Arab's Most Visionary Procurement Leaders Making Waves in Industry, 2025

February, 2025 Arab's Most Visionary Procurement Leaders Making Waves in Industry, 2025 Driving Value Beyond Cost Savings Transforma?onal Procurement Leadership ESG Integra?on Zyad Khan How Procurement Leadership is Shaping Sustainable Procurement Leader Supply Chains Zyad Khan Advancing Sustainable Procurement Frameworks for Organizational Growth www.arabciolook.com

“Procurement is no longer just a function; it’s a strategic force that fuels business growth and competitive advantage.”

Pioneering Procurement: Visionaries Shaping the Future of Industry in the Arab World Editor’s View I n an era where procurement is no longer just about cost-cutting but a strategic driver of innovation, sustainability, and resilience, the Middle East is witnessing a transformation led by visionary leaders. Arab CIOLook’s latest edition of Arab’s Most Visionary Procurement Leaders Making Waves in Industry, 2025 celebrates the pioneers redefining supply chains, harnessing technology, and fostering economic growth across the region. As businesses navigate geopolitical shifts, digital disruptions, and sustainability imperatives, procurement leaders are stepping up, leveraging AI, blockchain, and data-driven insights to build more agile and transparent ecosystems. This edition highlights the changemakers who are not only optimizing procurement operations but also championing ESG goals, fostering local supplier development, and driving digital transformation at an unprecedented pace. From groundbreaking public-private partnerships to innovative supplier collaboration models, these leaders are setting new benchmarks in procurement excellence. Their stories reflect the boldness, adaptability, and foresight required to thrive in today’s complex business landscape. We take immense pride in spotlighting these influential figures who are shaping the future of procurement in the Arab world. Their leadership is not just about navigating the present but about crafting a vision for a more resilient and prosperous tomorrow. Happy Reading.... Prince Bolton

COVER STORY Zyad Advancing Sustainable Procurement Frameworks for Organizational Growth Khan A RT I C L ES Driving Value Beyond Cost Savings Transforma?onal Procurement Leadership 14 18 ESG Integration How Procurement Leadership is Shaping Sustainable Supply Chains

Arab's Most Visionary Procurement Leaders Merry D'Souza Editor-in-Chief Making Waves in Industry, 2025 CONTENT FOLLOW US ON Deputy Editor Anish Miller www.facebook.com/arabciolook.com www.linkedin.com/company/arabciolook Managing Editor Prince Bolton WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON DESIGN Visualizer Dave Bates Featured Person Company Name Brief Art & Design Director Davis Mar?n Bilal is an analytical and creative Supply Chain director with more 15 years of success in management and consulting supported with high management and communication skills. Bilal Hasan General Manager of Supply Chain Services Associate Designer Jameson Carl CONTACT US ON solutions by stc solutions.com Email info@arabciolook.com For Subscrip?on www.arabciolook.com SALES Caron is an experienced Contractual Agreements professional with over several years in the field of Procurement. Extensive experience in Project Management, Contracts/ Tendering and Cost Control for large-scale Civil Projects & Infrastructure projects. Senior Sales Manager Wilson T., Hunter D. Caner Cips Chief Procurement Officer YILPORT Holding Inc. yilport.com Customer Success Manager Anderson T. Copyright © 2025 Arab CIOlook, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmi?ed in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Arab CIOlook. Reprint rights remain solely with Arab CIOlook. Sales Execu?vesTim, Smith TECHNICAL Holding a degree in Industrial Engineering and have been working in Technical Procurement since 2006. She have worked in the UAE starting Oct. 2007 at Petrofac then Nestle Regional office. Nadine Noun Senior Procurement Manager JTC Technical Head Peter Hayden jtcindia.org Technical Consultant Victor Collins SME-SMO Shayma is an optimistic procurement professional, not only procurement is a passion for her, but she strongly believes in great skilled leadership, professional communication and soft skills development. Shayma Alhelaibi Procurement and Logistics Manager Zain Bahrain eshop.bh.zain.com Research Analyst Eric Smith SEO Execu?veAlen Spencer Zyad Khan Associate Director - Procurement and Contracts Zyad is a distinguished Chartered Procurement professional with over 25 years of international experience in procurement and supply chain management, he is renowned for his strategic leadership and innovative approach in addition to adoption of Sustainable solutions within the Procurement domain. Dubai World Trade Centre dwtc.com sales@arabciolook.com February, 2025

