Middle East's Most Influential CIOs Making an Impact in 2025

Charting the Future I n an era defined by transformation and resilience, the role of a General Manager has evolved far beyond operations and numbers. It now encompasses vision, empathy, adaptability, and the ability to inspire large, diverse teams toward sustainable growth. In this special edition, we proudly spotlight Sameh Ghattas, a distinguished leader whose journey exemplifies the true essence of visionary management in the Middle East. Sameh Ghattas stands at the intersection of strategic excellence and human- centric leadership. His ability to harmonize business innovation with operational precision has not only propelled organizational performance but also redefined leadership standards across the region. Whether navigating the challenges of a shifting economy or fostering cultures of inclusivity and agility, his leadership remains rooted in clarity, courage, and forward-thinking. This edition is a tribute to General Managers like Sameh—leaders who aren't just keeping pace with change but actively shaping the future of business in the Middle East. Through in-depth interviews, success stories, and expert insights, we aim to explore what makes such leaders stand out in an increasingly complex global landscape. As you turn the pages, we invite you to discover not just accomplishments, but the mindset and mission behind them. May this edition inspire executives, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders to chart their own visionary paths in 2025 and beyond. Happy Reading! -Prince Bolton

Cov Story 08 Pioneering Digital Transformation Prole 20 COLIN SHORT A Visionary Leader in IT Transformation at AI Tamini & Company Articles 16 Nurturing Innovation How to Navigate IT Leadership Challenges Successfully? 24 From Data to Decisions How to Identify Industry Disruptors Effectively?

www.thecioconnect.com Pooja M Bansal Editor-in-Chief Deputy Editor Anish Miller CONTENT Managing Editor Prince Bolton Visualizer Dave Bates DESIGN Art & Design Director Davis Martin Associate Designer Jameson Carl Senior Sales Manager Wilson T., Hunter D. Company Name Featuring Descrip?on SALES Customer Success Manager John Mathew sales@thecioconnect.com May, 2025 Seasoned technology strategist with deep exper?se in IT infrastructure, project management, and business alignment, known for op?mizing teams and delivering complex enterprise solu?ons. AL TAMIMI & COMPANY tamimi.com Sales Executives Tim, Smith Technical Head Peter Hayden Colin Short Chief Informa?on Officer Accomplished global IT professional with 20+ years’ experience, excelling in strategic planning, risk management, and leading interna?onal teams to implement advanced technologies. WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON TECHNICAL Supersonic Imagine supersonicimagine.com Dr.John Cherian Chief Informa?on Officer Technical Consultant Victor Collins Research Analyst Eric Smith A visionary IT leader with over 20 years’ experience, recognized for driving digital transforma?on, process automa?on, and opera?onal excellence across major organiza?ons. Email info@thecioconnect.com Loay M Safa CEO, Al Othaim AI CIO, Al Othaim Investment SME-SMO CONTACT US ON Al Othaim Investment Co. alothaiminvestment.com For Subscription www.thecioconnect.com SEO Executive Alen Spencer An experienced IT leader with a focus on enterprise technology strategy and organiza?onal IT advancement. Mohammed Arif Malik Chief Informa?on Officer WebBeds webbeds.com Copyright © 2025 The CIO Connect, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from The CIO Connect. Reprint rights remain solely with The CIO Connect. A senior IT execu?ve specializing in regional technology leadership and digital transforma?on. Nabil Elouahabi CIO Asia Thales Group thalesgroup.com

Pioneering Digital Transformation “ into applica?on deployment and project management, gaining insights into large-scale system implementa?ons that enhanced business efficiency. My journey began as a web applica?ons engineer, providing me with hands-on experience in tackling technical challenges. I quickly progressed “ Loay M Safa Al Othaim Investment Co. Group CIO

