The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders In Middle East To Follow 2024 (2)

3. Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality. - Warren Bennis

4. What Makes Today's Most In?luential Leaders So Powerful?

5. rue leaders are more than just title-holders or insurmountable challenges yet persevere through obstacles. figureheads. The most influential leaders today are They build teams aligned behind a common mission. And T visionaries who are actively shaping our society, they leave a legacy of progress and impact that makes our economies, and the future course of humanity itself. world better. Studying the habits and qualities of today's Through bold ideas, determination and an ability to inspire influential leaders can inspire and equip us to become the others, they are driving positive change and progress. positive change makers of tomorrow. We see their impact in the innovative entrepreneurs who Highlighting such great and influential leaders, CIOLook disrupted entire industries and created new ways of living brings forth an edition, 'The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders in and doing business. Leaders like Elon Musk at SpaceX and the Middle East to Follow in 2024,' featuring visionaries Tesla have revolutionized transportation and space who are pioneering innovative solutions and driving technology. We see it in the activists like Malala Yousafzai transformative change across the region. who championed human rights and education reform through unwavering courage. And we see it in the This special edition will take an in-depth look at the boldest politicians and diplomats brokering critical agreements to and most impactful business leaders, social entrepreneurs, address global issues like climate change. policy makers, technologists and others who are at the forefront of tackling the Middle East's biggest challenges. However, true leadership extends far beyond just the From economic growth and diversification, to sustainability, household names. In every community and organization, education, healthcare and more, these influential figures are there are unsung leaders casting vision, developing creating new opportunities and redefining what's possible. solutions and empowering others to act. What sets these influential leaders apart is their integrity, passion for their Have a great read ahead! cause, excellent communication skills and a spirit of servanthood. They lead by positive example and inspiration rather than power plays or negativity. - Alaya Brown From the classroom to the boardroom, civic organizations Managing Editor to worldwide movements, influential leaders are the catalysts for change. They take on seemingly

6. CONTENT Alaya Brown DESIGN April, 2024

7. Featuring Company Brief A dynamic CEO with a passion for healthcare, dedicated to Akesh Shanawas Unicare Medical Trading LLC delivering high-quality medical services and driving business CEO www.unicareuae.com growth through strategic partnerships. A versatile airport executive with a strong background in Dammam Airports Company Ateeq Al Anazi aviation management, ensuring efficient airport operations www.daco.sa CEO Office Director and driving business growth through strategic partnerships. Behzad Zamanian An IT professional with extensive experience in managing Washoe County complex technology systems, ensuring seamless integration Chief Information www.washoecounty.us and efficient operations. Officer Dubai Healthcare Jamal Abdulsalam An healthcare executive with extensive experience in City Authority managing complex healthcare syste CEO www.dhcr.gov.ae A leader with a strong background in finance, dedicated to Saudi Venture Capital Lim Say Cheong fostering growth and innovation in the Saudi venture capital Investment Company CEO ecosystem. www.saudi-vc.com A professional with expertise in martech, driving business Foodics Luqman Sohail Martech Manager growth through strategic marketing initiativ www.foodics.com A leader with a strong track record of MBC Group Sam Barnett driving growth and innovation, leveraging his expertise CEO www.mbc.net to shape the future of the media industry. A business leader with a strong track record of driving Galadari Brothers Group Samer Khalid growth and innovation, leveraging his expertise to shape CEO www.galadarigroup.com the future of the retail industry. Shumon A Zaman An executive with expertise in digital transformation, driving Ali & Sons Holding LLC Chief Information strategic initiatives and leveraging technology to enhance www.ali-sons.com business operations. and Digital Officer A seasoned executive with a strong background in fintech, Mondia Pay Simon Rahmann driving innovation and growth through strategic investments CEO www.mondia.com and partnerships.

8. Contents. Cover Story 08. Clear Vision, E?ective Execution: Lim Say Cheong’s Leadership in the Financial Sector with Goal-Operation Alignment Strategies

9. Contents. F E A T U R I N G Behzad Zamanian 16. Driving Technological Transformation and Innovation Shumon A. Zaman 24. Thriving with Astounding Traits and Values A R T I C L E S What Sets Them Apart! 5 Keys to Exceptional Leadership in the Business World 20. Driving Success The Power of Authentic Leadership 28.

