“To serve those most in need,” “Empathy,” and “Contributing to the society.” Many people use these words and phrases, but very few actually make the effort. Even less, make it their goal and dedicate their life towards the betterment of society.

Dr. Chad Audi, President and CEO of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM), is one of those few people committed to making a difference. A deep empathy for the struggles of marginalized individuals he witnessed in his youth ignited his lifelong dedication to social justice and community empowerment. His greatest challenge has been to balance the expanding and diverse needs of the community with often-limited resources. Dr. Audi displayed exceptional leadership in overcoming this challenge and running a non-profit organization in a dynamic social and economic environment.

A Journey of Unexpected Impact

 Dr. Audi’s professional journey at Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) began unexpectedly. In 1997, prompted by a suggestion to lend a helping hand to a struggling non-profit, Dr. Audi volunteered his financial expertise. This initial volunteer work introduced him to Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) and its mission.

Before volunteering, Dr. Audi’s understanding of homelessness and addiction was limited. The image of individuals holding signs for spare change was his primary perception. However, through his volunteer work, he gained a deeper understanding of the complex challenges faced by the homeless, hungry, and those battling addiction. He realized that a simple handout wasn’t enough.

Dr. Audi’s dedication and hard work didn’t go unnoticed. Don DeVos, the president and CEO, recognized his potential and offered him a position in the Finance department. This presented Dr. Audi with a difficult decision. He was already on the cusp of starting a well-paying job in the private sector. Accepting a lower-paying position at a non-profit meant a significant shift in his career trajectory.

“Looking back now, I am glad I took the job at DRMM with the encouragement of my dad, who doubled as my mentor. Since then, I have enjoyed helping to put smiles on the faces of less fortunate persons – both young and old. You can’t put a price tag on it.”

Dr. Chad Audi

Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries: A Legacy of Hope (1909-Present)

Founded in 1909, Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) has served the city’s most vulnerable for over a century. Every day, the organization provides shelter for over 2,400 people and serves more than 4,500 nourishing meals. Originally a soup kitchen, it has grown into a comprehensive organization offering:

DRMM’s commitment to holistic care extends beyond basic needs. It addresses the root causes of homelessness and poverty, empowering individuals to break the cycle.

Key milestones throughout Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM)’s history include:

DRMM’s impact is undeniable. It has helped countless individuals escape homelessness, rebuild their lives, and contribute to the community. This legacy of hope continues to inspire as the organization strives to create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Leveraging Technology for Seamless Support

Technology’s Impact: Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) has embraced technology to enhance the experience. Streamlined intake processes minimize wait times and paperwork burdens. Efficient case management systems provide a holistic view of each client’s journey, facilitating better support coordination and progress tracking. Additionally, online platforms have made vital services and resources more accessible to those in need.

Evolving to Meet Community Needs: Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) prioritizes continuous improvement. It conducts regular assessments of community needs, gathers feedback from clients and staff, and monitors emerging trends in social services. This data-driven approach allows the organization to make informed decisions about expanding existing programs, introducing new initiatives, or adapting its services. As a result, Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) remains a leader in providing comprehensive and adaptable support to those who need it most.

Early Hurdles and Financial Stewardship

“Like other direct service non-profits, we have faced a myriad of challenges and have used all the good tools at our disposal to overcome them,”

Dr. Chad Audi

Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) faced several significant challenges during its early years. Securing consistent funding, establishing trust within the community, and building the infrastructure necessary to support its diverse services were all critical hurdles. Overcoming these obstacles required perseverance, the establishment of strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on fulfilling DRMM’s mission.

Before assuming the role of president and CEO in 2004, Dr. Audi served as the organization’s chief operating officer (COO) with oversight of the finance department. During this period, DRMM faced financial hardship, experiencing several difficult months without the resources to meet all its obligations. Dr. Audi and his team led the development and execution of a thorough financial stability plan. This plan, rooted in sound financial practices, successfully steered Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) towards a position of financial stability. Committed to preventing the recurrence of such a situation, Dr. Audi implemented strategic financial management practices that continue to ensure the organization’s long-term fiscal health.

Servant Leadership and Visionary Growth

Dr. Audi’s leadership style embodies the principles of servant leadership, inclusivity, and empowerment. He leads by example, fostering a culture of compassion and dedication within his team. This philosophy permeates every aspect of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM). Comprehensive training programs equip staff and volunteers, open communication channels encourage collaboration, and a strong emphasis on teamwork ensures a unified approach to fulfilling the organization’s mission.

Balancing Innovation and Stability

Dr. Audi recognizes the need to balance innovation with stability. He achieves this through strategic planning and data-driven decision-making. Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) stays attuned to the community’s needs and powers technology to introduce new programs while maintaining core stability. This balance is achieved through careful financial management, constant evaluation of program effectiveness, and a willingness to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Risk Management and Calculated Growth

Risk-taking at Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) is not reckless. Thorough risk assessments, scenario planning, and a solid governance structure mitigate potential pitfalls while allowing for the pursuit of innovative solutions. This measured approach helps DRMM balance responsible fiscal management with the pursuit of its mission.

Through innovative programs, compassionate care, and a steadfast commitment to its mission, Dr. Audi and Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) continue to uplift the lives of countless individuals.

The Trajectory of Impact: A Testament to Visionary Leadership

A Turning Point for Transformation: 

A pivotal moment in DRMM’s growth was the expansion of its services to include comprehensive substance abuse treatment and mental health programs. This broadened scope allowed the organization to address the root causes of homelessness and addiction, leading to more sustainable and impactful outcomes.

Exponential Growth and Impact: 

DRMM’s trajectory since its inception reflects a remarkable journey. From serving a few hundred meals daily and providing basic shelter, the organization has expanded its services to become a multifaceted provider. Today, thousands receive daily nourishment, and several transformative programs empower individuals to rebuild their lives. This growth is evident by the organization’s budget expanding from $4 million to $25 million and its physical reach increasing from three sites to twenty-two across five counties.

The Cornerstones of Success: 

DRMM’s enduring success rests on the commitment to its mission, visionary leadership, community support, and the ability to adapt to needs. By consistently prioritizing the well-being of its clients and maintaining a high standard of service excellence, Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) has earned the trust and respect of the community it serves.

Stories of Change 

The Ripple Effect of Visionary Leadership

Dr. Audi’s story is one of unexpected calling and dedication. What began as a volunteer effort to lend financial expertise to a struggling non-profit blossomed into a lifelong commitment to social justice and community empowerment. 

Under Dr. Audi’s leadership, Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) has flourished. This growth is evident in the countless lives transformed.

On the other hand, the organization’s impact is undeniable. Stories like Stephani’s, a woman who overcame addiction and homelessness to reunite with her family, and Vince’s, a formerly incarcerated individual who now guides others towards a second chance, are testaments to DRMM’s transformative power.

Dr. Audi’s leadership, coupled with the dedication of the entire Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries (DRMM) team, has created a legacy of hope—offering a lifeline to those in need and building a brighter future.

Technology has shortened people’s patience, and waiting for extended periods seems unnecessary. This is where logistics and express delivery play a crucial role in ensuring seamless movement and delivery of goods. But for the entire logistics chain to be seamless, it significantly relies on strong organization and unwavering customer focus. Only then can a company efficiently transport goods and deliverables across vast distances and diverse markets.

At the heart of the global logistics network lies TCI Express Ltd., a cornerstone of India’s express delivery industry renowned for its organizational prowess and unwavering customer-centric approach. Chander Agarwal (Managing Director) spearheads this intricate operation with a commitment to excellence and innovation. Under his leadership, TCI Express not only ensures efficient product flow across vast distances and diverse markets but also pioneers sustainable practices and transformative growth strategies.

A Transformative Figure in the Logistics Industry

Chander Agarwal, the Managing Director of TCI Express, is a transformative figure in the logistics industry, driven by a fervent commitment to innovation and sustainability. Leading one of India’s fastest-growing express delivery companies, he has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives such as establishing the country’s largest B2B automated sorting center and championing the adoption of renewable energy sources. Chander’s leadership is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, continuously setting new benchmarks that push the industry forward.

Yet, Chander’s aspirations go beyond corporate success. His true passion lies in making a meaningful impact on communities and the economy at large. Through TCI Express’s extensive network, he has worked to streamline supply chains, generate employment, and foster economic growth. This profound sense of purpose fuels his dedication to raising the bar in express logistics, continually inspiring progress, and shaping a brighter future for the industry.

About TCI Express

TCI Express, originally established in 1996 as TCI XPS, began as a key division of Transport Corporation of India, a name synonymous with excellence in logistics. Today, TCI Express stands as an independent, publicly listed company dedicated to revolutionizing express cargo delivery across India. With a sharp focus on time-sensitive distribution and a strategic emphasis on the booming e-commerce sector, TCI Express is uniquely positioned as the only express cargo company in India with its expansive setup. Backed by a team of over 3000 professionals and a vast network of over 50,000 pickup and 60,000 delivery locations, TCI Express ensures unparalleled service and efficiency, reflecting a steadfast commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction in the logistics landscape.

TCI Express’s Vision

L- Loved by customers in Indian and International markets.

E- Express multimodal fastest company.

A- Always ahead of the rest in speed and professionalism.

D- Delight our customers every time.

E- Excellence in service using the latest in technology.

R- Reliable to all our customers and respected by all our stakeholders.

From Passion to Purpose

Chander’s journey into the logistics industry is deeply rooted in his family’s legacy with the TCI Group, a business renowned for its six-decade-long presence in Indian logistics. However, what truly captivated him was the untapped potential he saw in India’s express delivery sector. Despite the significant economic implications, this field needed more organized, efficient, and customer-focused services that could transform the way goods were moved across the country. This realization inspired Chander to venture into express logistics, driven by a vision to bridge this gap and revolutionize the sector.

Establishing TCI Express was more than a business decision; it was a mission to redefine the standards of express delivery in India. Chander’s passion for operational excellence and customer-centric innovation propelled him to tackle the challenges head-on. He recognized the profound impact that a more efficient and focused service could have, not just on the industry but on the broader economy. This drive to harness untapped opportunities and elevate the logistics landscape fueled his commitment to making TCI Express a leader in the field, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

Shaping Logistics through Vision and Leadership 

Chander’s journey into the logistics industry is a narrative of strategic foresight and transformative leadership. His early career with Transfreight, USA, working with Toyota Motor Vehicles, offered him a front-row seat to the intricacies of lean logistics. This pivotal experience instilled in him a deep appreciation for operational efficiency and set the groundwork for his future innovations. Further enriching his expertise, a stint at Mitsui Logistics expanded his grasp on lean methodologies and underscored the importance of precision and adaptability in logistics.

A defining moment came in 2016 when Chander assumed the role of Managing Director at TCI Express. His leadership was transformative, guiding the company through a pivotal demerger and subsequent listing on major stock exchanges. Under his direction, TCI Express rapidly gained a 10% market share and cemented its place among India’s top 500 companies by market capitalization. His involvement with the Express Industry Council of India and the Entrepreneur Organisation has provided a platform for idea exchange and innovation, further propelling the industry forward. Chander’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his recognition as one of the Most Promising Business Leaders of Asia and his accolade as one of the Influential Leaders of India in 2023.

Professional Milestones

Under Chander’s visionary leadership, TCI Express has achieved several transformative milestones that have reshaped the express logistics landscape. A major breakthrough came in 2016 with the successful demerger from the TCI Group, positioning TCI Express as India’s first asset-light express delivery company. This strategic move set the stage for remarkable growth, with the company consistently delivering enhanced margins and profitability. 

Innovations such as the Pharma Cold Chain Express and Rail Express have fueled revenue growth, while the automation of the Gurugram and Pune sorting centers has boosted operational efficiency by 40%. Realizing the need of the hour, Chander emphasizes leveraging digitalization and AI to streamline processes and adopt sustainability initiatives like CNG and electric vehicles. Every day his visionary leadership continues to drive TCI Express towards pioneering advancements and setting industry benchmarks, ensuring sustainable growth and customer satisfaction.

Navigating Challenges

Business is a journey fraught with challenges, and Chander has navigated them firsthand since taking on the role of Managing Director in 2016. One of the most significant hurdles was overseeing TCI Express’s demerger from the TCI Group—a complex process requiring meticulous planning and coordination. Despite emotional complexities, his collaborative approach ensured a seamless transition, establishing TCI Express as an independent leader in express logistics.

The implementation of GST presented another hurdle, demanding swift adaptation to new regulatory frameworks. Leveraging his experience, Chander fostered innovation and assembled a dynamic team to navigate these changes effectively. By prioritizing customer-centric solutions and operational efficiency, TCI Express not only overcame these challenges but also thrived as India’s top B2B express service provider.

However, calamities and pandemics are beyond preparation. They catch us off guard and require extraordinary efforts to navigate, ensuring survival and business continuity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chander’s proactive strategies and stringent safety measures ensured uninterrupted operations, highlighting his adept leadership in overcoming adversity and sustaining growth for TCI Express.

Motivation behind Leadership

Chander’s motivation stems from his drive to redefine logistics standards through customer-centricity and technological leadership. Navigating challenges strengthens his determination to excel, whether spearheading the demerger or achieving milestones like India’s largest automated sorting center. Yet, his ultimate inspiration lies in the positive impact TCI Express makes within communities through its services. This holistic vision of creating enduring value fuels his passion for leading TCI Express to unprecedented heights. Embracing his family legacy as a responsibility and an opportunity, Chander is driven to push boundaries and shape the future of the logistics industry.

