Ali bin Khamis al Fazari, an expert and trainer in customs procedures, delivered the programme's introductory lecture. He explained the stages and steps involved in customs clearance, offering a comprehensive overview of various types of customs data, taxes applied to goods, and the different categories of approved customs exemptions. Ahmed bin Hamdan al Farsi, Media and Marketing Specialist at Credit Oman, gave a visual presentation outlining the company's role in supporting Oman's national export ecosystem. He highlighted the importance of credit insurance as a strategic tool for Omani exporters to reduce commercial risks, allowing them to sell goods both locally and internationally with greater assurance and protection against buyer defaults or non-payment. Al Farsi also elaborated on the primary categories of risks covered by Credit Oman, including commercial risks such as non-payment by buyers or financial insolvency, as well as non-commercial risks resulting from government-imposed restrictions in importing countries or sudden political and economic events. Further, the programme addressed ways to access international markets and showcased Credit Oman's range of insurance products. These include local credit insurance for domestic sales, export credit insurance for overseas markets, and the "Multiple Buyers" policy, which offers comprehensive coverage for a group of clients under a single contract. This training initiative reflects the Ministry's ongoing efforts to boost exporters' awareness of customs regulations and procedural requirements. It aims to streamline export and import activities, enhance compliance with both local and international standards, and strengthen the capacity of Omani companies to handle customs-related challenges and adapt to changes in the global trading environment.
Observer
2 hours ago
- Observer
Building a regional brand with Omani values
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.'
