An interview with Moka Smart City’s Operations Manager, Leopold Le Guen

What was your background before joining ENL Property?

I worked for more than 20 years for a major cosmetics manufacturer in Mauritius. It was my first job and I must say that as a self-taught person, my career trajectory within the company has been rather unconventional. I started at the bottom but I enjoy learning and I am a real all-rounder, which has allowed me to gradually move up the ladder to factory manager. I continued my career with a refrigerated tuna processing company, where I was in charge of the production line, then with a seafood cold-storage warehouse selling products to the largest supermarket chains in France, including Auchan and Picard. My various experiences, such as managing large production lines and my teamwork abilities have made me more versatile and have allowed me to develop relevant management skills. I am very pleased to have joined ENL Property in November 2017!

What is your role as ENL Property’s Operations Manager for the Moka Smart City development?

I have a diversity of tasks ranging from monitoring the operational performance of internal and external service providers to managing new projects. I am also involved in developing long-term strategic plans to achieve the established goals, managing budgets and operating costs, and validating and approving construction plans in compliance with very strict guidelines. From a practical point of view, I must also ensure that all infrastructure is in good condition, from public areas to lighting or bus stops.

I am supported in my overseeing role by various external service providers and colleagues including the urban planner, Gabrielle Brun as well as in-house departments such as development and construction, digitalisation, applications and new projects, marketing and communication and the Moka’mwad collective. These teams will grow as this major smart city project progresses.

In your opinion, what are the qualities required to carry out your mission?

Versatility and good humour, which is very useful on a daily basis and creates the right conditions to work together.

This position requires excellent interpersonal skills and a spirit of leadership. We are under immense pressure and I must demonstrate perseverance, effectiveness and efficiency. In addition, good negotiation and organisational skills are qualities that I leverage to perform my tasks. I strive every day to promote such practices in close collaboration with my colleagues.

What are the projects in the pipeline for the Moka Smart City?

We currently want to implement a shuttle service to cover the entire Moka region and make it easier for the smart city’s residents to get around. We are also looking to develop a security strategy for the area using high-performance cameras. Moreover, we are committed to setting up suitable waste sorting solutions. Basically, we have our hands full!

And finally, can you tell us why you like working in Moka?

Quite simply because it is a city with tremendous potential where it feels good to live. At Group level, we are working on major projects to improve the lives of all residents at all levels. The city will be completely transformed within the next few years and Moka will definitely be “The place to be!”