Guiding Principles for Personal and Professional Integrity

Chander’s leadership is anchored in a set of core values that blend professional excellence with personal integrity. Professionally, he champions a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous growth within TCI Express. Central to his approach is transparency and ethical conduct, foundational to building trust among all stakeholders.

Pillars of Leadership

On a personal level, Chander embodies empathy, humility, and resilience, which shape his interactions and decision-making. Leading by example, he inspires his team through dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. His commitment to societal contribution underscores his belief in creating a positive impact beyond business realms. These values collectively reinforce his unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences. By prioritizing customer needs, leveraging technology, and fostering a customer-centric culture, Chander ensures that TCI Express remains at the forefront of industry innovation and success.

Guiding Lights

Chander has drawn enduring inspiration from his late grandfather, Shri Prabhu Dayal Agarwal (PD ji), whose visionary leadership founded the TCI Group in 1958 with a single truck in Kolkata under the ethos of “One Man, One Truck, One Office.” PD Ji’s profound belief, “Organizations are built by people. People are built by opportunities. Only a true leader provides those opportunities,” continues to shape Chander’s leadership philosophy.

His principles of resilience, strategic thinking, and dedication remain pivotal in guiding Chander’s approach at TCI Express, empowering him to navigate challenges and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Beyond PD ji, Chander has been inspired by leaders in the logistics and business sectors who exemplify resilience and visionary thinking. Their ability to seize opportunities and overcome challenges has influenced his entrepreneurial perspective. These insights reinforce Chander’s dedication to fostering innovation, driving sustainable growth, and delivering exceptional value, echoing PD Ji’s legacy of disciplined business strategies and visionary leadership.

Beyond the Boardroom

As an entrepreneur, Chander prioritizes striking a balance between his professional commitments and personal well-being. Each day begins with invigorating exercise and meditation, practices that cultivate mental clarity and resilience essential for his leadership role. He maintains focus throughout the day with proper nutrition, ensuring his body and mind are fueled for the challenges ahead.

Conscious breaks scheduled during the day allow Chander to recharge and reconnect with loved ones, even if briefly, which rejuvenates him and enhances his productivity. He firmly upholds weekly family time as non-negotiable, completely unplugging to be fully present in those moments. This dedication to personal rituals and family underscores Chander’s holistic approach to leadership and life.

Translating Learnings from the Past into Advice for Future Leaders

Reflecting on his journey, Chander would advise his younger self to embrace adaptability and resilience early on. In the dynamic logistics landscape, agility and perseverance are crucial. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, learning from setbacks, and seizing new opportunities boldly. Clear communication of vision is also vital for aligning and motivating teams. By cultivating adaptability, Chander believes one can confidently navigate uncertainties, unlock potential, and achieve enduring success.

For aspiring entrepreneurs and future leaders, Chander urges a focus on societal benefit through innovation and understanding customer needs. Embrace challenges as growth opportunities, maintain integrity amid market shifts, and prioritize continuous learning and sustainable technology. Foster resilient teams with shared values, build strong stakeholder relationships, and embody humility, courage, and a commitment to meaningful value creation. Chander believes this mindset empowers leaders to succeed and leave a positive legacy.

Despite the higher population in rural Philippines, the healthcare ecosystem is drawn more toward urban areas due to potentially higher career opportunities and income. However, this adversely puts doctors working in rural areas under a significant strain. A 2022 Statista report found a staggeringly low doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:26000.

Understanding the severity of the problem, Medgate Philippines introduced telemedicine consultations under the visionary leadership of Stavros Athanasiou, President of Medgate Philippines—efficiently catering to Filipinos in rural areas with limited healthcare facilities and mobility to make innovative healthcare more accessible.

Strategic Expansion of Telemedicine

Leveraging the experience of its Swiss parent company, Medgate Philippines was founded in 2015 to address the challenge of limited healthcare access in the Philippines, particularly in remote areas. 

By providing convenient teleconsultations through multiple channels like phone, website, and social media, they ensured easy access to medical help. In 2016, a strategic partnership with Intellicare expanded its reach by integrating telemedicine into existing healthcare plans.

With overworked resources at hospitals everywhere, telemedicine worked wonders for Medgate Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic as a safe and reliable alternative—cementing its role in the healthcare industry.

A Wealth of Experience

What sets Medgate apart from its competitors is its wealth of experience—26 years of handling more than 14 million teleconsultations globally. The platform is robust and tested for reliability and for delivering high-volume teleconsultations to a large member base.

The tele-treatment guidelines allow a General Practitioner to treat a dermatological case or an Internist to treat pediatric and other cases. Instead of relying solely on the knowledge of an individual doctor, Medgate is driven by the work generated by the entire body—enabling doctors to treat and diagnose patients with utmost confidence.

This approach has enabled Medgate to achieve a case resolution rate of 83%, higher than its competition. The medical co-management approach, where doctors with multiple specializations consult on a single case, was the primary reason behind this success.

Medgate is one of the pioneers who passed the rigorous accreditation of the Philippine Department of Health (DoH) to deliver teleconsultation services to Filipinos during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) period implemented to curb COVID-19. It allowed Medgate to reach more Filipinos and work with organizations that play a role in addressing the pandemic.

Understanding the concerns of the Filipino demographic about online consultations, Medgate Philippines prioritizes a patient-centered approach—avoiding a robotic script and focusing on conversation, ensuring patients feel comfortable sharing their worries. This detailed discussion allows for a personalized care plan based on medical history, lifestyle, and specific patient needs.

Global Heritage Leading to Success

Medgate Philippines leverages its international heritage for success. Building on 26 years of telemedicine experience, Medgate linked it to the unique needs of the Filipino people. Understanding the challenges of access, we offer 24/7 consultations through various channels, making healthcare convenient for everyone.

Our robust technology is another pillar of success. We utilize a secure communication platform and a comprehensive telemedicine ecosystem, ensuring patient privacy with encryption protocols and compliant practices. We further empower our patients by providing educational resources, wellness talks, and preventive care reminders, helping them take control of their health.

Patient well-being Above All

The success of telemedicine hinges on putting patients first and recognizing their unique problems. More than just a friendly chat, a patient wants a solution. Medgate understands this and prioritizes conversation to build rapport without abandoning its primary goals.

The training process at Medgate emphasizes deep listening, compassionate communication, and building rapport in a virtual setting. This patient-centric approach of Medgate fosters the trust required for the acceptance of telemedicine—a primary contributor to its positive reputation and continued growth in the Philippines.

Collaborative Approach Enhancing Outcomes

Understanding that collaboration is essential for providing the best possible healthcare, Medgate actively partners with various healthcare professionals and organizations. By integrating telemedicine into its existing services, it reaches more Filipinos in underserved areas—tackling their challenges efficiently.

The partnerships often include specialists across various medical fields. It enables doctors to consult with experts whenever required—streamlining complex conditions. By working with insurance providers and pharmacies, Medgate enhances its processes to make the patient journey hassle-free. 

Future of Telemedicine

Digital health solutions will be pivotal in transforming healthcare—making it more accessible, personalized, and efficient. With advancements such as 5G, high-quality consultations will reach even more remote areas to ensure everyone gets the care they deserve.

As wearable devices become sophisticated, their integration into telemedicine platforms will be seamless—giving doctors real-time insight into the progress graph.

On the other hand, telemedicine will not be exclusive to consultations. It will expand beyond consultations to include preventive care, chronic disease management, and even some forms of remote therapy. Anonymized telemedicine data will fuel cutting-edge research, driving discoveries and making treatment plans more individualized than ever.

Enhancing Healthcare Accessibility and Inclusivity

“Everyone deserves quality healthcare, regardless of location or circumstance.”

Medgate continues to break barriers to make healthcare more inclusive across the Philippines by addressing geographic limitations. Its reliable telemedicine services are accessible through a phone, internet, or social media.

Recognizing that health concerns are dynamic and can go beyond office hours, doctors at Medgate are available 24/7 to help people with unconventional schedules or urgent needs. In addition, its multiple channels are also accessible via phone, website, mobile app, and social media—catering to diverse populations and bridging the digital divide.

Social media helps reach a broader audience with health education messages, educational resources on common health issues, and preventive care measures to empower individuals through knowledge sharing—helping them make informed decisions.

The Philippines is diverse with its linguistic nuances and dialects spoken through the archipelago. Medgate appoints multi-lingual doctors to ensure the language barriers do not hinder access to healthcare for non-Filipino and non-English speakers. Serving the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) suffering from the lack of healthcare infrastructure is a priority for Medgate. 

Medgate Values

• 24/7 Access: Get help anywhere, anytime.
• Telemedicine Innovation: We embrace technology for better care.
• Efficient Care: Quality consultations that save you time and money.
• Compassionate Support: We understand and treat you with respect.

Medgate Transforming Healthcare

• Faster Care: Get medical attention quicker, potentially avoiding unnecessary hospital visits.
• More Affordable: Telemedicine consultations can be a budget-friendly option.
• Shorter Waits: Skip the waiting room! Telemedicine reduces wait times for appointments.
• Convenience: Receive expert care from anywhere, reducing travel needs.

Company Information

In a world teetering on the edge of massive change, a new breed of techpreneurs is emerging. These visionaries aren’t just building the next viral app or social media platform – they’re tackling the most pressing issues of our time. From harnessing renewable energy to revolutionising healthcare access, these inspiring individuals are not just building companies, they’re revamping the future. 

Juan Carlos Ruiz Monzien, as a Chief Growth Officer at Adglow, focuses on cultivating highly effective workforces. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in driving business growth through the development of high-performance teams. Juan is adept at translating strategic plans into actionable solutions and benchmarks performance against critical operational goals.

Leading by Example

Juan Carlos joined Adglow ten years ago as an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. The vision of transforming digital advertising first in Colombia and then across Latin America resonated deeply with him. The biggest challenge, according to Juan Carlos, has been adapting to the unique needs of each market. Each country has its own culture and way of doing business, and understanding that has been crucial.

For Juan Carlos, leadership is about empowerment, collaboration, and leading by example. He strives to model the values of open communication and respect, encouraging his team to feel valued and free to share their ideas. This atmosphere not only fosters a strong, innovative culture within the team but also extends to interactions with clients. By personally demonstrating these principles, Juan Carlos helps establish a foundation for great partnerships and lasting relationships with clients.

Strategy for Long Term Growth and Innovation

Juan describes the balancing act as tricky, but he and his team navigate it by being highly adaptable and data-driven. They analyse trends and customer feedback to guide their decisions and help them take calculated risks. While not every risk pays off, each one provides valuable lessons. Their focus is on long-term growth and profitability, ensuring they continually integrate new, effective practices while maintaining what already works. This approach allows them to stay current and competitive, adapting their strategies to consistently deliver the best results.

Developing talent is essential for Juan’s team. They evaluate performance, drive, and potential, while also encouraging feedback. Mentorship is a key component, as it helps nurture talent and foster a collaborative environment. Recently, they were recognized as a great place to work, highlighting their commitment to the team’s growth and satisfaction.

Expanding Horizons

Adglow specialises in connecting brands with their audiences through impactful digital media campaigns. With a strong presence in Latin America and a growing footprint in Africa, Adglow has built lasting partnerships in these regions. The company’s focus on data-driven solutions has earned it recognition as one of the top ten campaign management service companies.

Adglow began with a focus on paid social media but has since expanded to cover the entire spectrum of digital advertising. Now, it offers comprehensive services, including creative strategy and data analytics. For some clients, Adglow also plans, buys, and executes offline media, ensuring a fully integrated approach that meets each client’s unique needs effectively and efficiently.

Integration of Customer Feedback and Industry Trends

Adglow is platform-agnostic and adapts to each client’s needs by incorporating the best technology, whether in-house or external. Technology is at the core of Adglow’s approach, enabling the company to target the right audiences and optimise campaigns in real time. This ensures that clients’ messages reach the right people at the best possible cost, leading to improved engagement and results.

Juan and his team are always listening to their customers and keeping an eye on industry trends, which helps them stay relevant and continuously improve their offerings. By being responsive to market changes and exploring new possibilities through small, adventurous tests, they ensure clients always receive the best service. Thanks to Adglow’s global footprint, Juan engages with a wide range of service and product providers, keeping the team well-informed and up-to-date on the latest developments.

Adglow stands at the forefront of digital marketing technology, driven by a mission to empower brands to achieve their objectives through innovative digital advertising strategies. By leveraging advanced analytics and tailored technology solutions, Adglow collaborates closely with clients to decode their unique challenges and craft campaigns that deliver measurable results and drive profitability.

Cultural Insights and Economic Resilience

Juan encountered a multifaceted set of challenges when expanding into new markets. Without local contacts, they had to establish their network and reputation from scratch, necessitating a deep understanding of each country’s unique cultural and consumer behaviours. Addressing these nuances was crucial for crafting customised solutions that resonated with local clients and built the trust necessary for long-term partnerships.

In addition to cultural challenges, economic hurdles such as currency instability in some operational countries also presented significant obstacles. These issues required innovative financial strategies and a flexible approach to their business model.

Despite these challenges, Juan and Adglow have achieved notable successes. Mexico, in particular, stands out as a prime example where, despite pivoting from their initial product offering, they successfully retained most of their longest-standing business partners. This adaptability and evolution of services have been pivotal to their success, demonstrating their commitment to meeting client needs under varying external conditions.

