The Most Influential CTOs to Follow in the Middle East (1)

3. , , , , Innovation is the outcome of a habit, not a random act. - Sukant Ratnakar

4. uman civilization has continuously pushed the limits of discovery to produce tools that increase H our skills and improve our quality of life, beginning with the invention of the wheel and continuing with the development of smartphones and artificial intelligence. Every advancement has come from those who dared to question the established quo, who refused to accept things as they were, and who instead saw a time when the Empowering impossibly difficult became achievable. Take, for example, the pioneers of the digital age who Possibili?es: transformed the way we communicate, work, and interact with the world. They saw beyond the limitations of Where traditional methods and embraced technology as a means to revolutionize industries and empower individuals. From Steve Jobs fantasizing about a world where everyone had a Innova?on computer in their pocket to Mark Zuckerberg connecting billions of people through social networking, these thinkers Knows No Limits epitomize the spirit of transmuting the norm. In our latest edition of The CIO World, The Most Influential CTOs to Follow in the Middle East, we

5. highlight Chief Technology Officers who similarly have a vision for a better world and are developing technologies that challenge the status quo. These individuals are at the vanguard of invention, leveraging their expertise and creativity to drive meaningful change across various industries. From modifying healthcare with unconventional medical devices to diversification of transportation with autonomous vehicles, these CTOs are pioneering solutions that have the potential to transform our lives for the better. By stretching the limits of what is possible, they are not only redefining their respective fields but also inspiring others to dream big and pursue their own visions of a brighter future. Have a great read ahead! Alaya Brown

6. Editor in chief Chidiebere Moses Deputy Editor Sam Carter Managng Editor Alaya Brown Assistant Editors Maria Evans Visualiser Chris Carter Art & Design Head Millie Simon Art & Design Assitant Judy Smith Business Development Manager Phoebe Jacob Business Development Executive Aisha, Olivia Technical Head David Walker Assitant Technical Head Mia Rodricks Helena Smith Digital Marketing Manager Research Analyst Eric Smith Circulation Manager Richard Martinez Follow us on www.facebook.com/thecioworld www.twitter.com/thecioworld We are also available on Copyright © 2023 The CIO World, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from The CIO World. Reprint rights remain solely with The CIO World.

7. Featuring Akshay Garg Faisal Albirdisi CTO CTO Company Mahameru Innova?ons Noor Energy 1 LLC noorenergy.ae maha-meru.com Brief Akshay Garg, a Faisal began his journey computer engineer with renewable energy skilled in analog and during college, inspired digital systems, by solar energy's possesses deep insights immense poten?al. into marke?ng His research sparked a principles, specializing love for sustainability, in business strategy. which fueled a lifelong He is collabora?ve and dedica?on to self-mo?vated, and he innova?on and excels at problem- learning. solving. Mohamed Youssef Muhammad Aslam Featuring Khaled Rashad Lari Partanen CTO CTO CTO CTO Company Kaso Telr AYM Solu?ons Moro Hub kaso.ai telr.com aym-solu?ons.com morohub.com Brief Khaled, a dis?nguished Lari Partanen, with As an interna?onally Muhammad Aslam, an recognized and technologist with two experience from experienced Head of accomplished leader in Network Interna?onal decades of tech Informa?on the realm of Digital exper?se, comes on and NRS Interna?onal Technology, boasts a Health solu?ons board a?er and a Master of proven track record in development, Youssef is contribu?ng to the Science, offers banking. Proficient in not just naviga?ng the success of the region’s exper?se in leadership, banking innova?on, currents of technological most successful tech customer rela?ons, digi?za?on, data center innova?on; he's char?ng requirements analysis, companies, Talabat and management, IT a course toward a future Careem, and global SDLC, Linux, and more. infrastructure, and where technology and tech giants Microso? CRM. Holds an MBA healthcare seamlessly and Amazon. from Southeastern converge for the benefit University. of all. Featuring Ramesh Murugesan Robert MacMillan Saif Ahmad Shiras Ahamed Chief Informa?on CTO CTO CTO & Technology Officer Company Al Gihaz Holding Mondia Digital Quara Holding ENEXT algihaz.com mondiadigital.com quaraholding.com enex?echnology.com Brief With a career spanning Robert MacMillan, a Saif, an experienced IT With a remarkable 16- seasoned consultant, over 22 years, Ramesh leader in so?ware year tenure in IT, Shiras boasts 25 years in IT. stands as a strategic engineering, boasts over elevates Enext to Proficient in coding, his 20 years of exper?se. He visionary, naviga?ng unprecedented levels, focus lies in strategy the complex realms of excels at architec?ng blending visionary tech and tech alignment, Digital Transforma?on, scalable systems across passion with He pioneering trends IT Service Delivery and the internet and e- orchestrates tech globally. Experienced in opera?ons, and commerce sectors. strategies in alignment diverse markets, he pioneering IT project Skilled in JavaEE and with business goals, excels in leadership. management. open-source tech, with fostering an innova?ve extensive team culture. management experience.

8. C T C O V E R S T O R Y 08 Faisal Albirdisi Driving Renewable Energy Change

9. T S 18 L I S T I N G 26 L I S T I N G AKSHAY GARG MOHAMED YOUSSEF Tech Visionary Cultivating Transforming Patient Care a Sustainable Tomorrow Through Technology and Expertise 34 L I S T I N G RAMESH MURUGESAN L I S T I N G S A Pioneer's Journey in Digital Transformation Leadership A R T I C L E S 22 30 A R T I C L E A R T I C L E THE RISE AGILE ADOPTION OF DEVOPS! ROADMAP! Exploring Agile Transforming IT Development Principles Operations for CTOs and Pitfalls for CTOs

10. Faisal Albirdisi CTO Noor Energy 1

11. The Most Influen?al CTOs to Follow in the Middle East Creating an open environment where thoughts, concerns, issues, and ideas are transparently shared empowers ingenuity and allows for support to be channeled at the right time and in the right manner, which enables us to be focused on meeting the objectives set out and overcoming challenges.

