Visionary of the Year Leading the Charge for Sustainability

1. 2025 E MPOWERING NTREPRENEURIAL XCELLENCE E E Visionary Leading the Charge FOR Sustainability Murat Şırlağan Leading the Charge for Innovation and Responsibility at BSH ME

4. Visionary of the Year: Leading the Charge for Sustainability I n a world grappling with the pressing challenges of climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation, there are few leaders bold enough to not only speak of change—but to lead it. Murat Şırlağan stands among those rare few. With an unshakable commitment to sustainability and a forward-thinking approach to innovation, Şırlağan has rightfully earned the title of Visionary of the Year. With every initiative he leads, Murat places the planet at the center of progress. His journey is not just about adapting to the future—it's about shaping it. Under his guidance, sustainability has evolved from a corporate checkbox to a core business philosophy. From integrating green technologies into everyday operations to spearheading community-centered environmental programs, his leadership has inspired both industry insiders and grassroots movements alike. But what sets Murat Şırlağan apart is not only his strategic insight—it's his human-centered vision. He believes that the true power of sustainability lies in collaboration, innovation, and empathy. By fostering a culture where eco-conscious thinking meets cutting-edge solutions, Murat is creating ripple effects that transcend industries. His work reminds us that sustainability is not just an obligation—it's an opportunity. An opportunity to rethink, rebuild, and regenerate. As we look ahead to a future that demands resilience, adaptability, and heart, we are proud to spotlight Murat Şırlağan as a beacon of transformative leadership. In honoring him as Visionary of the Year, we celebrate not just his achievements, but the promise of a greener, smarter, and more sustainable tomorrow.

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7. CONTENT Murat Şırlağan

10. Murat Şırlağan Leading the Charge for Innovation and Responsibility at BSH ME 10 I APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

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12. C I have built my career in the Home Appliance sector for almost over two decades. Throughout the years, I have had the opportunity to contribute to various organizations, always striving to create meaningful impact and drive positive change. While gaining extensive experience I continuously focused on innovation. an you share in brief your professional journey? Brief us about the company, its mission, vision and its services. BSH Hausgeräte GmbH, with a total turnover of some EUR 14.8 billion and 60,000 employees in 2023, is a global leader in the home appliance industry. We are home to both globally established Appliance Brands*, such as Bosch, Siemens, and Gaggenau, as well as other equally exceptional brands, such as Neff and Thermador. With our Ecosystem Brand Home Connect and Service Brands such as Simply Yummy and BlueMovement, we offer consumers digital services and sustainable solutions to improve their daily lives. In my current role as the CEO for the Middle East, I am committed to supporting sustainability initiatives that encourage environmentally conscious practices in the region. My goal is to integrate sustainable solutions into business strategies, driving positive environmental impact while ensuring organizational growth and success. BSH produces at 38 factories and is represented in some 50 countries. BSH aims to improve the quality of life at home by providing innovative, sustainable, and high-quality home appliances. My focus is always on delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet, while ensuring long-term value for the industry and communities we serve. BSH focuses on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, ensuring that its appliances meet the evolving needs of modern consumers. 12 I APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

13. What are your primary responsibilities as a leader at BSH Middle East when it comes to sustainability? We focus on innovations that improve people's quality of life, while simultaneously reducing the impact on the environment and climate. We offer particularly energy and water-saving appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines whose low consumption helps consumers to also save money. Our Home Connect app allows consumers to easily monitor the effects of their program choices, creates awareness for the consumption of resources and provides information about necessary maintenance actions, so that their appliances can be used in top quality for as long as possible. And we are also prepared if our products need a fix. Our logistics centers in the immediate vicinity of our BSH ME production sites ensure short delivery routes and have more than 350,000 spare parts in stock. This network is supplemented by 22 regional warehouses. As we keep spare parts for large appliances for generally up to 15 years, consumers can count on a long service that will get their appliances running again. covering our electricity requirements. By the end of 2024, 74 GWh of energy were generated on site from photovoltaic systems, biomass, geothermal and solar thermal sources. This is 58 GWh more than 2023. The 74 GWh of energy could theoretically power an electric car to drive 260 million miles emerging market trends is crucial. I closely monitor industry developments and actively engage with our stakeholders to foster collaboration and drive mutual growth. By maintaining open communication and staying agile, I aim to navigate challenges effectively while creating sustainable value for both our organization and the communities we serve. However, our commitment goes beyond our products and services – aiming at our own operations. Since 2020, BSH has operated its sites worldwide in a CO2-neutral manner. And we work year after year to improve our footprint by saving more energy with innovative solutions while at the same time driving forward the expansion of renewable energies. In 2024 we implemented more than 270 measures worldwide that helped us save 40 GWh of energy in production. Self-generated green energy from photovoltaic systems is increasingly What are the key challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them? Creating awareness campaigns and initiatives to educate consumers about the benefits and value of sustainable home appliances. This can involve providing information on energy As a leader adapting to changing regulations and staying ahead of APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 13