12. The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders In Middle East To Follow 2024 raditional banking thrives on those who persevere University. A respected figure in Islamic finance, Lim’s in the demanding world of finance. Here, insights have graced global platforms earning him the T dedication is the bedrock of success, ensuring esteemed Cambridge Islamic Finance Leadership Award in meticulous attention to detail and fervent commitment to 2022. customer service. Strategic foresight is crucial for anticipating market shifts and navigating regulations to Lim’s narrative embodies the trajectory of a driven leader ensure the bank’s long-term stability. In this volatile whose dedication, strategic acumen and industry expertise environment, resilience and vision pave the way for a have propelled him to the forefront of the financial services secure future. sector. Let’s know more! Lim Say Cheong’s journey to CEOhood commenced in the Uniting Values and Wealth heart of traditional banking, where he cultivated his expertise across various domains including treasury, risk Attracted by the dynamic nature of the financial services management and corporate finance. It was his foray into industry, Lim finds excitement in analyzing complex data Islamic finance, however, that ignited his fervor and steered and guiding others toward their financial aspirations. For him towards his current apex. Inspired by its principles of many, including Lim, the allure of Islamic Finance lies in fairness and ethical practices, Lim immersed himself in its unique fusion of finance and ethics. He shares, “Islamic learning, earning accolades such as an Islamic finance Finance offers a blend of finance and ethics that resonates diploma. with my personal values.” Rooted in Sharia principles, Islamic Finance prioritizes fairness, transparency, and social With a career marked by ambition and strategic foresight, responsibility. Lim underlines, “The emphasis on ethical Lim climbed the ranks within financial institutions, investing drew me towards this field.” amassing responsibilities and showcasing robust leadership. His ascent to the CEO role reflects a blend of hard work, The global surge in demand for Islamic Finance products dedication and a steadfast commitment to professional further fuels interest in this specialized sector. “The growth. increasing demand for Islamic Finance products and services globally played a significant role in sparking my Now in command of the Saudi Venture Capital interest,” says Lim. This demand is met with innovative Investment Company (SVCIC) as the CEO, Lim guides solutions such as Sharia-compliant banking and investment and manages the company’s endeavors towards creating funds further addressing the needs of a diverse community shareholder value. Formerly helming Lootah Global Capital while adhering to Sharia principles. and Nomura Islamic Asset Management, Lim brings a wealth of experience to his role. Among his notable Moreover, Islamic Finance presents ample opportunities for achievements include starting and growing the Corporate career growth and advancement. As the sector continues to Finance, Asset Management, and Investment Management expand, professionals like Lim find themselves in a position activities of Al Hilal Bank. While there, he led numerous to make meaningful contributions. “The growing demand fundraising exercises for institutional and corporate clients for Islamic Finance globally presents numerous from the International Debt Capital Markets. Through his opportunities for career advancement and professional abled leadership, the bank achieved top tier ranking in the growth,” affirms Lim. Bloomberg International Bonds and Sukuk League Table in a short span of time. He was also instrumental in the bank’s The appeal of Islamic Finance lies in its financial intricacies expansion as the first Islamic bank into Kazakhstan and his and is more accentuated in its commitment to ethical excellent business acumen led to the highly successful practices and societal well-being. For individuals like Lim, award winning GCC Equity Fund and Global Sukuk Fund. it’s a pathway to align personal values with professional pursuits creating a fulfilling career that makes a positive Lim’s academic pursuits further fortify his prowess with impact on both individuals and communities alike. qualifications from top-tier institutions including an Executive MBA from globally renowned INSEAD Business School, Financial Engineering qualification from Columbia University and Executive Leadership Program from Oxford