12. Pioneering Sustainability and Energy Innovation in a future. He understood that the world needed pioneers who Hydrocarbon-Dependent Region! could usher in an era of cleaner, more efficient energy. midst the challenges posed by climate change and Faisal's journey was further enriched by the incredible the urgency to adopt sustainable energy solutions, opportunities he received right from the beginning of his A a global movement driven by innovation and professional career. His placements at institutions that were resolve is taking hold. With the undeniable consequences of at the forefront of tackling energy transitions allowed him our dependence on fossil fuels becoming ever more to be part of the solution, not just an observer of the apparent, the pursuit of cleaner, alternative energy sources problem. These experiences equipped him with the has become an imperative mission. Climate change is not knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to drive real just a distant problem but an undeniable reality that we face change. on a daily basis. The evidence of rising temperatures, severe weather conditions, and the rapid melting of ice sheets Below are the highlights of the interview: reinforces the urgency for swift action. The primary culprit behind this crisis is the burning of fossil fuels, which emits Inception Story: Transforming Dubai's Energy Landscape a significant amount of greenhouse gases. It is a clear signal that we can no longer turn a blind eye to this issue. Noor Energy 1 holds the distinction of being the world's largest concentrated solar power (CSP) plant. As the fourth In this challenging landscape, individuals like Faisal phase of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Albirdisi, CTO at Noor Energy 1, are inspiring beacons of Park, its primary objective is to provide the Emirate of change. His journey in the energy sector, particularly in Dubai and the UAE with continuous, clean, and sustainable renewables, showcases his unwavering commitment to renewable energy. Boasting an impressive dispatchable addressing pressing energy challenges and his dedication to capacity of 950 MW, the plant incorporates a wide range of making a positive impact on our planet's future. commercially available and advanced solar technologies. These include Bi-Facial Photovoltaics, the largest Parabolic Faisal's foray into the renewable energy sector began during Troughs, and the Highest Concentrated Solar Tower. Noor his college days when he found himself captivated by the Energy 1 goes beyond being a mere power plant; it serves incredible potential and applications of solar energy. His as a powerful representation of how future energy curiosity led him to delve deeper into this field, setting the requirements can be fulfilled and acts as a catalyst for stage for a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and innovation in much-needed positive change. the world of sustainability. Insights on Leading the Utilities Industry Recognizing the need for a strong foundation to effect change in the energy sector, Faisal pursued his education in Faisal has had the privilege of serving at the higher a field that aligned with his passion. This strategic decision management level in the utility industry for several years, enabled him to not only gain expertise but also explore the most recently as the Chief Technical Officer (CTO) of the renewable energy sector from various angles. record-breaking Noor Energy 1 PSC. His experience in this role has been accelerated, rewarding, and dynamic. His Hailing from a region that heavily relies on hydrocarbons journey in the sector began in Saudi Arabia, specifically at for its energy needs, Faisal's unique position gave him a the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy profound understanding of the energy landscape. (KACARE). After completing his BSc in Electrical Simultaneously, he couldn't ignore the abundant solar Engineering, he joined the renewables team as a research resources that his region was blessed with. This duality assistant focused on adaptive solar applications for the fueled his determination to bridge the gap between tradition region. He then pursued an MSc in the same field and and innovation, between fossil fuels and renewables. had the opportunity to intern with ACWA Power at one of their first CSP Parabolic Trough Plants Faisal's journey in the energy sector was not just a career in Morocco. This internship, combined with choice; it was a calling. Driven by a deep-seated passion for his studies, solidified his interest in a sustainability and a genuine concern for energy security, he career in utilities and renewables. felt an undeniable urge to contribute to a more sustainable

13. Successfully managing competing priorities and meeting tight deadlines necessitates a strategic approach involving meticulous planning, effective resource allocation, and a clear focus on objectives.

15. Power of Mathematical Modeling and Advanced Digitalization In previous projects, Faisal has utilized their skills in Mathematical Modeling, Python, C++, Matlab, and Physics. These skills have been applied at Noor Energy 1 to adopt modeling tools and advanced digitalization. By closely monitoring the behavior of their units, they are able to make informed decisions on a daily basis. This approach maximizes production from the units and identifies areas for value addition. Cultural sensitivity and Approach to Program and Project Management understanding of customs, traditions, and Faisal emphasized the importance of following a standard approach in any business, project, or company. It is working styles are also essential to have clarity on the objectives and understand crucial when working the risks involved. By being prepared for potential setbacks and controlling them early on, the impact can be with a diverse group of minimized. Trust and effective communication within the individuals and team are crucial. Creating an open environment where thoughts, concerns, issues, and ideas are transparently organizations from shared enables innovation and ensures timely support. This different backgrounds. approach helps in staying focused on meeting the set objectives and overcoming challenges. Regular engagement with stakeholders is also vital for successful outcomes, as it After completing his graduate studies, Faisal made the allows for resource management and quality planning. decision to continue his professional career with ACWA Power. He values being part of a company and a family that Overcoming Complex Challenges to Deliver Reliable is dedicated to developing, delivering, and operating Energy complex infrastructure projects that have a lasting impact on the utility services and societies they serve worldwide. There are many examples of experiences that may not fit the typical definition of success but still provide valuable In his current role as Chief Technical Officer for Noor knowledge. One such experience occurred in the recent Energy 1, Faisal's responsibilities include overseeing the history of the writer's current role, during the operation of management of operational units and guiding them through the 1st CSP PT unit of Noor Energy 1. This phase required the critical phase of commercial operations. He strives to active involvement from the EPC Contractor, Main empower an integrative operational organization and direct Equipment Suppliers, and O&M Contractor to ensure collective efforts toward meeting organizational targets that reliable energy delivery to the grid while meeting the prioritize safety, reliability, and performance. company's needs and performance expectations. The challenge involved not only addressing technical Alongside the technical aspects, a significant part of Faisal's operational issues and limitations in the complex and large- role involves staying ahead of industry trends and scale unit but also fostering collaboration between teams regulatory changes. The utilities sector is undergoing a with different opinions and objectives. Despite the ongoing transformative period, with a growing emphasis on nature of this challenge, it has been overcome by sustainability, renewable energy integration, and implementing a transparent and concise operational digitalization. As CTO, Faisal takes on the responsibility of procedure. This procedure captures the collective objectives ensuring that his organization effectively adapts to these of the different teams and connects them to a main objective changes. This often involves collaborating with cross- that benefits all stakeholders and the plant as a whole. functional teams to develop and implement strategies that align with these evolving needs and those of their clients.