Middle East's Most Inuential CIOs Making an Impact in 2025 T Loay M Safa Group CIO , stands at the forefront of this change, leveraging his extensive experience to drive innovation, efficiency, and security within the organization. His leadership vision integrates technology with business strategy, ensuring that IT functions as a key enabler of growth and competitive advantage. he world of technology is constantly evolving, and in today's fast-paced business landscape, IT leaders play a crucial role in shaping digital transformation. Al Othaim Investment Co. of His tenure with organizations like Qatargas, ExxonMobil RasGas, and the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022) allowed him to lead high- profile IT projects, optimize business processes, and introduce innovative technologies that significantly impacted operations. These experiences solidified his expertise in IT strategy, cybersecurity, and enterprise solutions. , Transitioning into the retail and investment sectors, Loay brought his extensive background in digital transformation to Al Othaim Investment Co. Here, he has spearheaded major IT initiatives, including ERP implementations, AI integrations, and cybersecurity enhancements. His leadership philosophy centers on driving efficiency, leveraging technology for business outcomes, and positioning IT as a strategic enabler. With a career spanning multiple industries, including energy, sports, advertising, and retail, Loay brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on how technology can enhance business operations. His expertise in IT infrastructure modernization, AI-driven automation, and cybersecurity has been instrumental in transforming Al Othaim Investment Co. into a digitally forward organization. His journey is a testament to the power of technology in reshaping industries and creating lasting business impact. Inspiration for Leadership in Technology Loay’s motivation for stepping into a leadership role stems from his passion for solving complex business challenges through technology. He has always been driven by the potential of IT to streamline processes, enhance security, and improve customer experiences. Loay shares insights into his career, leadership principles, and the future of technology in retail and investment. His approach to IT leadership highlights the importance of aligning digital strategies with business objectives, fostering innovation, and ensuring data security in an era of increasing cyber threats. Through his vision, he continues to drive digital excellence, setting a benchmark for IT leadership in the region. “I believe IT is not merely about maintaining systems but about creating business value.” Says Loay. Witnessing the transformative impact of digital solutions on businesses inspired him to take on strategic leadership positions where he could influence technology-driven decisions. Career Journey and Key Experiences Additionally, Loay enjoys the challenge of bridging the gap between technology and business strategy. His ability to educate stakeholders, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and implement impactful digital solutions makes him a highly effective leader in the field of IT. Loay’s career in IT has been dynamic and shaped by a passion for technology and business transformation. “My journey began as a web applications engineer, providing me with hands-on experience in tackling technical challenges. I quickly progressed into application deployment and project management, gaining insights into large-scale system implementations that enhanced business efficiency.” “ strategies, and streamlining supply chain management, ul?mately driving innova?on and business growth. The integra?on of AI and automa?on will further enhance opera?onal efficiency by op?mizing retail processes, personalizing marke?ng “ His key focus areas revolve around modernizing IT infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, leveraging data- driven decision-making, optimizing digital experiences, and integrating AI and automation. A cloud-first approach, combined with automation and AI-driven solutions, forms the foundation of a scalable and resilient IT ecosystem. Vision for IT and Digital Transformation As Group CIO Loay envisions a technology-driven enterprise where digital transformation is at the core of business success. He aims to shift IT from being a support function to a strategic enabler of growth and efficiency.