Zyad’s ability to address intricate challenges with precision and foresight reflects a leadership focused on achieving measurable outcomes and cultivating growth across the industry.” Zyad Advancing Sustainable Procurement Frameworks for Organizational Growth Zyad Khan Procurement Leader Khan COVER STORY

Arab's Most Visionary Procurement Leaders Making Waves in Industry, 2025 consistently delivered value by integrating sustainable practices into the procurement domain, ensuring long-term operational and environmental benefits. Transforming Procurement Practices! P traditional cost-cutting to developing long-term partnerships and adopting sustainable practices, procurement plays a key role in aligning business goals with global objectives. This shift is strengthened by the growing need to integrate advanced strategies that optimize resources while promoting environmental and social responsibility. As organizations increasingly adopt sustainable frameworks, procurement has become fundamental for achieving operational excellence and long- term impact in today's connected global economy. rocurement is transforming into a strategic function that drives organizational efficiency, sustainability, and value creation. With its focus shifting from Holding esteemed credentials, Zyad is a Practicing Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) and a Certified Procurement Professional (CPPM) from the American Institute of Business Management (AIBM-USA). These qualifications reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional excellence. His expertise is frequently sought after across the MENA region, where he is regarded as a prominent figure in supply chain management. Zyad has achieved UNITAR certification in Environmental Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This accomplishment highlights their commitment to sustainability and a deep understanding of global environmental challenges. The accreditation reflects Zyad's dedication to contributing to a greener future through informed strategies and sustainable practices to promote environmental responsibility and achieve sustainable development objectives. Zyad Khan, a distinguished Procurement Leader, has made remarkable contributions to the field through his visionary approach and strategic insights. A results-driven mindset and a commitment to sustainable procurement practices characterize his leadership. Known for combining technical expertise with an innovative outlook, Zyad has successfully guided teams in adopting solutions that enhance efficiency and sustainability. His ability to address intricate challenges with precision and foresight reflects a leadership focused on achieving measurable outcomes and cultivating growth across the industry. His ability to lead procurement teams stems from his in- depth understanding of market trends and organizational needs. He has consistently demonstrated his capacity to optimize procurement processes, reduce costs, and build resilient supply chains. His innovative mindset allows him to tackle complicated challenges with precision, ensuring that organizations remain competitive in a fast-changing global environment. Driving Sustainability in Procurement His career reflects extensive expertise in handling high- profile roles that demand a comprehensive understanding of procurement and leadership. In his tenure as Product Group in charge at Emirates Airlines, Zyad successfully directed operations, ensuring cost efficiency through advanced negotiation techniques and resourceful sourcing strategies. His ability to drive measurable savings while maintaining operational excellence highlighted his strategic decision- making capabilities. Guided by a clear vision for the future of procurement, Zyad is dedicated to shaping a sector that prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and resilience. He champions integrating environmentally conscious strategies into procurement frameworks, aligning them with global sustainability standards. Through his initiatives, the industry continues to grow toward balancing economic objectives with ethical and ecological responsibilities. Zyad’s efforts demonstrate the potential for procurement to drive meaningful change, positioning the field as a critical contributor to organizational success and broader societal goals. Zyad has consistently demonstrated his capacity to optimize procurement processes, reduce costs, and build resilient supply chains.” Throughout his career, Zyad has championed adopting sustainable solutions, significantly contributing to environmental and social goals. His approach aligns procurement practices with global sustainability standards while delivering measurable business outcomes. His work supports organizational objectives and contributes to broader environmental and social well-being. Subsequently, Zyad took on the position of Procurement Manager for the Private Office of the Ruler of Dubai. In this capacity, he played a key role in optimizing procurement processes by adopting innovative approaches tailored to meet the organization's unique needs. He delivered exceptional results by fostering collaborative vendor relationships and focusing on value-driven procurement practices, aligning business goals with fiscal responsibility. In addition to his technical expertise, Zyad’s leadership skills have earned him recognition as a mentor and guide for aspiring procurement professionals. He has shared his insights through industry conferences and forums, enriching the procurement community's knowledge base. His ability to combine technical proficiency with strategic vision positions him as an influential thought leader. Zyad continues to drive excellence in procurement, setting benchmarks for performance and innovation in supply chain management within the MENA region and beyond. Let’s explore Zyad’s future-ready procurement strategies: Innovator in Supply Chain Efficiency Zyad is a highly accomplished Chartered Procurement professional with over 25 years of extensive international experience in supply chain management. He is widely respected for his ability to develop and implement strategies that drive efficiency and sustainability in procurement processes. Through his innovative methods, Zyad has Currently, Zyad contributes his expertise to the Dubai World Trade Centre’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) business. His responsibilities include developing a procurement framework that ensures long-term sustainability and supports Dubai’s Vision 2030 goals.

