They’re cool and competitive, daring and dynamic, successful and very sexy – individually hand-picked and preened from the crème de la crème of the country’s young, talented and well-to-do crowd, the sizzling sales team at Sodic (Sixth of October Development and Investment Company) – one of Egypt’s pre-eminent property development companies – are quite literally changing the face real estate. Enigma gets in on the action…
There is something distinctly Fantasy Football-ish about the goings-on at property developer SODIC. Wandering the sensual soaring steel and glass sales center, designed by renowned architects SOM, is a literal ‘dream team’ of vibrant, vivacious sales people, hand-picked from the best and the brightest (also see: the coolest, sexiest and probably the most popular) girls and guys Egyptian high society has to offer. Darwin would have had a field day – a sort of ‘survival of the fittest’ turned fabulous. Gorgeous girls click-clack their way through the spacious marble foyer; young men clad in sleek Armani, Zegna or Hugo Boss suits (who cares, as long as it’s suitably trendy?) sit in the sunshine downing espressos from the in-house Cilantro café. The exceptional Eklego-designed interiors provide for a five-star resort-style setting, a beautiful backdrop from which to conduct the business of selling luxury, lavish and exclusive properties. Impromptu meetings take place in internal sun-drenched courtyards; last-minute e-mails are fired off from the comfort of sumptuous sofas, even the beautiful bathrooms are more exclusive spa than office complex. Of course, that’s the least SODIC could do for their sharp and sophisticated, competent, well-heeled team.
The vision behind the construction of the SODIC sales team was a simple yet devastatingly shrewd one: No one is better placed to sell to “the community” (the community of course being A-class and A-list) than the community itself. The resulting line-up was a who’s who of young Cairene society with phonebooks stuffed with…well…the who’s who!
who!
So each team member – take 32-year-old society sweetheart Ahmed Labib as a signature example – comes with his own high-end network of potential buyers. But lest you assume for a single moment that it’s all style and no substance – they’re also as highly educated and skilled as they come. Sherif Khalifa, SODIC’s go-getting (also see: good-looking and wickedly flirtatious) 34-year-old, describes his team as “a very driven, dynamic and competitive bunch who don’t like to lose.” So you have the likes of 27-year-old Omar El Dewey, a graduate of the Daniels School of Business at the University of Denver; Dina Hassanein, 27, who studied management at Boston University, and 30-year-old Yasmine El Difrawy who is currently working on her MBA in finance from the American University in Cairo. That’s just for starters. “As well as people with the right network, we were looking for hard-working individuals who were in it for the long run, ambitious people with the right skills and a passion for what they do,” adds Khalifa, as the blinds on the towering glass wall of the meeting room automatically descend behind him. By skills of course, he means core skills – the inherent ability to go out there and sell, deal with clients and always maintain a professional image. For that, SODIC has put in place an extensive and vigorous training programme (between Dubai and Cairo) and expertly managed by individuals with extensive real estate experience. “The objective was to have the best sales team, no matter where they came from professionally,” he explains.
It’s all more than enough to leave the competition biting the desert dust. For proof, one need only look to Allegria – the latest in SODIC’s property portfolio, with its signature Greg Norman golf course and top architects. Most of the 1,046 villas that make up this high-end residential development on the Alex Desert Road sold out almost immediately – and without the company engaging in anything so tawdry as mass marketing or advertising. The combined efforts of SODIC’s sparkling sales team, coupled with an award-winning master plan, was enough to have Egypt’s buyers knocking down the door for a piece of the beautiful action. Wouldn’t you like to live there too?
Wait, there’s more! Not only was Khalifa adamant that his team would be able to sell to the right people, they were going “to have fun doing it,” damn it. And while many an organisation will idealistically preach the benefits of a spirited working environment, few meet the mark. SODIC, it seems, has exceeded it. “I never thought I could enjoy a job this much and much of it is down to the wonderful group I’m fortunate enough to work with,” says 31-year-old Tamer Elzayadi, an AUC economics and anthropology graduate who comes to SODIC following years of experience at Emeco travel and financial consultancy at Allianz.” Abdo Allam, a 26-year-old former assistant brand manager at Pepsi Co. Egypt describes his team-mates as the “most diverse and energetic” bunch he’s ever worked with. Meanwhile 28-year-old Marwan Ziwar, who grew up in America and is the former manager of Sports Authority Limited is simply revelling in the experience. “I was speaking to my manager recently, and we just couldn’t believe that a year had passed since we started working at SODIC,” he says “It just goes to show how happy we are!”