Strengthening cybersecurity remains a priority, with the adoption of AI-powered threat detection, identity management, and continuous monitoring to safeguard digital assets. A commitment to data-driven decision-making is evident through strategic investments in analytics, data governance, and AI, ensuring the delivery of actionable business insights. effectively. “I maintain a business-first mindset, ensuring that technology initiatives align with overarching business objectives and deliver measurable impact. Agility and innovation are central to my approach, allowing me to stay ahead of technological trends and rapidly adapt to change.” Collaboration and transparency are also fundamental, as he fosters strong relationships with business units, IT teams, and external partners to drive cohesive digital strategies. Additionally, he emphasizes the development of an omnichannel digital experience, enabling seamless customer interactions across retail, hospitality, entertainment, and investment services. “The integration of AI and automation will further enhance operational efficiency by optimizing retail processes, personalizing marketing strategies, and streamlining supply chain management, ultimately driving innovation and business growth.” Says Loay. Through these initiatives, Loay aims to position IT as a competitive advantage that drives efficiency, innovation, and new revenue streams for the organization. Additionally, security and compliance remain top priorities, with cybersecurity embedded into every digital initiative to mitigate risks and safeguard organizational assets. By embracing data-driven decision-making, Loay leverages analytics and AI to inform strategic business outcomes. These guiding principles empower his team to innovate, maintain a competitive edge, and successfully implement digital transformation initiatives. Emerging Technologies in Retail and Investment Aligning Technology with Business Objectives Loay identifies several emerging technologies that are revolutionizing the retail and investment sectors. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning are transforming these industries by enhancing personalized recommendations, enabling predictive analytics, and strengthening fraud detection capabilities. Cloud and Edge Computing play a crucial role in improving scalability, accelerating data processing speeds, and enhancing overall customer experiences. The Internet of Things (IoT) is optimizing inventory management, increasing supply chain visibility, and enabling automated checkout processes, leading to greater operational efficiency. Loay follows a structured approach to ensure that technology strategies align with the company’s broader business objectives: A comprehensive understanding of business needs is fundamental to aligning IT strategies with organizational goals. This involves engaging with leadership to identify pain points, strategic priorities, and growth opportunities, ensuring that technology initiatives effectively address business challenges. Developing a well-defined IT roadmap is essential to ensuring that every digital initiative contributes to business expansion, enhances customer experiences, and improves operational efficiency. Continuous feedback and adaptation play a crucial role in maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of IT strategies, requiring regular reviews and refinements based on stakeholder input and evolving market trends. Additionally, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are redefining digital shopping experiences by offering virtual product trials, allowing customers to make more informed purchasing decisions. By adopting these advanced technologies, businesses can significantly enhance efficiency, improve customer engagement, and maintain a strong competitive advantage in an increasingly digital marketplace. “ Additionally, measuring impact through key performance indicators (KPIs) is critical for assessing the effectiveness of IT investments, enabling data-driven decision-making and fostering continuous improvement. By integrating IT with business strategy, Loay ensures that digital transformation initiatives deliver tangible value to the company. Data Security and Governance Recognizing the increasing reliance on data-driven decision- making, Loay prioritizes data security and governance through a comprehensive approach. Strong governance policies are established to define clear guidelines on data access, classification, and retention, ensuring structured and secure data management. To enhance security, AI-driven threat detection and automated response mechanisms are implemented, enabling proactive identification and mitigation of potential risks. I maintain a business-first mindset, ensuring that technology ini?a?ves align with overarching business objec?ves and deliver measurable impact. Agility and innova?on are central to my approach, allowing me to stay ahead of technological trends and rapidly adapt to change. “ Leadership Principles in the Digital Age Loay’s leadership philosophy is rooted in key principles that enable him to navigate the evolving digital landscape

www.thecioconnect.com “ I believe IT is not merely about maintaining systems but about crea?ng business value. “ Additionally, a Zero Trust Architecture framework is adopted, restricting data access strictly to authorized personnel, thereby minimizing the risk of unauthorized breaches. Regular audits and compliance check further reinforce data integrity by assessing security measures and ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements. Collectively, these initiatives safeguard the organization’s valuable data assets against evolving cyber threats, fostering a resilient and secure data environment. Additionally, embracing change is essential, as flexibility and a willingness to challenge the status quo drive progress and innovation. By focusing on these critical aspects, future CIOs can make a lasting impact on the technology landscape and position their organizations for long-term success. Significant Achievements and Legacy Among his numerous accomplishments, Loay considers leading large-scale digital transformations—especially during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022—one of his most significant achievements. His work at Al Othaim Investment Co. has modernized IT infrastructure, implemented new cyber security measures, deployed ERP solutions, and streamlined operations across multiple industries. Advice for Aspiring CIOs and Tech Leaders Loay emphasizes key principles for aspiring technology leaders to succeed in their roles. “Developing business acumen is crucial, as understanding business needs and aligning IT initiatives accordingly ensures that technology investments drive meaningful value. Staying ahead of trends requires continuous learning and adaptability to emerging technologies, enabling leaders to make informed strategic decisions. Building strong relationships fosters collaboration with business units and external partners, strengthening organizational alignment and innovation. Effective leadership demands vision and clarity, setting clear goals and empowering teams to achieve them with confidence.” Stay in touch Explore our Latest Editions on www.thecioconnect.com He hopes to leave behind a legacy of innovation, resilience, and a robust IT foundation that continues to drive business success. His vision is to be remembered as a leader who empowered teams, embraced change, and harnessed technology to create lasting value for businesses and customers. www.thecioconnect.com

