The 10 Most Influential CIOs Making Waves in 2024 (1)

MAGAZINE www.mirrorworldmagazine.com Reflecting the Fundamentals of Excellence Navigating the Future The Role of CIOs in Digital Transformation Strategies for Success How CIOs Drive Innovation in Today's Businesses VOL:07 | ISSUE:03 | 2024 Keneilwe Gwabeni Group Chief Information Officer Assupol Holdings Limited Keneilwe Gwabeni Harnessing Technology for Operational Excellence in Insurance

"The role of the CIO is no longer just about managing IT; it's about driving business strategy and innovation.”

Chiefs Refurbishing Business I n 2024, Chief Information Officers (CIOs) are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of business and technology. These leaders are going beyond traditional IT management to drive significant advancements and strategic transformations within their organizations. Security is another major area of focus. In an era marked by sophisticated cyber threats, these CIOs are implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive information and maintain operational integrity. Their proactive approach to cybersecurity is helping to build trust and resilience in their organizations. Today’s most influential CIOs are distinguished by their ability to integrate advanced technologies with business strategy. They are leading efforts to harness artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other cutting-edge tools to streamline operations and foster innovation. Their focus on leveraging technology for competitive advantage is transforming industries and setting new standards for efficiency and effectiveness. Additionally, these CIOs are leading the charge in sustainability efforts. They are advocating for and implementing green IT solutions that reduce environmental impact and support broader sustainability goals. This commitment not only aligns with global environmental initiatives but also enhances their organizations' reputation as responsible corporate citizens. Editor’s Desk A key aspect of their impact is their commitment to innovation. These CIOs are not merely adopting new technologies but are actively pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. By exploring emerging fields like quantum computing and blockchain, they are positioning their organizations at the forefront of technological advancement and ensuring their relevance in an increasingly digital world. The CIOs making waves in 2024 are redefining their roles and driving transformative change. Their leadership in technology integration, innovation, security, and sustainability is setting new benchmarks and guiding their organizations toward a more dynamic and secure future. Robert?S.

08 Keneilwe Gwabeni Harnessing Technology for Operational Excellence in Insurance C O V E R S T O R Y C O N T E N T S 18 Navigating the Future The Role of CIOs in Digital Transformation A R T I C L E S 22 Strategies for Success How CIOs Drive Innovation in Today's Businesses

