The key to success is to remain hungry for growth and curious about new possibilities
With over 17+ years of expertise, Infobahn stands at the forefront of the digital marketing and technology (MAR-TEC) industry. Through interviews with co-founders Manazir Abbas and Shamsul Hasan, it’s clear that Infobahn empowers businesses with cutting-edge digital marketing and advanced technological integration to help them thrive in a competitive landscape.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : As a cofounder of Infobahn and a pioneer in the industry, what was your initial vision for the company when you started it in 2007, and how has that vision evolved over the years?
Manazir : When we launched Infobahn in 2007, there wasn’t a grand vision at first. We ventured into website design and development because it felt like a sunrise industry with immense potential. Over time, I realized our true purpose was to build a company that seamlessly integrated marketing with technology, focusing on delivering impactful results rather than just technical solutions. Over the years, that vision has evolved, especially as the digital landscape has transformed. Today, we’re not just a digital marketing agency; we’ve grown into a MAR-TEC company that integrates cutting[1]edge technology with strategic marketing to meet the changing needs of our clients.”
Shaneer N Siddiqui : What inspired you to join Infobahn full-time in 2017, and how has the company’s direction evolved since then?
Shamsul : “When we founded Infobahn, I was always passionate about its potential, but in 2017, I realized it was the perfect time to fully dedicate myself to its growth. The digital world was evolving at such a rapid pace, and I wanted to ensure we stayed ahead of the curve. Since then, we’ve not only expanded our client base but also diversified our services, evolving from a digital marketing company to a comprehensive MAR-TEC agency. Our focus has shifted towards providing integrated solutions that combine marketing and technology, allowing us to deliver more value to our clients.”
Shaneer N Siddiqui : With your extensive background at Unilever and American Systems, how did your previous experiences shape your innovative approach to marketing at Infobahn?
Manazir: My time at Unilever taught me the value of keeping a brand consistent and truly understanding how consumers think and act. At American Systems, I learned how technology can simplify processes and spark innovation. At Infobahn, I’ve combined both lessons— using data and technology to craft marketing strategies that are not only creative but also impactful. It’s this balance between digital tools and creative marketing that drives our innovative approach every day.”
Shaneer N Siddiqui : Having worked in the industry for over two decades, how do you continue to inspire and motivate your team to embrace change and pursue excellence in such a fast-evolving field like digital marketing?
Manazir : The key is to remain hungry for growth and curious about new possibilities. I always encourage my team to keep learning, experimenting, and questioning the status quo. We hold regular brainstorming sessions where everyone, regardless of their role, is invited to contribute ideas. I believe in nurturing a culture that values creativity and collaboration. Continuous learning is crucial, not just for me, but for the entire team. In our industry, standing still isn’t an option—we must constantly evolve and improve. Most importantly, empower your team and they will surprise you with their ideas and progress.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : What are some key challenges you’ve faced in managing the technical team and operations, and how have you overcome them to ensure smooth functioning?
Shamsul : One of the biggest challenges is balancing innovation with day-to-day operations. We’re always pushing for new solutions, but at the same time, we need to make sure everything runs smoothly on the back end. Communication is key—making sure every member of the technical team understands the bigger picture and their role in it. To overcome these challenges, we’ve implemented agile methodologies, which allow us to stay flexible and efficient, and I make it a point to stay actively involved in the team’s processes to offer guidance where needed.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : As a frequent speaker at various events, what are some of the key messages you emphasize when discussing the future of digital marketing and technology?
Manazir: I always emphasize the importance of adaptability. The digital world changes rapidly, and the companies that thrive are the ones that can pivot quickly. I also talk about the power of personalization—understanding your customer’s needs and delivering tailored experiences is more important than ever. Another key message is the merging of marketing and technology— brands can no longer afford to view them as separate entities.
They need to work together seamlessly to create cohesive customer experiences. Remember that the attention is the new currency.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : How do you ensure that Infobahn stays at the forefront of innovation and continues to offer cutting-edge solutions to clients?