16. By establishing clear responsibilities for each party and Communication strategies vary based on the situation, individual, identifying effective communication and objective, and status. Faisal always takes into account reporting channels, and adopting streamlined workflows, certain key approaches for effective communication. These Noor Energy 1 has created a proactive working include maintaining open and transparent channels of environment. In this environment, all team members, communication among managed teams, actively listening, regardless of their affiliation, contribute as part of a unified and encouraging the sharing of ideas through open thought team working towards a shared goal. sessions. Cultural sensitivity and understanding of customs, traditions, and working styles are also crucial when Transforming Professional Growth working with a diverse group of individuals and organizations from different backgrounds. Education plays a vital role in shaping an individual's professional development. It's not just about acquiring Building Cultural Sensitivity in Diverse Teams technical knowledge and skills but also about the holistic growth that occurs during one's educational journey. The Faisal emphasizes that successfully managing competing classroom is not the only place where learning takes place; priorities and meeting tight deadlines necessitates a interactions with peers, extracurricular activities, and strategic approach involving meticulous planning, effective exposure to diverse perspectives all contribute to personal resource allocation, and a clear focus on objectives. Often, and professional growth. multiple priorities demand equal attention and have simultaneous deadlines. To address this challenge, it is Faisal's education had a significant impact on his crucial to have a well-equipped team with diverse skillsets professional development. In addition to gaining valuable and adequate support, enabling parallel workstreams and technical knowledge, skills, and tools from the courses and the simultaneous pursuit of multiple objectives and programs he participated in during his college years, his priorities. Faisal also underscores the significance of interactions with peers outside the classrooms also cultural sensitivity and the understanding of customs, influenced his approach to leadership and project traditions, and working styles while collaborating with management. individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds. By emphasizing these aspects, effective communication and Proactive Approach to Staying Informed collaboration can be fostered, leading to successful outcomes in cross-cultural contexts. Staying informed and continuously updating one's knowledge is crucial in any professional field, especially in rapidly evolving sectors like energy and utilities. Faisal's proactive approach to staying updated serves as a prime example of dedication to professional growth and competence. He stays updated by regularly checking energy and utility sector news feeds, engaging with business social media platforms, and attending seminars, workshops, and conferences related to the field. He actively participates in conversations with key stakeholders and experts to enhance his knowledge and insights. Expert Communication Strategies Effective communication is the lifeblood of any successful endeavor, particularly in a professional context. Faisal's approach to communication aligns perfectly with this fundamental principle, emphasizing key strategies that are both practical and considerate of diverse perspectives.

19. , , , , The advance of technology is based on making it t in so that you don't really even notice it, so it's part of everyday life. - Bill Gates

20. The Most Influen?al CTOs to Follow in the Middle East Tech Visionary Cultivating a Sustainable Tomorrow Empowering Nature, Bridging Innovations, and Nurturing Akshay's commitment goes beyond the confines of his role; Sustainable Food Futures! it's a passionate endeavor to empower farmers worldwide with knowledge and tools, ensuring they become stewards n a world confronted by the challenges of climate of a sustainable food future. As he navigates the complex change, environmental degradation, and a growing terrain where silicon meets soil, he emerges not just as a I global population, the need to rethink our approach to tech visionary but as a catalyst for a transformative journey, food production has never been more urgent. As we stand at sowing the seeds of a future where technology nurtures the the intersection of innovation and sustainability, the very essence of our sustenance. question arises: How can we empower nature to not only feed the world but also evolve harmoniously with us? Below are the interview highlights: Dominated by codes and algorithms, Akshay Garg, the Could you please brief about Mahameru Innovations Chief Technology Officer at Mahameru Innovations and its inception story? LLC, poses a question that transcends the boundaries of traditional tech narratives. Armed with a dual Masters in At Mahameru Innovations, we are a diverse group of Computer Engineering and Business Management from the individuals hailing from various walks of life – Engineers, University of Warwick, UK, he has not only delved deep CAs, Teachers, Farmers, Scientists… united by an into the realms of AI and machine learning but has also extraordinary vision: to rid our food chain of harmful orchestrated the birth of a quick lime manufacturing plant chemicals and create a new standard of food focused on in Abu Dhabi, boasting a formidable production capacity of nutrition. Our collective efforts are dedicated to a singular 500 tons per day. purpose that stands to benefit all life forms in nature. We're not just about products; we're about empowering you with His journey takes an intriguing turn as he recounts, "Over solutions that resonate with nature's wisdom. Our ethos is the course of constructing and running the factory, I rooted in sustainability and cost-effectiveness, with a realized that I wanted to direct all my knowledge and commitment to integrating solutions seamlessly into their experience towards a fundamental need of the hour: native environments. From substrate structure design to nutritious and healthy food." His revelation, born from ingenious soil & water management, from outsmarting years spent on the ground understanding the intricacies of pests to nurturing vibrant vegetation – we've devoted years food production, led to the recognition of basic yet to R&D to craft solutions that span across agriculture, overlooked requirements at the grassroots level. animal farms, milling, and aquatic environments. They are easy to adopt & solve multiple challenges simultaneously. Undeterred, Akshay and his brother embarked on a mission Our secret? A harmonious blend of Engineering, Biology, to redefine the future of food production. Their vision and Agriculture. extends beyond technological marvels; it encompasses a holistic approach, bridging the gap between cutting-edge Inception Story: During the quiet introspection forced upon innovations and age-old farming wisdom. "We see the us by COVID-19, my brother and I found ourselves future of food production as a hybrid of new and old reassessing our roles in the manufacturing business. We technologies that can empower nature to reach its potential shared a growing concern about the future we were shaping and evolve with us," he emphasizes. for the next generation, which felt increasingly uncertain. 18 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