Move further up the ladder to wander through SODIC’s corridors of power and the picture gets even glossier, with head honchos as professionally (and socially) famed as the powerful brand they represent. Maher Maksoud, a man who is often referred to as a “genius” by his staff, peers and friends alike, took over as SODIC’s Managing Director in 2006, bringing to the company his entrepreneurial spirit, vision and that same Midas touch that turned Cilantro (the local coffee chain he founded) into one of the country’s most popular and successful leisure brands. Of course, as the former Executive Vice President of Orascom Hotels and Development, the London School of Economics graduate is also one of the most experienced real estate power players in the country.
Of course, one ought never to judge a book solely by its cover. The SODIC sales team is not just the dream team of sexy sales people; it’s a gathering of talent that represents the best of what Egypt has to offer – a dynamic dedicated team of qualified and professional individuals following one dream – what they like to call “the SODIC vision”. Spend a little time in those soaring sensual spaces of theirs, and you get a sense the team is not airily working hard to ‘sell’, they are working towards a common end. It’s no wonder SODIC is well on its way to becoming the pre-eminent real estate developer in Egypt.
Omar El Dewey, 27, Single
Education: University of Denver, Daniels school of Business
“This is a dream job. It feels great to be deeply involved in the creation of a development. I look forward to the day Allegria is complete and I play the first round of golf on our amazing golf course!
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
I celebrate life, play golf, ride my bike in the desert, travel and kite surf.
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
Pub 28 on weeknights, the Four Seasons Bar for something a little bit more elegant and my new found love for the proverbial Marriot lunch-in-the-sun on Fridays.
Favourite travel destinations?
Barcelona where the party never stops; Thailand because it’s the best place to relax the mind, body and soul and Amsterdam and London
What’s your ultimate ambition?
To own a champagne bar in Mykonos, become a Cordon Bleu chef and open more restaurants!
What’s your greatest extravagance?
My Rolex
What do you find sexy?
Attitude towards life!
What do you want for Valentine’s Day?
Can I ask for a state-of-the-art outdoor grill, with 10 kilos of Wagu beef ready to grill?
Nadin Jordan, 24, Married
Education: BA Economics, AUC
“My team rocks! They are vibrant, competitive and they are all extremely driven which makes work interesting every day.”
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
Tabasco pub; it’s not commercial and it’s cosy, by far one of my favourite spots.
Favourite travel destinations?
I usually go to London for at least a month every year; I never get bored of it. I also discovered Rome recently and fell in love with it.
What’s your ultimate ambition?
To travel the world
Which fictional character do you most associate with?
I feel like I am Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice.
What’s your greatest extravagance?
I just bought a limited edition sky blue Balenciaga handbag, which I adore.
What do you find sexy?
High heels… just kidding. I think confidence is the trick when it comes to sexy; knowing what you want is by far the best characteristic any person can have.
Ideal Valentine’s Day?
Cruising in a car with McDonald’s and great music; a very expensive gift wouldn’t hurt either.
Nouchka Fanous, 24, Single
Education: Psychology at the AUC
“The sales team at SODIC is like a second family to me; that says it all. Everyone is driven to be the best in Egypt.”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
Drop the “shark” attitude, although some would argue otherwise!
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
Pub 28
What’s your ultimate ambition?
To still be dubbed sexiest and coolest at 80!
What’s your greatest extravagance?
My mother; those who know her will understand why.
What keeps you up at night?
My dancing shoes
What makes you laugh?
My colleagues
Ideal Valentine’s Day?
I’ll aim high and wish for a trip to the moon.
Amin Moftah, 24, Single
Education: Business & Marketing, AUC
“I love working with this young, fresh and energetic team, we’re all like-minded individuals, professional, motivated and believe in the company.”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team? “Living, loving and finding my inner-ness”- Dupree
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
The Marriott courtyard
Favourite travel destination?
Paris, good vibes
What do you find sexy?
I think depth makes people sexy.
Ideal Valentine’s Day?
Jessica Rabbit and roses!
Dina Hassanein, 27, Single
Education: Management at Boston University
“Working at SODIC feels like going to school every morning and seeing your friends in class; it’s amazing being amongst people who are bright and have a winning attitude, it makes me proud to be Egyptian!”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
I read, eat fondue at the Seasons Club, hit the beach, roam old monuments in Cairo and watch extremely serious or extremely ridiculous movies.
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
I love the Bistro at the Seasons Club.
Favourite travel destination?
Aswan for its colours, Nuwieba where I can totally distress, Paris for being my real home, Leas Beaux De Provences – a village that looks like its floating in the clouds. Ultimate ambition?
To lead a life that is opposite of narrow.
Which fictional character do you most associate with?
A cross between Bridget Jones and a woman in a Botero painting.
