Mohamed Wehbi

UAE Business Unit Director, Geobear Global

Please tell us about your current role and employer.

I am the UAE Business Unit Director at Geobear, a global engineering company specialising in ground improvement, foundation stabilisation, and void filling using advanced geopolymer injection technology. I lead the business across the UAE, covering technical design, commercial strategy, project delivery, and long-term growth. My role combines engineering leadership with business development, ensuring we provide practical and innovative solutions for buildings, infrastructure, industrial assets, and transport projects. I work closely with consultants, contractors, developers, and asset owners to solve complex ground-related problems quickly and with minimal disruption.

What does a typical day in your current role look like?

No two days are the same, which is one of the most rewarding parts of the role. A typical day can involve reviewing technical proposals, meeting clients, visiting project sites, guiding the engineering team, and making strategic business decisions. Some mornings may start with discussing settlement issues on an active construction site, while afternoons could involve commercial negotiations or planning future market opportunities. I also spend time mentoring staff, building relationships with industry partners, and ensuring our projects meet high technical and safety standards. It is a balance of engineering problem-solving, leadership, and driving business performance.

What was your journey to getting a job after graduating from Birmingham?

My journey after the University of Birmingham was built through a combination of academic achievement, technical development, and taking opportunities across different stages of my career. After completing my PhD, I started my professional career in the UK engineering sector, where I developed my expertise in geotechnical engineering, infrastructure asset management, and ground improvement. A key part of that journey was my time with Network Rail, where I worked on major railway infrastructure projects. This experience exposed me to complex engineering challenges, high safety and performance standards, and multidisciplinary collaboration on nationally important assets. It also helped me progress professionally toward Chartered Engineer status. I then joined Geobear in the UK, where I progressed into the role of Technical Director. In that position, I was responsible for technical leadership, developing engineering solutions, supporting major projects, and helping clients understand alternative and more sustainable approaches to ground improvement and foundation remediation. It was a significant step because it moved me beyond pure design work into leadership, client strategy, and innovation. Building on that experience, I later took on an international leadership opportunity and moved to the Middle East, where I now serve as UAE Business Unit Director for Geobear. I lead the company’s operations in the UAE, covering technical delivery, business growth, and strategic expansion in the region. Looking back, my career path was not a straight line. It was built by continuously developing expertise, delivering results, and being willing to step into bigger responsibilities when opportunities emerged.

How do you feel the learning experience on your course helped to prepare you for your career?

My learning experience at the University of Birmingham played a major role in preparing me for my career. The course gave me strong technical foundations in civil and geotechnical engineering, but more importantly, it trained me to think critically, analyse complex problems, and develop practical solutions based on evidence. Those skills have been essential throughout my career, from working on major railway infrastructure projects in the UK to leading ground improvement and foundation remediation projects internationally. The research environment was particularly valuable because it taught me how to approach challenges systematically, test ideas, and communicate findings clearly. That ability to combine technical depth with practical decision-making has been central to my progression into leadership roles. The University also exposed me to an international environment, where I worked with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. This helped build adaptability, confidence, and communication skills that are just as important as technical knowledge in today’s global workplace.

How did the University's support services help to prepare you for your career?

The University’s support services were an important part of my overall development. They helped bridge the gap between academic study and the professional world by providing guidance on career planning, employability, and presenting myself effectively to employers. Support with CV preparation, interview techniques, and understanding recruitment processes was particularly valuable in the early stages of my career. Beyond formal services, the wider University environment also created opportunities to build confidence, network with professionals, and understand the expectations of industry. Access to academic staff, industry links, and a strong professional culture helped me develop a clearer view of how to turn academic achievements into a long-term career path. Looking back, the support services were valuable not only for helping secure early opportunities, but for building the mindset and professionalism needed for sustained career growth.

What are your top tips for students graduating today?

First, focus on building skills, not just collecting qualifications. A degree opens doors, but employers value people who can solve problems, communicate clearly, and take responsibility. Second, do not expect the perfect first job. Your first role is often a platform for learning, gaining experience, and proving yourself. Career growth usually comes step by step, not in one leap. Third, stay adaptable. Industries change quickly, and those who continue learning will always have an advantage. Be open to new technologies, new sectors, and opportunities in different countries. Fourth, build relationships and your professional reputation early. People remember reliability, attitude, and results. Networks often create opportunities that applications alone cannot. Finally, be patient and persistent. Rejections and setbacks are normal. Long-term success usually belongs to those who keep improving and keep moving forward.

What were the best things about your course?

One of the best things about my course was the strong balance between academic theory and practical application. It was not just about learning formulas or technical concepts, it was about understanding how engineering principles are applied to solve real-world problems. Another key strength was the research culture. It encouraged independent thinking, critical analysis, and innovation, which are skills that have remained valuable throughout my career. The quality of teaching and access to experienced academics also stood out. Learning from experts who were active in research and industry gave the course real depth and relevance. Finally, the international environment was a major benefit. Studying alongside people from different countries and backgrounds broadened my perspective and prepared me well for working in global and multicultural environments.

What was your biggest achievement during your course?

My biggest achievement during my course was successfully completing a PhD while developing into an independent researcher and professional engineer. Earning the degree itself was important, but the greater achievement was gaining the ability to identify complex problems, carry out high-level research, and turn technical findings into practical engineering solutions. The PhD required resilience, discipline, and consistency over several years. It taught me how to manage long-term challenges, work independently, and maintain high standards under pressure. Those lessons have been just as valuable as the academic qualification itself. It also created the foundation for my later career progression, including leadership roles in industry, professional recognition as a Chartered Engineer, and the opportunity to contribute to both engineering practice and academia. Looking back, it was a defining achievement because it shaped both my professional path and my mindset.

Did you receive any funding?

I received a postgraduate scholarship from Civil Engineering. It gave me access to a world-class learning environment, excellent research facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with leading academics and talented students from around the world. That environment was instrumental in helping me grow both personally and professionally. Most importantly, the funding was an investment that created long-term impact. It supported the development of skills, knowledge, and confidence that later helped me build an international career, progress into leadership roles, and contribute to engineering projects that deliver real value to industry and society.