Driving Success Through Client Relationships

Adglow’s initial growth was propelled by strong partnerships with social media platforms and successful campaign executions. However, the true driver of their enduring success has been the deep, trusting relationships cultivated with clients, whose recommendations to others have been invaluable. Adglow’s ability to rapidly adapt to market demands and customise products and services to meet each client’s specific needs has solidified their reputation as experts during challenging times.

Additionally, Adglow attributes their achievements to the unwavering commitment and hard work of their team. Every member contributes through dedication and innovative thinking, continually pushing the boundaries of what they can achieve together. Their adeptness in engaging with and understanding clients’ deepest needs sets them apart and propels their progress.

While social media platforms were crucial initially and remain important partners, Adglow underscores that client trust, strong local networking, and the relentless effort of their team have been foundational to their sustained success.

Path to Sustainable Growth

Juan attributes their success to a steadfast commitment to innovation and a customer-centric approach, but emphasises that their dedicated team is the driving force behind their growth. It is the team members who stand at the forefront, adapting swiftly to evolving market conditions and consistently fortifying partnerships. The talent and diligence of the team at every level have proven indispensable in overcoming challenges and capitalising on opportunities. Their expertise and unwavering commitment ensure alignment with client needs, enabling them to adapt strategies and services for optimal impact. This team-driven approach not only sustains their growth but also solidifies their standing as an industry leader.

Transforming Advertising with Data-Driven Strategies

Adglow has expanded from its roots in social media advertising to encompass a wide range of online and offline advertising strategies. Their comprehensive solutions, which include media strategy and data analytics, aim to maximize ROI and engagement across all channels. This approach ensures that client campaigns are both effective and impactful, seamlessly integrating online and offline advertising efforts.

Central to Adglow’s strategy is technology, particularly advanced data analytics, which enhances online media planning, execution, and optimization. By leveraging real-time data, Adglow achieves precise audience targeting, gaining deep insights into demographic groups’ behaviors and preferences. This level of understanding enables tailored campaign strategies that resonate with target audiences, significantly boosting advertising effectiveness.

Adglow’s technology also facilitates dynamic campaign adjustments. Continuous data analysis allows their teams to optimize various campaign elements such as ad placements, content, and timing based on performance trends and patterns. This ongoing optimization process ensures campaigns continually improve, maximizing ROI and enhancing the overall customer experience with more relevant and engaging content.

In summary, Adglow’s sophisticated use of data analytics transforms traditional online media planning into a highly adaptive and effective tool. This approach not only drives superior results for clients but also enhances consumer satisfaction by delivering impactful advertising experiences.

Integrated Advertising Excellence

In the dynamic realm of digital advertising, staying abreast of the latest technology isn’t merely advantageous—it’s indispensable. Juan and his team are committed to pushing boundaries, particularly with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). AI isn’t just a trend; it represents a transformative shift that they are actively exploring to enhance effectiveness. While acknowledging its buzzworthy status, Juan emphasizes their genuine pursuit of AI’s potential to advance campaigns with real-time responsiveness and intelligence.

Adhering to their ‘adapt or die’ philosophy, Juan and his team leverage AI to maintain competitive edge, ensuring clients remain ahead of the curve and well-positioned to capitalize on market opportunities.

Pioneering Data Driven Solutions

Adglow utilises a diverse array of platforms selected for their capacity to support scalable, data-driven solutions. This technological mix grants them the agility to customize approaches tailored to each client’s unique requirements, crucial in navigating the rapid evolution of today’s digital landscape. By maintaining versatility in their toolset, Adglow ensures consistent effectiveness and relevance in their strategies.

The introduction of Fenek represents a significant leap forward in Adglow’s campaign management capabilities. This autonomous deployment tool, enhanced with artificial intelligence, automates campaign implementation and optimization processes. Operated through an advanced briefing system, Fenek updates and optimizes campaigns in real-time while maintaining a comprehensive change log accessible at any moment.

Collaborative Risk Mitigation

Fenek functions as an agnostic martech platform, seamlessly integrating with diverse marketing technologies to enhance scalability and deliver outstanding outcomes across projects. It prioritizes data security and privacy by establishing fully isolated client environments, empowering brands to oversee and optimize their marketing campaigns while retaining complete control over their data.

In addition to standard campaign monitoring, Fenek simplifies operational workflows within Paid Media. It enables users to monitor campaign performance metrics, implementation volumes, user activity, and team engagement levels, offering invaluable insights into critical metrics. This capability streamlines processes and refines strategies based on detailed user behaviors and preferences.

Juan and his team adopt a strategic approach to risk, methodically assessing each opportunity before proceeding. To minimize potential risks, they frequently collaborate with one or two clients to pilot new concepts, using these trials to evaluate effectiveness and fine-tune their strategies. Moreover, they mitigate exposure by engaging multiple stakeholders in the decision-making process. This collaborative strategy not only reduces risks but also gathers diverse perspectives, enriching the overall impact and success of their initiatives.

The wireless technology industry is dynamic and visionary leaders play an important role in driving innovation and addressing critical challenges. They need to have a clear vision for their business and be able to communicate and inspire customers and employees to follow it. Fernando Murias, Chairman & CEO of Digital Global Systems Inc., is a recognized leader for his vision of safeguarding critical assets and optimizing networks for the dawning age of 5G. He emphasizes the macroeconomic advantages of dynamic spectrum sharing, highlighting its potential to deliver tremendous economic and national security benefits, including applications in smart cities, telehealth, and national security.

Education & Career

Fernando Murias earned a BS in Accounting & Economics from the University of Maryland – Robert H. Smith School of Business. He also holds an Accounting & Economics degree from the University of Maryland College Park. Fernando worked with Charity Works, DC, and was the chairman of the Greater Washington Sports Alliance Foundation from August 2002 to December 2016. He worked with PwC for 16 years in various leadership roles from 1997 to 2013. He has been a dedicated philanthropist and has been involved in various charitable organizations throughout his career. 

Changing the Wireless Technology

Digital Global Systems was founded in 2013 with the intention of simplifying wireless spectrum management. The company blends broad experience and deep expertise in the fields of defense, transportation, utilities, public safety, and telecoms. In the past, telcos, government agencies, and enterprise customers deployed spectrum analyzers to find trouble spots in their communication networks, each requiring a trained RF (Radio Frequency) engineer to interpret the findings. Fernando saw a way to utilize distributed computing to analyze the spectrum, find anomalies such as interference or degraded performance at the point of intercept, and report this to stakeholders in layman’s terms. 

Since then, Digital Global Systems have developed the ability to optimize the spectrum automatically. The company achieved this by giving real-time RF awareness data to network infrastructure components. This allows operators to pack the wireless spectrum more densely without increasing interference. DGS’s patented technology is the foundation for dynamic spectrum sharing, a key pillar in the 2023 National Spectrum Strategy released by the White House. With over 200 patents, DGS is at the forefront of utilizing advanced machine learning and AI to optimize spectrum and enable new revenue-generating services autonomously.

Overcoming Challenges

The biggest challenge with any start-up with innovative technology is getting to the right person in an organization that understands the differentiation created by the technology. Innovation is critical, but getting large firms to adopt new technology takes a lot of persistence. Change is necessary but hard. Market trends like adopting machine learning and artificial intelligence continue to impact DGS’s client base. Staying ahead of these trends and adopting technology can also be a challenge. The company has done a great job of anticipating trends and developing patented solutions in these key areas.

Products and Solutions

Digital Global Systems have been awarded over 200 patents for advancing spectrum monitoring and RF data management, enabling the capture and analysis of wideband spectrum data at the point of intercept for applications that deliver real-time situational awareness. It offers off-the-shelf solutions consisting of hardware and/or downloadable software, which address needs across multiple verticals, and custom solutions that solve specific challenges. Its patent portfolio is second only to Qualcomm in the area of spectrum management and leads in several key areas, such as data collection, data processing, and dynamic spectrum sharing.

The company has developed sensor-based technology and accompanying software tools to capture and analyze the RF environment. These tools have been implemented in systems currently in use across multiple verticals. The goal of the toolsets is to provide information about all signals present in the RF environment, including, but not limited to, their properties, interactions, and overall spectrum utilization. The company refers to this information as “RF Awareness.”

Advancement in the Services

To take DGS a step further in its products and services, Fernando and his team look at market trends and stay close to understanding what customers are looking for to drive its development focus. The company focuses on chipsets, spatial and sub-orbital data utilization, and artificial intelligence. DGS is key in enabling dynamic spectrum sharing and the next generation of AI dealing with machine-to-machine automation. Providing information in near real-time by processing signals at the edge will enable a host of new services in the new digital economy.

Digital Global Systems has partnered with a large cable company that is building out a private wireless network across an entire city. The cable company will use shared spectrum from CBRS, and DGS RF Awareness ensures that they have available bandwidth for their customers while also identifying any interference sources. The company expects to expand this solution to major markets across the US over the next few years.

Staying Innovative and Balancing Opportunities

To stay innovative and competitive in the industry, the company stays updated with recent changes in the market, customer needs, and pending legislation. This allows it to form a strategy for its development effort. It also assesses technical advancement against market size and development efforts and prioritizes its R&D accordingly. It has a very high threshold for risk.

Digital Global Systems balances business opportunities and risks against development resource needs and ensures the movement of resources doesn’t disrupt its other development efforts. They are opening new markets with their innovation, so there will always be some inherent risk. 

Substantial Growth and Development

Digital Global Systems development efforts have been their primary focus. The company recently exceeded 200 issued patents and expects to reach 300 by the end of 2024. They anticipated the need for software to be placed on chipsets while also recognizing that the US government would require new spectrum auctions to be shared. It is the only firm with a working solution to enable dynamic spectrum sharing, analyzing signals in the environment in multiple dimensions. 

The company also anticipated the importance of machine learning and artificial intelligence in applications like theirs and started filing patents years ago in the space. The significant patent awards, along with market trends such as RAN functions moving into the cloud and the shift to an Open RAN architecture, have positioned the company for substantial growth. These developments have created a perfect storm for the company’s expansion.

Long-Standing Success and Focus on Innovation

The company’s focus leans heavily toward innovation. It is creating a transformative platform with the real value of creation resting in its technology. Fernando has successfully raised enough capital so that DGS can drive its development effort aggressively without being overly concerned about revenue generation. As the company moves out of its R&D phase into commercial production, it is now more focused on partnerships and revenue opportunities. 

Fernando points out that DGS’s long-standing success stems from its clear understanding of market trends. This, coupled with its ability to stay ahead of these trends and a ferocious focus on product development and patent filings, has been the key. The company’s success in raising over $100 million without involving VCs or PE firms has allowed it to pivot quickly. This has been especially valuable in a market that has experienced numerous shifts over the past 10 years.

Collaborative Company Culture

Digital Global Systems technology is complex and on the leading edge. Creating a learning environment is a major priority in the field of engineering. The company’s CTO and Director of Engineering both have a key focus on developing its people. It has a small leadership team so they can have consistent communication, ensuring that no silos get created. Sharing ideas and creating a collaborative environment have been critical to the rapid development of its solutions.

In 2021, the global logistics industry boasted a value exceeding 8.4 trillion euros, a testament to its immense contribution to the world economy. This figure is projected to climb even higher, reaching an estimated 13.7 billion euros by 2027. However, the story goes beyond numbers. In 2020, logistics costs amounted to 10.7% of the global GDP, highlighting the industry’s deep integration into the world’s economic fabric.

At the forefront of this blooming industry is Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC (NSAL), one of the fastest-growing Shipping and Logistics companies in the Middle East. Its extensive global network and dedication to cultivating global trade have positioned it as the preferred logistics partner in its operating regions. Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC is committed to providing first-class cargo management services to its clients, emphasizing full transparency and inclusiveness.

The company enables a professional ethos that attracts individuals who can lead teams into the future. These leaders utilize innovative and inspiring ideas, cutting-edge technology solutions, and a dynamic spirit to implement successful strategies.

A Leader in Middle East Logistics

“We Are Navigators, Responsible Cargo Movers!”

NSAL boasts a robust presence across the UAE, operating from six offices – four strategically located in Dubai, one in the HAFZA zone of Sharjah, and another in Abu Dhabi. This extensive network allows them to serve clients efficiently throughout the region.

Over the past four years, Navigators Shipping has garnered recognition on a global scale, winning several prestigious awards and accolades. This recognition is a testament to its commitment to excellence in Freight forwarding and Logistics.

The company’s dedication extends beyond client satisfaction. Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC fosters a work environment that prioritizes employee well-being. By promoting a healthy work-life balance and organizing regular employee engagement initiatives, it cultivates a vibrant and motivated workforce.

Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC offers a comprehensive suite of logistics services:

With its extensive network, award-winning service, and commitment to employee success, NSAL has established itself as a leading logistics provider in the UAE.

A Place Where Teamwork Meets Unparalleled Reach 

 “We believe in the strength of teamwork above all.” — NSAL.

NSAL prioritizes teamwork above everything else. They promote a company culture built on strong employee attitudes, integrity, and open communication within teams. The company’s employees are seasoned professionals, battle-tested through their careers, who consistently rise to any challenge.

This collaborative spirit extends beyond the company walls. NSAL boasts an unparalleled global presence through its extensive network of agencies and associates. These deep-rooted relationships, built on trust over many years, ensure seamless international operations for its clients.

However, NSAL’s strength goes beyond reach. They understand that exceptional customer service is the cornerstone of any long-term business relationship. Their commitment to client satisfaction is evident in the company’s conscientious approach, striving to see a smile on every customer’s face. This dedication to service has even garnered recognition from its competitors.