Nurturing Innova?on How to Navigate IT Leadership Challenges Successfully? I to drive information technology leadership issues, however. Strategic thought, strong communications, and the capability of leading teams through tactical issues and change are required. Navigating these issues successfully can mean the difference between stagnating growth and continued prosperity. n the fast-changing digital economy of the present, IT leadership is more complex and crucial than ever. Not a great deal more than technical skill is required IT leaders are not just supposed to deliver seamless technology functioning but also catalyze innovation in favor of business objectives. They must juggle budgetary limitations, emerging cybersecurity threats, quickly changing technologies, and the need to report results. Learning to handle these disparate demands and motivate high-performing teams to excel in IT leadership is thus critical. Adopting Strategic Vision Rather Than Operations Mindset The most typical trap for IT leaders is being involved in daily operational problems with no time remaining to consider strategic planning. While solving short-term technical problems is inevitable, overemphasizing tactical problem-solving might conceal long-term strategy. Successful IT leaders should place strong focus on strategic initiatives aligned with business objectives like digital transformation, innovation, and customer-focused IT services. In order to move the focus over to strategic vision, IT leadership needs to take the time to get to know the enterprise they are serving and stay connected with executive stakeholders regularly. 16 17 May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com

That means looking over the horizon at trends that are emerging, looking into new technology, and building roadmaps that are positioning both of them for opportunity and risk. It's not responding to problems but building the technology future of the organization in a positive way. translators who close the gap between these expectations by exchanging technical realities for business terminology that stakeholders appreciate and comprehend. Open and transparent communication is what maintains these expectations. Leaders must set clear performance criteria and record progress in regular reporting. By making achievable goals clear and communicating openly about constraints, IT leaders are able to build credibility and trust. Early and frequent stakeholder involvement also eliminates drag and builds collaborative partnerships that maximize the deliverables of a project. Leading Change and Uncertainty Change is always bubbling along in technology, and change leadership is probably the most daunting challenge IT leaders face. Whether it is the deployment of a new enterprise platform, cloud migration, or an across-the-board cybersecurity makeover, change will be fought. Effective leaders understand the people and business cost change imposes on their teams and guide the process ahead of time with sensitivity and transparency. Building Emotional Intelligence and Communications Skills Technical expertise is no longer the only qualification for IT leadership. Emotional intelligence (EQ)—the capacity to comprehend and manage one's own feelings as well as the feelings of others—is rapidly becoming the optimum leadership quality. Very EQ leaders are able to empathize with and manage interactions between individuals, mediate disputes, and construct effective, high-performing teams. Effective change leadership relies on candid communication, achievable expectations, and participative decision-making by team members. IT leaders must also implement feedback loops to measure the impact of change initiatives and modify direction as needed. An adaptive and resilient team culture enables employees to accept change as an effective growth opportunity, not a cause to retreat, yielding smoother change efforts and more lasting results. Strong communication is the equivalent to emotional intelligence. IT executives need to be able to articulate complex things, listen thoroughly, and talk to many different audiences in language that suits the audience. Whether communicating with employees to encourage them, presenting before the board, or working with other departments, open and honest communication builds influence and alignment in the company. Creating and Sustaining High-Performing Teams Talent acquisition and talent retention is an ongoing challenge in today's highly competitive IT job market. The IT leaders need to develop a culture where talent is able to flourish, feel appreciated, and see an opportunity for growth. This starts with recruiting not just technical ability, but also individuals who fit the culture, have collaboration skills, and are willing to learn. Conclusion Effective IT leadership must be tackled on multi- dimensional terms by striking a balance between technical expertise and business vision, emotional intelligence, and effective communication. The leaders must be adaptive in reaction to accelerated change, build diverse and high- performing teams, and align IT projects continuously with business objectives. By building these essential competencies and adopting a proactive, people-focused approach to leadership, IT leaders can bypass roadblocks and effect positive change. Retention is not founded on pay. Providing ongoing learning experiences, fostering innovation in employees, and rewarding performance generate an engaged workforce. Diversity and inclusion are also well worth the investment since they create a more innovative and productive workforce. Investing in individual and team career development allows IT leaders to establish loyalty and minimize turnover, which is integral to long-term achievement. Managing Stakeholder Expectations It's a game of balancing to address the frequently competing demands of internal and external stakeholders. CEOs can expect fast innovation and ROI, with end-users expecting reliability and usability. IT leaders must then act as 18 May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com

