Entrepreneurship is rarely a straight path. It is built on belief, tested by setbacks, and strengthened through resilience. In this exclusive interview with UAE Times, the founder of Gutierrez Group of Companies reflects on the defining moments that shaped her leadership philosophy, the lessons learned from trust and betrayal, and her long-term vision for global expansion. Her journey is not just about business growth   it is about character, loyalty, and perseverance.

What were the key moments that shaped your entrepreneurial journey?

One of the most defining moments in my journey was hiring friends. I did it with the intention of helping them and growing together. However, some of those relationships ended in betrayal.

That experience taught me a powerful lesson: business is very similar to personal relationships. People will come and go, but those who are genuine, aligned with your vision, and committed to shared growth are the ones who truly stay. It strengthened my understanding of trust, boundaries, and leadership.

What sparked the idea to start your venture in this industry?

Starting my own venture was not something I initially planned. It was the encouragement and belief of the people around me that pushed me to take that step.

Their trust, moral support, and the experience I had accumulated over the years gave me the confidence to pursue the idea seriously. Sometimes, it takes others believing in you before you fully believe in yourself   and that belief became the foundation of my entrepreneurial journey.

How do you drive innovation within your company?

I drive innovation by staying closely involved in daily operations and actively listening to both clients and team members. Real innovation often comes from practical challenges faced on the ground.

I focus on learning from experience, adapting quickly, and remaining open to better and more efficient ways of working. I encourage practical ideas, maintain open communication, and create an environment where the team feels comfortable proposing improvements that genuinely make an impact.

What’s your approach to hiring and retaining the right talent?

For me, values and work ethic matter more than skills alone. Experience has taught me that trust, integrity, and attitude are fundamental. Skills can be developed, but character defines long-term success.

To retain talent, I prioritize consistency, clarity, and respect. When people feel valued, treated fairly, and aligned with the company’s direction, they naturally choose to stay and grow with the organization.

How have mentors or networks influenced your growth?

Mentorship and strong relationships have played a defining role in my personal and professional growth. During moments of self-doubt, it was the unwavering belief and encouragement of trusted advisors that kept me moving forward.

I have been fortunate to be guided by remarkable individuals whose wisdom, integrity, and experience have shaped not only my business decisions but also my perspective on life.  

Alongside them, my partner, family, close friends, and dedicated team have been pillars of strength. Their honesty, support, and belief in my vision have continuously reinforced my resilience and empowered me to navigate challenges with confidence and determination.

How do you identify and manage business risks?

I identify risks by staying hands-on and attentive to details and patterns. Being directly involved helps me see potential challenges early.

Managing risk requires planning ahead, setting clear boundaries, and remaining adaptable. Flexibility is essential because markets and circumstances can change quickly.

How do you stay ahead of industry changes?

Continuous learning is key. I stay connected with industry professionals, monitor market shifts closely, and remain open to new perspectives.

Experience plays an important role, but adaptability is what truly keeps you ahead. Being ready to adjust strategies when the market evolves is critical for long-term sustainability.

What’s one lesson every aspiring entrepreneur should know?

Not everyone who starts the journey with you will stay   and that’s perfectly okay.

Entrepreneurship is built on patience and consistency. Growth often comes from difficult lessons rather than easy victories. The challenges shape you far more than the successes do.

What’s your long-term vision for the company?

Ten years from now, I envision the Gutierrez Group of Companies expanding into international markets.

Growth, however, is not just about scale. Any success we achieve will always be shared with the people who believed in the vision from the beginning and the team that stood by the company throughout the journey. Loyalty and shared success remain central to our long-term vision.

A Journey Built on Trust, Lessons, and Global Ambition

The story of the Gutierrez Group of Companies is rooted in resilience, strengthened by mentorship, and driven by a commitment to values. As the company looks toward international expansion, its foundation remains deeply personal   built on trust, growth, and gratitude.

In a world where business landscapes constantly evolve, one thing remains clear: lasting success belongs to those who combine ambition with integrity.

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