In essence, NSAL’s unique selling proposition lies in the powerful combination of a dynamic, collaborative team and an unmatched global network, all underpinned by a relentless focus on exceptional customer service.

Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC Charts a Course for Growth: Business Strategies 

“We foresee a delightful opportunity lying ahead for us as a freight forwarder.” — NSAL.

Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC, a forward-thinking freight forwarding company, has identified exciting opportunities on the horizon. Their business strategy centers around three key pillars:

Beyond these strategic investments, NSAL remains committed to enabling strong relationships. They recognize that customer satisfaction is paramount, and their dedicated customer service team remains a core strength. These service professionals are committed to resolving any customer issue quickly and efficiently, ensuring smooth operations throughout the entire cargo movement process.

By focusing on teamwork, logistics excellence, and relationship-building, NSAL is well-positioned for significant growth in the future. The company’s commitment to continuous improvement ensures they remain a leader in the freight forwarding industry.

A Powerhouse in the GCC, Connected Globally

Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC boasts a robust presence across the GCC region, with six strategically located offices in the UAE. This network includes three offices in Dubai, one in JAFZA, another in HAFZA, and the next one in Abu Dhabi. The company’s commitment to expansion extends beyond the UAE, with a new office in Bahrain nearing completion and plans for further expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This extensive GCC network serves as a springboard for Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC’s global aspirations. They have actively cultivated a strong network of partners worldwide, nurturing memberships with prestigious freight forwarding associations, seamlessly connecting the continents. A decade and a half-long participation in the international freight forwarding community has yielded invaluable relationships with trustworthy partners across the globe.

NSAL is well-positioned to seamlessly manage international trade by combining its strong GCC presence with a well-established global network for its clients.

Committed to Quality, Safety, and a Thriving Workplace

Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC prioritizes operational excellence and adheres to the highest quality standards. Its entire process flow and systems are meticulously governed by internationally recognized certifications: ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management), and OHSAS 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management).

This commitment to ISO protocols extends beyond certification. NSAL meticulously follows standardized procedures to guarantee consistent, high-quality service delivery for its clients. Equally important, the company prioritizes employee well-being and safety. These protocols ensure a healthy and secure work environment for all team members.

Furthermore, NSAL maintains a robust internal audit system. This system verifies that all procedures are thoroughly followed, ensuring consistent performance and exceptional standards across the organization. By prioritizing quality, safety, and employee well-being, Navigators Shipping and Logistica LLC nurtures a thriving workplace and delivers superior service to its clients.

“I am a firm believer in learning constantly by keeping tabs on news and articles, be they professional or personal. Learning does not stop, no matter the age. The day you decide that you know it all is the day you refuse to change.”—quotes Intan.

Believing in continuous learning, Intan Shahira Binti Mohd Shahru (Chief People Officer, AirAsia Group) started her career at the age of 21, and now, 22 years later, her journey reflects how quickly time has passed. Her first job was with Korn Ferry, an international management consultancy firm. A significant moment in her career was when she met her mentor, Tharuma, at Unilever’s regional office in Singapore. He advised her against pursuing an MBA and recommended consulting for the hands-on experience she needed. His advice proved to be valuable. Ten years in consulting provided her with the technical skills, knowledge, and network essential for her success.

Seeking to explore the corporate world, Intan Shahira joined the Central Bank of Malaysia as the Director of Strategic Human Capital for six years. Her unexpected transition to AirAsia came when she was headhunted and given the freedom to shape her role, being told, “It’s an empty sheet of paper, Intan. You decide what you want to paint.” Six years later, despite the challenges of the pandemic, she continues to find inspiration at AirAsia.

Intan Shahira’s journey at AirAsia has been dynamic, starting as the Group Head of Talent and Rewards, moving to Group Head of Centre of Excellence & HR Ops, then Head of People Aviation, and now Chief People Officer for AirAsia Group. Each day presents new challenges and excitement, ensuring that her career is always engaging.

From Vision to Reality

In 2001, the founders of AirAsia set out to create a brand that would be a source of pride for Asean and make air travel more accessible. Their vision was summed up in the tagline, ‘Now Everyone Can Fly’.

Now, 23 years later, AirAsia has become the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, with a team of over 21,000 Allstars serving over 800 million guests across 130 destinations. What started as a simple airline has grown into a globally recognized brand, a leading Asean carrier, and a cutting-edge digital travel and lifestyle platform.

During the pandemic, AirAsia quickly adapted, expanding its services beyond just flight bookings. Today, travelers can easily book flights, hotels, rides, pilgrimage services, insurance, tickets, financial services, and more through one app. The company has also expanded into logistics, same-day delivery services, aircraft engineering, maintenance, ground handling, inflight catering, corporate solutions, and an educational platform.

AirAsia’s diverse offerings showcase its innovation in the industry, always pushing boundaries. With boundless creativity and ambition, who knows what groundbreaking idea AirAsia will unveil next?

At AirAsia, the excitement comes from the unpredictability of what lies ahead. The team is focused on exploring new ideas, innovations, and partnerships. Their main objective right now is to resume operations as they were before the pandemic. The company has successfully brought back all affected employees and has expanded its network to include more routes and even continents (like the upcoming Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi route). 

Intan Shahira’s Strategy for Employee Engagement

As the Chief People Officer at AirAsia, Intan is responsible for the well-being of the company’s 21,000 employees, referred to as AirAsia Allstars. This workforce is diverse, consisting of individuals from various cultures, nationalities, backgrounds, and communities. 

Working closely with her team, Intan ensures that every employee receives adequate support, their voices are heard, and opportunities for personal and professional growth are readily available. The department is referred to as the ‘People Department’ rather than HR, focusing on the individuals who contribute to AirAsia’s success – the dedicated Allstars who play a crucial role in the company’s unity and resilience.

Intan focuses on both tangible and intangible rewards. However, what ultimately drives employees to be fulfilled at work is the AirAsia culture. It’s about taking care of the well-being of the Allstars in every aspect—physical, emotional, financial, professional, and personal growth. With culture comes a sense of belonging, and that is what makes Intan’s team and company culture truly special.

Securing the Future

Intan Shahira’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic at AirAsia demonstrated resilience and strategic decision-making. As a member of the management team, she faced one of the toughest challenges in the airline industry, with significant impacts on their supply chain and operations.

Recognizing the importance of supporting employees, Intan focused on the well-being of the team, known as Allstars. The People Department worked diligently to provide accurate information and maintain a sense of calm through their internal platform, Workplace from Meta, offering updates, resources, and engaging initiatives. She also played a key role in establishing a COVID-19 Vaccination Centre in partnership with the Ministry of Health, prioritizing the health and safety of Allstars and their families. This initiative nurtured a strong sense of community within AirAsia.

Despite the challenges in managing payroll, salary adjustments, and workforce restructuring, Intan remained committed to the team’s well-being. The goal was not just recovery but a resurgence that would see all 2,500 affected Allstars reinstated into the company, showcasing their collective determination and resilience.

The leadership of Intan Shahira has not only guided AirAsia through the crisis but has also set a strong foundation for future growth and success. Her dedication to the team and ability to remain steadfast in the face of adversity reflect the resilience that has defined their journey through the pandemic and beyond.

From HR Function to Strategic Advisor

Intan Shahira observed a significant evolution in HR leadership over the past five years. The role of the CHRO has shifted toward a more central position, providing vital support and guidance to CEOs and Boards as they direct changes. HR functions must become more agile to accommodate rapid transformations within the organization. CHROs are now essential in decision-making, advising top management on people-related matters.

She believes that to be a great HR leader, several qualities are essential:

• Business Acumen: An effective HR leader must be a subject matter expert in all HR and people facets. They should have the ability to advise on people strategies that align with the organization’s business needs.

• Advisor and Confidant: The CHRO bears significant responsibility for the entire organization, with high expectations of confidentiality and trust in daily workplace affairs. Trust and communication are crucial in fostering a cohesive team and organization.

• Resilience: A successful CHRO must have the courage and persistence to push back, speak up, and act in the best interests of both the organization and its employees. They should advocate for what is right, find a balance between employees and the organization, and effectively play the roles of both a good and bad cop.

Learning from Leaders

Intan Shahira’s source of inspiration comes from the various individuals and leaders she has had the opportunity to collaborate with during her career of almost two decades. Rather than idolizing distant figures she has only read or heard about, she finds admiration in those she has worked directly with.

Throughout her professional journey, Intan has been fortunate to work alongside numerous visionary and dedicated leaders, both in her past roles and in her current pursuits. These leaders have exemplified the ability to make critical decisions, direct through challenges, and lead a company with a balance of humility and resilience. They have taught her the importance of prioritizing people, especially during difficult times. For Intan, this represents the true essence of inspiration.

From Workouts to Bedtime Stories

Intan has a secret: There is no work-life balance when you hold a senior leadership role. It’s all about managing your time. With 24 hours in a day, it’s crucial how she allocates her time toward what is important to her – work, kids, and herself.

As a working mom of three children, Intan Shahira ensures that work does not affect home life and vice versa. For her, it’s never about the quantity but the quality of time spent with her kids that makes it worthwhile. She doesn’t claim to know if she’s a good mother, but the smiles on her children’s faces, when they see her before bed, reassure her that she’s doing something right.

Intan’s daily me-time is dedicated to her workouts and runs. Her mornings start with a sweat session, giving her the burst of energy needed to power through the day. Weekends are reserved for quality time with her kids, along with some quiet hours in between to unwind with a coffee and a book.

The Pathway to Personal Growth

Intan advises aspiring business leaders to have humility and the drive to improve in all aspects of life, not just their careers. She believes it’s about staying grounded with a sense of purpose and motivation. According to Intan, one should never fear failure but instead embrace it. Her mantra is simple: Just do it! Live life, take risks and have fun along the way.

Skin, our body’s largest organ, plays a vital role in protecting us from the environment, regulating temperature, and fostering self-confidence. Yet, a multitude of conditions can compromise its health. Fortunately, the field of dermatology is experiencing a surge of innovation, with companies are spearheading to develop solutions that are transforming skin health in 2024.

NeuEsse is at the forefront of skin repair with its innovative technology centered around OmegaSkin, a human skin substitute made entirely from soy protein. This all-natural, plant-based product boasts published research demonstrating its ability to heal full-thickness wounds without scarring. Its regenerative properties promote healing with intact hair follicles and sweat glands.

A Revolution in Skin Repair

NeuEsse, a medical technology company, strives to improve the lives of people with damaged or ageing skin. They recognize that skin is susceptible to injury and requires repair throughout life. From treating severe burns and wounds to repairing skin after biopsies or cosmetic procedures, NeuEsse aims to address these challenges.

Their innovative solution is OmegaSkin, a human skin substitute made from readily available soy protein. Unlike competing therapies, it eliminates the need for complex laboratory preparation, refrigeration, or other logistical hurdles. This novel scaffold dressing is designed to improve healing outcomes and quality of life for patients suffering from wounds, burns, ulcers, and other skin injuries. Ultimately, NeuEsse’s mission is to alleviate the burden of damaged, diseased, traumatised, and ageing skin for millions of people.

NeuEsse’s technology extends beyond wound care, targeting unmet needs in dermatology and aesthetics. OmegaSkin can be used for procedures like biopsies, Mohs surgery, post-laser treatment, mole removal, and breast reconstruction, offering a versatile solution for various skin repair needs.

A Green Solution for Advanced Wound Care

OmegaSkin, environmentally friendly technology offers a significant advancement over traditional post-laser ablation treatments, which often rely on petroleum-based products like Vaseline or Aquaphor. NeuEsse envisions readily available, anatomically correct facial sheets made from OmegaSkin specifically designed for post-laser ablation repair kits. These sheets could be easily applied to accelerate healing, promote rejuvenation, and enhance skin elasticity after treatment.

NeuEsse’s commitment to innovation extends beyond wound care. They have developed a handheld electro-spinner that allows physicians to deliver liquid skin directly to the treatment area without touching the patient. This device offers additional functionality by delivering hyaluronic acid and anti-wrinkle compounds, making it a valuable asset for dermatologists seeking to enhance their treatment options.

The Future of Skin Repair

NeuEsse’s dedication to continuous advancement is further evidenced by ongoing research collaborations with Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. This research aims to validate OmegaSkin as the perfect platform technology for delivering stem cells and growth factors. This breakthrough holds immense promise for developing a “whole new armamentarium” for treating a vast array of skin conditions.

NeuEsse, a pioneering company in skin repair technology, has prioritised research and development, strategically allocating available funds to advance its innovative solutions. With anticipated FDA approval by the end of the year, NeuEsse is currently engaged in a seed-plus funding round. This capital infusion will fuel the further development of their comprehensive dermatology line, encompassing both treatment and aesthetic applications.

The Rise of “Skin Gun”

Being committed to continuous improvement, NeuEsse is planning a redesign of their handheld electro-spinner, prioritising a refined aesthetic that enhances user experience for clinicians. Ultimately, the company aspires to establish a strong presence in dermatology by equipping examination rooms with their advanced technology, envisioned as the “skin gun” of the future.

Beyond cosmetics, NeuEsse’s solutions can be useful in various surgical procedures. Their technology can be applied in minor procedures like mole removal or skin biopsies, as well as in larger surgeries such as cyst removal, breast reconstruction, and MOHS surgery.