13. Balancing Ethics and Excellence Regular risk assessments help in identifying potential threats across market, credit, operational, and compliance In the realm of Islamic finance, a CEO’s success hinges on domains. By remaining vigilant, Lim ensures proactive several key leadership qualities. “Prioritizing integrity and measures are in place to safeguard the organization against ethical standards are crucial,” asserts Lim. Fundamental to emerging risks. this role is a profound understanding of Islamic financial principles and a commitment to upholding them. Moreover, fostering a culture of risk awareness and compliance is imperative. Through education and training, Visionary leadership is indispensable for driving innovation every team member is equipped to contribute to the and growth. CEOs must anticipate market shifts while organization’s risk management framework actively. adhering to Islamic finance principles to remain competitive globally. Effective communication skills are equally vital in When it comes to proprietary investments, Lim advocates enabling CEOs to articulate complex financial concepts and for diversified strategies. Implementing diversified build trust with stakeholders. Lim emphasizes that building investment strategies is crucial. By spreading risk across relationships and inspiring confidence is vital. various assets and sectors and employing effective hedging techniques, the impact of market fluctuations and potential Moreover, a collaborative leadership style fosters teamwork losses can be minimized. and inclusivity. CEOs must navigate diverse cultural norms adeptly ensuring alignment with Islamic values while Lim’s comprehensive approach to risk management pursuing sustainable growth. In the Islamic finance underscores the importance of staying ahead of potential industry, successful CEOs embody integrity, vision and threats, fostering a culture of awareness and diversifying effective communication guiding institutions toward strategies to ensure resilience in the face of uncertainty. prosperity while upholding ethical standards and social responsibility. INSEAD—Cultivating Global Leaders Diversification and Vigilance Lim reflects on the transformative impact of INSEAD Business School, stating, “INSEAD’s emphasis on diversity Lim underscores the importance of robust risk management and inclusion has been pivotal.” Immersive experiences at strategies in the thriving world of finance. He shares that the school have shaped Lim’s leadership style profoundly. conducting regular risk assessments is the key. Proactive identification, assessment and mitigation are central to their Central to INSEAD’s influence is its commitment to approach. diversity. Exposure to a culturally rich environment has broadened his perspective by emphasizing the importance of inclusive decision-making. This exposure enhances his capacity to lead diverse teams effectively in global settings. Furthermore, INSEAD’s academic rigor and experiential learning approach have honed Lim’s critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through the case study method, Lim gains analytical prowess to navigate complex business challenges adeptly. Lim’s journey at INSEAD Business School underscores the school’s role in fostering inclusive leadership, a global mindset and analytical rigor. These attributes, instilled through INSEAD’s educational ethos, continue to guide his approach to leadership and business.

14. Rising Above improvement and ensure that their daily tasks support the company’s strategic direction. In the Middle East’s financial services arena, Lim recognizes the gravity of the challenges at hand. He Regular performance reviews, team meetings and strategic acknowledges that volatility in oil prices poses a significant planning sessions also play a vital role in maintaining threat further noting the region’s heavy reliance on oil alignment between goals and operations. These forums revenues. provide opportunities to assess progress, address challenges and recalibrate strategies as needed to stay the course Regulatory compliance and transparency stand as pillars of towards achieving the company’s long-term objectives. concern. Lim accentuates that compliance with regulations is paramount. Maintaining high standards ensures trust Lim shares, “By promoting a culture of transparency, among stakeholders amidst the industry’s evolution. setting clear KPIs and fostering open communication Additionally, fierce competition looms large both locally channels, I ensure that the company’s goals and objectives and globally. Staying ahead of market trends is crucial to remain at the forefront of day-to-day operations under my maintain the focus on the importance of innovation to meet leadership.” Under this leadership, the organization steers diverse client needs. confidently toward achieving its vision. Lim advocates for a proactive approach, rooted in foresight Thriving Together and collaboration. Staying informed is important. By nurturing relationships with regulators and investing in As a leader, Lim considers his greatest strength to be the robust frameworks, financial institutions can navigate ability to inspire and motivate others. His commitment to challenges effectively. fostering collaboration and teamwork coupled with his strong problem-solving skills under pressure makes him an Transparency, innovation and client-centricity form the invaluable asset for the company. bedrock of his strategy. Through these principles, financial entities in the Middle East can weather challenges and Lim emphasizes the importance of setting a positive unearth avenues for sustainable growth and resilience in an example and inspiring others through action while leading a advancing landscape. team. His strong work ethic, enthusiastic attitude and clear vision motivate team members even in challenging Strategic Alignment situations. Ensuring alignment between a company’s goals and Collaboration and teamwork are central to Lim’s leadership objectives and its day-to-day operations is crucial for approach. By fostering a supportive and inclusive driving organizational success and maximizing efficiency. environment, every team member feels valued and As a leader, Lim employs several strategies to promote this empowered to contribute. Open communication and mutual alignment and cascade the company’s vision throughout all respect promote synergy and innovation driving optimal levels of operation. results. Lim states, “First and foremost, I believe in fostering a His adept problem-solving skills shine under pressure. culture of transparency and open communication within the Remaining calm and focused, Lim analyzes complex issues organization.” By clearly articulating the company’s goals methodically, identifying solutions that benefit the team and and strategic priorities to all team members, everyone the organization. understands how their individual roles contribute to the broader objectives of the company. Through inspiring others, fostering collaboration and problem-solving under pressure, Lim leads by example. He Setting clear and measurable KPIs (Key Performance aims to cultivate a thriving, high-performing team united by Indicators) that are linked to the company’s goals is another a shared vision and collective effort towards success. key strategy Lim employs. By aligning individual and team performance metrics with overarching company objectives, employees can track their progress, identify areas for