21. We believe that innovation starts with a mindset. To nurture this, we've established a culture that encourages experimentation and values diverse perspectives. Akshay Garg Chief Technology Officer Mahameru Innova?ons LLC 19 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

22. Armed with time and a desire to make a meaningful impact, we embarked on a journey to understand the potential crises humanity might face over the next 50 years. Our exploration led us to a crucial area: Food. Diving deep into the food industry and farming, we uncovered alarming truths. Farmers were exhausted from reliance on chemicals, and consumers were increasingly frustrated by the lack of access to nutritious food. This revelation was the catalyst for a major shift. We decided to leverage our engineering backgrounds to address these challenges head-on. Thus, Mahameru Innovations was born, marking our transformation from engineers to pioneers in sustainable farming. Our mission was clear: We must provide farmers with the right knowledge and technologies that they can use to rejuvenate the land. Only then will consumers be able to access nutritious, fresh food. What strategies do you employ to drive innovation and technological advancement within your organization, and how do you prioritize technology projects and initiatives to align with the company's goals and objectives? In our quest to drive innovation and technological advancement at Mahameru Innovations, we focus on creating an ecosystem where creativity and forward- thinking are at the forefront. We believe that innovation starts with a mindset. To nurture this, we've established a culture that encourages experimentation and values diverse perspectives. Regular brainstorming sessions and cross-departmental collaborations are integral to our routine, ensuring that fresh ideas are continually generated and considered. Every technological initiative is evaluated against our company's overarching objectives. We ask ourselves: Does this project propel us towards our vision of sustainable and efficient farming? How does it contribute to our commitment to empowering farmers and delivering nutritious food to consumers? By maintaining strict alignment with these goals, we ensure that our technological advancements are not just innovative but also deeply relevant to our mission. Can you share an example of a successful technology implementation that you have overseen and its impact on the organization? One particularly successful technology implementation I oversaw was the integration of a graph database system within our company. The primary objective of this initiative was to revolutionize how we manage and utilize our diverse data sources. We recognized a growing need to efficiently integrate knowledge from various disciplines. Our existing system was siloed, making data retrieval time-consuming and often resulting in missed opportunities to identify 20 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

23. valuable interconnections between different datasets. To and seminars. These events not only provide information on address this, we chose to implement a graph database current technological advancements but also offer a system. This technology was selected for its ability to create platform for networking with other professionals. a dynamic, interconnected graph of our data. The Exchanging ideas and experiences with peers is invaluable implementation process was multi-phased, involving initial for gaining practical insights into how new technologies are data mapping, the integration of varied types of data, and being implemented across different sectors. One of my key extensive testing to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Training resources is the internet, where I actively follow technology sessions were also conducted to familiarize our team with news and discussions on platforms like Reddit. Subreddits the new system. The introduction of the graph database dedicated to tech developments are valuable for real-time transformed our data handling capabilities. insights and community discussions, which often provide diverse perspectives and early indicators of emerging We saw a significant reduction in search times—data trends. I have friends who work in various academic retrieval processes that previously took hours were reduced institutions; they help keep me up to date with cutting-edge to minutes. Moreover, the new system unearthed research and upcoming technologies that have the potential unexpected links between data sources, providing us with to transform our industry. Within our organization, we have insights that were previously obscured. This led to more innovation teams dedicated to exploring new technologies. informed decision-making and opened up new avenues for These teams conduct research, run pilot projects, and report innovation within our operational strategies. Beyond these on findings that could be beneficial for our company. This immediate benefits, the graph database has also set a internal flow of information is vital to keeping our practices precedent for how we approach data integration and and strategies at the forefront of technological innovation. analysis. It’s encouraging a more holistic view of our data assets, fostering an environment where cross-functional How do you foster a collaborative and productive collaboration is more intuitive and productive. This relationship between the technology team and other technology has not only enhanced our day-to-day departments within the organization? operations but has also significantly contributed to our strategic planning and decision-making processes. We, as a For major projects, we form joint teams comprising company, are now AI-ready. members from the technology team and the relevant department. This approach ensures that projects are guided How do you ensure the security and integrity of the by both technical expertise and department-specific organization's technology infrastructure? knowledge, leading to more effective and tailored solutions. I maintain an open-door policy, encouraging team members We utilize a cloud-based working environment for its from all departments to share their ideas, concerns, and flexibility, scalability, and advanced security features. This feedback directly with the technology team. Additionally, setup allows us to benefit from the latest security regular feedback mechanisms are in place to continuously technologies without the need for extensive in-house gauge and improve the effectiveness of our collaborative infrastructure. We maintain on-premise computers. These efforts. systems are secured with up-to-date antivirus software, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits. Can you discuss any challenges you have faced as a Access to these computers is strictly controlled and CTO and how you have overcome them? monitored, ensuring that only authorized personnel can use them. A key component of our security strategy is our As a CTO, you are constantly faced with challenges within firewall infrastructure. These firewalls are strategically the company. Most challenges can be overcome by deployed both in our cloud environment and on-premise to providing the right mindset and direction. create a secure network perimeter. By combining cloud- based solutions with secure on-premise practices and strong firewall protection, we ensure a balanced approach to security. This strategy allows us to maintain a highly secure yet flexible technology infrastructure, aligning with our organizational goals and the dynamic nature of our operations. What steps do you take to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in technology? I regularly attend industry conferences, webinars, 21 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

