Arageek's MasterMinds series featured an in-depth conversation with Mohamed ElMasry, co-founder and CEO of Tactful AI, covering his entrepreneurial journey and the vision behind building a globally competitive AI platform from the Arab world.
ElMasry discussed his journey beginning in 2004 when he founded a technology company in Luxor, Egypt, providing automated internet services for hotels. He later co-founded Silicon Vision, a semiconductor company developing wireless technologies sold to global companies like Intel and Sony.
After gaining management experience in the Gulf's cybersecurity sector, ElMasry returned to Egypt post-2011 revolution. He initially envisioned a smart home platform but pivoted to software solutions improving customer experience for businesses.
Tactful AI focuses on helping enterprises enhance customer engagement across multiple channels — phone, social media, and other touchpoints — using artificial intelligence. The platform consolidates customer data, automates service processes, and improves efficiency and satisfaction.
Key achievements highlighted include over $5 million invested in AI development over three years, creating "the first fully Egyptian AI product designed specifically for customer experience management." The platform operates across Middle Eastern and European markets in retail, e-commerce, hospitality, and finance sectors.
ElMasry emphasised building talent through training fresh graduates rather than hiring established professionals, aiming to create future entrepreneurs. His ultimate ambition: establishing a model for developing globally competitive technology services from Egypt and the Middle East.