For these procedures, NeuEsse has developed a hand-held electrospinner that can deliver liquid skin, hyaluronic acid, and a variety of other therapies to aid in treatments. This technology offers promise for a new era in skin repair and treatment.

Leading Through Adversity

Joseph P. Connell, CEO of NeuEsse, has always employed a collaborative leadership style throughout his 40-year career in the life sciences industry. Presently, he faces the challenge of severe underfunding, which makes this question particularly complex. With no paid employees, he heavily relies on his five scientific advisors, whose advice and wisdom are invaluable.

Connell’s career has spanned managing large teams and building new companies, including NeuEsse, where the entire staff could fit into a Ford Taurus. In times of scarce resources and a small leadership team, he believes it is essential to convince others of the mission and depend on their support to achieve it. His leadership philosophy has consistently focused on treating people fairly to avoid becoming a negative topic of conversation at their family dinners for being a poor leader.

From Wrinkles to Reconstruction

NeuEsse develops solutions to address various skin conditions. Their flagship product, OmegaSkin, is a human skin substitute made from soy protein. This technology offers a new option for dermatologists treating a wide range of skin ailments.

The solutions of the company extend to the cosmetic dermatology field as well. They offer dermatologists an all-natural, plant-based skin patch and a liquid sprayable skin treatment specifically designed to address cosmetic concerns such as wrinkles, birthmarks, and scarring. These treatments are said to promote repair, rejuvenation, and healing with greater elasticity than currently available therapies.

Unmatched Effectiveness

Studies have shown that OmegaSkin heals full-thickness wounds with minimal to no scarring, demonstrating its unparalleled efficacy. This soy protein-based skin substitute is regenerative, promoting the growth of functional hair follicles and sweat glands after healing. This represents a significant advancement over traditional occlusive dressings, which often leave patients with thick scars. To ensure patient safety and effectiveness, OmegaSkin has undergone comprehensive evaluation for safety, biocompatibility, and efficacy. This paves the way for future FDA approval.

Connell is optimistic about its future acceptance and success for patients, given the promising results from animal testing. The research has demonstrated improved efficacy and appearance through OmegaSkin’s regenerative properties in animal models. With a commercial launch anticipated in the first quarter of 2025, Connell looks forward to numerous success stories showcasing the positive impact of OmegaSkin on patients’ lives.

Patient-Centred Approach 

OmegaSkin stands out in the crowded wound healing market due to its favourable availability, affordability, and broad patient acceptance. Unlike other skin substitutes, it is readily available off-the-shelf, eliminating the need for refrigeration, special handling, or laboratory preparation that can hinder application. This translates to increased accessibility for both patients and healthcare providers, with storage unaffected by temperature fluctuations.

Furthermore, OmegaSkin boasts significant cost advantages. Production is considerably less expensive compared to animal-derived or cadaver-based substitutes, which require complex processes like decellularization, sterilisation, and packaging. Despite its affordability, OmegaSkin falls under the same reimbursement codes as its more expensive counterparts, making it a financially attractive option for dermatologists.

The product addresses ethical and religious concerns. Traditional skin substitutes sourced from pigs, cows, or cadavers may be incompatible with certain religious beliefs or cultural practices. OmegaSkin, derived from natural plant-based materials, offers a more widely accepted alternative for these patients.

Dermatology’s Next Breakthrough

Connell identifies several challenges currently facing the dermatology industry, including an ageing population, reimbursement issues, and an ever-increasing demand for services. NeuEsse is diligently working to make OmegaSkin an FDA-approved tool for dermatology practices. Their efforts are focused on ensuring that OmegaSkin is affordable, acceptable, and profitable. Connell is optimistic that these efforts will soon result in the availability of soy protein skin for dermatological use.

Dermatology, a field constantly seeking advancements, is witnessing a rise in demand for procedures beyond creams and lasers, particularly as the population ages and desires a more youthful appearance. NeuEsse recognizes this shift and is actively exploring the incorporation of stem cells and growth factors into their existing skin patch and sprayable skin technologies.

Beyond Wound Healing

Ongoing research at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh is investigating OmegaSkin’s potential as the ideal platform for delivering stem cells and growth factors. The publication of this data is anticipated to propel NeuEsse beyond wound healing and into the realm of advanced skin rejuvenation.

Furthermore, NeuEsse is developing a third-generation skin substitute featuring patented porous gradients. This innovative design offers a more regenerative solution compared to their first-generation OmegaSkin patches. The porous gradients will facilitate enhanced cell infiltration, promoting even greater skin rejuvenation.

A Vision for Comprehensive Skin

NeuEsse’s primary focus lies in demonstrating OmegaSkin’s efficacy in healing, flexibility, and affordability across various dermatological applications, encompassing surgical procedures, aesthetic enhancements, and general skin repair. Their ambition is to establish OmegaSkin as the go-to solution for dermatologists and surgeons alike, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and a more aesthetically pleasing healing process.

Furthermore, NeuEsse is actively exploring the potential of incorporating various therapeutic agents directly into their skin substitute. This includes wrinkle-reducing compounds, antifungals, stem cells, and antibiotics. By expanding their product portfolio with these integrated functionalities, NeuEsse aims to empower dermatologists to deliver the ultimate level of skin care to their patients.

Building a Disruptive Force in Skin Care

NeuEsse offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the competitive world of dermatology. Their core message emphasises the importance of true disruption. In a market saturated with existing solutions, simply offering a “me-too” product presents a significant challenge. The company also highlights the critical role of a strong team and adequate funding.  The development of OmegaSkin faced delays due to bootstrapping, a strategy of financing a business with limited external funding. This experience underscores the importance of securing sufficient resources upfront to ensure a smooth and timely launch.

“Test your limits. You will find none.”

The idea of having “no limitation as limitation” represents the boundless potential within each individual. By refusing to accept limitations in our abilities, we challenge ourselves to reach new heights and break through barriers. 

By internalizing and living the principles of “no way as way” and “having no limitation as limitation,” we can create a fulfilling life and lasting impact on those around us.

While looking for a needle (a leadership with limitless potential) in the haystack, we (The Enterprise World Magazine) stumbled across the doorsteps of Valeria Torres (IO Psychologist and Director of Operations).

Valeria is a visionary leader in the law industry, propelled by boundless ambitions. Her leadership style has deeply rooted values of “being relentless and limitless.” With such beliefs, she has paved the way for success, achieving new heights and inspiring young leaders. 

Embracing the Extraordinary 

With an infectious journey, Valeria Torres shatters the status quo, urging others to embrace the extraordinary and navigate challenges with resilience. More than a leader, she’s a catalyst for a cultural shift, igniting the belief in infinite potential.

Her secret weapon is a powerful blend of ambition and psychological insight. Valeria decodes business complexities, bridging disciplines to unlock limitless growth. Renowned for her innovative approach, she doesn’t just lead conversations but ignites them. Her workshops empower ambitious women across sectors, equipping them to thrive at every stage.

Valeria Torres doesn’t just see potential but awakens it. Using psychology, she motivates and empowers others, leading to higher engagement, productivity, and business transformation.

The Fuel for Exceptional Results

Valeria’s leadership philosophy transcends mere empowerment. It torches a fire within teams fueled by ambition, drive, and discipline. By cultivating a culture of empowerment, collaboration, and continuous learning, Valeria Torres unlocks the potential within her teams. She equips them with the resources and support to reach new heights, with accountability and grit for success.

This potent mix propels her team towards exceptional results, fueled by their own potential. Valeria translates her philosophy into action by leading by example, aligning policies, and celebrating achievements. 

However, this philosophy isn’t just an abstract concept. Here’s how Valeria Torres brings it to life:

By embracing this philosophy and implementing these strategies, Valeria Torres builds a team that achieves exceptional results, propelled by a fire of limitless potential.

Limitless: Unleashing Potential

Limitless isn’t just a name; it’s a revolution. The brand empowers organizations and individuals to shatter perceived limitations and achieve unprecedented success. 

“As the Director of Operations and an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist, I am proud to be part of this pioneering venture that bridges the worlds of business strategy and human behavior science,” adds Valeria Torres. 

1. The Limitless Approach – Limitless offers a holistic approach, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge management consulting with the latest I/O psychology insights.

2. Why People Matter – The brand believes people are an organization’s greatest asset. Its services span leadership development, team optimization, change management, and cultural enhancement – all backed by a deep understanding of how we think, feel, and behave, individually and collectively.

3. A Catalyst for Growth – Limitless empowers leaders, teams, and entire organizations to achieve limitless success. It’s not just a concept but a catalyst for transformative and sustainable growth.

The Challenge: Breaking Down Silos 

“When I first launched Limitless, one of my biggest hurdles was bridging the historical divide between business consulting and industrial-organizational psychology,” Valeria Torres asserts. 

Limitless emerged from a bold vision: to bridge the gap between traditional business strategy and the science of human behavior. However, many established firms and leaders viewed these disciplines as separate entities, often skeptical about their potential synergy.

The brand embarked on a mission to educate the market and showcase the remarkable power of this unique approach. Through rigorous research and impactful case studies, it demonstrated how seamlessly integrating cutting-edge management strategies with evidence-based insights from I/O psychology could unlock exponential benefits.

By showcasing how its approach enables organizational agility, employee engagement, and long-term competitive advantage, Limitless is proving that human potential is the key to unlocking limitless success.

From Stagnation to Unstoppable Growth

Limitless wasn’t always the industry leader it is today. Its turning point came when it tackled the challenge of revitalizing a struggling multinational corporation. This once-dominant force had become stagnant and disengaged, its employees feeling lost and undervalued.

The Diagnosis: Limitless employed its holistic methodology, delving into the leadership, culture, and employee dynamics. What it discovered was a tangled web of outdated thinking, a siloed workforce, and a crippling disconnect between the top and the bottom.

The Cure: Armed with this internal diagnosis, Limitless worked hand-in-hand with the company’s leadership to design a multi-faceted transformation plan. This plan addressed the root causes, nurturing a culture of collaboration and innovation.

The turnaround was nothing short of phenomenal. Within 18 months, employee satisfaction soared, productivity skyrocketed by 27%, and the company clawed back market share from its competitors. This success story became a watershed moment for Limitless, solidifying its reputation as a game-changer. Limitless proved it could unlock a company’s true potential, even in the direst situations.

Since that breakthrough engagement, the brand has experienced explosive growth. It has expanded its global reach, offering its services across various high-stakes industries – legal, medical, and beyond. Limitless understands that the needs of clients evolve, and its service offerings constantly adapt to meet those changing demands. Its future is one of continued growth, innovation, and helping organizations achieve their full potential.

Shaping a Limitless Future

“I am making strategic decisions to expand our services by utilizing a multifaceted approach rooted in deep client understanding, data-driven analysis, and collaborative innovation.”  

Valeria Torres

As a Limitless leader, she is architecting the brand’s next chapter. Her focus is meeting the client needs with internal expertise. Valeria Torres dives deep with clients, uncovering challenges and trends. This intel empowers the brand to stay ahead of the curve and refine its value proposition. Internally, she assesses strengths and advantages to pinpoint areas for excellence.

Collaboration is key. Valeria Torres works with cross-functional teams to evaluate new offerings, leveraging data to make strategic decisions. Importantly, she promotes a culture of innovation where diverse perspectives shape Limitless’ future.

With a clear vision and team support, Valeria advocates for resources from leadership. She guides Limitless toward new frontiers by meticulously balancing client needs, internal capabilities, and broad engagement. 

Redefining Business Transformation

Limitless believes the most powerful advantage lies in people, not processes. Its secret weapon is merging business strategy with I/O psychology.

It goes beyond surface-level fixes as Valeria Torres and her team delve deep into human behavior to create sustainable change. Each client receives a customized program tailored to their unique culture and goals. Collaboration is key – Limitless works alongside leaders and employees to unlock their full potential.

However, Limitless doesn’t stop there. Unlike consultants who disappear after a report, it encourages ongoing support. Innovation is Limitless’ lifeblood. The brand constantly scans for new trends, invests heavily in R&D, and solicits client feedback, ensuring its methods stay cutting-edge and responsive. The culture at Limitless celebrates calculated risks and experimentation. It encourages teams to challenge the status quo and learn from mistakes, promoting agility.

Risk management is a two-way street at Limitless. It proactively identifies and mitigates threats and seeks out high-impact growth opportunities. Its rigorous decision-making process involves diverse perspectives and a commitment to core values: innovation, impact, and integrity. Limitless has become a resilient, future-proof partner for steering complicated business terrains.

The DNA of Success

What fuels Limitless’ meteoric rise? It all boils down to three core principles: Ambition, Drive, and Discipline.

It blends cutting-edge business strategies with the latest psychological advancements to craft transformative solutions. Don’t expect cookie-cutter approaches – Limitless tailors each solution to unlock a client’s unique potential.

Forget project numbers or profit margins – Limitless focuses on the lasting changes it sparks within organizations.

Integrity is at its foundation. Determined ethics, evidence-based practices, and a commitment to empowering businesses and individuals define the brand.

Seamlessly fusing business savvy with human behavior expertise, Limitless is redefining consulting. Limitless is about unlocking limitless potential, transforming lives, and shaping the future of high-performing, purpose-driven businesses.

Modern-day leadership is a product of numerous transitional shifts where the traditional top-down hierarchy, experienced by the older generations is no longer effective. In the olden days, the entire office culture revolved around keeping your boss content. More often than not, engineers would only speak in meetings if spoken to—keeping their opinions and insights to themselves.

