The Top Most Iconic Business Leaders Inspiring the World

April | 2025 The Top Most Iconic BUSINESS Iconic BUSINESS LEADERS I n s p i r i n g t h e Ziad C. El Rayes World ZIAD C. EL ZIAD C. EL RAYES RAYES Remarkable Leadership Journey

“Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.”

Honoring the Icons Who Inspire a Generation I n every era, there are individuals whose leadership transcends boardrooms and bottom lines—visionaries who leave an imprint not only on industries, but on society as a whole. The Top Most Iconic Business Leaders Inspiring the World celebrates these extraordinary individuals whose ideas, influence, and integrity have redefined what it means to lead. These iconic leaders are more than just successful entrepreneurs or CEOs. They are global changemakers—individuals who saw possibility in adversity, opportunity in disruption, and responsibility in success. Whether driving innovation in technology, reimagining customer experiences, or pioneering solutions for sustainable impact, they have consistently chosen courage over comfort and vision over convention. Their journeys are rooted in resilience and marked by reinvention. Each leader featured in this edition has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries, uplifting others, and leading with authenticity. They are not just inspiring profits—they are inspiring people. Through bold decisions, inclusive leadership, and purposeful action, they have become role models for aspiring entrepreneurs, young professionals, and seasoned executives alike. In today’s world, where leadership requires navigating complexity with clarity, these icons stand as beacons of inspiration. They remind us that influence is not about fame—it’s about the positive, lasting difference one can make. As you explore their stories, you’ll find lessons in humility, innovation, empathy, and excellence. These are the minds shaping the future—and the hearts reminding us why we lead in the first place. We are proud to spotlight these exceptional leaders and hope their journeys encourage you to dream bigger, lead better, and inspire those around you. Editor’s Editor’s Editor’s Preston B. Desk Desk Desk

CONTENTS Cover story 08 Articles 16 Business Leadership How Iconic Business Leaders are Transforming the World? 20 Driving Innovation How Industry Leaders are Reshaping the Future?

The Top Most Iconic BUSINESS Iconic BUSINESS LEADERS Inspiring the World Editor-in-Chief Merry D'Souza Managing Editor Executive Editor Assistant Editors Preston B. Jenny F. Michael W. Art & Design Director Associate Designer Visualizer David King Rosy Scott Angela Ruskin Senior Sales Managers Business Development Manager Brain Moody, Jack McDowell Fahad Anwar Marketing Manager Sales Executives James M. Max Floyd Technical Head Business Development Executives Company Name Featured Person Brief Jacob Smile Simon, Tom Auriel E. Rawlings Respected DEI Leader & Change Agent Auriel E. Rawlings, a DEI leader, has transformed organizations globally with her commitment to creating inclusive environments. Liberty Co. liberty.com Technical Specialist Digital Marketing Manager Dominique T. Irvin Wilson Carmen offers Digital Operations and MarTech system delivery, ensuring a unified customer experience across qualcomm.com and Qualcomm's ecosystem of digital touchpoints. Qualcomm qualcomm.com Carmen True Vice President Marketing SME-SMO Executive Research Analyst Steve Rodrigues Frank Adams Kristi is a prominent figure within the real estate sector, recognized for her strategic leadership and dedication to delivering exceptional results. Qualcomm qualcomm.com Kristi Holt CEO Database Management Technology Consultant Circulation Manager Stella Andrew David Stokes Robert Brown With a proven track record in public sector leadership and organizational transformation, Tarek is instrumental in supporting Dubai’s vision of becoming a global hub for business, innovation, and tourism. Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism dubaidet.gov.ae/en/ Tarek Magdy Fikry COO sales@themiddleeastleaders.com April, 2025 With a robust background in strategic management, business development, and operational excellence, Ziad plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and sustainable growth at Mindspace. Ziad C. El Rayes Managing Director Mindspace mindspace-me.com/en www.linkedin.com/company/the-middle-east-leaders/ Follow us on : www.facebook.com/themiddleeastleaders/ We are also available on : Copyright © 2025 The Middle East Leaders, 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 Middle East Leaders. Reprint rights remain solely with The Middle East Leaders.

