This edition features a handful of The Most Inspiring Leaders In Middle East To Follow that are leading us into a better future Read More: https://ciolook.com/the-10-most-inspiring-leaders-in-middle-east-to-follow-2023-july2023/

1. VOL 07 I ISSUE 08 I 2023
Leading Across Borders
Cultural Intelligence in
Global Leadership
Mohannad
Kattan
CEO
Leaving an Indelible Mark on
the Marketing and Media Landscape
The 10 Most
Middle East
to Follow,
2023
Inspiring
Leaders in
Kattan Media proudly
achieved an astounding
one billion views across
multiple campaigns,
collaborating with over
2,200 content creators
(influencers) in more
than 1,200 successful
campaigns.
Inclusive Leadership
Fostering Diversity and
Belonging in the Workplace

2. Leadership
is not about
being
It is about making
everyone
else
better.
thebest.
www.ciolook.com

5. T
he business world is constantly changing;
business leaders are adapting to new challenges
and opportunities. They are flexible and open to
new ideas and are willing to pivot their strategy when
necessary. In the dynamic business arena, an inspiring
leader is true to themselves and their values. They are
honest and transparent with their team and are able to
build trust through their authenticity. A leader who is
empathetic and understands the needs of their team
can create a positive and supportive work environment.
A successful business leader is often the driving force
behind a company's growth and success. A leader
possesses various traits that create a difference from
the rest and can motivate and inspire their team to
reach new heights. An inspiring leader has a clear and
compelling vision for their company's future. They are
able to articulate this vision in a way that motivates
their team and creates a sense of purpose.
A leader who is passionate about their work can inspire
others to share that passion. They are enthusiastic
about their company's mission and are willing to go
above and beyond to achieve their goals. An excellent
leader is able to make tough decisions quickly and
confidently. They weigh the pros and cons of each
option and make a choice based on what is best for the
company.
They listen to their employees and are able to address
their concerns in a thoughtful and compassionate way.
Building a successful company is not without its
challenges, and an inspiring leader is able to bounce
back from setbacks and keep moving forward. They are
tenacious and persistent in the face of adversity. A
leader possesses a combination of vision, passion,
decisiveness, adaptability, authenticity, empathy, and
resilience. These traits enable them to lead their team
to success and create a positive impact on the world.
Spotlighting these charismas and their odyssey of
excellence, the latest edition of CIOLook, “The 10 Most
Inspiring Leaders in Middle East to Follow, 2023,”
features the leaders who are making a positive
difference in their respective industries in 2023.
These leaders are not only successful in their
businesses but also lead with purpose and have a
significant impact on their communities and the world.
Flip through the pages and indulge in this saga of
brilliance.
Have a delightful read!
The Aspects of
Eternal Growth
AbhishekJoshi
T

6. C
o
n
t
e
n
t
s
Articles
Profiles
Inclusive Leadership
Fostering Diversity and Belonging in
the Workplace
28
Leading Across Borders
Cultural Intelligence in Global Leadership
20
Shumon A Zaman
Dr Rami Ayoob
Thriving with Astounding Traits and Values
A Visionary Tech Disruptor Leading
Startups to Success
16 24

