Leading Through Expanding Opportunities: Q&A with Vice President Abdul El Baba
Gray’s business continues to grow, providing more opportunities for team members to step into new, evolving roles. Recently, Gray expanded its reach in Southern California with the Southwest office. Abdul El Baba, vice president of the Southwest regional office, leads this new location as he and his team look to continue Gray’s long history of success in the region, while also reaching new heights with new opportunities. We spoke with Abdul about the daily opportunities in his role, Gray’s uniqueness within the industry, and how he enjoys helping others around him.
Describe your normal workday–your “day in the life.”
“The beauty about our job is that every day brings a new opportunity! I find myself balancing my day with listening to customer needs and empowering and coaching my team. I simply love my job!”
What do you enjoy most about your work?
“I enjoy the ability to create opportunities for others.”
What do you think sets Gray apart from other service providers in the industry?
“We lead by our values: we put safety and quality of life first, we are customer and relationship driven, and we treat others the way we want to be treated, where everyone is welcome and respected. And we also lead by our purpose, to make a difference in people’s lives by creating unforgettable customer experiences and great projects.”
What has been your most memorable experience since being a part of the Gray Family?
“My most memorable experience is being a part of the team that successfully built an entertainment project at one of Hollywood’s most visited locations.”
What’s the most valuable advice you’ve ever been given?
“Being a good person does not depend on your religion, status in life, race, skin color, or your political views. It depends on how you treat others.”
In one word or phrase, how would you describe Gray?
“We embrace the culture of care.”
What unique capabilities does the Southwest Office provide and how do they complement Gray’s overall service offering?
“Our office is home to a diversely talented team of individuals, and we are a part of a fully integrated, global service provider deeply rooted in engineering, design, and construction. Our pre-construction team provides a depth of design-build knowledge that helps find solutions for our customers. To complement that, our operations team is passionate, solution driven, and collaborative.”
If someone was visiting the Southwest Office, what would you recommend to them as a “must-do?” (Restaurant, activity, sightseeing, etc.)
“There is so much to see around the southwest office! If you like the beach, you must go to Corona Del Mar. If you like hiking or simply sightseeing, you must go to “Top of the World” in Laguna Beach. Some of the best restaurants are: Tommy’s Sushi, El Molina De Oro, Zait & Zatar, Porto’s Bakery, Orange Hill Restaurant, and SOL Mexican Cocina. You also must go and watch an LAFC soccer game, the atmosphere is amazing.”
If you would like to learn more about joining the Gray family, please visit gray.com/careers.
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