16. Building a Supportive Work Environment how they shape Islamic finance practices by focusing on ethical investing, risk-sharing and community Fostering a positive organizational culture and ensuring development. employee engagement and satisfaction are essential aspects Ÿ Build a Strong Network: Establish and nurture of effective leadership. To achieve this, Lim prioritizes relationships with professionals, scholars and industry several strategies aimed at creating a supportive and experts in Islamic finance. He states, “Networking motivating work environment. opportunities can provide valuable insights, mentorship and career guidance to help you navigate the First and foremost, Lim believes in promoting open complexities of the industry.” communication and transparency within the organization. Ÿ Stay Updated on Market Trends: Keep abreast of Encouraging regular feedback sessions, town hall meetings emerging trends, regulatory changes and market and one-on-one discussions allows employees to voice their developments in the Islamic finance landscape. He says, opinions, share ideas and feel heard as well as valued in the “Continuous learning and staying informed about environment. This open communication promotes a sense industry shifts will help you adapt your strategies and of trust and inclusivity fostering a positive culture where remain competitive in the dynamic field of Islamic everyone’s contributions are recognized and appreciated. finance.” Ÿ Develop Leadership Skills: Hone leadership skills He shares, “Furthermore, I emphasize the importance of including communication, decision-making and professional development and growth opportunities for strategic thinking. Effective leaders in Islamic finance employees.” By investing in training programs, mentorship must inspire trust, lead with integrity and drive innovation to achieve sustainable growth and impact in initiatives and career advancement pathways, he empowers employees to enhance their skills, pursue their career goals the industry. Furthermore, Lim says, “leadership is more and feel a sense of fulfillment and progression within the than just a position. It is an ongoing journey of personal organization. This focus on continuous learning and growth and making a positive impact on those around personal growth boosts employee engagement and further us.” contributes to long-term retention and loyalty. By following these guidelines and committing to Additionally, Lim encourages a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, ethical principles, networking, market teamwork by fostering a supportive and respectful work awareness, and leadership development, aspiring leaders environment where diversity is celebrated and teamwork is can position themselves for success in the challenging yet valued. He states, “By promoting a sense of belonging and rewarding field of Islamic finance. camaraderie among team members, I aim to build strong relationships, enhance morale and create a positive workplace culture where employees feel motivated, engaged and satisfied in their roles.” Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders For aspiring leaders in the financial services industry, especially those interested in Islamic Finance, Lim offers the following advice: Ÿ Educate Yourself: Acquire a solid foundation of knowledge in both traditional finance and Islamic finance principles. In his words, “Pursue relevant certifications, advanced degrees and specialized training programs to deepen your expertise and understanding of the intricacies of Islamic finance.” Ÿ Embrace Ethical Values: Focus on ethical values, integrity and social responsibility in the approach to finance. Understand the principles of Sharia law and