7. Cov
Story
08
KattanLeaving an Indelible Mark
on the Marketing
and Media Landscape

8. CONTENT
Deputy Editor Abhishek Joshi
Managing Editor Muskan Kapoor
DESIGN
Visualizer Dave Bates
Art & Design Director Ankita Pandharpure
Associate Designer Revati Badkas
SALES
Senior Sales Manager Sihanee M., Rouniyar A.
Customer Success Manager Taylor. S
Sales Executives Shashi Rajbhar, Josh
TECHNICAL
Technical Head Prachi Mokashi
Technical Consultant Victor Collins
July, 2023
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9. Brief
Company Name
Hatem Dowidar
CEO
Ever since he took the company's helm, Dowidar has
spearheaded several ground-breaking strategic programmes
that propelled the company’s business growth to new heights
across the 16 markets where it operates.
Dr. Rami Ayoob
Chief
Information Officer
Dr Rami is an innovative and result-oriented professional with
over 18+ years of executive-level experience, Responsible for
all aspects of strategic IT planning, implementation and
achievement of Enterprise goals.
Spark Tech Hub
sparktechhub.com
Etisalat
etisalat.ae
Abdullah fosters a culture of accountability, autonomy, and the
balance of structure and ingenuity.
Almarai
almarai.com
With over 23 years of experience, Hisham brings extensive
expertise and banking knowledge to the Group and was
instrumental in driving the development and execution of the
Group’s regional and international investment strategy.
GFH Financial Group
gfh.com
Iman is responsible for Middle East oil research; he works
closely with the refining team and is involved with FGE’s
Annual World Refining Outlook.
FGE
fgenergy.com
Featured Person
Abdullah Albader
CEO
Hisham Alrayes
Founder
Iman Nasseri
Managing Director
Shumon A Zaman
Chief Information
and Digital Officer
Shumon is a digital expert with 20+ years of experience in
technology and business transformations.
Mohannad Kattan
CEO
Fueled by a vision to revolutionize the media landscape,
Mohannad took a leap of faith, bidding farewell to his
prestigious position and paving the way for the birth of Kattan
Media—an entity that would disrupt conventions and set new
standards of excellence.
Kattan Media
kattanmedia.com
Ali & Sons Holding
ali-sons.com
Hadden became CEO of Alshaya Group in 2019, before which
he was the company’s COO. He is currently overseeing its
transformation program into an omnichannel operating model.
Alshaya Group
alshaya.com
Tareq is an active member of various external organizations
and holds a number of memberships as well as Board roles
throughout his career.
Riyad Bank
riyadbank.com
Thani Al-Thani is a prominent businessman and a well-known
philanthropist in Qatar.
Oryx GTL
oryxgtl.com.qa
John Hadden
CEO
Tareq Al Sadhan
President & CEO
Thani Al-Thani
CEO

10. Cov
Sty
Mohannad Kattan
CEO
Ka an Media

11. Kattan
Leaving an Indelible Mark on the Marketing
and Media Landscape
Kattan Media, with its vast
network of thousands of
influencers, possesses the ability
to connect brands with the
perfect match for its goals
and target audience.

12. I
nheriting a passion for media from his father's
illustrious career and his brother's involvement with
a renowned broadcasting giant, Mohannad, CEO at
Kattan Media, found himself captivated by the industry
from a young age. His familial ties not only shaped his
aspirations but also instilled a deep appreciation for the
transformative power of media in Saudi Arabia.
Fueling his ambition, Mohannad initially delved into the
realms of radio and digital platforms, honing his skills
and gaining invaluable insights while working with the
most influential radio stations in the country. His
dedication and expertise propelled him forward,
propelling him to seize new opportunities.
Venturing into uncharted territory, Mohannad assumed
the role of CEO at the third-largest online newspaper in
Saudi Arabia. Here, he navigated the ever-evolving
landscape of digital media, pushing boundaries and
uncovering innovative strategies to drive engagement
and captivate audiences.
Yet, driven by an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit and
a quest for autonomy, Mohannad embarked on a
transformative journey. Fueled by a vision to
revolutionize the media landscape, he took a leap of
faith, bidding farewell to his prestigious position and
paving the way for the birth of Kattan Media—an entity
that would disrupt conventions and set new standards
of excellence.
Excellence in Action
Kattan Media, renowned for its numerous success
stories, holds a special place in Mohannad's heart. He
shares some memorable moments that exemplify the
company's achievements.
One of the standout accomplishments was Kattan
Media's influencer selection for a leading telecom
company in Saudi Arabia during the challenging period
of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through their strategic
partnership, online sales witnessed a remarkable 40%
increase, a significant achievement considering the
circumstances.
Another remarkable feat was Kattan Media's influencer
selection for the launch of a prestigious luxury car
brand in Saudi Arabia. Their efforts created an
unprecedented buzz, resulting in a staggering six-
month waiting list for orders. The brand's impact was
truly remarkable, capturing the attention and
admiration of the market.
During the holy month of Ramadan, Kattan Media
orchestrated a captivating campaign that garnered
more than 50 million views in less than two weeks. This
exceptional level of viewership demonstrated the
power and reach of their campaigns, setting new
records for the brands they collaborated with.
Perhaps one of the most impressive milestones was the
record-breaking views and engagement achieved by
Kattan Media. Many of the brands they partnered with
witnessed their highest-ever numbers, surpassing any
previous performance. In total, Kattan Media proudly
achieved an astounding one billion views across
multiple campaigns, collaborating with over 2,200
content creators (influencers) in more than 1,200
successful campaigns.
These remarkable achievements are a testament to
Kattan Media's expertise, creativity, and dedication in
delivering exceptional results for their clients.
Unparalleled Global Expertise and Dynamic Saudi
Market Advantage
Kattan Media, a Saudi-based company with extensive
global experience, possesses a unique advantage in
assisting clients in attaining their marketing and media
objectives. Specializing in talent campaign management
and influencer outreach, the company has fostered
strong strategic relationships with influential figures
across Saudi Arabia. They consistently deliver
outstanding results while upholding principles of
transparency, integrity, and professionalism.
Kattan Media's expertise spans a diverse range of
industries, including media, entertainment, technology,
business, fashion and beauty, sports and fitness. They
have collaborated with renowned chefs, influencers,
public figures, digital creators, artists, and many other
professionals in their respective fields. This breadth of
experience allows them to provide tailored solutions
and effective strategies to clients across various
sectors.
With an established network of influential
personalities, Kattan Media possesses a deep
understanding of the Saudi market and its unique
dynamics.
I
The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders in Middle East to Follow, 2023