Company Name Brief Featured Person Trustco Group Seasoned Chief Information Of?icer with extensive experience in Holdings Ltd Tourvest Retail Services Peermont Global SA Home Loans Assupol Holdings Limited Bidvest Bank Limited Spur Corporation Barron South Africa Chief Information Chief Information Chief Information Chief Information Group Chief Information Chief Information Chief Information Chief Information ?inancial services. Expert in Requirements Analysis, Enterprise Gareth is an IT Business Analyst with nearly 11 years of David Swindon Of?icer Gareth Forbes Of?icer Gona Rajoo Of?icer Guy Saville Of?icer Keneilwe Gwabeni Of?icer Nomonde White-Ndlovu Of?icer Paul Casarin Of?icer Russell Nieuwenhuizen Of?icer Sibusiso Mbingo Of?icer Chief Information www.tgh.na Software, Systems, Architecture, ITIL, King IV, and COBIT 5. experience in complex projects and system redesigns. He excels Gona is an IT visionary with a focus on innovation and service MAGAZINE www.mirrorworldmagazine.com Reflecting the Fundamentals of Excellence in challenging environments, enjoys teamwork, and is management, excelling in leading IT environments and Guy is a CIO with a Chartered Accountant CA(SA) background, www.tourvestretailservices.com passionate about problem-solving. managing people, ?inances, and technology. He advocate for specializing in IT, digital business processes, and enterprise Keneilwe is Group Chief Information Of?icer at Assupol Holdings Nomonde is the CIO at Bidvest Bank, with prior roles including FOLLOW US ON www.facebook.com/mirrorworldmagazine www.x.com/Mirrorworldmag www.peermont.com www.sahomeloans.com www.assupol.co.za www.bidvestbank.co.za www.spurcorporation.com www.barron.com PPS Lombard Insurance C Merry D'Souza Editor-in-Chief www.instagram.com/mirrorworldmagazine strategies that deliver value at every level. applications. With 8 years of international experience (UK and Limited, a ?inancial services company offering insurance, Governance & Reporting lead at Absa, Joint CIO for Absa Paul is an IT leader skilled in driving revenue and project www.linkedin.com/company/mirror-world-magazine/ Deputy Editor Robert S. Susan J. Executive Editor Assistant Editor WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON US). Anish M. David King Visualizer CONTACT US ON Art & Design Director Peter K. investment, and retirement products. Infrastructure Services, and Head of Technology for Absa success for multimillion-dollar ventures, with expertise in Russell is an experienced leader in digital and technology Email Associate Designer James B. info@mirrorworldmagazine.com For Subscription Senior Sales Manager David Clark www.mirrorworldmagazine.com Regional Operations. Marketing Manager John Matthew Copyright © 2024 Mirrorworldmagazine, 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 CIO Women Leaders. Reprint rights remain solely with CIO Women Technical Head SME-SMO Executive George K. Franklin G. business strategy, vendor negotiations, agile development, and transformation with 15 years of success in creating and leading Sibusiso is a CIO at PPS, focusing on technology for insurance customer initiatives. Clark D. Business Development Manager Morris D. Sales Executive multicultural teams for large-scale projects across multinational products. He specializes in Agile implementation and team companies. Business Development Executive Hussain O. Digital Marketing Manager Dominique T. Leaders. Chief Information www.pps.co.za ompany Ltd mentoring, with 20 years in IT development, design, and Zweli is the Chief Information Of?icer at Lombard Insurance Research Analyst Circulation Manager Database Management Technology Consultant contact@mirrorworldmagazine.com Frank Adams Robert Brown Stella Andrew David Stokes management. July, 2024 Company Ltd, recognized and respected for its diverse range of Zweli B. Of?icer www.lombardins.com insurance products, its expertise, and its superior service.

COVER STORY Keneilwe Gwabeni Harnessing Technology for Operational Excellence in Insurance Keneilwe Gwabeni Group Chief Information Officer Assupol Holdings Limited compliance. ““ Her approach involves engaging with business partners and prioritizing initiatives based on their impact on revenue, customer satisfaction, and regulatory

The 10 Most Influen?al CIOs Making Waves in 2024 COVER STORY Customer-Centric Innovations! T Digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and other innovative solutions are being integrated into operations to enhance efficiency and improve customer interactions. The modernization of legacy systems, the implementation of digital self-service channels, and the utilization of AI for personalized customer experiences are becoming standard practices. Additionally, addressing challenges such as increased cyber threats and the need for operational resilience are critical components for maintaining a competitive edge in this rapidly changing field. communities. ““ he insurance industry is undergoing a profound transformation fueled by technological advancements and evolving customer expectations. At Assupol Holdings Limited, the aim is to leverage technology to transform the industry and intentionally bridge the digital divide in rural Keneilwe Gwabeni, the Group Chief Information Officer, is at the forefront of these technological advancements in the insurance sector. With a robust educational background in Information Technology, including a National Diploma and a Bachelor of Technology from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and a BCom Honours in Information Systems from the University of Cape Town, Keneilwe has cultivated a deep expertise in IT leadership. Her career spans over 24 years, with 18 years dedicated to IT leadership roles across various sectors, including energy, academia, finance, and telecommunications. Keneilwe’s accolades, such as the Global CIO 100 recognition in 2021 and 2022 and being named one of the Top 100 Women in Technology by the Technology magazine in 2023, underscore her excellence and innovation in the field. Leadership Roles in Diverse Industries Keneilwe holds a National Diploma in IT and a Bachelor of Technology degree in IT, both from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. Additionally, Keneilwe has a BCom Honours in Information Systems from the University of Cape Town. To further develop and improve technical and leadership abilities, studies were pursued at the University of Johannesburg, Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), Henley Business School, and many other learning institutions. Assupol Holdings Limited, under Keneilwe’s strategic direction, is using technology to drive growth and improve customer satisfaction. The company’s focus on digital transformation aims to provide a competitive edge by implementing innovative technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency. By modernizing legacy systems, improving claims management processes, and bridging the digital divide in rural communities, Assupol is committed to delivering superior service and inclusive growth. The integration of AI to boost operational effectiveness and deliver personalized customer experiences exemplifies Assupol’s dedication to staying ahead in a competitive market. This strategic approach ensures that Assupol meets current demands and anticipates future trends and challenges in the insurance industry. With over 24 years of work experience in the Information Technology field, 18 of those years have been spent in IT leadership roles. Keneilwe has worked in large energy, academic, regulatory, financial, banking, and telecommunications institutions in South Africa. Achievements include winning the Global CIO 100 recognition in 2021 and 2022, an award given to the top 100 technology leaders in the world who showcase excellence, resilience, and innovation. In March 2023, Keneilwe was recognized as one of the Top 100 Women in Technology by the Technology magazine. Let’s explore Keneilwe’s leadership journey in diverse industries:

idea has potential.““ Managing Competing Demands in IT In her view, modernizing legacy systems while simultaneously running operations on those systems presents a challenging task due to the constant conflict of priorities. Her approach involves engaging with business partners and prioritizing initiatives based on their impact on revenue, customer satisfaction, and regulatory compliance. In her organization, it is believed that there are no bad or worthless ideas; every By aligning modernization efforts with these critical factors, it is possible to effectively manage competing demands and ensure that updates deliver the most value to the organization and its stakeholders. This strategy helps to balance the need for innovation with the necessity of maintaining seamless daily operations. Improving Customer Service through Technology She is proud of her team for implementing the enhanced claims management system. This implementation has significantly improved claim processing effectiveness and efficiency, thereby enhancing the service provided to customers. For every technology solution they adopted, they established a clear business case and KPIs. After implementation, data insights and analytics are leveraged to gather relevant information. This information is used to measure the performance of the technology against the defined KPIs and the benefits outlined in the business case. Innovative Solutions for Operational Efficiency In her role, the primary responsibility is to leverage technology to support the business. This is achieved by defining an IT strategy that aligns with the overall organizational objectives. The aim is to provide the organization with a competitive edge through digital transformation. This involves identifying and implementing innovative technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency, drive growth, and improve the customer experience. By aligning IT initiatives with strategic goals, it is ensured that technology serves as a catalyst for achieving the mission and sustaining a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Bridging the Digital Divide in Rural Communities At Assupol Holdings Limited, the aim is to leverage technology to transform the industry and intentionally bridge the digital divide in rural communities. By providing digital solutions, customers in these areas are enabled to access services and participate fully in the digital economy. Implementing Digital Self-Service Channels This commitment not only transforms the industry but also fosters inclusive growth, ensuring that even the most remote communities benefit from technological advancements and are integrated into the broader digital landscape. At Assupol Holdings Limited, the customer service and interface systems have been modernized and continue to be enhanced to improve customer engagement and experience. Currently, digital self-service channels are being implemented to provide clients with easier access to products and services, offering them greater convenience and flexibility. Delivering Personalized Customer Experiences with AI She believes Artificial Intelligence is set to impact organizations by boosting operational effectiveness and efficiency, enhancing risk management capabilities, and delivering personalized experiences for customers. These ongoing improvements are designed not only to streamline interactions but also to empower customers with more control over their service experience, ultimately fostering stronger relationships and satisfaction.