Ziad C. El Rayes

Top Most Iconic Business Leaders Inspiring the World Z iad C. El Rayes' journey to becoming the testament to his dedication, strategic thinking, and innovative approach. His career has been marked by continuous learning and adaptation, allowing him to excel in various roles that intersect business strategy, marketing, and technology. These experiences have shaped his leadership style and driven him to push boundaries in workplace transformation and business strategy. His ability to navigate complex business environments and lead with a vision has been instrumental in his success. milestone was joining the delivery app ToYou in KSA as CMO, where he grew the business from a start-up to a top- three player in the industry, and expanded the marketing team from two to over forty resources. These experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective on business growth and team management. Driving Business Growth and Cultural Transformation What drives Ziad is stepping into leadership roles where he has to drive both business growth and cultural transformation. Building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of agility and innovation became central themes in his leadership approach. Today, he continues to leverage these experiences to push boundaries in workplace transformation and business strategy. Under his leadership, companies have thrived by blending creativity with strategic growth, maintaining a strong company culture, and staying ahead of industry trends. Ziad's commitment to integrity, innovation, and impact has guided his decision-making process, ensuring that he not only adapts to the fast-evolving industry but also leads it. His focus on creating value for both the business and its people has been a cornerstone of his leadership philosophy, making him a respected figure in the industry. His ability to inspire and motivate his team has been crucial in achieving the company's goals. “Any business is a group of people working together. If the people are healthy and well, then the business is healthy and well. If the people are unhealthy or unwell, then the business is unhealthy and unwell.” Key Milestones in Leadership Journey Ziad’s career has been a journey of continuous learning, adaptation, and strategic thinking. Early on, he was drawn to the intersection of business strategy, marketing, and technology, which led him to take on roles that challenged him to innovate. One key milestone was growing into the role of Account Director at JWT, handling the biggest account in KSA at the time, after only six years of joining as a fresh graduate. Defining Success in a Fast-Evolving Industry Ziad defines success in today’s business landscape as creating environments where people and businesses thrive together. It’s about shaping experiences that enhance productivity, creativity, and collaboration in the workplace. “My decision-making is guided by three core values: integrity, innovation, and impact. Integrity ensures that every decision is aligned with long-term vision and ethical business practices. Innovation drives me constantly to seek new ways to elevate business and people’s experiences. This achievement made him the youngest Account Director, handling the biggest account in the region. Another

• Technology-Integrated Environments: AI, IoT, and smart automation will redefine how employees interact with workspaces, making them more intuitive, personalized, and efficient. These technologies will enable businesses to optimize their operations and enhance employee productivity. Sustainability and Wellness: Future offices will focus on well-being, incorporating biophilic design, energy-efficient systems, and mental wellness initiatives to enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. By prioritizing sustainability and wellness, businesses can create healthier and more productive work environments. Impact ensures that I am not just solving problems but also creating lasting value for businesses and their people.” This holistic approach to success has enabled him to build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, fostering trust and loyalty. • Balancing Strategic Growth with Company Culture Balancing growth with culture requires a mindset where innovation and people-centric leadership go hand in hand. “I believe that a company’s culture is its biggest differentiator. A well-defined culture attracts the right talent, fosters collaboration, and ensures that growth is sustainable.” Says Ziad. Innovation in Leadership Role He maintains this balance by embedding purpose-driven innovation into his strategy and prioritizing people-first leadership, ensuring that employees are empowered, engaged, and aligned with the company’s mission. By investing in employee development and promoting a positive work environment, he has been able to retain top talent and drive long-term success. Innovation is about anticipating change rather than reacting to it. Ziad sees innovation as a blend of strategic foresight, technology adoption, and cultural agility, he stays ahead of the curve by investing in future trends, encouraging a culture of experimentation, and leveraging AI and data to tailor solutions dynamically. His commitment to innovation ensures that he is not just following industry trends but shaping them. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and encouraging employees to think creatively, he remains at the forefront of the industry. Evolution of Workspaces and Future Industry Trends The traditional workspace is being redefined at an unprecedented pace. The shift towards hybrid work, digital collaboration, and employee well-being has transformed office spaces from static environments into dynamic ecosystems. Ziad sees the industry evolving in three key directions over the next 5-10 years: Essential Leadership Qualities Leadership in today’s world requires a mix of vision, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. “Some key qualities that have shaped my success include strategic thinking, empathy and people-centric leadership, decisiveness and agility, and continuous learning. These qualities have allowed me to lead organizations through growth, transformation, and industry disruptions successfully.” By staying curious and open to new ideas, • Experience-Driven Workspaces: Offices will become more about engagement and less about attendance, designed for collaboration, ideation, and community-building. This shift will require businesses to rethink their office layouts and invest in creating spaces that foster creativity and innovation.