During the next transition, customers would interact more with working engineers rather than the leadership personnel. This approach was responsible for the birth of a participatory management style where leaders largely took on mentoring and supporting roles.

Today, leaders must cultivate a collaborative environment and work with a younger generation who may be more brilliant than the leaders themselves—focusing primarily on building trust, empowering teams to step out of their comfort zones, and recognizing achievements.

Gomathi Perumal, Vice President of AgnoShin, with over two decades of experience, has closely witnessed all of these leadership iterations—implementing the lessons learned along the way into shaping her own leadership style—making her one of the most influential leaders to watch in 2024.

Cultivating Meaningful Impact

When Gomathi began her career in IT two decades ago, she didn’t plan on becoming an entrepreneur. Instead, she found herself involved in greenfield projects within her company, gaining a holistic view of the ecosystem. As these initiatives flourished over the years, so did her confidence in her own potential to create something meaningful. 

Fortunate to have supportive co-founders by her side, she envisioned a work life that balanced enjoyment with responsibility—catering to niche customer needs rather than the scale-driven demands of large corporations.

“AgnoShin is Six years… if you ask me if we should have grown a little more—I would say yes. If you ask me if our number should be this much by this time—I will respond probably yes…”

However, what AgnoShin did achieve is remarkable: over 60% of the workforce are women, many of whom returned to professional life after extended maternity breaks, and a team predominantly from Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns.

Drawing Inspiration

Gomathi says it’s hard to pinpoint a single idol for her because she is not a die-hard fan of any specific individual. What truly inspires her are those who challenge the status quo, push their own limits, and take themselves to new heights. Moreover, she is deeply inspired by those who go the extra mile for their team and for humanity, along with those who pursue knowledge and wisdom without seeking personal gain.

Gomathi considers herself fortunate to be surrounded by exceptional people who exhibit these qualities. While she knows she can’t replicate their exact paths, she strives to gain valuable insights from their experiences to stay focused and driven in her own life.

Wearer of Many Hats

In larger organizations, roles and responsibilities are often clearly defined and segmented. However, in a young company like AgnoShin, leaders like Gomathi are required to multitask as the situation demands. Personally, Gomathi handles HR, finance, key customer relations, and also dedicates time to sales. This flexibility and range of responsibility are essential in smaller startups where agility and adaptability are vital to achieving growth and tackling challenges effectively.

Especially for young startups and first-generation entrepreneurs, there is no shortage of new challenges. Firstly, there’s the task of believing in the idea and ensuring that all co-founders are equally committed. Then, one of the biggest hurdles is effectively communicating the vision and plan to the core team, aligning them to the journey ahead.

“It’s crucial to convey to customers that the startup is capable, trustworthy, and committed to delivering on its promises. Building this trust is essential for sustained success.”

Solving Problems Through Continuous Learning 

Gomathi highlights that every two or three years, new paradigms emerge, dictating new ways of working. To stay ahead, she makes sure to invest time in reading and engaging with industry leaders. She acknowledges that it’s impossible to figure everything out on her own, so she often reaches out to the company advisors to help better understand and solve complex issues. Continuous learning is crucial and should never stop.

Nurturing the Employees

AgnoShin has cultivated a work culture that revolves around the following core values: happiness, fun, mutual respect, social consciousness, and customer commitment. The company’s employees become the protectors of these values, passing them on to new team members.

The company has recognized that many individuals have a strong desire to contribute to society. To achieve this, AgnoShin  provides opportunities for employees to teach in schools, mentor children from challenging backgrounds, and serve as scribes for visually impaired students and taking care of their educational and other needs through their CSR Wing “Meiporul Chennai foundation Trust” A basic objective of Meiporul, the non-profit volunteering Organization established in 2015, is to make a difference in the lives of the most underprivileged sections within the population of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).

Balancing Work-Life

If I say I’m maintaining a perfect work-life balance, I’d be lying—says Gomathi. This balance is often out of control and can be quite painful. Over the years, Gomathi has realized that it’s not about the amount of time, but the intensity and quality of that time. While work and customer priorities largely occupy her schedule, she still manages to find quick ways to recharge—spending quality time with her knowledgeable friends and family. Eventually, it is the ecosystem around her that adapts—allowing Gomathi some space to be herself.

“I have a deep love for books, culture, history, temples, travel, good food, and enjoying music with friends.”

Technology-agnostic company 

AgnoShin is a technology-agnostic company, offering ethical solutions that work seamlessly across various platforms, protocols, and devices in the world of customer experience management. It cultivates a professional culture, staying aligned with the latest market technologies to protect its customers from redundancy and keep them ahead of the curve.

The team boasts extensive expertise and thought leadership in Customer Relationship Management (CRM). The organization is strategically positioned to enhance customer satisfaction, boost productivity, and drive organizational revenues. Its mission is to leverage its deep knowledge and innovative approaches to improve these key metrics for each client.

AgnoShin experts develop, enhance, and maintain the applications, irrespective of the technology used. The company is consciously aware of the need to upgrade applications along with the business growth. Hence, it  provides flexible, 24×7 support services for maintenance, enhancement, and management of all types of application processes with due diligence.

“AgnoShin was established in the year 2018 with a mission to build universally relevant technologies by facilitating fuller human potential and resourcefulness.”

CRM Solutions—Present and the Future

1. Current Offerings:

• AgnoShin provides IT solutions across verticals in the CXM -Customer Expereince Management space supported by new-gen technologies like Cloud/AI and ML.

2. Future Plans:

• AgnoShin is developing several business transformation product suites for the SME segment, leveraging AI/ML platforms. This represents a significant transition for us.

• In the IT space, we aim to enhance service delivery within our customers’ native ecosystems.

Success Driven by Collaboration

At AgnoShin, associates are the backbone of the company’s success. Their domain knowledge in the CRM space, combined with their transparent working style and expertise in addressing customer requirements, are the primary reasons for AgnoShin’s achievements.

Gomathi emphasizes that while earning the trust and meeting the expectations of the clients is a challenging task, as a team, the organization has managed to achieve these goals together.

Company Overview:

• Established: 6 years ago
• Team Size: 150+
• Locations: 
  • India – Chennai and Udumalpet
  • MEA – UAE and Kenya
  • APAC– Singapore
  • US
• Diversification: Beyond services into products and solutions
• Progress: Encouraging pilot runs in new ventures

Advice to Young Leaders

• Trust and bond with co-founders are the key. Come what may, you and the organization should not compromise on its values. 
• You need a good number of friends/advisors who will be with you more in difficult times and give a lot of positivity to you. 
• Remember—Very few are fortunate to become entrepreneurs, be grateful for the blessings. Companies may succeed or face challenges due to time, but please enjoy the phase of transition—Job seeker to Job creator.
• Have a larger purpose and take care of your customers/partners/vendors and employees… Believe me, they will take care of you. 

Gomathi Perumal

Why Choose Agnoshin?

1. Team Involvement and Results

Maintaining team involvement is essential for achieving better results. By increasing agent engagement and retention, it aligns its team with organizational goals and values.

2. Improved Performance and Customer-Centric Development

The approach focuses on improving performance and fostering customer-centric development. It enables instant customer feedback, helping agents identify and address challenges, and delivering measurable business value.

3. Equipping Management with Performance Insights

The organization provides management with interactive data visualizations and dashboards for a complete view of agent and team performance. Supervisors can analyze and evaluate performance effectively, driving overall efficiency.

Physical movement in today’s time is becoming crucial. It not only helps with attaining physical fitness but also with better mental health. Finding the right studio and team who understands the unique and personal approach, has immense knowledge, and leads with empathy, is important. Caitlin Bovée, owner of Pilates in Guelph, is one such Pilates Program Director who has transformed the fitness journey of numerous individuals. Caitlin dedicates herself to developing innovations that empower her and others to enjoy a life of body awareness, free movement, and restorative practices.

An Empowering and Inspirational Journey

Caitlin Bovée has been in the fitness industry for over 25 years. She was athletic from a young age and enjoyed team sports, solo activities, movement, and dance. At 18, she started teaching fitness through the YMCA/YWCA. She completed a Bachelor of Arts and Science from the University of McMaster. She also completed her Matwork and Equipment training at Body Harmonics, Toronto, in her early twenties.

At the age of 25, she suffered from a stroke on her right side and received the chance to use her post-rehabilitation knowledge to heal herself. This life-changing event gave her a different perspective on health and fitness. She started mainstream fitness with a Group Fitness certification, Personal Trainer certification, and coaching team sports. Through Pilates based movement, Caitlin found a movement modality that could meet her where she was at. She found healing through movement and wanted to create a space where others could heal their negative experiences and injuries and support their body through movement. In 2007 & 2009, Caitlin was nominated for the Women of Distinction award through the YMCA/YWCA of Guelph by her clients and colleagues.

The Simple and Intricate World of Pilates

At Pilates in Guelph, Caitlin leads a team of talented and similarly-minded instructors who provide leading-edge instruction through mat, reformer classes, and private sessions. Caitlin is fascinated by the intricate and detailed work of the Pilates exercises, and how profoundly simple exercises can relieve pain, restore movement, and empower.

Finding Healing through Fitness

Pilates in Guelph is a health and fitness studio. It aims to guide individuals on a transformative journey through a Pilates-based movement, nurturing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The studio embraces the latest fitness research and honors timeless Pilates traditions, creating a warm, welcoming community where everyone treats each other with respect and compassion. Its personalized approach meets each client’s unique needs, fostering holistic transformation. The

passionate instructors continually develop to offer innovative and effective movement experiences.

The studio offers small class sizes, private lessons, and highly respected Body Harmonics Pilates instructor training to ensure one achieves the movement goals. It strives to guide and nurture each client, committing to their personal transformation.

Pilates in Guelph is committed to maintaining a nurturing and educational environment. This applies to each client, whether they are in a private lesson, small class, or teacher training session. The goal is to ensure that every individual receives an enriching experience to enhance their own personal movement. It is a tight-knit community with almost 25 years operating in Guelph. Their motto is – “You don’t work out , we TRAIN for life.”

Constant Growth and Success

For Caitlin, having her daughter, who was 25 weeks premature in 2012, was an eye-opener. Her inability to plan for her business because of this circumstance forced her to make changes so the studio could operate without her. This pushed her to take the studio to the next level, which triggered its growth.

Caitlin Bovée believes innovation and an ability to think outside the box is essential for any business. She looks at industry outside of Fitness to learn and create a viable and supportive business for staff and clients. The fitness and health industry is constantly evolving, requiring constant re- evaluation to adapt to changes. She constantly seeks new challenges to ensure the studio’s growth. She says, “When I see stability with growth happening without me, I know we are ready to move on to the next goal.”

Mentorship through Teamwork

Caitlin Bovée believes that mentorship and development of the instructors at her studio is the top priority. Something that as a business owner, mother and wife, she has found difficult to do. She shares her gratitude to the team of senior teachers who help to mentor and guide the newer teachers in the studio. She is currently working on a 12-week program to assist all movement educators to succeed in their business.

Leadership Philosophy

Caitlin Bovée believes in leading with kindness, curiosity, and respect. Taking extreme ownership of everything that happens in the business and making sure to provide the team with the tools necessary to complete the task is important.

 “Better own half of something than all of nothing.”

Menzo Havenga, President & CEO of Batavia Biosciences, lives by this quote. He is a passionate, visionary leader and acquires qualities like scientific understanding, forward-thinking, adaptability, and commitment to patient-centric outcomes. With an immense experience of 27 years, he has emerged as a distinguished figure in the biopharmaceutical field. 

The Entrepreneurial Journey and Achievements

Menzo Havenga is a Molecular Virologist by training and concluded his PhD in 1992. He worked as a senior scientist in a start-up company called IntroGene to develop a platform of recombinant adenoviral vectors to treat cardiovascular diseases. IntroGene changed its name to Crucell in 2001. He worked there as Vice president of R&D from 2001 to 2005. From 2006 to 2008, he was head of R&D and led the organization of 300 employees. 

At the end of 2008, he joined the TNO organization as Business unit manager for Life sciences, overseeing a 300-person organization located in Leiden and Zeist (Netherlands). Together with the board of directors at TNO, the TNO investment fund, and his business partner Chris Yallop, they launched Batavia Biosciences in 2010 as a spin-out from the TNO organization. 

Menzo has co-authored over 200 publications in international scientific magazines. He has also contributed to more than 40 patents. These patents describe different methods and techniques for manufacturing cell lines and platforms, as well as viral vectors. He is also the co-inventor of the Adenovector technology used by J&J to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. As an entrepreneur and CEO, he has received numerous national and international prizes and was knighted in 2018 by the King of The Netherlands for his scientific contributions to the field.

Below is a list of some of his achievements throughout the year.

• Acquisition of Berna Biotech to Crucell (2006)
• Acquisition of SBL vaccines to Crucell (2007)
• Build & management buy-out of Batavia Biosciences from TNO (2010)
• Acquisition of Xendo Pharmaservices to Batavia Biosciences (2011) 
• Lounge of Batavia Biosciences Inc in Boston USA (2012)
• Sale of Batavia Biosciences to CJ CheilJedang corporation (2021) 

Bringing Innovation in Biopharmaceutical 

Batavia Biosciences is a biopharmaceutical process and product development Services Company. The primary goal of it is to provide high-quality biopharmaceuticals for proof-of-concept, pre-clinical, and clinical studies, adding value to its customers. It is located at the bioscience park in Leiden, the Netherlands where it deploys a 5000 square meter R&D facility, housing about 200 employees. Its R&D services range from DNA cloning and stable cell line generation to scale-up, purification development, product characterization, and clinical manufacturing. The company also has a number of production platforms for viral vaccines and viral vectors that it offers to its customers, including research- and GMP-grade vector systems AAV, LV, MV, AdV, VSV, SINV, etc) and virus seeds (polio, Measles, Rubella, etc).

