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In Kazakhstan's facility management sector, traditionally dominated by men and often shadowed by corruption, one woman has carved out a path to success through sheer integrity and hard work. Akmaral Imasheva, founder of Top Service Group, has proven that ethical business practices can lead to significant achievements in a challenging industry.

From Humble Beginnings to Corporate Success

At 30, after a decade in the workforce and as a mother of two, Imasheva took a leap of faith, leaving a stable job to start her own business. Her initial venture in 2007 focused on post-renovation cleaning for newly built residential complexes in Almaty. However, the seasonal and inconsistent nature of these early contracts prompted a strategic shift towards the corporate sector within a year.

Top Service Group: A 19-Year Journey

Today, Top Service Group stands as a testament to Imasheva's vision. With 19 years of experience, the company operates across Kazakhstan, boasting a professional team and clear objectives. Years were dedicated to refining services, optimizing processes, and scaling operations. Imasheva's dedication was recognized in 2024 when she won the EY competition in the "Socially Significant Entrepreneurship" nomination. The jury lauded her market reputation, leadership of thousands of employees, diligence, perseverance, and her role as an exemplary female leader.

Early Life and Education

Imasheva hails from a small village, with a teacher mother and a doctor father. She excelled in school and was actively involved in household chores. Choosing a career path was challenging, but her desire to study in Almaty was clear. In the 1990s, economists and lawyers were in high demand. She enrolled in a paid university program, working to fund her education, a common reality for many during that era. She credits her parents for instilling a strong work ethic and resilience.

Securing Major Clients and Pursuing an MBA

One of Imasheva's first major clients was the Aport shopping center. She recalls presenting her case, convincing them to trust her and her company, which marked her entry into the corporate world. Working alongside the Aport center's growth, which became one of the first large shopping malls in the country, paved the way for further opportunities, including securing contracts with Alliance Bank and a growing list of other clients. Recognizing the need for formal business education to manage this expansion, Imasheva enrolled in an MBA program for entrepreneurs in 2010. Her diploma thesis, a five-year development strategy for her company, saw 99% of its plan realized, marking a significant early victory.

Service Scope and Company Philosophy

Top Service Group now serves diverse facilities nationwide, including banks, shopping centers, business centers, and high-security industrial sites. The company takes pride in contributing to client success by ensuring a conducive and hygienic environment for their core operations.

Their comprehensive services include professional cleaning, laundry and repair of workwear, plumbing and electrical work, staff transportation, reception and administrative services, and technical support for engineering systems.

Commitment Against Corruption

Top Service Group actively avoids engaging in tenders associated with corrupt practices. Imasheva explains that while women may take fewer risks, her refusal is not solely about risk aversion. She believes women are more meticulous and less inclined to compromise their values to achieve goals. Imasheva emphasizes her personal satisfaction derived from her work, viewing satisfied clients and word-of-mouth as the best advertising. The company prioritizes quality, responsibility, and trust, serving as a reliable partner with a clean reputation. Over 50% of their clients are long-term partners, a trust they highly value.

The Team: The Key to Success

Imasheva identifies her team as the primary driver of success. The focus is on people, from cleaning staff and janitors to plumbers, electricians, and management. She proudly notes employees who have been with the company for 5, 10, or even more years. Top Service Group's commitment extends beyond organizing business processes; it includes timely salary payments, social benefits, training, fostering emotional stability, financial literacy, and enhancing self-worth. For their employees, stability is a necessity, not just a perk. Imasheva advocates for greater respect for blue-collar professions in Kazakhstan, starting with her own company's practices.

A significant portion of the team comprises women, including mothers with multiple children and retirees. Imasheva acknowledges the ongoing challenge of elevating the status and compensation for cleaning professionals while improving working conditions. She muses on the future of automation and robotics in the industry.

Actively involved in the business community, Imasheva has participated in the EBRD's "Women in Business" program since 2016, leveraging professional mentorship for company growth. She believes in continuous learning and sharing knowledge.

Next year marks the company's 20th anniversary, a milestone that will require new solutions and adaptability.

Women's Role in the Business World

As one of the few female founders in the facility management sector, Imasheva acknowledges the competitive landscape. "Competing with men is not easy – their rules of the game are tough. But women can manage large businesses just as well. We have the same brains and even more responsibility."

The company's mission is straightforward: to be a reliable partner, providing services with heart and high responsibility. They aim to ensure that Kazakhstani businesses and investors receive facility management services that meet international standards for cleanliness, safety, and order without compromise.

In a field where compromise can be tempting, Akmaral Imasheva demonstrates that a business can be built on sustainability, transparency, and professionalism. Long-term contracts, a strong team, and market trust are the solid foundations of her success.

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