Ziad ensures that he remains adaptable and responsive to changing market conditions. His ability to build strong relationships and foster a collaborative work environment has been instrumental in his success. Approach to Work-Life Balance Work-life balance isn’t about rigid boundaries; it’s about intentional prioritization. Ziad approaches it through a mix of time management, delegation, and personal well-being practices. Setting clear priorities and empowering teams allows him to focus on high-impact decisions while also making time for personal interests. “For young professionals, my advice is to define their own version of success, learn to delegate and set boundaries, and invest in self-growth. By maintaining a healthy work- life balance, one can ensure that he remains productive and motivated, both personally and professionally.” Personal Goals and Aspirations Professionally, Ziad aims to continue driving towards being a leader in industry and innovation, while expanding his impact beyond traditional settings. He envisions creating solutions that redefine how businesses approach both client and employee experience, productivity, and well-being. Personally, he is passionate about art & music, while exploring the intersection of AI, leadership, and human behavior, seeing a future where technology and human intelligence collaborate seamlessly to enhance creativity, decision-making, and overall quality of life. "Beyond business, I aim to mentor and guide emerging leaders, sharing insights on leadership, strategy, and innovation in a way that helps shape the next generation of entrepreneurs and executives." By staying committed to his personal and professional goals, Ziad continues to inspire and lead by example.

How Iconic Business Leaders are Transforming the World? I also by embracing sustainability, ethical leadership, and inclusivity. Leaders, such as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Satya Nadella, and Howard Schultz, are not just steering their companies toward financial success—they are reshaping industries, challenging norms, and contributing to positive global change. This article highlights how these leaders are driving technological advancement, promoting sustainability, championing ethical leadership, and fostering diversity to transform the global business world. Business Leadership n today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the role of visionary leaders has never been more crucial. Iconic business leaders are driving transformation not just through technological innovation, but Driving Technological Innovation: Technological innovation is not just about creating new products or services; it is about altering the fundamental way in which industries and societies operate. Elon Musk, for example, has been an agent of profound transformation through his leadership at Tesla and SpaceX. Musk's focus on electric vehicles at Tesla is a direct challenge to the global reliance on fossil fuels and a major step toward sustainability. Under his leadership, Tesla has driven a shift toward renewable energy, with electric cars and solar technologies pushing the auto and energy industries toward greener alternatives. Similarly, Jeff Bezos revolutionized e-commerce with Amazon, creating a platform that connects millions of consumers and sellers worldwide. But Bezos's impact does not end there. Through Amazon Web Services (AWS), he transformed the entire cloud computing landscape, providing businesses of all sizes access to scalable, reliable, and affordable computing power. AWS has empowered companies to innovate in fields ranging from healthcare to entertainment, opening up new frontiers of opportunity. Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, has been another leader redefining industry through technology. Since taking over at Microsoft, Nadella has pivoted the company toward the cloud and artificial intelligence. Under his leadership, Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform has become a major competitor to Amazon's AWS, enabling businesses to harness the power of cloud computing. Nadella has also emphasized the importance of integrating AI into Microsoft’s software offerings, empowering industries to use machine learning and data analytics to drive business decisions. 16 17 The Middle East Leaders | April 2025 | The Middle East Leaders | April 2025|