13. Kattan Media
possesses a deep
understanding of
the Saudi
market and its
unique dynamics.

14. They leverage this knowledge to curate impactful
campaigns, ensuring maximum reach and engagement
for their clients. By harnessing the power of influencers
and digital platforms, Kattan Media helps brands
effectively communicate their messages, generate
brand awareness, and drive tangible results.
Throughout its operations, Kattan Media maintains a
commitment to excellence, consistently delivering
successful campaigns that align with their client’s
objectives. Their comprehensive approach, combined
with their industry expertise and strategic
partnerships, enables them to navigate the ever-
evolving landscape of media and marketing, staying
ahead of trends and driving innovation.
Unleashing Influencer Marketing Potential
Kattan Media, with its vast network of thousands of
influencers, possesses the ability to connect brands
with the perfect match for its goals and target
audience. Mohannad highlights the company's
dedication to understanding each brand's objectives,
whether it's an awareness campaign or a call to action,
and suggesting the most suitable influencers
accordingly.
Through the company’s extensive experience in various
fields such as government, automotive, telecom,
finance, education, fashion, beauty, and more, Kattan
Media has gained valuable insights into what works
best for its clients. This expertise enables the team to
identify the optimal scenarios and strategies for their
clients' campaigns.
Kattan Media's approach is data-driven, allowing them
to leverage insights and analytics to select influencers
who will resonate most with the target audience,
resulting in authentic and impactful campaigns. Brands
and organizations benefit from this meticulous
approach, which ensures that their messages reach the
right people through trusted influencers.
Clients can trust Kattan Media to be their reliable
partner in the dynamic world of influencer marketing.
Mohannad emphasizes the dedicated team of skilled
professionals who work diligently to facilitate
partnerships that are mutually beneficial for all parties
involved. Their focus is on driving brand awareness,
engagement, and, ultimately, business growth.
The success of Kattan Media has earned them a strong
reputation as a trusted partner in influencer marketing.
Their commitment to delivering exceptional results and
fostering meaningful collaborations has solidified their
position as a go-to agency in the industry.
Path to Outstanding Results
Mohannad and his team at Kattan Media ensure they
are always well-informed about any upcoming changes,
enabling them to implement the necessary adjustments
at the right time without disrupting clients or ongoing
campaigns. They collaborate closely with an
exceptional legal team that keeps them updated in
advance.
Moreover, Mohannad emphasizes the team's belief in
the importance of planting the right seeds to achieve
outstanding results. They adopt a meticulous approach
that involves developing detailed strategies and
conducting extensive research before undertaking any
business. By delving deep into the client's previous
work, studying competitors, and analyzing inspiring
accounts, they are able to identify and evaluate both
the positive and negative aspects of these accounts.
This comprehensive understanding gives them a
competitive advantage in delivering exceptional
outcomes.
Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders in Influencer
Marketing
Kattan Media has successfully established partnerships
with esteemed educational institutions, including the
University of Business and Technology (UBT). These
Clients can trust Kattan
Media to be their
reliable partner in the
dynamic world of
influencer marketing.