Evaluating the Necessity of Technology At Assupol Holdings Limited, the business strategy and requirements are established before considering the adoption of any technology. This initial step ensures that their objectives are clear and well-understood. Global Once these requirements are defined, a thorough evaluation is conducted to determine how they can be met and if technology is necessary to achieve them. If technology is deemed essential, a careful assessment is then carried out to determine which technologies are suitable based on the business needs and criteria. Emerging Technologies and the Rise of Cyberattacks In her opinion, digital transformation and the integration of Artificial Intelligence are significant trends in the insurance sector, aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and efficiency. However, the adoption of these emerging technologies has led to an increase in cyberattacks and fraud. It is crucial for the company to be aware of the associated risks and implement control measures to manage them effectively. Reflecting the Fundamentals of Excellence Guiding Business Growth with a Clear Strategy At Assupol Holdings Limited, a well-defined strategy guides business growth by providing a clear roadmap for decision-making and resource allocation. This strategy includes deliberate investment aimed at transforming the business and ensuring that it remains competitive in a rapidly changing market. By prioritizing strategic initiatives and leveraging targeted investments, the business can adapt, innovate, and sustain its competitive edge over the long term. By integrating AI into processes, operations can be streamlined, costs can be reduced, and risks can be mitigated more effectively. Additionally, through data insights and analytics, AI will enable the business to tailor products and services to individual customer needs. Valuing Contributions in a Collaborative Environment In her organization, it is believed that there are no bad or worthless ideas; every idea has potential. The team collaborates and builds on each other’s ideas to drive innovation. Collective creativity focuses on supporting strategic goals and enhancing the quality of service provided to customers. This collaborative approach ensures that all contributions are valued and that there is a continual strive to improve and innovate in alignment with their mission. MAGAZINE Stay in touch Subscribe to mirrorworldmagazine: A Platform of diverse perspective and experience, showcasing leadership in all its forms.

"A successful CIO understands that technology is a tool to achieve business goals, not the end itself.”

The Role of CIOs in Digital Transformation D Information Officers (CIOs), whose roles have evolved from managing IT systems to leading strategic initiatives that drive business growth. This article explores the multifaceted role of CIOs in steering digital transformation and the key areas where their influence is most significant. igital transformation is no longer a slogan; it’s a critical strategy for businesses aiming to remain competitive and innovative. Central to this transformation are Chief Navigating the Future Strategic Vision and Leadership CIOs today are expected to possess a deep understanding of both technology and business strategy. They are not just tech leaders but strategic partners for the CEO and other C-suite executives. Their primary responsibility is to develop and articulate a clear vision for digital transformation that aligns with the organization’s overall goals. This involves identifying opportunities for technology to enhance business processes, improve customer experiences, and create new revenue streams. By setting a strategic direction and ensuring all stakeholders are aligned, CIOs play a crucial role in the successful execution of digital initiatives. Driving Innovation and Agility Innovation is at the heart of digital transformation. CIOs must foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within their organizations. This involves staying abreast of emerging technologies, evaluating their potential impact, and integrating them into the business model. Additionally, CIOs must ensure their teams are agile and capable of adapting quickly to changes. This requires implementing agile methodologies, promoting cross- functional collaboration, and encouraging experimentation. By driving innovation and agility, CIOs help their organizations stay ahead of the competition and respond effectively to market changes. Enhancing the Customer Experience In today's digital age, customer experience is a key differentiator. CIOs are instrumental in developing and implementing technologies that enhance customer interactions and satisfaction. July 2024 | 18 | www.mirrorworldmagazine.com July 2024 | 19 | www.mirrorworldmagazine.com

