It’s Never Too Late Md. Miarul Haque Golfing Journey at 50s
Meet Md. Miarul Haque, the Managing Director of DHL Express Bangladesh, a seasoned corporate leader with around 30 years of experience in multinational organizations. With career spanning roles both at home and abroad, he has dedicated over 22 years to DHL, driving success and innovation. Beyond his professional achievements, Miarul discovered a deep passion for golf at his 50s, which has since transformed his lifestyle and outlook. In this candid interview, he shares his journey of balancing a demanding corporate career with his newfound love for golf, the lessons he’s learned on and off the course, and how the game has positively influenced his leadership and personal growth. Dive into the full interview to explore his inspiring story and insights!
Tell us something about yourself and your professional life.
My name is Md. Miarul Haque, and I currently serve as the Managing Director of DHL Express Bangladesh. I graduated from the Institute of Business Administration, University of Dhaka, and started my corporate career around 30 years ago. My journey began at British American Tobacco, and after a brief stint with a Dutch multinational, I have spent over 22 years with DHL Express. During this time, I have held roles both locally and internationally, gaining valuable experience across various markets.
How did you first get into golf, and what inspired you to pursue it alongside your corporate career?
I have always had a passion for sports but never had the opportunity to start golf until later in life. My journey into golf began on September 14, 2022, inspired by my friend Lt. Colonel (Retired) Arif Ahmed Belal, who is passionate about golf and the CEO of Jolshiri Golf Club. Although I had some physical challenges, like a frozen shoulder, I was determined to start. Golf quickly became a love at this stage of my life, and I’ve been incredibly passionate about it ever since.
Balancing a demanding corporate role with golf can be challenging. How do you manage your time effectively to excel in both areas?
Golf has become an integral part of my routine and lifestyle. I wake up early and often start playing as early as 4:45 AM in the summer. This early start gives me a long, productive day ahead. Playing golf in the morning not only energizes me but also ensures I can maintain a disciplined schedule. After work, I prioritize an early dinner and a good night’s sleep, creating a healthy balance between my corporate responsibilities and my passion for golf.
What is your current golfing routine?
My current golfing routine involves playing almost every day, rain or shine. In the past 812 days since I started, I’ve played golf on at least 750 of those days, whether on the driving range or on the course. I am often one of the first golfers to tee off in the morning, ensuring I make the most of my day.
To date, what is your proudest golf accomplishment?
One of my proudest golf accomplishments was achieving my target of playing a score of 38 for two days in last year. Additionally, at Kurmitola Golf Club, I managed to play seven pars in the front nine on one occasion, which was a significant milestone for me as a golfer.
What parallels, if any, do you see between the skills required for success in golf and those needed in the corporate world?
Both golf and the corporate world require strategic thinking and adaptability. In golf, you must assess the terrain, the wind, and other factors to plan your next shot strategically. Similarly, in the corporate world, every situation demands careful analysis and planning to achieve desired outcomes. Both areas emphasize the importance of thinking ahead and executing smart strategies.
What is the best thing about golf?
For me, the best thing about golf is the discipline and lifestyle changes it brings. It’s not just a game but also a way to start the day with fresh energy and a clear mind. The game fosters a sense of strategy and calmness, which translates positively into other areas of life.
Which ones are your favorite golf courses?
My favorite golf course is Kurmitola Golf Club. It’s a place I truly enjoy playing at regularly, and it holds a special place in my journey as a golfer.
Can you share an experience where a lesson you learned on the golf course positively influenced your approach to a professional challenge?
One important lesson I’ve learned on the golf course is that power is not everything—it’s more about playing smart and focusing on where to place the next shot. This understanding has influenced my professional approach, where strategic planning often outweighs brute force in solving challenges.
Golf is often seen as a networking opportunity in the business world. How has your involvement in golf helped you build relationships and advance your career?
Golf has significantly expanded my professional network and deepened existing relationships. Spending hours on the course with others fosters a sense of camaraderie and brings an informal, fun element to interactions. This has allowed me to build friendships and connect with people I may have known only professionally before.
How do you believe your passion for golf enhances your performance and leadership abilities within your corporate role?
Golf has brought a sense of discipline and focus to my life, which enhances my performance and leadership abilities. Starting the day early with golf keeps me energized and motivated, making me more productive and focused at work. The strategic thinking and patience required in golf also influence how I approach challenges and decisions in my corporate role.
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