A Visionary Leader in IT Transformation at Al Tamimi & Company T he technology sector, particularly in IT and cybersecurity, is undergoing rapid and pro- found transformation. As companies across industries accelerate their digital journeys, the demand for secure, efficient, and innovative technology solutions has never been greater. However, the same technologies driving progress also bring complex challenges. Organizations today must strike a delicate balance between maintaining traditional IT operations and embracing next-generation technologies that fuel growth, enhance security, and ensure long-term competitiveness. and adapt as the landscape continues to evolve. From AI and blockchain to hybrid cloud, Colin ensures that innovation is woven into the firm’s operational fabric. Balancing Stability and Innovation "Stable operations and a secure environment are entry to the game," Colin explains. While these fundamen- tals are critical, they often dominate IT resources and attention—leaving little room for innovation unless it's intentionally prioritized. Under Colin's direction, Al Tamimi & Company has achieved a balance between operational excellence and forward-thinking experimentation. His leadership has helped foster a culture where innovation is deliberate, collaborative, and fully aligned with business goals. In this dynamic landscape, visionary leaders like Colin Short, Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Al Tamimi & Company, stand out for their ability to navigate complexity while driving meaningful change. With a career built on deep technical expertise and a sharp understanding of business needs, Colin has led transformative initiatives that have positioned Al Tamimi & Company at the forefront of legal industry innovation in the Middle East. AI at the Forefront Artificial intelligence is a cornerstone of Colin’s technology roadmap. He sees AI not just as a tool but as a catalyst for transformation. At Al Tamimi & Company, where innovation is embedded in the firm’s DNA, AI is being applied across a wide range of areas—from cybersecurity and helpdesk automation to legal assistants and client collaboration on specific services. Exploring applications for Agentic AI—systems capable of making decisions based on goals without human intervention—is a particular passion for Colin and his innovation team. Driving Technological Transformation at Al Tamimi & Company As one of the leading law firms in the region, Al Tamimi & Company is no stranger to the evolving demands of technology. In his role as CIO, Colin Short plays a pivotal role in shaping the firm's digital strategy. With a strong foundation in IT and a clear appreciation of business drivers, Colin’s leadership is focused on leveraging technology to improve efficiency, mitigate risk, and deliver cutting-edge solutions that benefit both the firm and its clients. Rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions, Colin works with specialized partners to develop tailored applications of AI that deliver meaningful outcomes. "We are actively exploring ways to future- proof our legal services and partner with experts who bring unique capabilities to the table and are willing to have skin in the game," he shares. Central to Colin’s strategy is the integration of advanced technologies with practical, people-centric leadership. He has built an IT ecosystem that not only meets the firm’s current needs but is designed to scale Colin Short Chief Informa?on Officer Al Tamimi & Company 20 21 May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com

