Rochdale businessman accepts national award at 2024 British Muslim Awards

Asad Shamim with his award at the ceremony in Manchester

A multi-award-winning businessman has been honoured with the prestigious Business Leader of the Year award at the 2024 British Muslim Awards.

Asad Shamim, from Bamford, was nominated by several individuals in his network for his outstanding leadership and business acumen. Mr Shamim, the CEO of Furniture in Fashion, one of the largest online furniture stores in the UK, has also established his own independent consultancy service and held various advisory positions in numerous organisations.

Asad, who has previously won multiple awards including a Highly Commended Award at the British Muslim Awards, also holds a position at the private office of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Faisal Al Qasimi, whose family rules the Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah emirates.

In this role, he advises on investments from UK businesses into the UAE and on Sheikh Mohamed bin Faisal Al Qasimi's investments into the UK, such as housing and business parks.
 

Read more: Rochdale businessman named as senior advisor to private office of United Arab Emirates’ ruling familyPublished: 21 January 2022

Reacting to winning the Business Leader Award, Asad said he was “thrilled beyond words”.

He told Rochdale Online: “This was a national award and the competition was fierce, with some highly respected people nominated, so I was really honoured to receive the award.

“This accolade stands as a resounding testament to the unwavering dedication, relentless perseverance, and unyielding commitment that have characterised my journey throughout the years.

“This recognition not only celebrates individual achievement but also underscores the collective efforts of a team driven by a shared vision and a commitment to excellence.

“It symbolises the culmination of countless hours of hard work, strategic decision making, and steadfast determination in the face of challenges.”

He added: “Moving forward, I am committed to leveraging this recognition as a platform to inspire and empower others, particularly aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders within the British Muslim community, to pursue their dreams relentlessly, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and strive for excellence in all their endeavours.”

When asked what makes a good business leader, he commented: “Aside from having a vision, dedication, and commitment, you need to have a passion for success. I personally have that passion, and I don’t take no for an answer.

It’s that resilience that gets you there. After all, in the word impossible is possible.”