Mohamed Hag Ali’s career at MV is a powerful example of what can happen when opportunity meets hard work, curiosity and a willingness to grow. Today, Mohamed serves as General Manager of MV’s Santa Rosa Division 3, but his journey began in 2005 when he joined the company as a driver.
With no prior background in transportation, Mohamed quickly discovered a passion for the work, the people and the opportunities available at MV. Over the years, he grew from Driver to Operations Manager, Safety Manager, Assistant General Manager and ultimately General Manager. Along the way, he leaned on mentorship, training and MV’s culture of support to build a career rooted in leadership, service and continuous development.
Can you share a little about your career journey at MV?
I started with MV in 2005 as a driver. I drove for about six months, and as soon as an opportunity opened in the office, I took it. From there, I became an operations manager, then added safety manager responsibilities, later became assistant general manager and eventually moved into the general manager role.
My former general manager, Peter Edwards, was promoted to regional vice president, and I stepped into the GM position after that. He is still my regional leader today, so that relationship and mentorship have continued throughout my career.
What training, mentorship or development opportunities helped you grow at MV?
One of the biggest resources MV provides is MV University. It is an excellent tool because it covers so many areas of the business, especially transportation safety, which is at the center of what we do every day. Whenever you want to learn more or strengthen your understanding, MVU is a great place to start.
I was also fortunate to be part of the second class of MV’s GM Academy. That experience really opened my eyes. It helped me better understand what MV stands for, the core parts of our business and the best practices that help us operate successfully. It prepared me to do my job better and gave me connections with people across the company that I still value today.
Who has inspired or supported you most in your career journey?
Peter Edwards has been one of the most important mentors in my career. We worked together for many years when he was my general manager, and I learned a lot from him by watching how he led.
One thing I appreciated about Peter is that he gave me opportunities. He would hand me the keys and say, “Show me what you can do.” If I got stuck, I could go back to him, ask questions and work through it with him. That helped me build confidence.
At one point, I was helping run three divisions, and I would not have been able to do that without the knowledge and support I received. Peter, along with our regional team, has always been there to provide guidance when needed.
What is your favorite thing about working at MV?
For me, it is the challenge of working with people. Every person has a different background, experience, personality and way of thinking. To lead well, you have to meet people where they are.
You cannot only approach people as a boss. You have to see them as human beings. You have to know what matters to them and build trust. Sometimes the conversation starts with asking about their family, their kids or something happening in their life. When people know you care, it becomes easier to coach, guide and support them.
Working with people is the real masterpiece.
What advice would you give to someone just starting at MV?
My advice is simple: if someone else can do it, you can do it too. The biggest thing that holds people back is fear. Do not be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes can be fixed, and they help you learn.
If you make a mistake and fix it, you become stronger and more confident. The next time, you will know better.
Also, do not sit in a corner and struggle by yourself. There is support at MV at every level. All you have to do is raise your hand and ask for help. Nobody knows everything, and there is no shame in asking. Get the help you need, keep learning and one day you may be the one leading others.
Would you say MV is a company where people can grow?
Absolutely. At MV, there is no limit. If you have the mindset, the work ethic and the willingness to learn, you can grow.
I remember sitting next to the CEO at a general managers meeting in Dallas. He asked me where I wanted to go next, and I told him I wanted to keep growing. His response was, “Are you ready? Let’s work on that.”
That moment showed me how open MV is to people who want to develop. If you are willing to put in the work and gain the knowledge, there is opportunity here.
When you are not at work, how do you like to spend your free time?
My free time is my quiet time. I like quiet. No phone, no meetings, no calendar. I shut everything off and take time to breathe, relax and enjoy the day.