24. Exploring Agile Development Principles and Pitfalls forCTOs 22 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

25. Agile Adop?on Roadmap! gility has emerged as a cornerstone principle for organizations striving to remain competitive and A responsive to market demands. Agile development methodologies offer a flexible and iterative approach to project management, enabling teams to adapt quickly to changes and deliver value incrementally. However, while the benefits of agile development are widely recognized, CTOs must navigate several principles and potential pitfalls to effectively implement and leverage agile practices within their organizations. Understanding Agile Development At its core, agile development is a mindset that prioritizes collaboration, adaptability, and customer feedback. Unlike traditional waterfall methodologies, which follow a linear sequence of planning, development, testing, and deployment, agile approaches promote continuous iteration and improvement throughout the development lifecycle. The Agile Manifesto, a foundational document for agile practitioners, outlines four key values: Individuals and interactions over processes and tools Working software over comprehensive documentation Customer collaboration over contract negotiation Responding to change by following a plan These values emphasize the importance of people-centric approaches, delivering tangible results, engaging with customers, and embracing change. Principles of Agile Development for CTOs CTOs play a crucial role in driving the adoption and implementation of agile development within their organizations. Here are some key principles they should consider: Empower Cross-Functional Teams: Agile development thrives on collaboration between individuals with diverse skills and perspectives. CTOs should encourage the formation of cross-functional teams comprising developers, designers, testers, and product owners who work closely together to deliver value. Iterative Planning and Delivery: Instead of extensive upfront planning, agile development favors iterative cycles of planning, execution, and review. CTOs should promote a culture of continuous improvement where teams regularly reflect on their progress and adjust their plans accordingly. 23 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

26. Embrace Change: Agile teams welcome change as a natural collaborate effectively and make timely decisions. CTOs part of the development process. CTOs should foster an should ensure that team members understand their roles and environment where stakeholders feel comfortable how they contribute to the overall success of the project. requesting changes and teams can respond swiftly to new requirements or priorities. Lack of Continuous Improvement: Agile development is founded on the principle of continuous improvement, but Focus on Delivering Value: The primary goal of agile organizations may fall into the trap of complacency or development is to deliver working software that meets stagnation. CTOs should promote a culture of learning and customer needs. CTOs should ensure that teams prioritize experimentation, encouraging teams to regularly reflect on features and tasks based on their business value, focusing their processes and identify opportunities for enhancement. on the most critical requirements first. Conclusion Encourage Feedback and Adaptation: Regular feedback loops are essential for guiding the direction of development Agile development offers a powerful framework for efforts. CTOs should establish mechanisms for collecting delivering value quickly and responsively in today's fast- feedback from customers, stakeholders, and team members, paced digital landscape. However, CTOs must approach enabling teams to adapt their plans and solutions as needed. agile adoption thoughtfully, understanding its underlying principles and potential pitfalls. By empowering cross- Pitfalls to Avoid functional teams, embracing change, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, CTOs can leverage agile While agile development offers numerous benefits, CTOs development to drive innovation and achieve sustainable must be mindful of potential pitfalls that can hinder its growth within their organizations. success: - Alaya Brown Overemphasis on Speed: While agility emphasizes fast- paced delivery, prioritizing speed over quality can lead to technical debt, bugs, and unsustainable development practices. CTOs should emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between velocity and quality to ensure long-term success. Lack of Alignment with Business Objectives: Agile teams may become too focused on delivering features without considering their alignment with overall business goals. CTOs should provide clear direction and context to ensure that teams understand the broader objectives behind their work. Resistance to Change: Implementing agile practices often requires a cultural shift within an organization. Resistance to change from stakeholders or team members can impede progress and undermine the effectiveness of agile initiatives. CTOs should proactively address resistance by fostering open communication, providing training and support, and leading by example. Poorly Defined Roles and Responsibilities: Without clear roles and responsibilities, agile teams may struggle to 24 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

28. Mastering the Fusion of Business and Computer Science for Enhanced Patient Care and Value-Based Healthcare! We cultivate an environment where an technology redefine the future of healthcare? creativity is encouraged and everyone This pivotal question has become the guiding force feels empowered to share ideas. This C behind the groundbreaking work of Mohamed inclusive culture sparks innovation at all Youssef, Chief Technology Officer at AYM Solutions. As levels of the organization. an internationally recognized and accomplished leader in the realm of Digital Health solutions development, he is not just navigating the currents of technological innovation; he's charting a course toward a future where technology and knowledge and a dedication to transformative solutions, healthcare seamlessly converge for the benefit of all. signifies a paradigm shift in the way we approach healthcare in a technologically driven world. Youssef's journey to the forefront of digital health leadership is as impressive as the solutions he envisions. Below are the interview highlights: Armed with a master's degree in business administration from the University of Strathclyde and currently pursuing a Could you please brief on AYM Solutions and its Master's degree in Computer Science from Virginia inception story? Commonwealth University, his academic trajectory has been a deliberate exploration of the intersection between AYM Solutions is a software development company technology and healthcare. specializing in providing digitalization solutions for the healthcare sector. AYM Solutions has the only fully His passion for this convergence is not merely academic; proprietary technology platform that was developed it's deeply rooted in a commitment to enhancing patient specifically for the Middle East and was not developed care and outcomes within a value-based healthcare through acquisitions. This means comprehensive workflows framework. Youssef's mission is clear: to leverage and outstanding service and support. technology as a catalyst for positive change in the healthcare landscape. AYM Solutions has incepted out of the Middle-East market need for healthcare solutions that perfectly fit the settings of At the helm of AYM Solutions, he is the driving force healthcare systems in the Middle East rather than importing behind the technical vision that propels the company solutions developed for US or European markets that forward. His innovative and forward-thinking approach has require extensive efforts to bend them to fit healthcare not only earned him international recognition but has also system workflows and business targets. positioned AYM Solutions as a trailblazer in the digital health arena. What strategies do you employ to drive innovation and technological advancement within your organization, In an era where the digitization of healthcare is not just a and how do you prioritize technology projects and luxury but a necessity, Youssef stands as a beacon of initiatives to align with the company's goals and inspiration. His journey, marked by a relentless pursuit of objectives? 26 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

