From Storytelling to Strategy: The Journey of Sharib Suhail
Sharib Suhail’s journey is anything but traditional. What began as a passion for storytelling in the newsrooms of India has evolved into a thriving career in strategic marketing in the heart of Dubai. His path wasn’t laid out with a perfect plan. Instead, it was built through curiosity, empathy, and the courage to pivot when the time felt right.
Today, Sharib serves as a Senior Marketing Executive, helping a global business shape their brand presence in dynamic markets like the UAE. His journey proves that your background doesn’t define your future—your mindset does.
A Journalist by Heart, A Marketer by Mind
Sharib didn’t start in marketing. His early days were filled with chasing hard news stories, asking uncomfortable questions, and capturing human experiences through his words. Working for top Indian media outlets such as The Indian Express and ABP News, he developed a keen sense for impactful storytelling.
But somewhere along the way, he started becoming equally fascinated with how stories were told—not just what was being said. That curiosity slowly pulled him toward the world of communications and marketing. It wasn’t a shift he planned—it just made sense. In his words, “It felt like a natural shift—from informing audiences to engaging them more deeply.”
Making an Impact Through Strategic Communication
Sharib’s work isn’t limited to branding and buzzwords. His time at the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) gave him a chance to work on real-world issues like air quality in India. The communication plan he helped build reached policymakers and sparked conversations nationwide. This moment taught him the true power of strategic communication—it can do more than make noise; it can drive actual change.
Now based in Dubai, Sharib continues to use that insight. He focuses on building brand visibility and strategic positioning for his current employer that supports businesses looking to expand into the UAE and other key markets.
Challenges That Shaped His Path
Like any meaningful career, Sharib’s journey wasn’t without hurdles. Transitioning from journalism to marketing meant learning new tools, changing how he thought about communication, and proving himself in an entirely different industry.
It wasn’t easy.
“There was a point where I had to unlearn everything I thought I knew and rebuild a new skill set,” he shares. But it’s this very discomfort that helped him grow. His resilience and ability to adapt became defining characteristics of his career.
Big Picture Thinking with a Human Touch
Sharib doesn’t believe in quick wins or loud campaigns that fade fast. One of the biggest lessons he’s learned is that consistency beats intensity. While it’s tempting to aim for big moments and viral ideas, what matters more is steady, thoughtful effort. Trust is built over time, and strategic growth doesn’t happen overnight.
He also stresses the importance of listening—to clients, to teams, and to the data. In his view, the most powerful strategies are born not from shouting the loudest but from truly understanding the needs beneath the surface.
A Leader Who Builds, Connects, and Uplifts
Sharib leads cross-functional campaigns and builds partnerships across regions and industries. But he doesn’t measure success by numbers alone. What motivates him is the impact of his work—helping others grow, telling stories that matter, and creating space for innovation.
He believes in using communications as a force for good: “Marketing isn’t just about selling. It’s about building trust and delivering value.” Sharib ensures the message is meaningful and clear.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Professionals
Sharib’s advice to his younger self—and to anyone just starting—is refreshingly honest:
“It’s okay to feel confused. Confusion often means you’re thinking deeply. Don’t shy away from uncertainty. Embrace it.”
He also highlights the importance of networking, a lesson he learned the hard way. “I used to work in silos, believing that hard work alone was enough. But your relationships often open doors that your résumé can’t.”
Sharib encourages taking calculated risks, stepping out of comfort zones, and always staying curious. “Growth doesn’t happen where you feel safe—it happens when you’re willing to be uncomfortable.”
Looking to the Future
Sharib’s current role is more than just a job—it’s part of a bigger vision. He hopes to play a significant role in devising extensive marketing campaigns for the region.
“What excites me is building not just for today but for the future. The work I do now lays the groundwork for long-term success.”
With nearly a decade in communications and marketing, he’s not slowing down anytime soon as for him, that’s the legacy worth building.
Follow Sharib’s journey:
Instagram: @sharibsuhail92
LinkedIn: Sharib Suhail
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