Drawing from his extensive experience, he has implemented forward-thinking initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and promote resource optimization. His involvement with landmark projects, such as Dubai Expo 2020 and COP28, underscores his ability to deliver on complex, large-scale undertakings. His approach combines strategic planning, meticulous execution, and an unwavering commitment to achieving outcomes that align with broader organizational and regional objectives. Zyad demonstrates a results-oriented mindset in every role, focusing on sustainable growth and operational excellence. His journey illustrates a deep understanding of the nuances in procurement, a commitment to advancing innovative practices, and the ability to deliver impactful results in diverse organizational environments. Known for combining technical expertise with an innovative outlook, Zyad has successfully guided teams in adopting solutions that enhance efficiency and sustainability.” Using his expertise, Zyad continues to contribute to shaping procurement strategies that align with broader visions and goals. He characterizes the impact of skilled leadership, strategic innovation, and dedication to excellence on organizational success. Advocate for Environmental SDGs standards, demonstrating his resolve to balance economic objectives with ethical and ecological responsibilities. Strategic Contributor to Food Security Initiatives best practices in procurement and supply chain management. His approach focuses on developing innovative strategies, encouraging sustainable practices, and building efficient, results-driven teams that contribute positively to organizational goals. Zyad possesses in-depth expertise across various industries, including hospitality, IT facility management, corporate procurement, and FMCGs. Drawing from years of professional experience, he has partnered with well- established organizations to create new avenues for revenue generation, streamline procurement strategies, and achieve measurable outcomes. He contributes significantly to the academic and professional development of postgraduate students at Heriot-Watt University by mentoring and guiding them in their studies. As an ACTVET Certified Trainer, Zyad provides specialized training to ADNOC and DWTC cohorts, improving their understanding of procurement frameworks and negotiation strategies. His work in these areas reflects his dedication to enriching professional knowledge and creating a more profound comprehension of complex industry practices. Zyad’s efforts extend to refining supplier relationships by implementing strategies that benefit all stakeholders. Through innovative sourcing solutions and effective collaboration, he has introduced frameworks that support sustainable growth while fostering long-term partnerships. Additionally, his focus on fleet optimization ensures cost- effective and environmentally sound operations, benefiting the organizations he collaborates with. His career demonstrates his ability to adapt to diverse industry demands while maintaining a steadfast commitment to principles of sustainability and innovation. By applying his vast knowledge across multiple sectors, Zyad has enhanced operational efficiencies, identified untapped opportunities, and developed systems that yield enduring value for the organizations he supports. Through his diverse professional engagements, Zyad demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing the procurement and supply chain management field. His training, mentoring, and thought leadership efforts reflect his dedication to improving processes, sharing knowledge, and fostering professional growth within the industry. By collaborating with various organizations and experts, Zyad contributes meaningfully to the broader conversation around procurement, sustainability, and value creation. His proficiency spans several key areas, such as category management, fleet optimization, sourcing methodologies, supplier relationship management, and initiatives centered on sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Through these areas of expertise, Zyad has consistently contributed to operational enhancements and strategic advancements, supporting businesses in meeting their organizational objectives efficiently. Beyond academic mentoring, Zyad actively engages in webinars and panel discussions organized by CIPS, delivering insights and sharing expertise whenever called upon. His involvement extends to strategic initiatives at DWTC, particularly in food security and in-country value projects, where he contributes to building sustainable and impactful solutions. Through these efforts, he supports the growth and development of long-term goals within the industry. This comprehensive engagement across academic, professional, and consulting domains highlights his role as an influential figure in procurement and supply chain management, showcasing a blend of expertise, innovation, and dedication to driving excellence within the field. In recent professional pursuits, he earned certification from the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) on Environmental Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This accomplishment reflects his dedication to integrating environmentally conscious practices into procurement frameworks. Zyad's approach promotes responsible sourcing that aligns with global sustainability As a professional deeply invested in sustainability and ethical practices, Zyad continues to champion initiatives that contribute to organizational success while promoting global goals for a better future. His dedication to responsible practices ensures his contributions remain impactful across industries. He collaborates closely with consulting firms such as Kloepfel Consulting and The Procurement Channel. These partnerships allow him to share his expertise and promote