Cybersecurity in the Age of AI He also reframes investment decisions by comparing the ROI to the cost of inaction—helping stakeholders see the full picture. Most importantly, he delivers results: "Overdelivering builds credibility and trust, which makes it easier to secure support for future investments." to useful insights. ““ Cybersecurity is another top priority, and Colin is candid about the pressures IT leaders face: "It's not easy, and honestly, it's what keeps me up at night." With AI now being weaponized by threat actors, he insists that organizations must fight fire with fire. "AI- driven detection and prevention capabilities are no longer optional—they're critical," he says. Leadership, Lessons, and Advice Visualization is important to reduce complex information Throughout his career, Colin has maintained a learning mindset. "In the early days, I gravitated toward companies where I understood the vision and felt valued. I try to create that same clarity and purpose within my team." His approach combines technology with partnerships and a strong emphasis on user education. He believes cybersecurity is a shared responsibility: "Everyone, from the cleaner to the Managing Partner, plays a role in our defense strategy." He also advocates for proactive dialogue with security partners, challenging them to stay ahead of emerging threats. His advice for aspiring CIOs: "Talk to the old guys—institutional knowledge cannot be bought." Ÿ Cloud Strategy and the Rise of Blockchain Colin has been instrumental in leading Al Tamimi & Company through a structured and strategic adoption of cloud technologies. With hybrid cloud models now mainstream in many regions, he emphasizes the need for governance and oversight to prevent issues like shadow IT and cloud sprawl. "The benefits of agility and scalability are significant, but without the right controls, you risk losing efficiency." "Work for a company you believe in." Ÿ "Surround yourself with people who are better than you." Ÿ Fostering Innovation and Empowering Teams "Own your successes and, more importantly, your failures." Ÿ Colin believes innovation is born in environments that support experimentation and see failure as a learning opportunity. "Innovation thrives where teams are encouraged to take calculated risks and learn from failure," he notes. With visionary support from the firm's leadership, Colin has embedded innovation into the firm’s culture—not just as an IT function, but as a core business mindset. "Never be satisfied with mediocrity." invaluable. ““ Ÿ Blockchain also features prominently in Colin’s vision. While still emerging, he believes it holds transformative potential for the legal industry, especially in areas like transparency, fraud prevention, and contract lifecycle management. ”Relationships matter more than technology." Ÿ Paving the Way Forward As CIO of Al Tamimi & Company, Colin Short exemplifies what it means to be a modern technology leader. His approach—marked by foresight, pragma- tism, and a commitment to empowering people—has redefined how a leading law firm engages with innovation. Institutional knowledge cannot be purchased, and learning from senior professionals can be Data, Visualized for Impact Key to this is assembling the right team. "When the right people are empowered with the right mindset, innovation becomes a natural outcome rather than a forced initiative." Trust and alignment are at the heart of his leadership style, ensuring everyone shares a common vision. In a world increasingly driven by data, Colin under- scores the importance of visualization. "Data is only as powerful as the insights it delivers," he says. He likens effective data visualization to an art form—one that simplifies complexity and enables better decision- making across the organization. Under his leadership, Al Tamimi & Company has implemented tools that empower teams to interpret data clearly and act on it confidently. Whether it’s AI, blockchain, cloud, or data analytics, Colin continues to guide Al Tamimi & Company through the digital age with clarity and confidence. His leadership not only secures the firm’s competitive edge but also sets a benchmark for how technology can be used to drive meaningful business transformation in today’s ever-changing world. Smart Investments in Lean Times Colin acknowledges the challenge of securing IT investment during periods of economic uncertainty. His strategy is pragmatic: focus on initiatives that deliver real, measurable value. "Adopting a 'value over volume' approach ensures we prioritize what truly impacts the business," he explains. 22 23 May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com May , 202 5 www.thecioconnect.com