15. collaborations have provided valuable insights and a
deep understanding of the 18-21-year-old
demographic in Saudi Arabia. As a result, the
company has developed targeted influencer
marketing solutions that yield measurable results.
Mohannad holds a strong belief in the
significance of these educational partnerships,
recognizing that today's students are
tomorrow's leaders. Every member of the
Kattan Media team began their journey as an
intern, reflecting the company's commitment to
identifying exceptional candidates and nurturing
them into outstanding leaders and team members.
While experienced candidates could have been
easily hired, the company firmly believes in the
potential of young students. Over time, these
interns have transformed into specialists,
managers, and even competitors in the
market. Kattan Media embraces the
idea that there are numerous
projects for all agencies to
handle, and the market
thrives on competition
and partnerships. It is
through these
collaborations that
the industry evolves
and reaches new
heights, as the
saying goes, “it
needs two to
tango.”

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Today
Today

18. Dr Rami Ayoob
A Visionary Tech Disruptor Leading
Startups to Success
Dr Rami Ayoob
n today's fast-paced technological world, companies
Iare constantly seeking ways to stay ahead of the
curve. The key to success lies in having a talented
and innovative team to drive growth and development.
That's where Spark Tech Hub exceeds the usual
expectations.
As a leading company in the tech industry, Spark Tech
Hub is always on the lookout for the best and brightest
minds to join its team. The company is committed to
fostering a culture of innovation, creativity, and
excellence.
Taking the lead of Spark Tech Hub is its Chief
Information Officer (CIO), Dr Rami Ayoob, a visionary
leader with a passion for technology and a proven track
record of success. With years of experience in the tech
industry, the CIO brings a wealth of knowledge and
expertise to the company. Dr Rami is a strategic thinker
with a deep understanding of the industry and is always
looking for ways to drive growth and create value for
the company's stakeholders.
We at CIOLook interviewed Dr Rami on his approach to
guiding Spark Tech Hub and thriving in today's digital
landscape.
Let's delve into the intercepts of the interview!
What inspired you to pursue a career in the
technology industry, and how did you get started in
your current role as a CIO?
Many people who pursue a career in the technology
industry are inspired by the potential for innovation
and the ability to solve complex problems. Technology
is constantly evolving and there is always something
new to learn and discover. Some may have a natural
aptitude for mathematics or science, which can be
useful in technology-related fields.
To become a CIO, one typically needs a combination of
education, experience and leadership skills. This may
involve pursuing a degree in computer science or a
related field, gaining experience in various technology
roles, and developing strong communication and
strategic thinking skills. CIOs may also need to stay up
to date with the latest technological trends and
developments and be able to effectively manage teams
and resources to achieve organizational goals.
Ethics and integrity are
crucial in the security
and infrastructure
software industry.
Always prioritize doing
what's right and
protecting data privacy
and security.
“
“
www.ciolook.com | July 2023 |
16
The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders in Middle East to Follow, 2023

19. Dr Rami Ayoob,
Chief Information Officer
Spark Tech Hub
What are some of the biggest challenges
facing the security and infrastructure
software industry today, and how is your
company addressing these challenges?
Cybersecurity threats, such as hacking,
malware, and phishing attacks, are becoming
increasingly sophisticated and frequent.
Developing the technology to detect and
prevent these threats. This includes
advanced threat intelligence software,
endpoint protection systems and network
security solutions.
As more companies move their data and
applications to the cloud, there is a growing
need for cloud security solutions. We need to
secure cloud environments, including cloud
access security brokers, cloud security
posture management tools and cloud
workload protection platforms.
As IT infrastructure becomes more complex,
with hybrid environments, distributed
networks and multiple endpoints, it becomes
increasingly difficult to manage and secure.
That required innovation by creating the
tools to simplify infrastructure management
and improve security including network
automation tools, software-defined
networking and zero-trust security solutions.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest
trends and developments in the technology
industry, and what resources do you rely on
for information and insights?
I stay up-to-date by subscribing to industry
publications and newsletters, attending conferences
and events, following thought leaders and experts on
social media and being active in online communities and
forums.
Additionally, many companies in the technology
industry have their own blogs and publications which
can provide valuable insights and updates on their
latest projects and innovations.
What are some of the key initiatives or projects that
your company is currently working on, and how do
these align with the overall business strategy?
We have various initiatives and projects that we are
working on to achieve our business goals. Some of
these initiatives may include expanding into new
markets, developing new products or services,
improving customer experience and increasing
www.ciolook.com | July 2023 |
17