Driving Value Beyond Cost Savings Transformational Procurement Leadership In today's fast-moving business environment, procurement has no longer been only a transactional function of organizations but becomes a strategic driver to the success of an organization. Transformational leadership in procurement is required for this very change; it should focus on improving processes, innovating, and stronger ties with suppliers. This article outlines the principles of transformational leadership in procurement, its impact on organizational performance, and strategies that leaders might adopt to drive successful transformation. Understanding Transformational Procurement Leadership Transformational leaders for procurement are about inspiring and empowering the teams within them to take initiative in doing new things differently. Transformational leaders work along with the group, hence distinct from transactional leaders, as the former aim to heighten performance, hence build an innovative and dynamic spirit, as a contrast, as they primarily base their exchanges of goods on standardized, routinary processes. And such is key to being practiced by a procurer under tremendous pressure from suppliers, complexity issues of the value chain, etc. Transformational leaders in procurement who possess the key attributes include visionary thinking, that is, giving a clear expression of the strategic vision for the procurement function consistent with the broader organizational strategy, empowerment, fostering collaboration across the departments and between suppliers to make innovation and efficiency possible, adapting to change as they encourage 14 15 www.arabciolook.com | February 2 02 | 5 www.arabciolook.com | February 2025 |

Challenges in Transformational Procurement Leadership and foster flexibility by their teams about the dynamics within the market. The Need for Procurement Transformation Indeed, while there are many benefits of the transformational leadership in procurement, challenges in the transformation process do occur to leaders. SUBSCRIBE Today Procurement transformation refers to the total transformation of procurement processes, strategies, technologies, and organizational structures that focus on driving efficiency, effectiveness, and value creation. In other words, with traditional procurement models becoming obsolete, organizations must adapt to new operating models based on technology and innovative practices. Resistance to change: employees tend to refuse changing new ways and technologies; this is because it requires significant communication on what leaders expect during such transitions. Skill Gaps: As procurement continues to change, the teams may require new skills-the use of technology and strategic sourcing. Investment in training and development is well provided for having the appropriate capabilities. Balancing Short-term Goals with Long-term Vision: Leaders need to find the balance between the short- term operational needs and long-term strategic goals. Focusing on both of these will ensure sustainable success. • • The transformation journey often includes: Process Optimization: Streamlining workflows to reduce costs and improve responsiveness. Technology Integration: Implementing digital solutions such as e-procurement systems and data analytics tools to enhance visibility and decision- making. Supplier relationship management: strategic partnering with suppliers to innovated and risk mitigation • • • • Conclusion Transformational procurement leadership is a critical role in redefining how organizations approach sourcing, supplier management, and overall procurement strategy. Transformational leadership by procurement leaders inspires teams, fosters innovation, and drives significant improvements in efficiency and effectiveness. As businesses continue to face challenges in an increasingly complex landscape, strong transformational leadership will be essential for achieving sustainable growth and competitive advantage in procurement. The Role of Leadership in Driving Transformation Effective transformational procurement leadership is important for successful change initiatives. Leaders must not only champion new technologies but also manage the cultural shifts required for transformation. Several strategies that procurement leaders can use include: Clear Objectives: Measurable organizational goals are to be established. This gives teams a particular purpose for undertaking changes, where people become more accepting of change and open to change. Engage Stakeholders: Involve all relevant stakeholders across departments at an early stage in the transformation process. This would ensure that all parties involved find the new processes satisfactory and can adopt them smoothly. Innovate Cultivate: Encourage all individuals on the team to try new concepts and methods, as such a culture will foster better and improved solutions in procurement practices. Measure Performance: Create KPIs key performance indicators and track the progress of and outcome of transformation initiatives. Reviewing them periodically makes adjustments easy for leaders to inform and make the necessary changes. • In short, integration of transformational leadership principles into procurement enhances not just the operational performance of the firm but also brings procurement activities in alignment with broader organizational goals- creating greater value along the supply chain. • Stay in the Known. Subscribe to Arabciolook Get Arabciolook in print, and digital on www.arabciolook.com • • 16 www.arabciolook.com | February 2 02 | 5