By the second half  of 2025, Batavia Biosciences is adding commercial manufacturing services for its clients in its new commercial production facility. The company has worked with renowned CROs that offer high-quality test models and toxicology. It also provides CTOs that aid with the design and execution of clinical trials. It provides its clients with an end-to-end solution for developing biopharmaceutical products through its global network and complete product development package. Its vision is to reduce human suffering by contributing substantially to increased accessibility and global affordability of state-of-the-art biopharmaceutical medicines. 

Providing Solution to its Clients

Batavia Biosciences acts more like a thought partner to its clients, unlike under-contract‌ development manufacturing organizations (CDMO). The combination of expertise, innovative solutions, technology platforms, and biological materials enables the company to guide clients toward success with great speed and precision. For instance, the company has developed technologies that tackle the three major issues encountered in the field, i.e., product yield (STEP® technology) and scale-up (SCOUT® technology & HIP-Vax® technology). In terms of biological materials, it can offer its clients diverse viral vector systems or virus seeds, and as well the proper mammalian cell line for manufacturing. As such, it provides a one-stop-shop solution to its clients. 

As management, Batavia Biosciences always carefully listens to its clients to understand their needs and to translate that know-how into improved customer service offerings. For instance, Batavia Biosciences learned that founders/CEOs of start-up companies often face challenges in overseeing the entire process, including the risks and pitfalls, when moving an innovative new medicine from bench to clinic to market. Hence, it decided to roll out its ‘Product Development Plan’ (PDP) services package. Herewith, it is offering a customer-specific package that includes a full-fledged business plan.

This business plan is designed to help founders and CEOs address the various questions they may encounter from both internal and external stakeholders. The PDP plan is an all-encompassing plan describing the product, the business assumptions, the manufacturing and scale-up phases from pre-clinical to commercial, the clinical and regulatory pathways, and IP and communication strategies.

Overcoming Obstacles

Along with the cofounder, Dr. Chris Yallop, Menzo deployed a modest 300 square meters of R&D laboratories and only 7 people staff when the company was established. Through the network, quality, and vast experience of its staff, they were able to attract biotech and pharma clients. This pressured them as management to diligently expand the infrastructure footprint as well as the team. Batavia Biosciences was fortunate to be hosted by the TNO organization during its launch.

TNO demonstrated great flexibility by accommodating the company’s need to expand its laboratory infrastructure not just once, but three times within two years. The company made individual hires and acquired Xendo Pharma Services BV in 2011, just one year after its launch. These strategic actions proved to be crucial in expanding the team. The acquisition of Xendo Pharma Services BV brought in 117 highly trained professionals, significantly bolstering the company’s workforce. Within two years, the team grew to approximately 25 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees. 

The next challenge came about in 2012 when Batavia Biosciences decided to embark on two major expansions simultaneously: the launch of a subsidiary in Boston, USA, and the addition of GMP manufacturing services in Leiden, the Netherlands. These decisions were again driven entirely by client demand.

Revenue Growth & Statistics

Batavia Biosciences experienced significant revenue growth, going from approximately 1 million Euros at its launch in 2010 to about 7 million Euros in 2012. It became evident that adding Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) manufacturing services was necessary to further expand the company’s operations. The decision to choose the latter option was primarily motivated by client demand. Clients expressed their need for the company to provide not only the development of a manufacturing process but also the capability to effectively transform it into the delivery of a clinical product. 

Having contracts in place to deliver clinical products, the company was pushed to build a quality system, hire expert staff including QC (Quality control), QA (Quality assurance), and QP (qualified person), as well as secure GMP manufacturing space. The company successfully launched its first clinical products. To facilitate this, they utilized a nearby GMP facility that could be leased on a per-project basis. This arrangement allowed the company to meet the immediate need for manufacturing capabilities without having its own facilities in place. Without a doubt, the decision to expand services from R&D only to GMP manufacturing spurred both client interest as well as organizational growth. By the end of 2013, the company employed about 55 FTE staff.

Here are some statistics regarding the growth of the company.

• Started with 7 FTE in 2010 in Leiden and currently 200 FTE Launched Batavia Biosciences Inc. in Boston USA in 2012 and currently 35 FTE staff.
• Started with about €1M revenues year-end 2010 (year of launch). 
• Strong year-on-year growth of revenues (approx. 33% CAGR). 
• To date, over 700 projects run with a 97% success rate in GMP.
• 100x Manufacturing scale builds out from 10 Liters in the R&D setting only at launch in 2010 to a variety of platform offerings including 1000 Liter suspension as well as 600m2 fixed bed reactor technology.
• A diverse client base from pharma and biotech to government and philanthropic organizations. (total revenue split in 2023: 45% non-for-profit clients and 55% for-profit clients).

Standing Out from Others and Path to Success

Menzo credits the company’s staff for its long-standing success. Their hard work and dedication make a difference for their clients. The company has always been awarded by a high percentage of returning clients. It has adopted the customer intimacy business model that aims to build durable relationships with its clients based on trust and quality. The staff’s experience is critical in finding effective scientific solutions to move innovative novel medicines from bench to clinic. Menzo believes that, as management, working on projects to support global health is an important intrinsic motivator for their staff.

To distinguish oneself from competitors, start by mapping your competitors and understanding the level of competition. For instance, Batavia Biosciences’, as a center of excellence, is not a price fighter and therefore many of the CDMO players that offer low-end, cost-effective repetitive services are not in competition with the company. It offers value-added services through its experience, biological materials, and technology platforms and as such, there are not many players with the same track record that it has built. Becoming a one-stop-shop for our clients, ie, R&D clinical and commercial services, ensures that our clients will stay with us and that provides a solid basis to keep growing the company 

Company Culture & Employee Support

Batavia Biosciences’ employees are the key to its growth and it’s their experience and dedication that allows it to exert the customer intimacy client model. Next to ensuring competitive remuneration, it firmly believes that job satisfaction is crucial to binding talent to the company. It translates job satisfaction into exciting work projects that aim, for instance, to make vaccines more affordable, protect humans against deadly pathogens, or substantially increase the quality of life for humans suffering from hereditary genetic defects.

Apart from that, flexibility and career planning are also crucial in being a solid partner for its employees. It supports the staff wishing to make a career move, or in changing geographical location. The management team is very active as employers to help their employees via training to expand their skills. 

Belief and Leadership Philosophy

Menzo believes in the concept of “Plan your dive and dive your plan”. This means that once the entrepreneur has convinced himself/ herself to spend all the energy available to make a success of one’s commercial dream that he/ she should stay focussed on building that success. Many entrepreneurs fail as they lose focus too early. He deems it critical for an entrepreneur to find the right people to follow the dream, which requires a well-thought-out, externally validated, and realistic business plan. In addition, being honest about the risks and rewards to build win-win situations ensures that you will be able to attract the necessary supporters when moving from start-up to scale-up.

Many businesses are facing cyber threats that can impact their operations and data security. The Computer and Network Security industry plays a critical role in addressing these challenges with innovative technologies like AI-powered threat detection, endpoint protection platforms, and advanced encryption methods. Leaders in this industry are instrumental in driving these advancements by promoting cybersecurity awareness, implementing strong defense mechanisms, and adhering to regulatory standards. They also prioritize ongoing education and training for their teams to stay informed about emerging threats, collaborate with stakeholders to share threat intelligence, and establish effective incident response strategies to minimize potential harm.

Liz Drysdale, Area Vice President of Marketing at SentinelOne, is a well-known leader in this industry dedicated to delivering impactful work. Her leadership style is known for its adaptability and dedication to creating a positive work environment that promotes innovation and growth.

Education to Innovation

Liz has been working in the marketing field for 24 years, starting in Brazil within the education sector. Throughout her career, she has lived in five different countries, including Brazil, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Spain. She has had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures in her roles covering Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa. Liz’s career has been marked by significant moments and chances for growth.

After working and studying marketing in Brazil, Liz decided to pursue a postgraduate degree in Marketing from the Royal Chartered Institute of Marketing in London. She also worked as a junior marketing manager at a hospital chain during this time. 

Upon moving to Australia with her husband, Liz transitioned to a business development role at a corporate education provider. However, she found the sales environment too restrictive. She moved to the Special Reports department at Australia’s largest newspaper, where she could use her creativity to drive advertising sales during the digital transformation of the industry.

When working for a few years in New Zealand, Liz explored various roles. She worked as a graphic designer for a real estate agency, taught marketing fundamentals and project management at a local college, and consulted for local businesses. Though it seems challenging, she experienced a golden period over there. 

Upon returning to Australia in 2012, Liz secured a job in the IT industry. She adapted herself to B2B IT marketing, which was a new thing, but her international experience and proactive attitude were appreciated. Liz focused on learning and revisiting marketing basics to drive innovative campaigns and achieve success in her role. Currently, Liz holds the position of Area Vice President of Marketing at SentinelOne.

Transforming Cybersecurity with AI

SentinelOne was founded in 2013 with a new and innovative concept. Instead of relying on traditional, signature-based tools for attack detection, the company aimed to disrupt the endpoint security market by introducing an AI-based solution capable of proactively preventing cyber threats. Over the past decade, the company has consistently delivered innovations that have transformed the industry.

The company introduced the first generative AI-powered platform for cybersecurity. Additionally, SentinelOne was the first provider to launch an AI-powered threat-hunting platform and introduced Purple AI, recognized as the industry’s first AI security analyst. The company recently revealed its vision for autonomous security and new capabilities integrated into the Singularity Platform, marking a significant leap forward in cybersecurity technology.

In today’s diverse threat landscape, SentinelOne offers a comprehensive, AI-powered security platform that safeguards all areas of an enterprise, from endpoints to the cloud. Founder and CEO Tomer Weingarten emphasizes the importance of continuous evolution in security and underscores the company’s dedication to developing solutions that proactively address and neutralize threats. Through advancements in AI and automation, SentinelOne makes cybersecurity accessible to all enterprises, allowing them to operate with increased efficiency and sophistication. The Singularity Platform, Data Lake, and Purple AI enhance the capabilities of security teams, offering expert assistance and improved visibility.

Embracing Situational Leadership 

“Flexibility and agility are key in today’s fast-paced environment.”—quotes Liz.

Liz’s leadership philosophy is based on the principles of “Situational Leadership.” She understands that leading a diverse team requires flexibility and adaptation. Her team consists of individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and personalities, each with unique learning styles and motivations. She believes that effective leadership involves adjusting her approach to meet the needs of each team member.

Liz promotes fairness and a positive work environment by setting a good example. She holds herself to high standards and expects the same from her team in terms of delivering excellence, meeting deadlines, proactive communication, and attention to detail. Liz recognizes that maintaining high standards can be difficult, but she also understands that everyone is human and makes mistakes. When she falls short or makes errors, she takes responsibility for the situation, showing her team that mistakes are a natural part of growth as long as they are learned from and accountability is taken for improvement in the future.

Building Trust and Growth 

“For me, it’s also important to create a positive work environment with an open-door policy, where my team members and stakeholders can share their experience and success.”— says Liz.

Liz ensures that her direct reports receive the appropriate amount, type, and level of coaching they need. Her team consists of individuals with varying levels of experience and education. Therefore, she focuses on asking questions to allow them to demonstrate their tasks and methods, nurturing a positive conversation on aspects that may need improvement. With this approach of “ask questions, never assume,” Liz can also identify specific areas where her team members need her assistance to develop and grow. She believes that the best outcomes occur when team members come up with solutions themselves.

Path to Accomplishment and Growth

What drives Liz is her strong creative streak, which led her to pursue a career in marketing. She finds that Enterprise or B2B marketing offers the ideal mix of scientific expertise, flair, and innovation. Liz enjoys discovering innovative ways to connect with customers while also keeping track of the numbers. The aspect of demand generation marketing being project-based is particularly meaningful to her. She values the sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to learn and grow with each campaign. For Liz, success entails being adaptable in a constantly evolving world. It is not just about achieving goals but also being open to new ideas and willing to adjust course when necessary. 

With strong leaders like Liz, SentinelOne has achieved success through its innovative and determined approach to cybersecurity. According to Liz, the company is known for being a team of innovators and problem-solvers dedicated to safeguarding global data and systems from ever-changing cyber threats. The company is a leader in autonomous cybersecurity, offering continuous protection through automation and innovation. As the fastest-growing cybersecurity company, its technology is highly regarded. Trusted by prominent organizations and governments, it is committed to delivering transformative solutions to combat potential threats in the future.

Plan A to Plan D

Liz approaches risk-taking and decision-making in both her business and personal life with a combination of boldness and careful planning. She has experienced living on five different continents and changing career paths multiple times, which has shaped her belief in embracing risk and change. While this mindset can be challenging, Liz manages potential risks by always having contingency plans—Plan B, C, and D—prepared in case her initial plan (Plan A) doesn’t work out.

To evaluate the success of a plan, Liz uses specific measurements tied to her objectives. She consistently applies this approach in all aspects of her life, both professionally and personally. For any high-risk endeavor, such as purchasing a new home or launching a global campaign, she establishes clear goals and success metrics to monitor progress and ensure alignment with her stakeholders.

