Dato' Ibrahim started his career with Malayan Banking Berhad in 1979 as a sub accountant. He later joined Petronas in the same year and was actively involved in the development of Petronas's domestic marketing activities. Throughout his career with Petronas, he held a number of senior management positions including Senior Manager of Eastern and Northern Region, General Manager of Liquefied Petroleum Gas and Retail Business in Petronas Dagangan Berhad (PDB) and as the General Manager of Crude Oil Group, Petronas.

With his extensive experience, Dato' Ibrahim was appointed the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PDB, which is listed on Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, the formation of which he had played a critical role in. During his tenure in leading PDB, he spearheaded its transformation by developing the company's brand and business strategy as well as the development of administrative and electronic payment systems. Dato' Ibrahim retired from this position in December 2007.