Member Interview with Ibrahim Zantout

We are delighted to bring you a Member Interview with Ibrahim Zantout, Client Partner, Snapchat

What’s your golden rule?

Empathy closes what persuasion can’t

Who has been your biggest influence?

Scott Galloway, I admire the way he combines sharp business insights with unapologetic honesty. He has a unique ability to cut through noise, simplify complex ideas, and challenge people to think bigger. That’s influenced how I approach my day to day, not just chasing numbers, but helping clients see the broader opportunity, even if it means having tough conversations. His perspective reminds me that clarity and conviction often win more trust than just charm or persuasion.

What is your most hated business expression?

Let’s circle back

What’s the smartest business idea you’ve ever had?

The smartest business idea I’ve had was a company I started working on called LOCALs. The idea was simple but powerful: connect travelers with locals to give them a more authentic, immersive experience, rather than just the standard tourist path. It was about building an ecosystem where visitors could discover a city through the people who live there, whether that was unique dining, hidden cultural spots, or experiences you’d never find in a guidebook.

Which leader do you admire most and why?

Kobe Bryant, the Mamba Mentality: the idea that excellence comes from relentless preparation, resilience, and the willingness to outwork everyone else. Kobe wasn’t just talented, he built his success through discipline and constant improvement.

What is on your mind the most right now as a marketing leader?

how to manage ambiguity while still driving growth. Budgets, consumer behavior, and priorities keep shifting and turning uncertainty into an opportunity to push for stronger results

Why is being part of The Marketing Society important for your career?

it matters to me because it expands my network and exposes me to different perspectives. Learning from other marketers enriches my knowledge, challenges my thinking, and helps me bring fresh ideas and stronger strategies into my work

Why does marketing matter to you?

it’s about understanding human behavior, creating connections, and turning insights into growth

Tell us something that’s not on your CV

Something that’s not on my CV is a trip I took to Mongolia for charity. As part of the challenge, I climbed Mount Atlas, hiked 40km, biked 150km, and horseback rode 40km across the Siberian forest. I was also the head sherpa of our crew, coordinating with the other sherpas to keep everyone safe and on track. It was one of the toughest physical and mental challenges I’ve ever faced, but it was for a great cause and it taught me a lot about resilience, leadership, and pushing past limits. Those lessons have stuck with me and influence how I approach challenges in business as well.