This includes employing data analytics to gain insights into customer behavior, preferences, and trends. With these insights, businesses can personalize their offerings, improve service delivery, and anticipate customer needs. CIOs also play a pivotal role in deploying customer relationship management (CRM) systems, e-commerce platforms, and mobile applications that streamline and enrich the customer journey. By prioritizing customer experience, CIOs contribute significantly to customer loyalty and retention. leaders by mentoring and providing career growth opportunities. By investing in talent, CIOs ensure their organizations have the skills and expertise needed to succeed in the digital age. “The most effective CIOs are those who can bridge the gap between IT and business, turning technology into a competitive advantage.” Futureproofing the Organization The role of the CIO is not just about managing current technologies but also about preparing the organization for future challenges and opportunities. This involves staying ahead of technological trends, anticipating industry disruptions, and developing strategies to future-proof the organization. CIOs must continuously scan the horizon for new technologies and business models that could impact their industry. By adopting a forward-thinking approach, CIOs help their organizations remain resilient and adaptable in an increasingly complex and competitive environment. Cybersecurity and Risk Management As organizations become more digital, the risks associated with cyber threats also increase. CIOs are at the forefront of cybersecurity efforts, responsible for protecting the organization's data and IT infrastructure. This involves implementing robust security measures, conducting regular risk assessments, and staying updated on the latest threats and vulnerabilities. CIOs must also ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards, such as GDPR or CCPA. Effective cybersecurity strategies not only protect the organization from potential breaches but also build trust with customers and stakeholders. By prioritizing cybersecurity and risk management, CIOs safeguard the organization’s assets and reputation. In conclusion, The role of CIOs in digital transformation is multifaceted and vital to the success of modern businesses. By providing strategic vision, driving innovation, enhancing the customer experience, ensuring cybersecurity, cultivating data-driven decision-making, building talent, and promoting collaboration, CIOs navigate their organizations through the complexities of digital transformation. Their leadership is crucial in positioning businesses for sustained growth and competitive advantage in the future. Data-Driven Decision Making Data is an asset in digital transformation. CIOs are tasked with creating a data-centric culture where decisions are based on data insights rather than intuition. This involves implementing advanced data analytics tools and platforms, ensuring data quality and integrity, and promoting data literacy across the organization. By harnessing the power of data, CIOs enable their organizations to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and identify new business opportunities. Data-driven decision-making leads to better strategic outcomes and a more competitive edge in the market. Building and Managing Talent The success of digital transformation largely depends on the skills and capabilities of the workforce. CIOs play a critical role in building and managing a talented IT team that can drive digital initiatives. This includes recruiting top talent, providing ongoing training and development, and nurturing a collaborative and innovative work environment. CIOs must also focus on developing the next generation of IT July 2024 | 20 | www.mirrorworldmagazine.com

How CIOs Drive Innovation in Today's Businesses I traditional IT administration, are leading this innovation. They are now important in steering the strategic direction of their organizations, nurturing a culture of continuous improvement, and integrating cutting-edge technologies. This article delves into how CIOs drive innovation in today's businesses and outlines key strategies for their success. nnovation is a critical component of success for businesses today. Chief Information Officers (CIOs), whose responsibilities now extend well beyond Strategies for Success Strategic Vision and Leadership CIOs are no longer just custodians of IT infrastructure; they are strategic leaders who shape the technological future of their organizations. A crucial part of their role involves developing a comprehensive digital strategy that aligns with the broader business objectives. This strategic vision requires an understanding of emerging technologies and their potential to transform business processes and customer experiences. By setting a clear direction and ensuring alignment across the organization, CIOs lay the groundwork for sustained innovation. Cultivating a Culture of Innovation Creating an environment where innovation thrives is essential for any organization. CIOs play a significant role in cultivating this culture by encouraging risk-taking, experimentation, and collaboration. They must advocate for a mindset that embraces change and values creative problem-solving. This involves implementing initiatives such as innovation labs, hackathons, and cross-functional teams that bring together diverse perspectives. By cultivating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere, CIOs enable their teams to explore new ideas and drive continuous improvement. July 2024 | 22 | www.mirrorworldmagazine.com July 2024 | 23 | www.mirrorworldmagazine.com

