MONROVIA –Born and raised in Liberia, Ahmad Massaquoi’s ascent to becoming ArcelorMittal Liberia’s (AML) first-ever Head of Department in 2018 is a story of determination, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey—spanning Liberia, Sierra Leone, the UAE, and back home—reflects a deep commitment to national development and professional advancement.
It’s 2007 in Sierra Leone, and Ahmad is graduating with his first degree in Economics. With a strong academic foundation, he embarks on his professional career in 2009 at the U.S. Embassy Project in Monrovia. Starting as an intern, his leadership potential quickly earns him the role of Chief Safety Officer—an impressive achievement early in his career.
Seeking new challenges, Ahmad transitions in 2011 to BAM International, where he serves as Health and Safety Manager until mid-2013. Here, he hones his expertise in occupational health and safety, gaining invaluable experience in high-risk industrial environments while working on a major port renovation project.
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:
- 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
- ISO Certifications (Lead Auditor – ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001)
These accomplishments cement his reputation as a top-tier occupational safety and health professional, positioning him for leadership in Liberia’s growing mining sector, particularly at AML, the country’s largest taxpayer.
When asked, “Why leave a thriving career in the UAE to return to Liberia?”, Ahmad’s response is simple yet profound:
“Liberia is home, and my home needs me more.”
AML presented an opportunity not just for career fulfilment, but for nation-building—a chance to contribute to a company that plays a critical role in Liberia’s economic growth. His return has paved the way for other Liberian professionals to rise and lead, proving that skilled nationals can return and inspire the next generation.
Since 2018, Ahmad has been at the forefront of developing the next generation of Liberian professionals in Occupational Safety and Health. Under his leadership, AML has successfully:
- Enrolled and graduated 17 Liberians from the internationally recognized NEBOSH Certification program, all of whom started as Safety Officers.
- Promoted 5 graduates to Safety Supervisors.
- Elevated 3 professionals to Superintendent level.
- Advanced 2 leaders to Managerial positions.
Each of these individuals, all Liberians, now plays a crucial role in AML’s operational safety success.
Ahmad firmly believes that true leadership is about empowerment, not authority. He attributes much of his leadership philosophy to his mentor, Mike Dwyer, ArcelorMittal Mining’s Corporate Head of Health and Safety, whom he calls his “supportive hero.” Inspired by Mike’s leadership style, Ahmad fosters a culture of continuous learning, accountability, and support within his team.
His dedication to mastering global safety standards has led him to travel extensively across ArcelorMittal’s global sites in Brazil, the UK, and beyond—bringing back world-class safety knowledge to Liberia and further strengthening AML’s safety culture.
Defining Leadership: The Ahmad Massaquoi Perspective
When asked what true leadership means to him, Ahmad’s response is both powerful and reflective:
“True leadership is not about authority. At AML, I have been given the opportunity to inspire, guide, and empower others. Unlocking potential and creating a lasting impact—both internally and externally—is what drives me. AML’s presence in Liberia fosters economic growth, which in turn enables us to nurture rising talent like Flomo Williams (AML Safety Manager), Togar Cator, and Angelique Meyers-Jekula (Health and Safety Lead), to name a few.”
A Lasting Legacy
Ahmad Massaquoi’s story is one of bold ambition, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to Liberia’s progress. As AML continues to grow, his leadership will leave an enduring legacy—not just within the company but across Liberia’s professional landscape in occupational safety and leadership development.