20. operational efficiency. We are developing partnerships
with local businesses or hiring staff with experience in
those markets.
How does your company prioritize IT investments, and
what criteria do you use to determine which
technologies to adopt and which to avoid?
We should consider the potential return on investment
of our IT investments by evaluating the expected
benefits of each investment, such as increased
efficiency, productivity, revenue, or customer
satisfaction, and compare them with the costs of
implementation, maintenance and support.
Evaluating the feasibility and compatibility of each IT
investment with the existing IT infrastructure,
applications and data. Considering the technical
requirements, dependencies and constraints of each
investment and ensure that we can integrate it
smoothly and securely with the current systems.
Overall, we should adopt a strategic and holistic
approach to IT investments and technology adoption,
balancing short-term and long-term goals, risks and
benefits, and aligning the IT investments with the
business strategy and culture.
How do you measure the success of your IT initiatives
and ensure that they are delivering value to the
business?
By calculating the ROI, I can determine whether an
initiative is generating a positive return and delivering
value to the business, one of the key indicators of
success for IT initiatives is user adoption. If users are
not engaging with the technology or solution, then it is
unlikely to be delivering value to the business. Tracking
user adoption rates can help you identify areas that
require improvement and refine your approach.
Customer satisfaction is a key metric for any business,
and it is particularly relevant for IT initiatives that
impact the customer experience. Measuring customer
satisfaction can help us understand whether the IT
initiatives are meeting customer needs and delivering
value to the business.
What advice would you give to aspiring technology
professionals who are interested in pursuing a career
in the security and infrastructure software industry?
Constantly learn and keep up with industry changes,
the technology industry is constantly evolving, and it's
crucial to stay updated with the latest trends,
techniques and technologies.
Networking and building relationships with
professionals in the industry can open doors to
opportunities and help you stay informed about the
latest developments in the industry.
Identifying individuals who have succeeded in the same
field can provide invaluable guidance, advice and
inspiration to help you achieve your goals.
Ethics and integrity are crucial in the security and
infrastructure software industry. Always prioritize
doing what's right and protecting data privacy and
security.
How do you see the security and infrastructure
software industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, and
what would you suggest to new and upcoming
entrepreneurs in the tech industry?
One trend that is likely to continue is the shift toward
cloud-based solutions. More and more businesses are
moving their operations to the cloud, and this creates a
greater demand for security and infrastructure
software that can protect these cloud-based systems.
Another trend is the increasing use of Artificial
Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to identify
and prevent potential security breaches. AI and ML
technologies can analyze vast amounts of data and
identify patterns that humans may miss.
For new and upcoming entrepreneurs in the tech
industry, it's essential to focus on innovation and stay
ahead of the curve when it comes to new technologies
and trends. Developing products that can address the
unique challenges will be crucial to success.
Additionally, entrepreneurs should prioritize building
strong relationships with customers and partners to
develop trust and loyalty in their products and brand.
Finally, as security concerns become more complex,
new startups should consider partnering with
established players in the industry to leverage their
knowledge and resources.
www.ciolook.com | July 2023 |
18

22. www.ciolook.com | July 2023 |
20
Fostering
Diversity and
Belong g
Workplace
in the
n today's rapidly evolving global business landscape,
Ifostering diversity and belonging in the workplace
has become not only a moral imperative but also a
strategic necessity. Organizations that embrace
diversity and create a sense of belonging for their
employees can tap into a wealth of ideas, perspectives,
and experiences, ultimately driving innovation,
productivity, and long-term success.
This article explores the importance of diversity and
inclusion, the challenges in achieving it, and effective
strategies for fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
Understanding Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity encompasses a wide range of characteristics,
including race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation,
religion, physical abilities, and more. Inclusion, on the
other hand, refers to the active effort of creating an
environment where everyone feels welcomed,
respected, and valued for their unique attributes and
contributions. It is essential to recognize that diversity
alone is not enough; inclusion is the key that unlocks
the full potential of a diverse workforce.