29. The Most Influen?al CTOs to Follow in the Middle East At AYM Solutions, fostering innovation and technological advancement is a core focus. We employ several strategies to drive this forward: • Culture of Innovation: We cultivate an environment where creativity is encouraged and everyone feels empowered to share ideas. This inclusive culture sparks innovation at all levels of the organization. • Continuous Learning: We invest in our team's development by providing opportunities for learning and upskilling. Staying updated with the latest technologies is crucial for us to innovate effectively. • Cross-Functional Collaboration: We promote collaboration between different departments. This ensures that diverse perspectives come together to solve problems and generate innovative solutions. • Research and Development (R&D): A dedicated R&D team focuses on exploring emerging technologies and their potential applications to stay ahead in the industry. • Agile Approach: We embrace an agile methodology to swiftly adapt to changes and iterate on ideas. This allows us to test concepts, gather feedback, and refine solutions efficiently. When it comes to prioritizing technology projects and initiatives, we align them with the company's goals and objectives by: • Understanding Business Needs: We closely collaborate with stakeholders to comprehend business priorities, challenges, and opportunities. • Impact Assessment: Each proposed project undergoes rigorous evaluation to determine its potential impact on the company's goals, customer satisfaction, revenue, and operational efficiency. • Risk Analysis: We assess the risks associated with each project to ensure that the chosen initiatives are feasible and align with the company's risk tolerance. • Resource Allocation: We allocate resources based on Mohamed Youssef project priorities, considering factors such as urgency, Chief Technology Officer potential ROI, and strategic importance to the AYM Solu?ons organization. • Regular Review and Adaptation: We continuously monitor project progress and reassess priorities if needed to ensure that our technology initiatives stay aligned with the evolving needs of the company. 27 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

30. Can you share an example of a successful technology • Regulatory Compliance: With its emphasis on identity- implementation that you have overseen and its impact centric security and continuous monitoring, ZTA helps on the organization? in meeting compliance requirements more effectively, which is crucial in various industries with stringent Implementation of real-time Clinical Decision Support regulations. Software for Dubai Health Facilities. The software unprecedentedly unifies the medical necessity guidelines • User Experience: Contrary to the belief that stringent along with physicians’s practices to ensure the best security measures might hinder the user experience, utilization and management of facility services and the best ZTA can actually improve it. With access tailored to patient outcome. This project did put AYM Solutions on top specific needs and the ability to work from various of healthcare digital solution providers, as we proved that devices securely, employees experience smoother digital health solutions tailored for the Middle-East market workflows. have a greater impact on business outcomes than any other solutions adopted. What steps do you take to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in technology? How do you ensure the security and integrity of the organization's technology infrastructure? • Continuous Learning Culture: We encourage our teams to engage in continuous learning. This includes AYM Solutions is adopting Zero-Trust Architecture which attending workshops, seminars, and industry conferences to stay abreast of the latest advancements. provides many benefits in securing our technology infrastructure, including the following: • Industry Networking: We actively participate in industry forums, collaborate with other technology • Enhanced Security Posture: ZTA fundamentally challenges the traditional perimeter-based security leaders, and engage in partnerships. This not only model by assuming that no user or system, inside or fosters relationships but also allows us to exchange outside the network, should be trusted by default. This insights and stay updated on emerging trends. approach minimizes the risk of breaches and unauthorized access. • Monitoring Tech Publications and Research: We regularly follow reputable tech publications, research • Granular Access Controls: ZTA focuses on strict access papers, and analyst reports. This helps us understand controls based on identity verification, device health, emerging technologies and their potential impact on and other contextual factors. It allows us to implement various industries. granular access policies, ensuring that users only have access to the specific resources they need for their • Internal Knowledge Sharing: Within our organization, roles. we emphasize knowledge sharing. Teams regularly conduct internal sessions, sharing their learnings from • Reduced Attack Surface: By implementing ZTA, we experiments, projects, and external events. reduce the attack surface by segmenting the network and enforcing strict controls on data access. Even if • Engagement with Technology Communities: one part of the system is compromised, it limits the Participation in online forums, tech communities, and lateral movement of threats, minimizing potential open-source projects allows us to tap into collective damage. knowledge and stay informed about evolving technologies. • Adaptability and Flexibility: ZTA is adaptable to various environments, including cloud-based, on- • Collaboration with Innovators: We actively seek premises, and hybrid infrastructures. This flexibility collaborations with startups, academia, and research allows us to scale security measures alongside business institutions. This collaboration often exposes us to growth and technological advancements. groundbreaking technologies and innovative solutions. • Improved Visibility and Monitoring: ZTA provides • Technology Evaluation and Experimentation: We enhanced visibility into network traffic, user behavior, regularly evaluate new technologies through proof-of- and device health. This visibility enables us to detect concepts and experimentation. This hands-on approach anomalies more effectively and respond to potential helps us understand the practical implications and threats in real time. potential applications of emerging technology. 28 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

31. How do you foster a collaborative and productive relationship between the technology team and other departments within the organization? • Open Communication Channels: We ensure open lines of communication between tech teams and other departments. Regular meetings, both formal and informal, facilitate discussions, idea-sharing, and problem-solving. • Cross-Departmental Projects: Encouraging collaboration through joint projects helps break down silos. By working together on initiatives that involve multiple departments, teams gain a deeper understanding of each other's goals and challenges. • Understanding Business Objectives: Technology teams are encouraged to understand the specific goals and needs of other departments. This helps in aligning technology solutions with the broader organizational objectives. • Collaborative Decision-Making: Involving representatives from different departments in decision- making processes regarding technology implementations ensures that solutions meet diverse needs and concerns. • Training and Knowledge Sharing: Providing training sessions and resources about technological advancements to non-tech departments helps bridge the knowledge gap and encourages informed discussions. • Shared Metrics and Goals: Establishing shared metrics and goals across departments promotes a sense of collective responsibility. It aligns everyone towards common objectives, fostering collaboration to achieve those goals. • Feedback Loops: Creating mechanisms for feedback and improvement ensures continuous improvement in collaboration processes. Regular feedback from different departments helps refine technology solutions to better suit their needs. • Cultural Integration: Cultivating a company culture that values and promotes collaboration across departments is essential. Recognizing and celebrating successful collaborative efforts reinforces this culture. 29 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