ESG Integration How Procurement Leadership is Shaping Sustainable Supply Chains P approaches in sourcing and supply chain operations. This evolution includes moving past a focus on the lowest price to also addressing the greater impacts of supply chains, including environmental sustainability and social responsibility. rocurement leadership is taking on a greater role in developing sustainable supply chains through the inclusion of environmental, social, and ethical The Growing Importance of Green Supply Chains A number of forces drive the increasing visibility of sustainable supply chains: Stakeholder Expectations: Regulators, investors, and customers are exerting pressure on companies to put environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities at the top of their agendas. Investors demand mitigation of climate risk, and customers question social responsibility assertions. Risk Management: Top companies perceive sustainability risk as a business risk, and procurement is pivotal in mitigating these risks. Efficiency and Waste Reduction: Many sustainability initiatives target improved efficiency and reduced waste, potentially resulting in cost savings and lowered carbon emissions. Brand Reputation: Integrating sustainability practices into procurement can boost brand reputation and enhance stakeholder relationships. • • • • 18 19 www.arabciolook.com | February 2 02 | 5 www.arabciolook.com | February 2025 |

Key Strategies for Procurement Leaders Challenges and Considerations Speed vs. Sustainability: It is difficult to satisfy the increasing need for quicker delivery times while upholding sustainable packaging and logistics measures. Complexity: The diversity and complexity of contemporary supply chains make it challenging to attain sustainability in all the links. Data Integration: Supplier sustainability data integration into current procurement systems is still a challenge to many organizations. Cultural Change: There is a fundamental cultural shift needed to implement sustainable supply chain management, something that can be achieved only with top management support. In order to successfully drive sustainable supply chains, procurement leaders are following a number of key strategies: • Collaboration: Collaboration with stakeholders and suppliers is important in helping overcome sustainability challenges. This involves involving suppliers in establishing clear, challenging yet achievable goals and objectives. • Data-Driven Decision Making: Secure and reliable data is needed for making well-informed procurement choices and monitoring sustainability performance5. Embedding supplier sustainability data and ESG KPIs within procurement software is able to make a significant difference. • Supplier Engagement: Procurement specialists understand the role of involving suppliers in adopting green practices. It entails measuring and auditing supplier allegiance to sustainability performance and offering capacity-building support. • Setting Standards: Having clear benchmarks, targets, and guidelines is necessary for an effective supply chain sustainability strategy. The standards must be communicated and mutually agreed upon by all stakeholders and suppliers along the chain. • Leveraging Technology: Digitalization and new technologies such as Big Data management, AI, and blockchain are improving supply chain visibility and accountability. These technologies allow businesses to combine and analyze multiple data sets and access real- time insights. • • • • By adopting these strategies and overcoming the related hurdles, procurement leaders can lead the creation of environmentally-friendly supply chains that are also good for the bottom line. Advantages of Green Supply Chains Investing in green and open supply chains can bring a range of advantages: Cost Savings: Smart use of raw materials, recycling, and packaging reduction can cut costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable product development can also cut waste and reduce manufacturing complexity. Enhanced ESG Performance: Green supply chains are responsible for stronger environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, which can improve in tandem with profit and expansion. Increased Resilience: Sustainable business practices can render supply chains more resilient to interruptions and better suited to adapt to shifting market demands. Innovation Sustainability: can encourage innovation in technological, management, process, and cultural dimensions of the company. • • • • 20 www.arabciolook.com | February 2025 |

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Arab's Most Visionary Procurement Leaders Making Waves in Industry, 2025

Arab's Most Visionary Procurement Leaders Making Waves in Industry, 2025

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