17. them with ethical excellence., , , , The true test of compliance is not just meeting regulatory requirements but exceeding

18. The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders In Middle East To Follow 2024 ehzad Zamanian, the Chief Information Officer The following interview highlights exemplify Behzad at Washoe County, is a highly accomplished Zamanian's expansive knowledge and demonstrated track B technology executive known for his extensive record, establishing him as a highly esteemed technology experience and expertise in various sectors. With a notable executive: background in government administration, private sector enterprises, Fortune 500 companies, and higher education What inspired you to pursue a career in information institutions, Zamanian has consistently demonstrated his technology, and how did you get started in this field? ability to navigate complex landscapes and drive impactful technological transformations. The inspiration behind my pursuit of a career in IT comes from a couple of questions I posed to myself in order to Zamanian's proficiency lies in a diverse range of domains, determine my college major: firstly, "What am I good at?" including strategic planning, fostering strong business and secondly, "What will be in high demand 20 years from partnerships, project management, IT governance, now?" It became clear to me that IT thrives on creativity technology infrastructure, enterprise applications, regional and analytical abilities, which align with my own strengths. multi-agency initiatives, and public safety systems. His Recognizing that personal interest plays a vital role in deep understanding of these areas enables him to effectively shaping one's career, I realized that IT encompassed aspects align technology initiatives with organizational objectives, that truly captivated me. ensuring optimal efficiency and innovation. Furthermore, I believed that understanding the future landscape of industries and identifying specialties that would offer opportunities was crucial for a successful career. As the 80s progressed, my prediction became clearer, the IT field held immense potential for growth and development in the upcoming two decades. What do you consider to be the most pressing challenges facing the IT industry today, 0and how is Washoe County addressing these challenges? Government IT faces several pressing challenges that require attention and innovative solutions, such as: Ÿ Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Ÿ Legacy System Modernization Ÿ Digital Transformation Ÿ Interoperability and Data Sharing Ÿ IT Talent Ÿ Citizen-Centric IT Ÿ Cloud Computing 16 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

19. Behzad Zamanian Chief Informa?on Officer Washoe County 17 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

20. The COVID-19 pandemic changed how we lived, worked, agile practices, government IT can strike the right balance and operated; therefore, I decided to develop a tech plan to drive innovation while maintaining efficient operations. from ground up past pandemic to redefine our priorities to ensure IT goals are aligned not only with the County’s What strategies has Washoe County implemented to strategic objectives, but also aligned with the expectations ensure that its IT infrastructure is secure and resilient from IT. We felt Citizens Experience and Staff Efficiency against cyber attacks? must be the focus for IT and identified 6 different business objectives including the ones mentioned above in our tech We have implemented a top-down approach layered-model plan. and prioritized cybersecurity as a key business objective within our technology plan in order to align our projects How do you balance the needs for innovation and agility and objectives. in IT with the need for stability and reliability in the services that Washoe County provides? We first conducted a thorough cybersecurity and technology infrastructure assessment to identify existing strengths and We try to balance innovation and operations to stay weaknesses. This assessment served as the foundation for competitive, drive growth, and ensure smooth day-to-day subsequent actions. A series of strategic initiatives were operations through: identified, along with a list of specific projects aimed at fortifying the county's security posture. Ÿ Understand the county’s mission and align IT goals with those of the County’s. This approach involved integrating various security Ÿ Promote out-of-the-box innovative thinking to foster a measures throughout the county's IT infrastructure. From culture of innovation: desktop systems to real-time monitoring tools and Ÿ Governance and delivery educational components. Balancing innovation and operations in IT requires a How do you ensure that the technology solutions strategic approach, supportive culture, and effective project deployed in Washoe County align with the management. By creating an environment that encourages organization's overall business goals and objectives? creativity, aligning goals and priorities, and implementing Through a systematic approach to technology planning, a planning framework was created to identify the dimensions that impact the technology plan. These dimensions included strategic aspects, technology considerations, trends in the industry, and external influencers to determine the necessary inputs for building the plan. To further align IT goals with the County's strategic objectives, a business alignment model called the priority support pyramid model was developed. This model focused on allocating resources effectively to provide the necessary support to different departments, enabling them to enhance their effectiveness in achieving business objectives. For instance, if "public safety" was identified as a strategic objective for the County, ensuring that the technology needs of public safety departments were met automatically aligned a portion of the IT goals with the County's "public safety" strategic objective. To ensure addressing all aspects of technology need, we use a technology gap analysis to demonstrated people, process, 18 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