23. Inclusive Leadersh
www.ciolook.com | July 2023 |
21

24. communication can help create a more understanding
and empathetic workforce.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Establishing ERGs
for various affinity groups can provide support,
networking opportunities, and valuable insights to both
employees and the organization.
Inclusive Policies and Benefits: Reviewing and
updating policies to be more inclusive and providing
benefits that cater to diverse needs demonstrate a
commitment to employee well-being.
Celebrate Diversity: Recognize and celebrate the
diverse backgrounds and achievements of employees.
Events and activities that highlight various cultures can
promote a sense of belonging.
Creating a workplace where diversity is celebrated and
inclusion is valued is not an overnight process. It
requires ongoing commitment, open dialogue, and a
willingness to address challenges. However,
organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusion
stand to gain a competitive advantage in the modern
business landscape.
By fostering a culture of belonging, companies can
harness the full potential of their diverse workforce,
drive innovation, and ultimately achieve sustainable
success.
www.ciolook.com | July 2023 |
22
The Benefits of Diversity and Inclusion
Enhanced Creativity and Innovation: When diverse
individuals come together, they bring a variety of
perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. This
diversity of thought fosters creativity and innovation,
leading to the development of more robust and
effective solutions.
Improved Decision-Making: Diverse teams are better
equipped to analyze complex situations from multiple
angles, leading to well-rounded decisions. Homogenous
groups may suffer from groupthink, which can hinder
progress and innovation.
Expanded Market Reach: A diverse workforce can
better understand and connect with a broad customer
base. This cultural intelligence enables businesses to
tailor their products and services to meet the needs of
diverse consumer segments.
Talent Attraction and Retention: An inclusive
workplace that values diversity becomes an attractive
destination for top talent. Employees are more likely to
stay and thrive in an environment where they feel
valued and respected.
Enhanced Employee Performance: Inclusive
environments boost employee morale and motivation,
resulting in higher job satisfaction and improved overall
performance.
Strategies for Fostering Diversity and Belonging
Leadership Commitment: Diversity and inclusion
initiatives must start at the top. Leaders need to
demonstrate a genuine commitment to fostering an
inclusive culture and hold themselves and others
accountable.
Diverse Hiring Practices: Implementing inclusive hiring
practices, such as diverse interview panels, blind
resume reviews, and outreach to underrepresented
communities, can help attract diverse talent.
Employee Training and Education: Conducting training
on unconscious bias, cultural awareness, and inclusive

26. Shumon A Zaman
Thriving with Astounding Traits and Values
ommencing his journey in London, UK, Shumon
CA Zaman, Chief Information and Digital Officer
of Ali & Sons Holding LLC worked with several
companies and fantastic people that shaped his career.
He moved to the UAE after completing several global
technology transformation projects and
entrepreneurial ventures in the US and Europe.
From humble beginnings, he quickly adapted to change
by navigating through a competitive market, efficiently
managing his teams, and people, making tough
decisions, and adjusting to varying business
environments, experiences that helped him reach the
top.
In an interview with CIOLook, Shumon shares his
professional experience in the industry and highlights
his significant achievements as well as the challenges
encountered on the business scene.Below are the
excerpts from the interview:
Would you give our audience a view about your
journey as a business leader and your current position
at Ali & Sons. What challenges did you have to
overcome to reach where you are today?
Today, everything around us is rapidly changing;
digitalization is shaping new industries and removing
barriers to competition. Every single industry is being
disrupted in some manner – no one is immune to this.
The challenge that business leaders are facing now is
how to continually adapt and survive in this
competitive environment.
To overcome these challenges, I had to learn, adapt, and
have the courage to make bold decisions with ‘a can-do’
attitude, never giving up. However, the one most single
ingredient to success for me personally is developing a
‘ninja’ team that is ready, willing, and able to overcome
any challenge no matter how big or small in order to
reach their goal.
I think the ability to develop powerful teams is what has
led me to reach my current position and the success
that has created is what has brought me to Ali & Sons.
Tell us something more about your company and its
mission and vision.
• Ali & Sons Holding (ASH) is a Forbes-listed top family
conglomerate in the UAE with major interests in
Automotive, Oil & Gas, Construction, Real Estate,
Retail, and Investments. We are home to some of the
world’s best known car brands such as Porsche, Audi,
VW, Skoda and MG and work with industry leaders
such as ADNOC in the Oil & Gas sector.
• From humble beginnings the group has been a pillar
of success over four decades helping the UAE economy
to grow.
• Our mission is to keep supporting the growth of the
UAE by enhancing the lives and experiences of our
stakeholders by solving their problems through
economical and innovative solutions.
• Our overall vision is to be a sustainable group
recognized for leveraging its capabilities in the UAEs
continuous development.
Enlighten us on how you have impacted the venture
capital niche through your expertise in the market.
Prior to joining ASH – I setup start-ups working with
Silicon Valley partners that have been developed into
niche sectors aiming to become unicorns. From a young
age, I have developed startups in a range of sectors that
have required VC or Angel investors.
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The 10 Most Inspiring Leaders in Middle East to Follow, 2023