I From Data to Decisions 1. Understand the Essence of Industry Disruption n today’s rapidly shifting business landscape, the only constant is change. From fintech innovations to AI- driven healthcare solutions, new players frequently enter the arena with bold ideas that challenge the status quo. These are the industry disruptors, companies, technologies, or individuals that fundamentally alter the way industries operate, leaving behind traditional players who fail to adapt. To identify an industry disruptor, it's essential to understand what disruption truly means. Contrary to popular belief, disruption isn’t simply about innovation. It’s about redefining value, lowering barriers, and changing customer behavior at a foundational level. How to Identify Industry Disruptors Effectively? Recognizing these disruptors early can be the difference between capitalizing on emerging opportunities and being blindsided by transformative change. So how can businesses, investors, and professionals identify industry disruptors effectively? Let’s break it down with real-world insight and actionable frameworks. Think Netflix replacing video rental stores or Uber transforming urban mobility. These weren’t just better services; they reimagined entire ecosystems. A disruptor typically enters the market with a simpler, more affordable solution aimed at overlooked or underserved customers. Over time, it improves in quality and becomes the preferred option, displacing established players. 24 25 May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com May , 202 5 www.thecioconnect.com

2. Watch for Asymmetrical Competition concerns, environmental awareness, and animal welfare consciousness. Disruptors like Beyond Meat listened closely—and acted swiftly. One of the biggest indicators of an industry disruptor is that they don’t play by traditional rules. They often appear under-equipped or too small to be taken seriously—until it’s too late. 5. Track Technological Convergence Sometimes, disruption doesn’t stem from one groundbreaking idea but rather the intersection of multiple technologies. Think about how smartphones succeeded not just due to touchscreens, but due to advancements in mobile internet, processing power, app ecosystems, and camera technology. These companies usually: • Focus on niches ignored by the mainstream. • Offer radically different pricing models. • Operate with a cost structure that's unsustainable for incumbents to match. For instance, Airbnb began by renting air mattresses in a San Francisco apartment—far from a threat to the global hotel industry. But by offering a peer-to-peer model with minimal overhead, they transformed hospitality. Identify areas where technologies are converging and making new business models possible. Artificial intelligence merging with cloud computing and IoT is disrupting everything from agriculture to finance. Industry disruptors are usually the first to recognize these convergences and find innovative applications. 3. Follow the Talent and the Capital 6. Study Regulatory Friction and Loopholes Where top-tier talent and venture capital flow, disruption often follows. Talented professionals are increasingly drawn to startups or innovation-driven companies that promise a more flexible, impactful environment. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are betting billions on future-defining technologies. Industry disruptors often exploit grey areas or outdated regulatory frameworks to their advantage. Uber and Lyft initially operated in legal limbo, bypassing traditional taxi regulations. Cryptocurrency platforms thrived in a space where regulation was unclear or nonexistent. Look at the sectors receiving heavy early-stage funding—AI, biotech, renewable energy, or Web3. If you see recurring interest and bold ideas within a specific niche, chances are that industry is ripe for disruption. Monitoring funding rounds, pitch competitions, and startup accelerators can give early visibility into the next generation of industry disruptors. Look for sectors where regulation hasn’t caught up with innovation. While riskier, these sectors can be fertile ground for disruptive change, especially as disruptors move fast to establish dominance before lawmakers intervene. Final Thoughts: Stay Curious, Stay Vigilant 4. Observe Customer Sentiment and Behavior Shifts Identifying industry disruptors isn’t just for investors or executives—it’s a skill that benefits anyone navigating a fast-changing world. Whether you’re a professional planning your next career move, a business owner defending your market share, or a policymaker shaping the future, the ability to spot disruption early is invaluable. No industry disruptor succeeds without triggering a change in customer behavior. Pay attention to consumer pain points, shifting preferences, or growing discontent with existing options. Social media, review platforms, and digital communities are powerful tools to gauge sentiment. Customers today are vocal about what they want—and what they don’t. Disruptors often ride the wave of dissatisfaction, offering what traditional players either ignored or couldn’t deliver. Stay informed. Stay curious. And most importantly, pay attention to the outliers. They’re often the ones rewriting the rules of the game. For example, the rise of plant-based meat alternatives didn’t come out of nowhere. It was fueled by growing health 26 May, 2025 www.thecioconnect.com

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Middle East's Most Influential CIOs Making an Impact in 2025

Middle East's Most Influential CIOs Making an Impact in 2025

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