21. and technology as the key focus of the report How does Washoe County approach training and recommendations. development for its IT staff, and what opportunities are available for professional growth and advancement? Building upon these frameworks, two overarching goals were defined: Enhancing Citizens' Experience and We are currently in the process of defining a series of Increasing Staff Efficiency. These goals were directly training and development programs. Our aim is to ensure aligned with the County's strategic objectives. Within each that every IT staff member has access to these of these goals, a series of specific business objectives were opportunities. We are incorporating staff development into identified, ensuring a clear alignment between IT and the our performance evaluation process, recruitment practices, organization's strategic direction. To further refine the plan, and retention strategies. By doing so, we are establishing strategic actions and projects were defined for each business mandatory training requirements for all IT staff while also objective. offering volunteer training opportunities. We emphasize that training and development initiatives are most effective How does Washoe County prioritize and allocate when employees actively seek them out and have a personal resources for IT projects, and what criteria are used to drive for growth, and we encourage staff to take ownership determine which projects receive funding and support? of their professional development. Following our technology plan and to achieve this, we have What advice do you have for aspiring IT professionals established a dedicated project management office who want to follow in your footsteps and become CIOs responsible for developing effective tools to monitor and or IT leaders? successfully deliver projects. The office, led by our Project Management Officer (PMO), is responsible for setting up First and foremost, recognize that the role of a CIO extends standards and guidelines to ensure consistent practices beyond technical expertise. To excel in this position, invest across projects. This office is also responsible for close time and effort into understanding the broader goals and collaboration between the PMO and project managers and objectives of your organization, aligning IT initiatives with coordinators to guarantee accurate tracking of project business strategies, and contributing to overall progress. This collaborative effort ensures that projects are organizational success. on schedule and meet their objectives efficiently. Building relationships is paramount. Foster connections and Furthermore, we are actively working on developing a collaborations at all levels of your job and within and maintenance and operations resource tracking tool. This outside of your organization. Cultivate effective tool enables us to determine the allocation of staff and communication skills to engage with everyone and establish teams' time for each project accurately. The idea is using positive relationships based on trust and mutual this resource tracking tool to identify the resource understanding, which will enhance your ability to influence requirements of different teams within the department. and drive IT initiatives forward. What emerging technologies do you believe will have the Never stop learning, and lastly, maintain a genuine passion greatest impact on Washoe County in the next 5-10 for what you do. IT leadership positions require dedication years, and how is Washoe County preparing for these and perseverance. By remaining passionate about your changes? work, you will inspire and motivate those around you. Embrace innovation, encourage a culture of continuous We let our tech plan and technology roadmap be our guide improvement, and strive for excellence in all aspects of through this journey and one important task for us is to your role. ensure up-to-date and consistent approach to using the plan with the following emerging technologies: Ÿ Cloud Computing Ÿ Citizen Engagement and Experience Ÿ AI & Data Analytics Ÿ Cybersecurity Ÿ Augmented Reality (AR) 19 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

