Monrovia, Liberia – Ahmad Massaquoi was born and raised in Liberia, and his journey to become the first Head of Department at ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) in 2018 is a testament to his tenacity, foresight, and unwavering quest for greatness. His journey, which took him to Sierra Leone, the United Arab Emirates, and back home, demonstrates a strong dedication to both professional and national growth.
In 2007, Ahmad received his first degree in economics from Sierra Leone. He starts working at the U.S. Embassy Project in Monrovia in 2009, having a solid academic background. Beginning as an intern, he soon demonstrates his leadership abilities by being promoted to Chief Safety Officer, which is a remarkable accomplishment at the beginning of his career.
In 2011, seeking fresh challenges, Ahmad joins BAM International, where he works as the Health and Safety Manager until the middle of 2013. Working on a significant port redevelopment project, he develops his knowledge in occupational health and safety while acquiring priceless experience in hazardous industrial settings.
Ahmad Massaquoi, Head of Health and Safety, ArcelorMittal Liberia
In mid-2013, Ahmad broadens his professional horizon by joining the UAE Government’s Abu Dhabi Sewage Services Company (ADSSC/ELNITCO). It is in this role that his passion for continuous improvement and professional development truly flourishes. Committed to advancing his skills, he pursues multiple prestigious certifications, including:
ISO Certifications (Lead Auditor – ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
NEBOSH Diploma – A globally recognized standard for all safety professionals
Master’s in Occupational Safety and Fire Science
Environmental Specialist Diploma
These achievements solidify his standing as a premier occupational safety and health specialist, setting him up for leadership in Liberia’s expanding mining industry, especially at AML, the biggest taxpayer in Liberia.
When asked, “Why leave a thriving career in the UAE to return to Liberia?”, Ahmad’s response was simple yet profound: “Liberia is home, and my home needs me more.”
In addition to offering a possibility for professional fulfillment, AML offered him a chance to contribute to a business that is vital to Liberia’s economic development and to improve the nation. It is said that, since his return, several Liberian professionals have risen to prominence and taken on leadership roles, demonstrating that talented citizens can return and motivate the next generation.
Ahmad has been leading Liberia’s efforts to train the country’s future occupational safety and health experts since 2018. Under his leadership, AML has successfully: advanced 2 leaders to Managerial positions. Enrolled and graduated 17 Liberians from the internationally recognized NEBOSH Certification program, all of whom started as Safety Officers. He has promoted 5 graduates to Safety Supervisors, and elevated 3 professionals to Superintendent level, each of these individuals, all Liberians, now plays a crucial role in AML’s operational safety success.
True leadership, in Ahmad’s opinion, is about empowerment rather than power. He cites his mentor, Mike Dwyer, the Corporate Head of Health and Safety at ArcelorMittal Mining, his “supportive hero,” responsible for a large portion of his leadership philosophy. Motivated by Mike’s leadership approach, Ahmad cultivates a culture of ongoing education, responsibility, and encouragement among his team members.
Because of his commitment to become an expert in international safety standards, he has traveled widely throughout ArcelorMittal’s worldwide locations in Brazil, the UK, and other countries. It is reported that he has brought top-notch safety expertise back to Liberia and strengthened AML’s safety culture.
Ahmad’s response to the question about what great leadership means to him: “Authority is not what true leadership is about. I’ve been given the chance to empower, mentor, and inspire others at AML. What motivates me is realizing potential and making a significant difference both inside and beyond the company. We are able to develop up-and-coming talent like Flomo Williams (AML Safety Manager), Togar Cator, and Angelique Meyers-Jekula (Health and Safety Lead), to mention a few, since AML’s presence in Liberia promotes economic growth.“
The story of Ahmad Massaquoi is one of ambitious aspiration, determination, and an unwavering dedication to Liberia’s advancement. His leadership will have a lasting impact on AML’s growth, not only within the organization but also on occupational safety and leadership development throughout Liberia.
