At the heart of the American University of Beirut (AUB) is a steadfast commitment to producing trailblazing, ethical leaders who can tackle the world's most pressing challenges with innovative solutions. The Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA) is a shining example of this mission in action. By providing unparalleled education and research opportunities, MSFEA empowers individuals to create their own paths to meaningful success while also contributing to a better world.
Today's article delves into the story of a distinguished MSFEA alumnus, Jad Sabra, currently the Head of Business Insights and Analytics at Google, Ads Marketing. Jad's journey from a civil engineering major to a strategic leader at one of the world's tech giants is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary learning and the art of applying engineering principles to the realm of business.
Jad's story unfolds with his introduction to AUB in September 2010, where he embarked on a path that would eventually lead him to the forefront of technology and strategy. Graduating with a major in civil and environmental engineering in May 2014, Jad's journey was far from conventional. Rather than confining himself to a single trajectory, he ventured into four distinct internships, ranging from geotechnical engineering to transportation, a testament to his curiosity-driven approach to education.
"I was a bit of an engineering enthusiast going into my senior year," Jad fondly recalls. “I interned at Dar Al-Handasa as a geotechnical engineer; I did a construction internship with CCC in Qatar, and then I did a transportation internship in Italy in Sicily."
“The reason why I did all these four internships," he adds, “was because I really didn't know what I wanted to do in my degree. My internships spanned various sectors, from academia to construction and beyond, which provided me with a broad spectrum of real-world experiences. This diverse exposure was instrumental in shaping my future choices."
Jad's transition from engineering to business was driven by a desire to harness his analytical mindset. "My education in engineering really enabled me to develop a very analytical and rigorous way to approach any problem that I see. So, every time I am faced with a problem in my personal life, with my parents, or at work, I automatically start running the equations that my professors used to teach me to try and find an answer." This engineering foundation, combined with his innate curiosity, set him on a path to bridge the gap between data and business—an intersection that would define his career trajectory.
Upon graduation, Jad's journey took a transformative turn as he embarked on a path of strategic exploration. Joining McKinsey & Co. as an Engagement Manager in Dubai, Jad delved into the world of strategy, marketing, and entrepreneurship. His role allowed him to meld his engineering rigor with business acumen, leading to impactful insights at the crossroads of data and retail.
"I was the first ever non-MBA, BA-to-EM hire that they had." He explains. “It was an important representation from the AUB community and the McKinsey Dubai office. During my time there, I focused on leveraging big data to decode consumer preferences, thereby offering tailored recommendations for brick-and-mortar retailers in Dubai," Jad recounts. This experience epitomized the fusion of engineering's analytical precision with the dynamic landscape of business.
As Jad's quest for knowledge intensified, he pursued an MBA at Harvard Business School, a pivotal experience that expanded his horizons. “I spent two years at Harvard, which was a very unique experience because you're at the focus center between everything that's happening on the socioeconomic side, business side, law, medicine, you name it!"
Additionally, being in close proximity to MIT, coupled with his engineering background, he was able to co-found a startup and propel it towards success. He elaborates, “I worked with two MIT PhD students to launch a company, which ended up getting funding. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Jad's tenacity and analytical prowess shone through, leading him to Google.
In his current role at Google, Jad is at the helm of business insights and analytics for ad marketing. Leading a team tasked with optimizing a global investment portfolio. Jad's work encompasses strategic planning, data architecture, and harnessing insights to propel Google's advertising endeavors.
"I basically work on developing all the measurement frameworks and data tables to drive insights and improve the overall strategy of the business." Jad explains. The ability to design solutions from scratch, combined with the collaborative spirit of his diverse team, underscores his passion for creating impact. “What excites me about my work is my team. I feel like I've been very lucky to hire a very strong team, but also have been part of a very strong department. And I think all of us come from very different backgrounds. Some of us are ex-consultants, some of them are ex-bankers, some of us are ex-chiefs of staff."
Jad then speaks to the youths, the people who are not sure what to do, to offer sage advice: "I do believe that my engineering degree enabled me to build my analytical foundation to tackle the most complex problems in the business world. Because even if you don't want to be an engineer. The tools that you learn in this four-year program will enable you to do anything you want in your life."
"Be curious, experiment, and push your boundaries," Jad adds. “AUB provides a safe space for exploration, a rare opportunity to venture beyond textbooks and delve into diverse domains." Jad's journey from civil engineering to technology leadership exemplifies how curiosity and a proactive approach can open doors to uncharted territories.
By championing curiosity, embracing diversity, and pursuing impactful initiatives, Jad Sabra continues to shape the future of technology and strategy. His journey is a testament to the impact of MSFEA's education and its graduates' contribution to society. His achievements inspire current and future MSFEA students to follow in his footsteps and make a difference in their communities!