27. Shumon A Zaman
Chief Informa on and
Digital Officer
Ali & Sons Holding LLC
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28. VC is not for everyone and has high risks but equally
high rewards assuming you can identify startups that
have the potential to grow and scale.
Describe in detail the values and the work culture that
drives your organization.
ASH is a family conglomerate where everyone is
treated as part of the family. We work hard together;
we learn every day on how to improve and make better
and wiser decisions that help us to succeed and grow
our group.
Respect, trust, honesty, and integrity are what drives
our people and creates a winning culture. Our passion
for what we do is also another key differentiator. We
have great people working at ASH combined with new
talent coming through our Emiratisation program called
Al Massar and this is what is providing our business
with a greater competitive advantage. We believe
people is what creates competitive advantage!
Undeniably, technology is playing a significant role in
almost every sector. How are you leveraging
technological advancements to make your solutions
resourceful?
Our Board under the guidance of our Chairman and
Founder, have a great track record of investing in
industries and advanced technologies ahead of our
competition. Bold decision-making and investments in
the right industries and technologies have helped our
organization to develop a sustainable positive, growth
trajectory.
We are making significant investments into technology
and digitalization to firstly disrupt the status quo and to
also arm ourselves to withstand and even take
advantage of the disruption that is now the norm in
many industries.
Investing in things like new digital start-ups, providing
seed capital and also changing business models in
existing businesses is what will power our sustainability
and future growth.
What, according to you, could be the next significant
change in your sector? How is your company
preparing to be a part of that change?
One area that perhaps everyone can relate to is the
electrification of cars. We see this sector going through
rapid change and disruption. Many of our top brands
are now focusing more on electric vehicles (EVs). This
will have a significant impact on the Automotive sector
in the region.
We are working with our global partners in helping
them to deliver even better products and services to
our current and future customers, who are more
focused on sustainability, sharing and helping the
environment.
Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run,
and what are your future goals for Ali & Sons?
At ASH, we expect to keep growing our business and
perhaps invest more in sustainability and
environmentally friendly sectors. We view
environmental challenges as a shared responsibility,
and we are determined to make a positive contribution
to this area in every facet of our business.
We are working with our global
partners in helping them to deliver
even better products and services
to our future generation Z
customers, who are more focused
on sustainability, sharing and
helping the environment.
“
“
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29. What would be your advice to the budding
entrepreneurs who aspire to become venture
capitalists?
I think investing in early startups has many risks but
equally rewards. The potential to pick the right
investment is obviously the key. From my own
experience having developed startups with Silicon
Valley partners. It’s important to understand the
problem a business is trying to fix and ensure you
understand how big and pressing that problem is.
Understanding that can then unlock how you fix that
problem and the business model you would use to
monetize the solution. VC is not for the faint-hearted,
the risks are stacked up against the early startups.
Here are some key things to consider when considering
the VC route:
Ÿ Expertise and experience: Successful venture
capitalists often have a background in
entrepreneurship, finance, or technology. Having
experience in these areas can help you identify
promising startups and provide value to portfolio
companies.
Ÿ Network: Building a strong network of
entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts is
crucial for finding investment opportunities and
sourcing deals.
Ÿ Investment strategy: Developing a clear investment
strategy that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance
is essential for making sound investment decisions.
Ÿ Due diligence: Conducting thorough due diligence on
potential investments is critical to mitigating risk and
making informed investment decisions.
Ÿ Portfolio management: Once you've made
investments, managing your portfolio of companies is
important for maximizing returns and mitigating risk.
Ÿ Regulatory and legal considerations: Venture capital
is a highly regulated industry, so understanding the
legal and regulatory requirements for investing and
fundraising is important for operating within the law
and avoiding compliance issues.
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30. Cultural Intelligence in
Global
Leadersh
Lead g Across Borders
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28
n today's interconnected and globalized world, effective leadership
Irequires more than just traditional management skills. Leaders
must be equipped with a deep understanding and appreciation of
cultural differences to navigate the complexities of diverse
environments. This understanding is known as Cultural Intelligence
(CQ), and it plays a crucial role in enabling leaders to build successful
relationships, foster collaboration, and drive innovation across
cultures.
Understanding Cultural Intelligence
Cultural Intelligence, often referred to as CQ, is the ability to function
effectively in multicultural settings by recognizing, understanding, and
adapting to cultural differences. It goes beyond just being culturally
aware; it involves the capacity to empathize, communicate, and
problem-solve in ways that are respectful and effective across various
cultural contexts.
The Components of Cultural Intelligence
Cultural Awareness: Leaders with high CQ possess a keen awareness
of their own cultural assumptions and biases, as well as those of others.
They understand that culture shapes individuals' perspectives, values,
and behaviors.
Cultural Knowledge: Effective global leaders invest time and effort in
learning about the cultures they interact with. This includes
understanding local customs, traditions, communication styles, and
business practices.
Cultural Adaptability: CQ involves the ability to adjust one's behavior
and leadership style to fit different cultural norms and expectations. It
requires being flexible and open-minded in approaching unfamiliar
situations.