22. What Sets Them Apart! 20 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

23. 5 Keys to Leadership in the Business World ver wondered what makes a CEO exceptional? Is it their E strategic acumen, their ability to inspire, or perhaps a bit of magic dust? Well, it turns out, it's more about the mindsets they carry than any elusive secret sauce. In the dynamic world of business, CEOs stand out not just for their titles but for their unique ways of thinking and approaching challenges. So, let's unravel the five key mindsets that set these leaders apart and make them remarkable. Visionary Thinking: CEOs possess a visionary mindset that goes beyond their day-to-day operations. They have a knack for seeing the bigger picture, envisioning where the company should be in the future, and setting a clear path to get there. It's not just about meeting quarterly targets; it's about crafting a narrative for the company's long-term success. This mindset is akin to a chess player thinking several moves ahead. Visionary leaders anticipate industry trends, identify emerging opportunities, and position their organizations to capitalize on them. They understand 21 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

24. that success is not just about reacting talking to your customers; you're connect with others on a personal to the present but also about shaping engaging in a dialogue. Remarkable level. the future. leaders listen to customer feedback, adapt their offerings based on customer Think of it as conducting an orchestra. In your everyday life, embrace this needs, and prioritize customer A CEO with emotional intelligence mindset by asking yourself, "What's satisfaction as a key metric of success. knows when to play each instrument, the bigger picture here? What can we balancing the needs and emotions of achieve in the long run?" It's not about In your daily life, adopt this mindset by the team to create a harmonious work having a crystal ball but rather about asking, "How does this benefit our environment. They inspire loyalty and fostering a habit of strategic thinking. customers? What problems are we commitment because they genuinely solving for them?" Shift the focus from care about their employees. Adaptability: Change is the only what you want to sell to what your constant in the business world, and customers truly need, and you'll find In your interactions, develop this CEOs understand the need to adapt success follows suit. mindset by asking, "How does this constantly. They don't just weather decision impact our team emotionally? storms; they dance in the rain. This Growth Mindset: CEOs harbor a How can I communicate in a way that adaptability mindset allows them to growth mindset, both for themselves resonates with them?" Treat your team navigate through uncertainties, pivot and their teams. They view challenges not just as cogs in a machine but as when necessary, and turn challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, individuals with emotions and into opportunities. embracing the philosophy that failure aspirations, and you'll find that a is not the end but a stepping stone to motivated team is the key to Think of it as being a chameleon in the success. This mindset fosters a culture remarkable results. business jungle. Exceptional leaders of innovation and continuous are not rigid; they're flexible. They improvement within the organization. Conclusion: understand that what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. By Imagine it as a garden. A growth- CEOs aren't born; they develop these embracing change, they keep their minded CEO doesn't shy away from mindsets over time, continually organizations nimble and ready to face planting new seeds, experimenting refining and adapting them as they whatever curveballs the market throws with different approaches, and learning navigate the ever-evolving landscape at them. from both successes and failures. This of business. So, the next time you find mindset is contagious, spreading yourself pondering the traits that set To adopt this mindset, ask yourself, throughout the organization and great leaders apart, remember that it's "How can we turn this challenge into encouraging employees to push their not about possessing some mystical an opportunity? What changes can we boundaries and reach new heights. skill. It's about embracing visionary make to stay ahead of the curve?" thinking, adaptability, a customer- Embrace the idea that change is not the To integrate this mindset into your centric approach, a growth mindset, enemy but rather the ally that propels routine, ask, "What can we learn from and emotional intelligence. Incorporate you forward. this experience? How can we improve these mindsets into your leadership and grow from it?" Embrace journey, and who knows? You might Customer-Centric Approach: CEOs challenges as opportunities to stretch just find yourself at the helm of a have a deep-seated customer-centric your capabilities, and watch as both remarkable organization. mindset. They don't just sell products you and your team flourish. or services; they solve problems for their customers. This mindset extends Emotional Intelligence: Last but beyond making profits; it's about certainly not least, remarkable CEOs building lasting relationships and possess a high level of emotional understanding the needs and desires of intelligence. They understand that the customer base. leadership is not just about numbers and strategies; it's about people. This Picture it as a conversation. When mindset involves empathy, effective you're customer-centric, you're not just communication, and the ability to 22 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

25. Leadership is not about being in charge, Its about taking care of those in your charge. - Simon Sinek

26. The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders In Middle East To Follow 2024 24 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

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30. The Power of Authentic Leadership 28 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