14. ratings, energy-saving tips, and demonstrating how these choices contribute to a greener and healthier planet. Encouraging consumers to make conscious choices by providing clear and transparent product information, including sustainability certifications and eco-labels. Providing resources and guidance to help consumers make sustainable purchasing decisions can have a significant impact on improving overall sustainability. empower consumers to make sustainable choices that contribute to a more sustainable future. How does the Group's sustainability vision align with the goals of Vision 2030 in the Middle East? By integrating these consumer-focused responsibilities with those previously mentioned we can improve the quality of life for communities, and also The core pillars of UAE Vision 2030—economic diversification, sustainability, and technological advancement—are very much in line with BSH's ultimate vision. As a company, we are committed to driving innovation while integrating sustainable solutions into our operations. BSH integrates eco- friendly and energy-efficient appliances that support the UAE's commitment to sustainability. Through Home Connect, BSH enables smart home integration, supporting the UAE's drive toward AI and IoT- powered smart cities. Advanced automation in appliances contributes to enhanced efficiency and digital innovation, key aspects of Vision 2030. BSH supports the UAE economy by investing in local operations, partnerships, and employment opportunities. The company works closely with regional distributors, retailers, and service providers, contributing to the nation's economic diversification. What initiatives is the Group undertaking to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly products in the region? At BSH, we pursue a holistic approach to sustainability, considering three key aspects: Environment, Social and Governance. This is the foundation of our successful business. As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, we are resolutely pursuing the minimization of our environmental footprint in all areas of 14 I APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

15. our value chain. That includes both improving the material mix of our products and reducing emissions and energy consumption. Germany in 2022. Additionally, self- generated power from photovoltaic systems is increasingly covering the electricity requirements in our operations and in 2023, BSH generated 16 GWh. This is approximately 18 times more electricity than the solar arrays of the International Space Station (ISS) annually generate. aluminium, and bio-based foam and plastics. The new Bosch Series 6 and 8 washing machines save energy, water, electricity, and detergent with every wash cycle. The Series 8 washing machine is Bosch's energy-saving champion and 50 percent more efficient than energy efficiency category A. We focus on two major issues: Minimizing our carbon footprint and using resources more efficiently by implementing a circular economy. Since 2020, we have been developing and manufacturing in a CO2-neutral manner at all BSH sites worldwide. Our two biggest levers for CO2-neutral manufacturing are the efficient use of energy and the use of renewable electricity. And we're constantly making progress here. In 2023, we saved around 35 GWh of energy at our sites worldwide with more than 278 energy efficiency measures. That is about one and a half times as much as the electricity consumption of the largest soccer stadium in Bavaria, Also with our high-quality and energy- and water-saving home appliances as well as with our services, we help to consume in a sustainable manner and to reduce waste. As sustainability and innovation go hand in hand, some new launches that we showcased in IFA are solid proofs of our approach. Our Bosch Green Collection fridge freezers, featuring the best energy efficiency class A, are manufactured with a 50% smaller CO2 footprint that results from its material. This is thanks to the use of CO2 reduced steel, Can you describe a recent project or initiative that you are particularly proud of? We launched a Siemens-branded recycling campaign focused specifically on laundry appliances. The initiative involved collaborating with distributors to provide free-of-charge recycling services for washing machines. Additionally, consumers were offered a discount when they APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 15

