Innovation and leadership excellence are the forces that create a significant change in the food manufacturing sector. Through profound experience in the field of quality management and R&D, Shimaa Galal has established her reputation as a strategic leader in the food manufacturing industry. With a bachelor degree in Agricultural Sciences and graduated at Ain Shams University (Class of 2004), she has been contributing a quantifiable value to the company in terms of product innovation, operational excellence and team leadership.
Shimaa Galal, as Head of R&D at Modern Bakeries Company, drives innovation in Rich Bake, Brunch, and Razz, with each company developing over 100 products through retail and export channels and the food service channel. Her work covers both long shelf-life products like cakes, biscuits and croissants and a large number of short shelf-life products in the bakery. Her contributions to healthy bakery solutions, quality assurance, as well as consumer-focused innovation, have helped to secure market positioning and long-term competitiveness in a dynamic industry.
The Long Game of Credibility
Shimaa Galal began her career in the Quality department as the sole woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. Rather than being constrained by this environment, she confronted challenges decisively, demonstrating exceptional capability and earning promotion to Head of the Quality Department. Her growing curiosity and passion for innovation soon led her into product development, where creative thinking and scientific rigor came together to deliver breakthroughs that continue to influence the bakery sector.
A Leadership Philosophy Centred on Growth
In a fast-evolving world, Shimaa’s leadership philosophy is anchored in continuous growth both personal and organizational. She recalls, “I believe true leadership lies in empowering teams to challenge themselves, unlock their potential, and grow beyond their perceived limits.” Recognizing the individuality of every team member, she channels diverse talents toward a shared vision built on trust, collaboration, and open dialogue. When people feel valued and supported, challenges transform into opportunities and performance naturally follows.
Turning Challenges into Purposeful Innovation
Entering Quality and R&D as a woman came with its challenges, particularly in the early stages. By embracing a strong learning mindset for herself and her team, Shimaa Galal transformed complexity into opportunity. This approach became a key driver behind Rich Bake’s ability to deliver meaningful innovation across a diverse product portfolio.
“Our Healthy Range stands as a testament to what visionary leadership can achieve. What began as a simple idea evolved, through persistence and strong executive support, into a portfolio that responds to real consumer needs,” states Shimaa Galal. Starting with Sugar-Free products and expanding into Low-Carb and High-Protein toast bread, the initiative reflects a passion for shaping the future of food where innovation is driven by purpose and leadership is measured by impact.
Staying Ahead in a Rapidly Changing Industry
Achieving success is only the beginning; sustaining it is the real challenge. At Rich Bake, longevity is driven by an unwavering commitment to quality, excellence, and continuous innovation. Progress is fueled by proactive thinking, fresh ideas, and ongoing investment in self-development. Strong communication and a collaborative culture remain central, enabling teams to move forward with clarity and build resilient success for the future.
Milestones that Reflect Meaningful Impact
Shimaa’s recognitions represent far more than awards. They reflect countless hours of strategic planning, rigorous testing, resilience in the face of challenges, and decisive leadership. Key milestones include Breakthrough Innovation 2025 by NielsenIQ for Whole Wheat Sugar-Free Bread and Brunch Pie Roumy Cheese with Oriental Sausage, Global Brand Awards for Excellence in Pioneering the Egyptian Bakery Industry, and Innoaward 2023 for Sugar-Free Bread. These achievements continue to fuel her ambition to challenge conventions and redefine what is possible in the bakery industry.
Where Leadership Meets Motherhood
Married and a proud mother of three, Shimaa Galal credits motherhood as a defining influence on her leadership journey. The instinct to seek the best nutrition for her family evolved into a professional mission driving quality excellence and healthier product development. Balancing family life with leading the R&D function was one of her most intense challenges. With the support of her husband, management, and dedicated colleagues, she achieved meaningful milestones both personally and professionally. She highlights, “this journey reaffirmed a fundamental truth of leadership: sustainable success is built through teamwork.”
Impact Beyond the Organization
Shimaa Galal hopes her leadership has created a culture where teams feel empowered, trusted, and confident to innovate. Beyond her organization, she aspires to contribute to an industry mindset that values responsible innovation, quality, and long-term impact. On a broader level, she aims to demonstrate that women leaders can successfully balance ambition with responsibility, proving that empathy, resilience, and collaboration drive meaningful progress.
Advice and the Road Ahead
Having navigated rapid industry growth, limited resources, market pressure, and family responsibilities, Shimaa Galal encourages young women to trust their skills, embrace challenges, and recognize their value. Treat yourself as a brand that grows stronger with every decision. Looking ahead, she remains focused on redefining healthy bakery through functional foods and fortified products, strengthening Rich Bake’s position as an industry pioneer.