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33. The Rise of DevOps! Transforming IT Operations for CTOs he role of Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) has become increasingly complex. As businesses strive T to innovate and adapt to changing market demands, CTOs are tasked with driving efficiency, agility, and reliability in IT operations. One approach that has gained significant traction in recent years is DevOps, a methodology that emphasizes collaboration, automation, and integration between development and operations teams. In this article, we'll explore the rise of DevOps and its transformative impact on IT operations for CTOs. Understanding DevOps DevOps is not merely a set of tools or practices; it's a cultural and organizational shift that aims to break down silos between development (Dev) and operations (Ops) teams. Traditional software development processes often involve separate teams responsible for writing code and managing infrastructure. This siloed approach can lead to communication bottlenecks, slower deployment cycles, and an increased risk of errors. DevOps seeks to address these challenges by fostering a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility. It encourages teams to work together throughout the entire software development lifecycle, from planning and coding to testing, deployment, and monitoring. By breaking down barriers between development and operations, DevOps promotes faster delivery of high-quality software while improving overall efficiency and reliability. Key Principles of DevOps At the heart of DevOps are several key principles that guide its implementation: 31 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

34. Automation: Automation is a cornerstone of DevOps, Greater Reliability: DevOps practices such as CI/CD and enabling teams to streamline repetitive tasks such as infrastructure as code helps minimize errors and downtime, provisioning infrastructure, configuring environments, and leading to more reliable and resilient systems. deploying code. By automating these processes, CTOs can accelerate delivery timelines, reduce human error, and Cost Savings: By optimizing resource utilization, reducing increase productivity. waste, and mitigating the risk of costly outages, DevOps can result in significant cost savings for organizations. Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD): CI/CD practices involve integrating code changes Challenges of Implementing DevOps into a shared repository frequently and automatically testing and deploying these changes to production environments. While the benefits of DevOps are undeniable, implementing This iterative approach allows teams to deliver software DevOps practices can pose challenges for CTOs: updates rapidly and with confidence, leading to shorter release cycles and faster time-to-market. Cultural Resistance: Shifting to a DevOps culture requires buy-in from stakeholders across the organization and may Infrastructure as Code (IaC): IaC is a practice that involves encounter resistance from teams accustomed to traditional managing and provisioning infrastructure using code and ways of working. automation tools. By treating infrastructure as code, CTOs can easily replicate and scale environments, maintain Technical Complexity: Adopting DevOps practices often consistency across deployments, and improve traceability involves integrating a diverse set of tools and technologies, and auditability. which can introduce technical complexity and require the upskilling of team members. Monitoring and Feedback: DevOps emphasizes the importance of monitoring applications and infrastructure in Organizational Silos: Overcoming organizational silos and real-time to detect and respond to issues proactively. By promoting collaboration between traditionally separate teams can be challenging and may require changes to collecting and analyzing metrics and logs, CTOs can gain reporting structures and incentives. valuable insights into system performance, user experience, and business impact, enabling continuous improvement and Security and Compliance: Ensuring the security and optimization. compliance of software delivery pipelines and Culture of Collaboration: Perhaps the most critical aspect of infrastructure-as-code templates is essential but may require DevOps is its focus on fostering a culture of collaboration, additional processes and controls. transparency, and shared ownership. By breaking down organizational silos and promoting cross-functional teams, Conclusion CTOs can facilitate better communication, knowledge sharing, and innovation across the entire organization. In an increasingly competitive and fast-paced digital landscape, CTOs must embrace innovative approaches to IT Benefits of DevOps for CTOs operations to stay ahead of the curve. DevOps offers a compelling framework for transforming IT operations by The adoption of DevOps offers numerous benefits for CTOs promoting collaboration, automation, and continuous and their organizations: improvement. By embracing DevOps principles and practices, CTOs can drive agility, reliability, and efficiency Improved Agility: DevOps enables organizations to respond in their organizations, ultimately delivering greater value to quickly to changing market conditions and customer customers and stakeholders alike. requirements by accelerating the delivery of software updates and features. - Alaya Brown Enhanced Quality: By automating testing and deployment processes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, DevOps helps ensure the delivery of high- quality software that meets user expectations. Increased Efficiency: Automation and streamlining of workflows reduce manual effort and eliminate bottlenecks, allowing teams to focus on value-added tasks and innovation. 32 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

35. , , , , The Internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow. - Bill Gates

36. 22+ Years of Shaping the Future through Technology, Leadership and Sustainability! To enhance my knowledge further, I've subscribed to Gartner's IT Leadership seat, an technology truly reshape the future, or is it which provides me with invaluable advisory merely a tool we wield in the present? This support from Gartner. These efforts ensure C question, though seemingly straightforward, opens the door to a profound exploration of the transformative that I remain well-informed and equipped to journey led by Ramesh Murugesan, the Chief navigate the dynamic landscape of technology. Information & Technology Officer at Al Gihaz Holding. With a career spanning over 22 years, he stands as a strategic visionary, navigating the complex realms of Digital Transformation, IT Service Delivery and operations, showcasing his ability to adapt and lead in the ever- and pioneering IT project management. changing dynamics of the modern workplace. Ramesh has emerged as a trailblazer, steering cross- Join us as we delve into the captivating narrative of functional teams in designing and integrating cutting-edge Ramesh's journey, unlocking the potential of tomorrow technological solutions. His expertise goes beyond through the lens of digital transformation and technological conventional realms, touching on Digital Transformation, leadership. Cloud Computing, ERP systems, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and more. His leadership style is marked by a Could you please brief about Al Gihaz and its inception focus on acquiring and developing high-performing leaders, story? fostering a culture of excellence that fuels innovation. Al Gihaz is a diversified Saudi Arabian company with more Beyond the boardrooms and technological landscapes, than 48 successful years of providing integrated solutions Ramesh is a seasoned public speaker, sharing insights on for conventional energy, renewal energy, communications the critical facets of IT, including Next-Gen Infrastructure, infrastructure, security services, and experimental projects. Robotic Process Automation, Asset Management, and This is applied through investing in internal expertise as Organization Change Management. His ability to build well as partnering with experts in their own fields. Al Gihaz customer journey and empathy maps has been instrumental is expanding into new industries to capitalize on the growth in fostering a digital transformation culture, reinforced by opportunities offered within the kingdom and offshore. robust business partnerships. What strategies do you employ to drive innovation and Ramesh's influence extends into the realm of environmental technological advancement within your organization, sustainability, championing the cause of paperless office and how do you prioritize technology projects and culture to reduce the carbon footprint and aligning with the initiatives to align with the company's goals and net-zero vision of the Kingdom. Notably, he has pioneered objectives? the implementation of a hybrid workplace culture, 34 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