16. How do you support employees' professional growth and development? replaced their old washing machine with a new efficient Siemens model. The campaign was simple yet impactful: consumers visiting Siemens or distributor stores who opted to replace their existing washing machines received the AED 200 discount if they agreed to recycle their old unit during the installation of the new one. At BSH, we see growth as a shared journey where individual aspirations meet organizational purpose. From day one, we encourage employees to shape their own development paths, grounded in their strengths and ambitions, but always aligned with where we’re headed as a company. The campaign was a resounding success, running twice in 2024 and meeting its targets, while recycling over 4,000 kilograms of appliances, helping us to reduce our carbon footprint. Learning isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience in BSH. That’s why we offer everything from immersive workshops and digital courses to mentorships and stretch assignments. Whether someone learns best through hands-on experience or Many more are in the pipeline. 16 I APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

17. structured training, we ensure there’s a path that fits. Our goal is simple: empower every employee to grow into the best version of themselves, and in doing so, grow BSH into the future. Regular feedback and coaching are key. I believe real growth happens through honest conversations—ones that spotlight potential and offer support in bridging gaps. We also build in recognition along the way, because celebrating progress fuels momentum. Can you share some insights into the company's culture and values? How do you foster innovation and creativity within your team? At BSH, we’re not just building appliances—we’re improving lives through purposeful innovation. Our culture is grounded in sustainability, consumer focus, and a deep respect for curiosity. These aren’t just values on paper; they’re what drive our people every day. Importantly, we champion a culture of shared learning. Cross-functional projects, “lunch & learn” sessions, and best-practice exchanges aren’t just encouraged—they’re part of how we operate. By giving people space to lead, experiment, and collaborate, we help them gain not just skills, but confidence. We foster creativity by creating a safe space to experiment, APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 17

18. continuously evolving with emerging trends. To prepare our organization for these trends over the next 5 years. Firstly, we focus on Smart and Connected Appliances. With the rapid advancement of technology, smart and connected appliances are likely to become more prevalent. We anticipate an increased demand for appliances that can be controlled remotely, offer personalized experiences, and integrate seamlessly into smart home ecosystems. To prepare, we invest in research and development to create innovative, connected appliances that cater to evolving consumer needs. Secondly, Sustainability and Energy Efficiency. Sustainability will continue to be a significant factor in consumer purchasing decisions. We are committed to developing and offering a broader range of sustainable, energy-efficient appliances that reduce energy consumption, minimize environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable future. R&D efforts focus on optimizing challenge norms, and celebrate failures. Innovation is celebrated through formal recognition programs or spontaneous cross-functional collaborations. Some of our best ideas have come from teams that brought together diverse perspectives and weren’t afraid to ask, “what if & Why?” Learning is another key pillar. From hands-on projects to mentorship programs, we empower our teams to grow, stretch, and bring fresh thinking to the table. And at the heart of it all is a collaborative spirit—because when passionate people come together around a shared purpose, that’s where true innovation takes root. What emerging trends do you see shaping your industry in the next 5 years, and how do you plan to prepare your organization for them? We recognize that the home appliances industry is 18 I APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

19. research and development to create products that promote healthier and more sustainable lifestyles. Last but not least, data-driven insights and artificial intelligence (AI) will continue to play a significant role in the industry. We plan to leverage these tools to gather data on usage patterns and customer preferences, enabling us to identify areas for product improvement and deliver personalized experiences. What is that one quote you absolutely live by or find helpful? "Finding your 'why' is not just about discovering the purpose that drives you; it's about living with clarity, intention, and passion. When you understand your values and connect them to what you do, you unlock the power to create an amazing future." - Simon Sinek This quote of Simon Sinek always reminds me, purpose is more important than need. technology, materials, and manufacturing processes to push the boundaries of energy efficiency and eco-friendliness. Thirdly, consumers increasingly seek personalized solutions that better align with their individual preferences and lifestyles. To meet this demand, we plan to enhance our product offerings by providing more customizable features and design options. This will ensure that our customers can create living spaces that perfectly reflect their unique needs and tastes. Fourthly, the focus on health and well-being is expected to grow significantly. We anticipate increased demand for appliances that support healthy living, such as those offering advanced hygienic washing & dishwashing solutions, freshness systems in refrigeration, and healthy cooking solutions. To address this trend, we will invest in APRIL 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 19