31. Driving Success n today's rapidly changing and and rationality when making decisions. competitive world, leadership has They consider the impact on their team I become more than just a position and stakeholders while staying true to of authority; it is an art that requires their organization's values. genuine connection, empathy, and authenticity. Authentic leadership is a Moral Integrity: Authentic leaders transformative approach that adhere to strong ethical principles and encourages leaders to be true to stand up for what they believe is right, themselves while inspiring others to do even in the face of adversity. They act the same. In this article, we will with integrity and inspire others to do explore the concept of authentic the same. leadership, its key characteristics, and The Impact of Authentic Leadership the profound impact it can have on individuals, teams, and organizations. Fostering Trust and Loyalty: When leaders are authentic, employees feel Defining Authentic Leadership valued and understood. This fosters a sense of trust and loyalty, leading to Authentic leadership can be described increased engagement and productivity within the organization. as a leadership style that is based on genuine values, principles, and a deep Enhanced Team Collaboration: understanding of oneself and others. Authentic leaders create a culture of Rather than conforming to traditional openness and inclusivity. Employees leadership archetypes, authentic feel comfortable sharing their ideas, leaders embrace their unique qualities leading to better teamwork and and experiences, and they lead with collaboration. transparency, honesty, and Improved Employee Well-Being: vulnerability. Authentic leaders prioritize the well- being of their team members. By Characteristics of Authentic Leaders recognizing and supporting individual needs, they create a positive work Self-Awareness: Authentic leaders environment that promotes employee have a profound understanding of their satisfaction and reduces stress. strengths, weaknesses, values, and emotions. They are in touch with their Organizational Resilience: Authentic leaders are more adaptable to change. inner selves and are aware of how their Their ability to acknowledge their own actions impact others. limitations and seek feedback allows them to make informed decisions and Relational Transparency: Authentic lead their organizations through leaders cultivate open and transparent challenging times. relationships with their followers. They don't hide behind a facade but instead Inspirational Role Models: Authentic share their thoughts and feelings, leaders serve as role models for their followers. By embracing their true creating an environment of trust and selves and sharing their personal authenticity. growth journeys, they inspire others to strive for authenticity in their own lives Balanced Decision-Making: Authentic and work. leaders use a combination of empathy 29 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

32. Empowering Organizational Culture: and cultivate positive relationships Authentic leaders play a pivotal role in with external stakeholders such as shaping the organizational culture. By customers, partners, and the fostering an environment where open community. These strong relationships communication, empathy, and respect contribute to the organization's are valued, they create a culture that reputation and overall success. celebrates diversity of thought and encourages creativity and innovation. Adaptability and Continuous Learning: Authentic leaders acknowledge that Emotional Intelligence: Authentic they do not have all the answers and leaders possess high levels of are open to learning from others. They emotional intelligence. They can embrace feedback, seek growth effectively understand and manage opportunities, and adapt their their emotions and empathize with the leadership style to meet the evolving emotions of their team members. This needs of their team and organization. emotional awareness enables them to respond appropriately to various Handling Failure Gracefully: Even the situations, leading to stronger most authentic leaders may encounter relationships and improved decision- failures or setbacks. However, their making. authentic approach allows them to acknowledge their mistakes, learn from Building Stronger Connections: them, and move forward with Authentic leadership is about resilience and determination. connecting with people on a deeper level. When leaders share their own stories and vulnerabilities, they build authentic connections with their team members, which in turn, creates a sense of camaraderie and a strong bond within the organization. Resolving Conflict Constructively: Conflict is inevitable in any organization, but authentic leaders handle it with tact and understanding. By approaching conflicts openly and honestly, they encourage healthy discussions and seek resolutions that benefit all parties involved. Long-term Success: Authentic leadership is not a short-term strategy; rather, it contributes to the long-term success and sustainability of an organization. Authentic leaders invest time and effort in developing their team members, which ultimately leads to a more capable and motivated workforce. External Stakeholder Relationships: Authentic leaders extend their authenticity beyond their organization 30 April, 2024 www.ciolook.com

33. be our doubts of today., , The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will - Franklin D. Roosevelt

34. Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. - Robert Frost

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