Embracing Emerging Technologies CIOs must also focus on developing the next generation of IT leaders by mentoring and offering career growth paths. By investing in talent, CIOs ensure their organizations are well-equipped to innovate and adapt to future challenges. To stay competitive, businesses must keep pace with technological advancements. CIOs are at the forefront of identifying and integrating emerging technologies that can drive innovation. These technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT), have the potential to revolutionize various aspects of business operations. CIOs must not only understand these technologies but also evaluate their applicability and ROI for their specific industry. By strategically implementing these innovations, CIOs can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and open new revenue streams. Promoting Cross-Functional Collaboration Innovation often requires collaboration across different functions and departments within an organization. CIOs must work closely with other C-suite executives, business leaders, and external partners to ensure a cohesive approach to innovation. This involves aligning technology initiatives with business goals, facilitating communication between teams, and managing cross-functional projects. Enhancing Customer Experience Adapting to Market Changes Customer expectations are higher than ever, and businesses must continually innovate to meet these demands. CIOs play a crucial role in developing and deploying technologies that improve customer interactions and satisfaction. This includes employing data analytics to gain insights into customer behavior and preferences, enabling personalized experiences, and deploying omnichannel solutions that provide seamless service across different touchpoints. By prioritizing customer experience, CIOs help their organizations build stronger relationships with their customers, driving loyalty and long-term success. The business environment is constantly changing, and organizations must be agile to stay competitive. CIOs play a critical role in helping their organizations adapt to market changes by continuously scanning the horizon for new trends and disruptions. This involves staying informed about industry developments, anticipating potential impacts, and adjusting strategies accordingly. By maintaining a forward-thinking approach, CIOs ensure their organizations are prepared for future challenges and opportunities, positioning them for long-term success. Conclusion, Data-Driven Decision Making CIOs are instrumental in driving innovation within today's businesses. Through strategic vision, embracing emerging technologies, enhancing the customer experience, promoting a culture of innovation, and ensuring cybersecurity, they navigate their organizations towards sustained growth and success. By building talent, promoting collaboration, and adapting to market changes, CIOs play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their organizations. Their leadership and expertise are crucial in unlocking the full potential of digital transformation and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex business environment. In the age of big data, the ability to make informed decisions is a significant competitive advantage. CIOs are responsible for establishing a robust data infrastructure that supports data-driven decision-making. This involves implementing advanced analytics tools, ensuring data quality and governance, and promoting a culture of data literacy across the organization. By enabling access to real- time data insights, CIOs empower their teams to make strategic decisions that drive innovation and optimize business performance. Great vision without great people is irrelevant. Building and Nurturing Talent The success of innovation initiatives depends heavily on the skills and capabilities of the workforce. CIOs play a vital role in building and nurturing a talented IT team that can drive digital transformation. This includes recruiting top talent, providing continuous learning opportunities, and adopting a collaborative and innovative work environment. July 2024 | 24 | www.mirrorworldmagazine.com

www.mirrorworldmagazine.com

The 10 Most Influential CIOs Making Waves in 2024 (1)

The 10 Most Influential CIOs Making Waves in 2024 (1)

Presentation Transcript

The Most Influential People

The Most Influential People in the ##### Industry

10 Most Influential Female Bloggers

The 10 Most Influential Educational Leaders in China in 2019

The 10 Most Influential Leaders in Business 2019

The 10 Most Influential Businesswomen to Follow in 2020

The 10 Most Influential Leaders to Follow in 2022

The 10 Most Influential Businesswomen Making a Difference, 2022

The 10 Most Influential Leaders In Technology, 2023

The 10 Most Influential Leaders in Medtech- 2023

The 10 Most Influential CFOs to Watch in 2024

The Most Influential Leaders In Tech To Follow,2024

pdf-most influential women leaders of 2024-1-1

Gautam Adani Among the Top 10 Most Influential Indians of 2024

UK's Most Influential Public Speakers To Follow in 2024

The Most Influential Women Leaders in Hospitality, 2024

The 10 Most Dynamic Supply Chain Leaders Making Waves in the Industry, 2024 (Final file)

India’s Influential Men Leaders Making Waves in the Business- 2024