Shamsul: Innovation has to be part of the DNA of any tech[1]driven company, and for us, it’s about continuous learning. We invest heavily in training our team and exploring new technologies. I encourage everyone at Infobahn to experiment and stay curious. For me, it’s not just about following trends but anticipating them. I make sure we stay in close touch with client needs, and I personally spend time researching industry developments. That way, we can tailor the latest technology to solve real problems for our clients.”
Shaneer N Siddiqui : You’ve built a reputation for being highly approachable and helpful. How do you maintain this leadership style, and why do you think it resonates so strongly with people?
Manazir: For me, leadership is about service—being there for your team and your clients. I try to create an environment where people feel heard and supported. I’m always available to my team, whether they need advice, guidance, or just someone to listen. I think it resonates with people because, in today’s fast[1]paced world, having someone who genuinely cares about your growth and well-being is rare. I believe in giving back, and that mindset has helped me build strong, lasting relationships both within the company and with our clients.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : Can you share a particular project or milestone that was a turning point for Infobahn’s technical capabilities and operational growth?
Shamsul: One project that really stands out was a large-scale digital transformation we did for a client in the retail sector. They were struggling with outdated technology and inefficient processes. We overhauled their entire digital infrastructure—from their website to their internal systems—and integrated new marketing automation tools. The success of that project was a game-changer for us because it solidified our expertise in not just digital marketing but also in the technical solutions that power businesses behind the scenes. It opened the door for more large[1]scale projects and proved the power of our MAR-TEC approach.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : As a leader, how do you foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within your technical team?
Shamsul: Collaboration starts with trust and open communication. I’ve always believed in leading by example, so I make sure my team knows they can approach me with ideas or challenges. We hold regular brainstorming sessions and encourage cross-departmental work, which not only brings fresh perspectives but also keeps the team engaged. Continuous improvement is something I emphasize a lot; we invest in training and create an environment where learning is constant. It’s important that everyone feels like they’re growing both personally and professionally, and that their contributions make a real difference.”
Shaneer N Siddiqui : What has been the most significant challenge you’ve faced in your two decades in the industry, and how did you overcome it to continue driving innovation at Infobahn?
Manazir: The greatest challenge I’ve faced has been keeping up with the rapid evolution of technology while ensuring we meet client expectations. In an industry that shifts so quickly, it’s easy to get caught up in every new trend. To navigate this, I focused on staying adaptable but sticking to the basics—understanding the game. The rules may change, but the principle remains the same: deliver value to the customer. Instead of chasing trends, we carefully evaluate what brings real value. This balance between innovation and reliability has allowed Infobahn to consistently deliver impactful results for our clients.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : Looking ahead, what are the major shifts or trends in the MAR[1]TEC industry that you believe will have the most significant impact in the next five years?
Shamsul: I think one of the biggest shifts we’ll see is the increasing use of AI and automation in both marketing and customer service. We’re already seeing the impact, but in five years, I believe these technologies will be even more advanced, helping companies deliver hyper-personalized experiences at scale. Another trend is the rise of voice search and how it will change SEO strategies. Finally, I believe privacy concerns and data regulations will push companies to be more transparent and ethical in how they collect and use data, which will shape the future of digital marketing.
Shaneer N Siddiqui : What’s your vision for the future of Infobahn, and how do you see the company evolving in the next decade?
Manazir: My vision for Infobahn is to continue evolving as a leader in digital marketing and a pioneer in technological innovation. Over the next decade, we plan to expand our capabilities in AI[1]driven marketing, data analytics, and automation, while keeping our core focus on personalized client service. We’re also excited to extend our reach into new markets, including Africa and other Gulf regions. The digital landscape will keep changing, but our commitment to blending creativity with technology will remain constant. I want Infobahn to not only adapt to the future but shape it—delivering exceptional value and driving success for our clients in these new regions and beyond.