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Cultural Empathy: Leaders with high CQ demonstrate
genuine empathy towards individuals from different
cultures. They are sensitive to the emotional and
psychological aspects of cross-cultural interactions.
The Benefits of Cultural Intelligence in Global
Leadership
Enhanced Communication: Cultural Intelligence helps
leaders break down communication barriers and
promote effective dialogue with diverse teams. It
enables them to convey their messages clearly and
understand the nuances in the responses they receive.
Improved Team Dynamics: Leaders who embrace
Cultural Intelligence can build inclusive and cohesive
teams. By recognizing and valuing the diverse
perspectives of team members, they create an
environment where everyone feels valued and
motivated to contribute their best.
Strengthened Relationships: Culturally intelligent
leaders foster trust and respect in their relationships
with stakeholders from different backgrounds. This
trust is essential for successful collaboration and
partnership-building on a global scale.
Increased Innovation: Diverse teams bring a range of
ideas, experiences, and solutions to the table. Leaders
who harness the power of cultural intelligence can
leverage this diversity to drive innovation and
creativity within their organizations.
Conflict Resolution: CQ enables leaders to approach
conflicts arising from cultural misunderstandings with
empathy and a problem-solving mindset. They can
navigate such situations more effectively and find
mutually beneficial solutions.
Developing Cultural Intelligence
Cultural Intelligence is not an innate trait but rather a
skill that can be developed and honed over time. Here
are some strategies for leaders to enhance their CQ:
Continuous Learning: Engage in ongoing education
about different cultures, histories, and societal norms.
Seek opportunities for cross-cultural experiences and
immerse yourself in diverse environments.
Building Relationships: Interact with individuals from
various cultural backgrounds and be open to
understanding their perspectives. Actively listen and
learn from their experiences.
Cultivate Self-Awareness: Reflect on your own cultural
biases and assumptions. Understand how your cultural
background influences your leadership style and
decision-making.
Training and Workshops: Participate in CQ training
programs and workshops to develop specific skills
related to cross-cultural leadership.
Global Mindset: Cultivate a global mindset by
developing an understanding of global trends,
geopolitics, and economic forces that shape different
regions. This broader perspective will help leaders
make informed decisions and navigate complexities in
the global market.
Embrace Diversity: Create a culture of inclusion within
your organization. Encourage diversity at all levels and
value the contributions of individuals from different
cultural backgrounds. Emphasize the importance of
diversity in fostering innovation and competitiveness.
Language Skills: Learning the local language of the
countries or regions you work with can significantly
enhance cultural intelligence. Even basic language skills
can go a long way in demonstrating respect and building
rapport with local stakeholders.
Sensitivity to Non-Verbal Communication: Recognize
that non-verbal cues, such as gestures, facial
expressions, and body language, can vary across
cultures. Be attentive to these cues to avoid
miscommunication and potential misunderstandings.
In the ever-evolving global landscape, cultural
intelligence is a critical competency for leaders.
Embracing and leveraging cultural differences can
unlock the potential for innovation, collaboration, and
success on a global scale. By developing their cultural
intelligence, leaders can build bridges across cultures,
foster inclusive environments, and pave the way for a
brighter and more interconnected future.

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