Early Career and Lessons in Resilience

Question: How did your professional journey begin, and what were some defining moments early in your career?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: I graduated as a Communication and IT engineer from NUST, and my career began at a software house, which at the time felt like my dream job. Yet, I soon realized that my ambitions required a bigger stage. That’s when an opportunity came at Samsung Mobile. My interview lasted only 17 seconds, which seemed almost surreal, but it became one of the most transformative moments in my life. I was selected immediately, though my country manager was skeptical—after all, I was only 22 years old, entrusted with managing a portfolio worth over $100 million.

Facing such responsibility at a young age was intimidating, yet it forced me to grow rapidly. My manager’s demanding mentorship taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, discipline, and flexibility. I learned to navigate high-pressure environments, take decisive actions, and earn credibility through performance rather than age or titles. These early lessons not only shaped my professional approach but also instilled a mindset of continuous learning, calculated risk-taking, and leadership by example—principles that have guided me through every challenge and opportunity in my career.

Growth, Mentorship, and Global Exposure

Question: How did your time at Samsung influence your leadership and professional outlook?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: Working at Samsung was a truly transformative experience. The company was emerging as a global powerhouse, and I had the privilege of witnessing its rapid growth firsthand. Under the mentorship of my Korean manager, I learned the value of discipline, perseverance, and cultural adaptability. Samsung invested significantly in my development through its Leadership and Management Program, which allowed me to engage with professionals from around the world. This exposure not only honed my global perspective but also shaped my approach to leadership, strategy, and innovation, providing a foundation that has guided me throughout my career.

Transforming QMobile into a Market Leader

Question: After Samsung, you joined QMobile — a bold move at the time. What drove that decision?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: It was indeed a challenging decision. I had opportunities elsewhere, including Nokia, but I chose QMobile when it was still a startup with uncertain prospects. Many advised against it, yet within two years, QMobile became Pakistan’s number one mobile brand, capturing nearly 68% of the market share. It was a proud moment to witness a local company dominate the telecom landscape. This success was driven by hard work, smart strategy, adaptability, and a relentless focus on understanding the consumer, proving that bold moves combined with execution can yield extraordinary results.

Leadership at Haier and Vision for Pakistan

Question: Tell us about your journey with Haier and your vision for local manufacturing.

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: During my tenure at Haier, I focused on technology transfer, capacity building, and job creation. Setting up a fully operational factory in Pakistan within 18 months was a significant milestone, demonstrating what’s possible with strategic planning and execution. My vision has always been that businesses should aim to create meaningful impact, not just profits. Localizing technology, generating employment, and enabling innovation for the future are essential steps toward building a self-reliant, sustainable, and globally competitive manufacturing ecosystem in Pakistan.

On Change, Leadership, and Lifelong Learning

Question: Would you describe yourself as a change agent?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: Absolutely. I have always embraced change as an integral part of growth. Every phase of my career—from startups to multinational operations—has been about transformation and innovation. Change is never easy; it can be challenging and even painful, but it is essential for personal and organizational development. A good leader doesn’t just direct; they empower their teams, give people space to learn from mistakes, and foster an environment where individuals can evolve. Leadership is about guiding others through change while cultivating resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning at every level.

Balancing Work, Life, and Family

Question: What personal sacrifices come with professional success?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: Achieving professional success inevitably comes with personal sacrifices  missed birthdays, family events, and precious personal moments. Over the years, I’ve learned that maintaining harmony is less about “balance” and more about work-life management. It’s about consciously prioritizing, staying organized, and making the most of time with loved ones. I owe a tremendous amount to my wife and family, who have been my unwavering support system, motivating me through challenges and celebrating the wins alongside me. Their encouragement and understanding make it possible to pursue ambitious professional goals while remaining grounded personally.

Building Pakistan’s Tech Future

Question: Where do you see Pakistan in the next decade in terms of technology and innovation?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: Pakistan holds immense potential to become a global technology leader. With the adoption of AI, 5G, and widespread digital transformation, we have the opportunity to rank among the top five emerging markets in the world. To achieve this, we need consistent and forward-looking policies, stronger collaboration between academia and industry, and a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical skills. By nurturing talent and innovation systematically, Pakistan can not only compete globally but also create solutions that positively impact society and drive sustainable economic growth.

Managing Stress

Question: How do you manage stress?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: Stress is an inevitable part of leadership and high-responsibility roles. I don’t view it as a negative force; instead, I treat it as a motivating challenge that keeps me focused and sharp. I manage stress by staying organized, prioritizing effectively, and maintaining perspective understanding what I can control and what I can’t. I also believe in continuous learning and reflection, which helps me navigate difficult situations calmly. Most importantly, I rely on a strong support system, including my family and trusted colleagues, who provide guidance, encouragement, and balance when the pressures intensify.

Work Life Balance

Question: What’s your take on work-life balance?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: I prefer to think of it as work-life management rather than balance. Success often demands sacrifices missed personal moments, family time, and celebrations but it’s about consciously prioritizing, staying organized, and making the most of every moment. My family has been my greatest support, and their understanding allows me to pursue ambitious professional goals while staying connected personally. True harmony comes from integrating responsibilities thoughtfully, rather than trying to separate work and life completely.

Message to Young Entrepreneurs

Question: Many young people are passionate about startups but struggle with sustainability. What’s your advice?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: My advice to young entrepreneurs is to focus on solving real, meaningful problems rather than creating startups just for the sake of launching one. Sustainability comes from building value and usefulness, not from chasing trends. Developing resilience, adaptability, and financial discipline is essential, because challenges are inevitable, and how you respond will determine your longevity. Money and success naturally follow competence and consistent effort. If you make yourself truly capable, resourceful, and indispensable, opportunities will come to you, and your startup will have the foundation to grow sustainably over time.

Closing Thoughts

Question: Any final message for our audience and for The Legacy Files team?

Mr. Zeeshan Qureshi: I appreciate The Legacy Files for documenting real business journeys. These stories inspire others and help build a narrative of growth and progress for Pakistan. Thank you for having me — it’s been a pleasure sharing my journey.