addresses the world’s most pressing challenges. s Sustainability and Ethical Leadership: backgrounds, companies can leverage a wider range of perspectives, ideas, and solutions. McKinsey & Company’s research has consistently shown that organizations with greater ethnic and racial diversity are more likely to have above-average profitability. McKinsey's 2020 report revealed that companies in the top quartile for ethnic and racial diversity were 36% more likely to have above- average profitability compared to those in the bottom quartile. Sustainability has become a critical focus for businesses as both consumers and investors demand more environmentally responsible practices. Corporate leaders are increasingly recognizing that embracing sustainability is no longer just about mitigating environmental harm but also about seizing opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and growth. Patagonia, an iconic example of a sustainable business, has long been at the forefront of this shift. The outdoor apparel company, founded by Yvon Chouinard, has built a business model centered around environmental stewardship. One of the most profound impacts of prioritizing diversity and inclusivity is on company culture. When employees feel that their differences are acknowledged, celebrated, and valued, they are more likely to be engaged, productive, and loyal. Companies that foster inclusive cultures create environments where individuals feel safe to express themselves and contribute without fear of bias or discrimination. Salesforce, for example, has been a trailblazer in promoting inclusivity. Under the leadership of Marc Benioff, the company has made significant strides in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Salesforce has implemented numerous initiatives to increase gender, racial, and ethnic diversity within its ranks. Ethical leadership is the cornerstone of building trust, transparency, and integrity in the business world. Consumers, employees, and investors are increasingly demanding that companies act in ways that align with broader societal values. Business leaders who prioritize ethical behavior are not only protecting their organizations from legal and reputational risks but are also fostering stronger relationships with stakeholders. Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, is an exemplary leader when it comes to ethical business practices. Schultz’s commitment to fair trade coffee, employee benefits, and community engagement has positioned Starbucks as a company that values more than just profit. Starbucks has consistently worked to create a positive impact on its employees by offering healthcare benefits to part-time workers and paying a living wage to employees in developing countries. As businesses expand globally, they increasingly need to reflect the diverse communities they serve. Inclusivity and diversity aren’t just about improving internal company culture—they’re essential for understanding and addressing the needs of a global, multicultural customer base. Coca- Cola, for instance, has long recognized the importance of cultural inclusivity in its marketing and product strategies. The company has used advertising to reflect a wide range of identities and cultural backgrounds, recognizing that a truly global brand must resonate with diverse audiences. Coca- Cola’s success is partly due to its ability to engage with local communities across the world, ensuring that its products and messaging are relevant to different cultural contexts. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved into a powerful tool for companies seeking to make a positive impact on society while enhancing their brand reputation. CSR efforts now go far beyond charitable donations or token sustainability initiatives—they are integrated into the DNA of organizations, influencing everything from product development to employee engagement to customer relations. Conclusion: Ben & Jerry’s, the ice cream brand founded by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, is a prime example of how CSR can shape a company’s identity and culture. The company has long been committed to environmental sustainability, social justice, and ethical sourcing. The impact of iconic business leaders in shaping the future of industries cannot be overstated. Through their commitment to technological innovation, sustainability, ethical leadership, and inclusivity, these leaders are not only transforming their companies but also setting the stage for a new era of corporate responsibility and global collaboration. By integrating these values into their business models, they are not just achieving success in financial terms—they are creating lasting change that The Power of Inclusivity and Diversity: Subscribe to The Middle East Leaders Your Gateway to a world of Knowledge and Creativity! At its core, diversity in the workplace is a driver of innovation. By bringing together individuals from varied 18 The Middle East Leaders | April 2025 |

Driving Innovation How Industry Leaders are Reshaping the Future? I finance to healthcare and sustainability, visionary leaders are driving innovation that redefines what's possible. With the rise of digital transformation, environmental urgency, and shifting workforce expectations, the future of business is being rewritten in real time by those courageous enough to challenge the status quo and craft bold new paths. Setting the Stage for a New Era n today’s fast-evolving business ecosystem, the most influential industry leaders are not just reacting to change—they are actively shaping it. From tech and Innovation as a Leadership Mandate For industry leaders, innovation is no longer a choice—it is a fundamental requirement. The companies at the forefront of their sectors are those led by individuals who prioritize creativity, adaptability, and experimentation. Whether it’s integrating artificial intelligence to optimize operations or implementing circular economy models for sustainability, leaders are expected to turn novel ideas into scalable solutions. This shift means leaders must possess more than technical expertise. They must embody a mindset of continuous evolution, promoting a culture where failure is seen not as a setback but as a stepping stone. Their ability to connect innovation with strategic vision distinguishes the companies disrupting markets from those left behind. People-Centric Transformation While technology is a powerful catalyst, the true engine of transformation lies in people. Industry leaders who are reshaping the future understand that empowering talent is central to sustained innovation. They invest in reskilling their workforce, champion diversity in leadership, and embrace inclusive decision-making processes. Leaders are also reimagining organizational structures to be more agile and less hierarchical. Cross-functional collaboration, remote-first models, and a focus on mental well-being have emerged as hallmarks of successful modern companies. These people-first strategies not only attract top talent but also create resilient cultures capable of navigating uncertainty. 20 21 The Middle East Leaders | April 2025 | The Middle East Leaders | April 2025|