37. The Most Influen?al CTOs to Follow in the Middle East In steering innovation and technological progress within our organization, we adhere to a 'Remote-first and Cloud- first' strategy. Our approach to prioritizing technology projects revolves around a dual focus: first, assessing the ease of implementation, and second, evaluating the potential business value each initiative brings. This thoughtful combination ensures that our technological endeavors align seamlessly with the company's overarching goals and objectives. Can you share an example of a successful technology implementation that you have overseen and its impact on the organization? • Digital Transformation – When I joined Al Gihaz the Automation /System Maturity level: was 30 ~ 40% and the System Utilization Maturity level: was 25 ~ 30%. organizations, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) projects are no exception. Gartner estimates that 55% Ramesh Murugesan to 75% of all ERP projects fail to meet their objectives. Chief Informa?on & Business Process Management, ERP cloud Technology Officer implementation, and integration with various systems Al Gihaz Holding for the Holding Company and its subsidiaries. The implementation covers the Procure-To-Pay, Order-To- Cash, Hire-To-Retire, Business Processes of Financials Compliance Certification. Additionally, we've taken strides (Human Capital Management, Supply Chain in fortifying our defenses by implementing cutting-edge Management, Projects and Portfolio Management, Next-Gen Endpoint Detection and Response technologies. Saudi Payroll, Warehouse Management, Maintenance, To address vulnerabilities at the communication level, Treasury (Business to Banking Integration), Bank we've also integrated an advanced email security solution, Facility Management (LG, LC), Vehicle & Equipment effectively minimizing the impact of spam emails. Our Lease & Rental Solution, and Utilities Payment. commitment to a multi-layered security strategy underscores our dedication to safeguarding the • Digital workplace: Document Management System - organization's technological assets. Driving paperless office work environment by implementing a paperless office policy to support Net- What steps do you take to stay up-to-date with the latest Zero Vision; reducing paper usage by 80%+ in 12 trends and advancements in technology? months. I actively participate in tech conferences and summits. • Enterprise-wide Knowledge Management System Additionally, I contribute as a public speaker at technology Implementation to Capture Lessons Learned (LL), summits, sharing insights and learning from industry peers. Construction Support (CS), and Ask Expert (AE). To enhance my knowledge further, I've subscribed to Gartner's IT Leadership seat, which provides me with • Hybrid workplace culture implementation by invaluable advisory support from Gartner. These efforts integrating Ms-Teams calling solution with Cisco Call ensure that I remain well-informed and equipped to Manager, which reduces the international calling cost navigate the dynamic landscape of technology. at the captive centers. How do you foster a collaborative and productive How do you ensure the security and integrity of the relationship between the technology team and other organization's technology infrastructure? departments within the organization? Ensuring the security and integrity of the organization's To nurture a collaborative and productive relationship technology infrastructure involves a comprehensive between the technology team and other departments, we've approach. We've implemented a robust Cybersecurity instituted a Business Process Transformation Committee. Management System, established stringent security controls, and proudly received the Aramco Cybersecurity 35 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

38. This committee is composed of key figures, including the awareness roadshows, creating an environment that not Business Functional Track Team Head, Champions, and IT only embraces continuous learning but also ensures our Leads. team is well-versed in the latest technological trends. On a weekly basis, we conduct IT roadmap reviews with What are your thoughts on emerging technologies such the Business Functional Track Team Head and associated as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of members. These sessions serve as a platform to collectively Things, and how do you see them impacting your establish priorities and meticulously monitor the progress of industry? project deliveries. This structured approach ensures seamless communication and alignment between the I believe emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, technology team and other integral departments, fostering a blockchain, and the Internet of Things are poised to spirit of collaboration and efficiency. significantly impact our industry. As a labor-intensive organization, incorporating augmented reality and digital Can you discuss any challenges you have faced as a twins becomes crucial to optimizing resource allocation, CTO and how you have overcome them? particularly by avoiding skilled personnel spending excessive time traveling to remote sites. The integration of Addressing challenges in my role as a Chief Technology AI holds immense potential for mitigating health and safety Officer (CTO) has been a dynamic journey. One notable incidents, providing an effective means of control in our challenge has been managing the constant turnover of team operational landscape. These technologies represent not just members, which inherently triggers shifts in processes and advancements but strategic tools that can streamline consequently impacts the maturity of our technology. processes and enhance overall efficiency in our Additionally, navigating through the frequent changes in organization. business requirements and grappling with unclear master data have posed difficulties, contributing to some projects Please give us a few testimonials from your clients and exceeding their planned timelines. Overcoming these awards or recognition that accurately highlight your challenges has required a combination of adaptability, achievements in the corporate niche. strategic planning, and a commitment to refining our processes to maintain technological resilience and project • CIO of the Year 2023 from CXO DX LEAP Media efficiency. Solutions in 2023 • ICT Leadership Award in 2023 from CXO Insight How do you promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development within your technology Middle East team? • Top CISO Award in Construction & Engineering Fostering a culture of ongoing learning and professional Industry from QNA development within our technology team involves several strategic initiatives. We actively encourage attendance at • Best Digital Transformation Projects Award in the Data seminars and facilitate exposure to new technologies. & AI Summit in Riyadh; Additionally, we mandate that each team member obtain at least one certification per year to stay abreast of industry advancements. Moreover, we conduct technology 36 December, 2023 www.thecioworld.com

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