The 2023 Women Leaders in Consulting: Amira Bensebaa

Amira Bensebaa is a Principal at Whiteshield. She is a professional consultant with strong analytical and quantitative skills and experience in consulting and economic development. With an innovative approach and outstanding client service, Amira works in various fields such as manufacturing, SME policy, labour resilience, innovation policy and commodity strategies with an aim to contribute to the support of economies and SMEs in various countries. Her experience includes economic studies, data collection and consolidation methods, stakeholders mapping, database development, scenario planning and analysis, diagnosing sectors, and designing strategies and policies. Specifically, Amira is an expert in SME policy, industrial policy, labour policy, economic competitiveness, innovation policy, policy design and data analytics. She is involved in conducting research at the global level to assess the drivers of countries' performance in the context of technological disruptions and the future of production and work and has led major transformative projects in the Middle East. Amira holds two degrees – B.A. Economics SciencesPo and a M.Sc. Public and private management, SciencesPo and HEC from Paris, France and speaks English, French, Arabic and German.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

I'll forever cherish the anticipation of even greater successes, but I can wholeheartedly say that being promoted to the role of overseeing our business in Abu Dhabi is an immense source of pride and joy. The journey of consistently delivering outstanding results for our clients, while creating deep connections, understanding their needs, and intuitively anticipating their desires has peaked in this remarkable achievement. I will continue to strive for excellence at every level and aim to be an inspiration for my colleagues.

What's the best advice—consulting or otherwise—you've ever received?

I am lucky enough to have a support system that consists of an inspiring family and professional peers who offer me invaluable advice and unwavering guidance. There is one piece of motivating advice that has resonated deeply: "You can achieve success late in life, but also early in it!" Youth doesn't limit or matter in achievements. You can achieve early success with motivation, perseverance, a good foundation, curiosity, and an eagerness to constantly learn.

What advice would you give to a female consultant just beginning her career?

Learn! Learn! Learn! Be eager to keep learning! Seek and dive deep into the realm of essential skills, training, techniques, and personal growth that is fundamental for consultancy as whole, as well as in your chosen field of expertise. Think about using your skills in project management, problem-solving, assertive communication, collaboration, and creativity. Don't stop there, go beyond! Explore and understand new horizons of both traditional and innovative approaches. Speaking of new horizons, perhaps joining us at Whiteshield! It is a place where dreams are nurtured, ideas celebrated, and spirit of innovation thrives!

What does this recognition mean to you?

The overwhelming joy of winning this prestigious award from Consulting Magazine and joining the club of Women Leaders in Consulting is beyond words. Attaining a level of "Excellence in Client Service" is honouring especially as it stands as a testament to our never-ending dedication to helping our clients achieve their vision. Receiving such a recognition fills my heart with pure delight as it serves as proof of my commitment to Whiteshield's purpose of impacting citizens well-being. It is more than just an award, it is a realization of my role in giving back to our community, a step closer to making a difference that truly matters!