Embracing Purpose-Driven Leadership ability to balance risk and resilience sets the tone for their organizations’ ability to adapt and thrive. The most transformative industry leaders operate with a clear sense of purpose. In a world increasingly influenced by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations, purpose-driven leadership is more than a marketing trend—it is a competitive edge. Consumers, investors, and employees now expect companies to stand for something meaningful beyond profits. Global Collaboration and Impact Industry leaders are also recognizing the importance of collaboration in driving innovation on a global scale. The challenges of the future—such as climate change, public health, and cybersecurity—cannot be solved in isolation. Public-private partnerships, cross-border initiatives, and ecosystem thinking are becoming the norm. Leaders are responding by aligning business goals with societal impact, whether through climate action commitments, ethical supply chains, or initiatives supporting underserved communities. These efforts are not just about optics—they are about building trust, brand loyalty, and long-term viability in an interconnected global market. From climate-tech alliances to multi-sector innovation hubs, the most successful leaders are those willing to co-create and co-invest with unlikely partners. They understand that shared success is the new benchmark of progress and that collaborative innovation will unlock exponential impact. Leveraging Emerging Technologies Inspiring the Next Generation To reshape the future, industry leaders are also embracing emerging technologies that offer transformative potential. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, quantum computing, and the Internet of Things are no longer abstract concepts; they are tools actively being deployed to solve real-world challenges. As industry pioneers blaze new trails, they are also shaping the leadership of tomorrow. Through mentorship, thought leadership, and institutional change, today’s innovators are inspiring a new generation of leaders who are more diverse, values-driven, and technologically fluent than ever before. This transfer of wisdom and values ensures that the momentum of innovation does not fade with time, but accelerates across industries and generations. It is through this legacy of leadership that the future will continue to be reshaped—not as a reaction to disruption, but as a proactive design of something better. In manufacturing, smart factories powered by predictive analytics are increasing efficiency and reducing waste. In healthcare, AI is accelerating drug discovery and personalizing patient care. In finance, decentralized technologies are opening up new pathways for inclusion and transparency. Leaders who recognize these tools not just as enhancements, but as enablers of entirely new business models, are positioning their organizations for long-term success. Conclusion: Forging the Future with Intent The future isn’t something to wait for—it is something to shape. Industry leaders are proving that with a clear vision, a strong sense of purpose, and a commitment to continuous innovation, businesses can do more than succeed—they can lead meaningful, systemic change. As 2025 approaches, the leaders who embrace complexity, think expansively, and act decisively will not only navigate the evolving landscape—they will define it. Leading Through Uncertainty In an era marked by geopolitical shifts, climate risks, and economic volatility, the ability to lead through uncertainty has become a defining characteristic of modern leadership. Visionary industry leaders are those who can make bold decisions in ambiguous environments, remaining agile while keeping their teams focused and inspired. These leaders are not afraid to pivot when necessary. They use data to guide real-time decision-making, but also rely on intuition honed by experience. They build contingency plans but encourage experimentation. Ultimately, their 22 The Middle East Leaders | April 2025 |

“The true mark of a leader is the willingness to stick with a bold course of action—even as the rest of the world wonders why you’re not marching in step with the status quo.”

The Top Most Iconic Business Leaders Inspiring the World

The Top Most Iconic Business Leaders Inspiring the World

Presentation Transcript

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