What do you find sexy?
Charisma.
Ideal Valentine’s Day?
Skydiving.
Tamer El Kadry, 32, Perpetually Single
Education: Journalism and Mass Communications, AUC
“The highlight of working with SODIC is Maher Maksoud our CEO – he’s a genius. And I love the fact that there are no hierarchical hang-ups. If anyone has a sound proposal it will be implemented.”
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
Cairo Jazz Club
Favourite travel destination?
Anywhere clean by the sea, a lake or waterfalls. I believe I was part fish in another life. If I’m to name a place, it would be Neweiba. I can really unwind while gazing at beautiful oblivion.
What’s your ultimate ambition?
To become a dancer and a percussionist.
What keeps you up at night?
A good party.
What makes you laugh?
Absurdity. Not quite everyone’s reaction to it is laughter, but it is a very useful means of survival, especially in our region, where absurdity is rampant.
Ahmed Essam Labib, 32, Recently married
Education: Psychology, American University in Cairo
“At SODIC, everyone is heard and no idea is a bad one. It’s this open spirit which makes it rewarding. We are very fortunate to have great energy, drive and a team spirit that allows us to deliver more.”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
Hunting is my passion.
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
La Bodega and Mori Sushi
What makes you laugh?
My colleague Amin Moftah
What’s your biggest extravagance?
Hunting and going on safari in one of Africa’s most prominent hunting destinations.
Ideal Valentine’s Day?
I’m actually going to be on my honeymoon this year.
Yasmine El Difrawy, 30, Single
Education: Currently working on MBA, American University in Cairo
“This is the company to be in right now. There’s so much positive energy coming from the people and the office, they’re passionate, funny, individualistic, competitive, creative, vibrant, steadfast, committed and collaborative!”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
I play tennis, Pilates and step aerobics, and I enjoy track field running. I also enjoy movies, shows at the opera, art galleries and concerts. Other times, I’m just studying for my Master’s degree with my classmates.
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
Dining in Tabasco Mohandiseen, early morning breakfast at Cilantro Mirghany, and a quick lunch at Match Point, they have the best cheese burgers in town. Also, I like the Night & Day café at the Intercontinental; it provides a serene setting at morning or lunch with a picturesque view of the Nile
What’s your greatest extravagance?
My short mink coat.
What do you find sexy?
Sexy is relative and it’s different from one person to the other; it can be an attitude for one person, a physique for another
Ideal Valentine’s Day gift?
The new generation I phone from Apple would do it for me this season!
Tamer Elzayadi, 31, Single
Education: Economics and Anthropology, AUC
“The culture at SODIC is simply incredible – It’s very progressive and democratic. The work is fun, rewarding, challenging and exciting.”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
Firstly, I’m always part of the SODIC sales team. But my hobbies include golf, and my latest interest is barbequing and cooking.
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
Anyone who knows me will know that’s a tough one.
Favourite travel destinations?
Amsterdam is probably my favourite city in Europe, for its natural beauty and friendly culture. I also love the Bellagio in Las Vegas.
What’s your greatest extravagance?
My Zegna collection.
What keeps you up at night?
The NBA Playoffs
What do you find sexy?
Femininity.
Abdo Allam, 26, Single
Education: Accounting, Cairo Univeristy
“Working on the SODIC sales team is nothing less than thrilling and exciting!”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
I’m either running or out with friends, and cooking is an art form for me.
Which fictional character do you most associate with?
The Cookie Monster.
What’s your greatest extravagance?
I enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
What do you find sexy?
Sexy is relative; what I might find to be sexy, others won’t. It’s just a question of what you look for. For me, sexy is an attitude.
Ideal Valentine’s Day gift?
A big fat box of chocolates!
Sherif Khalifa, 34, Single
“What makes us sexy and cool as a team is that fact that we’re successful and dynamic.”
What do you do when you’re not being part of Cairo’s sexiest sales team?
The thing with this sales team is whether you’re working or not, you’re always “ON”. Your day-to-day life is potential customers or prospective customers so you’re always on. But Egypt has a lot to offer in terms of non-night life entertainment. I go kite-surfing quite often in Gouna, and I guess hanging out with one’s friends and heading for the gym.
Favourite hotspots in Cairo?
Club 35, Sangria and I like going to the country on the weekends
Favourite travel destination?
South of France and I spent New Year’s in Miami.
What makes you laugh?
Egyptian bumper stickers.
Biggest extravagance?
My two houses in Allegria.
What do find sexy?
It’s about personality, character, having a great heart and being attractive.
Ideal Valentine’s Day?
Candle-lit romantic dinner with someone I care for. Although so far this year, no plans!
