Mahmoud Bartawi: The Bold Leap
Imagine managing AED 2.5 billion in corporate banking—high stakes, big numbers, and immense responsibility. But what if, despite the comfort and security, you feel a longing for something more? A life where you can create real, meaningful change. This was the dilemma that Mahmoud Bartawi, a former corporate banking executive, faced. His journey from finance to entrepreneurship is nothing short of inspiring.
In 2016, Mahmoud made the bold decision to leave the world of banking behind and dive headfirst into entrepreneurship, with a dream of creating businesses that could impact lives. What followed was a remarkable transformation—one that led to the successful launch and acquisition of his first venture, Under500, and a career dedicated to helping others grow and scale their own businesses.
The Big Shift: From Corporate Banking to Entrepreneurial Freedom
Mahmoud’s career began in corporate banking, where he was responsible for managing large-scale financial operations. While the work was prestigious and financially rewarding, he always felt the pull toward entrepreneurship. The decision to leave behind a successful career wasn’t an easy one, but Mahmoud knew it was the right move.
In 2016, he co-founded Under500, a brand focused on providing healthy, calorie-conscious meals. The mission was clear: make delicious meals under 500 calories accessible to everyone, and do so without compromising on taste or quality.
Under500 quickly gained traction in the market, expanding from its base in the UAE to other countries in the GCC, UK, and US. The demand was overwhelming, and by 2021, the brand was acquired by Kitopi, a $1.6 billion unicorn. Mahmoud’s leap into entrepreneurship had paid off, but his journey was just beginning.
Building Brands That Matter: Mahmoud’s Approach to Business Growth
After the acquisition of Under500, Mahmoud shifted his focus to helping other businesses scale and thrive. As an entrepreneur and business growth advisor, he now shares his expertise with a broader audience, helping brands navigate the complexities of growth and market expansion.
“Building a business isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about understanding the people behind the numbers,” Mahmoud explains. He works closely with businesses to develop strategies that go beyond just increasing revenue. Instead, his approach centers on long-term sustainability, customer engagement, and creating value for all stakeholders.
His experience in scaling Under500 and witnessing its success has provided him with invaluable insights, which he now imparts to the next generation of entrepreneurs. Mahmoud’s focus is on helping businesses tap into the GCC market and beyond, unlocking growth opportunities by blending strategic insights with operational excellence.
BXB Podcast: Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Knowledge
In addition to his consulting work, Mahmoud is the host of the popular podcast “Business with Bartawi” (BXB). Through the podcast, he shares lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, discussing topics such as personal development, financial acumen, and the challenges that come with building and scaling a business.
With each episode, Mahmoud provides actionable insights that can help entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey. Whether it’s about overcoming obstacles, understanding the importance of market research, or navigating the highs and lows of business ownership, BXB serves as a platform for entrepreneurs to learn and grow.
For Mahmoud, it’s all about empowering others and helping them understand the intricacies of entrepreneurship. “I want to help the next generation of entrepreneurs realize their full potential,” he says. The podcast has become a go-to resource for anyone looking to learn from a seasoned entrepreneur with real-world experience.
A Growth Strategist and Investor: Helping Ideas Flourish
Mahmoud is not just an entrepreneur; he is also a growth strategist and investor. But his investment approach is different from most. He doesn’t invest for the sake of numbers—he invests in ideas that inspire, solve problems, and create value.
“Investing is about more than just capital,” Mahmoud explains. “It’s about backing ideas that have the potential to make a difference. When I invest in a business, I’m not just putting my money into it—I’m also providing guidance, mentorship, and the resources needed to help the business scale.”
As an investor, Mahmoud works closely with founders to develop strategies that will allow their businesses to thrive. From brand positioning to customer engagement, he takes a hands-on approach in helping businesses scale effectively. His goal is to ensure that the businesses he invests in not only succeed but become market leaders in their respective industries.
The Key to Building Successful Brands: Understanding People
One of the most frequently asked questions Mahmoud gets is: “What’s the key to building successful brands?” His answer is always the same: understanding people.
Whether through data analysis, market research, or personal conversations, Mahmoud believes that the foundation of any successful brand is a deep understanding of its target audience. “The most successful brands are the ones that know their customers inside and out,” he says. “They create value by addressing real needs and offering something unique.”
For Mahmoud, creating a brand that resonates with customers is all about empathy. By connecting with the audience on a personal level, businesses can build trust and loyalty, which in turn leads to long-term success. This philosophy has guided Mahmoud in both his entrepreneurial endeavors and his work as a growth strategist and investor.
Current Happenings: A Vision for the Future
Today, Mahmoud continues to lead by example. He actively shares his knowledge with budding entrepreneurs, whether through his podcast, consulting services, or personal interactions on social media. His mission is clear: to help businesses grow, scale, and thrive in an increasingly competitive world.
As he looks to the future, Mahmoud is focused on expanding his impact even further. He plans to continue advising businesses on growth strategies, helping them tap into new markets, and guiding them through the complexities of scaling.
“I’ve always believed that business is about creating something bigger than yourself,” Mahmoud reflects. “It’s about making an impact. That’s what keeps me going, and that’s what I want to inspire in others.”
For Mahmoud, the journey is far from over. With a passion for entrepreneurship and a commitment to helping others succeed, he is poised to continue making waves in the business world for years to come.
Conclusion: The Power of Vision and Persistence
Mahmoud Bartawi’s story is one of vision, persistence, and the willingness to take risks in pursuit of something greater. From managing billions in corporate banking to building brands that inspire and empower, his journey proves that with the right mindset and determination, anything is possible.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner looking to scale, Mahmoud’s insights and experiences offer valuable lessons that can help guide you on your own journey. As he continues to mentor, advise, and invest in businesses, Mahmoud’s legacy will undoubtedly be one of positive change and impactful growth.
If you’re ready to connect with Mahmoud or learn more about his journey, tune into the “Business with Bartawi” podcast or reach out to him on LinkedIn. His story is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.