Balancing Innovation and Stability

Liz believes that achieving a balance between innovation, stability, and profitability requires a strategic approach. This involves nurturing a culture that encourages experimentation while upholding core values, and implementing a dual-strategy approach that allocates resources to existing products and new opportunities. Effective risk management, including thorough assessments and pilot projects, minimizes downsides. SentinelOne’s strong leadership emphasizes stability and innovation, supported by governance structures aligned with strategic goals. Continuous feedback and a customer-centric focus ensure that innovations meet market needs, driving both profitability and long-term stability.

SentinelOne’s AI-powered platform aims to enhance cybersecurity operations by automating tasks such as query formulation and data analysis. This can help alleviate the workload on security teams who are often inundated with alerts, enabling them to respond to threats more efficiently. Feedback from users has shown that Purple AI can streamline investigative processes and increase efficiency in managing security incidents. SentinelOne’s AI technology is seen as a practical solution that is making a significant impact in the cybersecurity industry.

Essential Advice for Aspiring Professionals

Liz suggests that female professionals entering the field of cybersecurity should prioritize technical learning, recognizing its continuous evolution despite previous male predominance. She underscores the significance of developing communication and soft skills, such as teamwork and leadership, to establish connections. Liz also recommends advocating for oneself and being ready for favorable and unfavorable results when striving for career progress. Lastly, leaders should encourage the creation of supportive work environments through active involvement in diversity and inclusion efforts to promote inclusivity.

The following is her advice to young leaders starting in marketing within cybersecurity with three key points: 

• Understand the marketing fundamentals 
• Stay up-to-date with technology 
• Be data-driven to avoid personal bias 

One of the challenges faced by our world today is the production of plastic. Currently, approximately 400 million tons of plastic are manufactured globally each year. This process heavily relies on oil-based materials, resulting in the emission of significant amounts of carbon dioxide, which contributes to our carbon footprint.

Traditional plastics are a major source of ocean pollution, especially through the dissemination of microplastics. These small plastic particles have become a global environmental concern, posing severe threats to marine life and ecosystems. However, some leaders are playing important roles in driving change and finding solutions to the plastic crisis. They are committed to addressing the production and environmental impact of plastics, recognizing it as a critical challenge that must be addressed to protect our planet.

Ryohei Mori, CEO of Green Science Alliance, is a well-known leader dedicated to addressing the challenge of the production of plastic. He represents a new era of business leadership characterized by hands-on innovation and strategic talent management. Under Ryohei’s leadership, his companies have established themselves as industry leaders, recognized for their exceptional innovation, dedication to sustainability, and groundbreaking advancements in technology.

Climbing the Corporate Ladder

Ryohei began his academic journey at the Kyoto Institute of Technology, graduating in 1997 with a degree in Applied Biology. He continued his studies at Kyoto University, completing a master’s degree in science in 1999, followed by a PhD in Engineering. He also enhanced his management skills by completing the General Management Program at Harvard Business School.

Professionally, Ryohei started at Nissha Company, where he worked as a sales engineer and translator in Oulu, Finland. He then moved to Fuji Pigment in Japan as a researcher, eventually becoming the CEO in 2017.

Ryohei also established Green Science Alliance and Quantum Materials Technology, serving as the President of both companies. Currently, he focuses on Green Science Alliance addressing critical issues such as climate change and global warming. His work is centered on developing technologies to reduce CO2 emissions, plastic pollution, and other environmental problems.

The Pillars of Ryohei’s Companies

Fuji Pigment established in 1938, focuses on developing and manufacturing red organic pigment and various types of color products and inks. With a long history in the pigment industry, the company is known for its expertise in producing high-quality pigments.

Green Science Alliance founded in 2010, is dedicated to developing and manufacturing sustainable, carbon-neutral, environmentally friendly green materials and products. The company’s work aims to advance green technology and promote sustainability.

Quantum Materials Technology established in 2022, concentrates on researching and developing quantum dot and quantum dot-based technology. This company is involved in cutting-edge research to innovate and expand the applications of quantum dot technology.

These companies collectively represent Ryohei’s dedication to technological progress, environmental sustainability, and innovative research. Under his leadership, each organization not only excels in its respective industry but also makes a positive impact on the world.

Advanced Materials for a Greener Future

To support a sustainable, carbon-neutral society, Ryohei focuses on developing new products and technologies. His work includes creating plant-based biomass chemicals, such as biodegradable plastics, biomass coatings, biomass glue, and biomass paint, to replace petroleum-based chemical products to reduce CO2 emissions and plastic pollution. He also works with advanced materials like quantum dots, metal-organic frameworks, ionic liquids, deep eutectic solvents, and solid catalysts, applying these to various products.

Ryohei has also developed innovative quantum dot based fertilizer, anti-bacterials materials and pesticides, which are synthesized from biomass waste such as wood waste, paper waste and orange peel etc. Recently, he engineered a water harvesting device that extracts water from the air using metal-organic framework technology.

Aiming to differentiate Green Science Alliance, Ryohei utilizes advanced materials synthesized in-house, employing molecular-level material engineering technology. His work reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions.

Leadership in Climate Change Mitigation

During the current economic and environmental challenges, Ryohei is dedicated to advancing innovative technology to uphold the company’s profitability and ensure fair compensation for employees. Recognizing the seriousness of climate change, Ryohei is leading the company’s efforts to address this issue by staying informed about technologies that could help mitigate climate change and global warming. As part of this initiative, Green Science Alliance frequently invests in startup companies to encourage collaborations in technological advancements. This strategic approach allows the company to direct a competitive market successfully while also prioritizing the well-being of its employees.

Recognizing Leadership Evolution

“It will be easier to accelerate business if a leader can develop products or innovative business by her or himself, and not by employees.”

Ryohei Mori

As the CEO and a researcher himself, he has been instrumental in developing innovative products. Initially, he felt dissatisfied as the sole driver of product and business development despite paying salaries to his employees. His frustration stemmed from their limited contribution to new materials and products.

However, Ryohei soon realized that his employees excelled at generating profits from existing products, ensuring the company’s stability. This insight led him to understand that each person should focus on their strengths rather than being placed in unsuitable roles. By aligning tasks with individual expertise, the company saw a significant increase in profitability.

Recognizing the importance of specialized skills, Ryohei strategically hired more researchers skilled in developing innovations. This not only reduced his workload but also improved the company’s capacity for growth. As a result, he established a new entity, Green Science Alliance dedicated to the sustainable, carbon-neutral industry sector. This new company complemented his primary business, Fuji Pigment Co., Ltd., allowing both organizations to thrive in their respective positions.

Ryohei’s experience highlights the value of leveraging individual strengths within a team and the need for leaders to adapt and refine their strategies to create a thriving business environment for the future.

Upcoming Product Developments

Under the leadership of Ryohei, the company is significantly expanding. From a traditional B2B raw materials supplier to a B2C business, offering products directly to customers. He has played a key role in the development of plant-based biodegradable plastic products, nail cosmetics, and paints using advanced materials.

In addition to these consumer products, Ryohei is involved in the development of next-generation rechargeable batteries. One notable innovation is a lithium-ion battery based on black mass, which is made from recycled materials obtained from lithium-ion battery waste and contains high percentages of nickel, cobalt, manganese, and lithium. This could potentially be one of the first recycled lithium-ion batteries intended for practical use. He is also working on an aluminum-based rechargeable battery, which has the potential to be more cost-effective and durable than current commercial lithium-ion batteries.

Ryohei is also focused on developing platinum-free (or reduced platinum) fuel cells to reduce their cost. His contributions extend to the agricultural sector, where he has created new types of fertilizers, antibacterial materials, and pesticides. Another project under his leadership is a water-harvesting device that extracts water from the air using metal-organic framework technology.

By transitioning Green Science Alliance from a chemical manufacturer primarily focused on B2B operations, Ryohei’s initiatives are broadening the company’s scope, introducing innovative products directly to consumers.

Financial services should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background and circumstances. Cofinex, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, envisions making this thought a reality. However, Cofinex believes it’s crucial to fight for financial inclusion for the vulnerable and underserved before blockchain becomes mainstream, offering them an alternative to traditional banking. 

 Under the visionary leadership of Founder and CEO Sarvesh Agrahari, Cofinex aims to build a future where everything can be digitized to create more efficient, secure, and accessible networks—be it currencies, assets, or anything of value. 

 “This shift will potentially move our focus from building infrastructure to creating innovative applications, transforming stock exchanges and businesses from mere asset holders into digital powerhouses.” 

Secure, User-friendly, and Efficient 

Cofinex is an innovative cryptocurrency trading platform catering to a diverse range of traders, from beginners to experts. The company offers various services, including Copy Trading with more than 30,000 expert traders, spot trading, futures trading, staking, gift cards worldwide, FLYCNX travel services, and the unique Cofinex Crypto Card, enabling users to seamlessly spend their digital assets in everyday transactions. 

With accessibility at the forefront, the company offers a variety of educational materials such as tutorials, webinars, and detailed guides. For traders who are just beginning their journey, Cofinex provides a simplified trading interface with clear instructions and minimal jargon. Experienced traders can utilize its advanced trading tools and features. Moreover, its demo trading account allows new users to practice and build confidence before transitioning to real trading. 

To ensure security, Cofinex employs industry-leading measures—multi-factor authentication, encryption protocols, and cold storage for the majority of its digital assets. Regular security audits and compliance checks ensure the platform remains resilient against potential threats. Additionally, the company offers insurance coverage for stored digital assets. 

Evolution over the Years 

Cofinex was born out of the need to solve common issues faced by traders—high fees, complex interfaces, and inadequate customer support. Since its inception, the platform has evolved significantly with the integration of user feedback, enhanced security protocols, and some of the lowest trading fees in the industry. 

 The low trading fees are a primary differentiator for Cofinex, especially when transactions are made using its native CNX token, offering significant discounts. The platform boasts an intuitive user interface and an array of trading tools, including advanced charting, real-time market data, and customizable dashboards—enhancing the overall user experience. 

The seamless integration with the Cofinex Crypto Card allows users to easily transition between trading and spending their assets. Additionally, the company offers 24/7 customer support and extensive educational resources, further distinguishing it from competitors. 

Complete Regulatory Compliance 

Despite the regulatory complexities of the industry, Cofinex is dedicated to remaining compliant with all relevant laws and regulations. The company collaborates closely with legal experts in various jurisdictions to ensure all its operations meet local regulatory requirements. This includes implementing KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) procedures and maintaining transparent reporting practices. 

Currently, Cofinex is regulated by the CNB (Czech National Bank) and is a reporting entity under FIU-India. Its proactive approach to regulatory compliance helps the company build trust with its users—an aspect fundamental to Cofinex’s success. The company maintains consistent communication, operational transparency, and a steadfast commitment to security. During market fluctuations or technical issues, the company provides timely updates and communicates clearly. Engaging with its community through social media, forums, and events helps the company foster strong relationships with its users. 

Leveraging Technology 

Technology is at the core of Cofinex. By leveraging advanced technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, the company enhances the platform’s functionality and reliability. Its high-performance trading engine delivers fast and precise order execution, while AI-driven analytics offer traders valuable insights. 

 “Continuous investment in technology enables us to introduce new features and continually improve the user experience.” 

To sustain growth and stay competitive, Cofinex is constantly innovating and adapting to market changes. This involves expanding its service offerings, upgrading its technology infrastructure, and listening to user feedback. With a strategic vision, the company diversifies revenue streams, maintains low trading fees, and invests in emerging technologies. 

To broaden its market presence, Cofinex opts for strategic partnerships, focused marketing initiatives, and community involvement. It prioritizes adapting its services to local requirements, providing multi-language support and region-specific features. The referral and rewards initiatives offered by Cofinex encourage users to introduce new traders to the platform, fostering organic growth. Furthermore, the competitive trading fees enhance its appeal across diverse user segments. 

“Building strong relationships with industry partners and exploring new market opportunities are vital components of our growth strategy.” 

Prompt Customer Support 

At Cofinex, customer support is pivotal to the overall user experience. The platform provides round-the-clock assistance through multiple channels such as live chat, email, and AI-driven support. The support team is expertly trained to address diverse inquiries and issues promptly and efficiently. 

To empower users and help them resolve queries independently, the company offers an extensive help center that includes FAQs, guides, and tutorials. We are also integrating AI to deliver support in users’ native languages, ensuring effective communication and assistance tailored to their needs. 

Global Footprint Expansion 

Over the next five years, Cofinex aims to expand its international footprint by enhancing the product lineup and reinforcing its status as a trusted platform in cryptocurrency trading. The company plans to introduce innovative features and services that meet evolving market demands, including decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions and advanced staking opportunities. 

Its vision is to establish a comprehensive ecosystem that enables users to trade, invest, and utilize their digital assets with assurance and convenience. Cofinex aspires to rank among the top three exchanges globally and to hold the leading position in India. 

“We are launching the Cofinex native token Presale ICO, followed by an IEO on major exchanges such as KUCOIN, HTX, Gate.io, Bitget, and MEXC.” 

Streamlining Transactions through Collaboration 

Cofinex is collaborating with major financial institutions and payment providers to streamline fiat-to-crypto transactions. Collaborations with leading blockchain projects are also in progress to enhance the platform’s capabilities and deliver unique value to users. 

The partnerships include MasterCard International, Bharat Web3 Association (BWA), CertiK, Bitget, OKX, Chainalysis, and Blockpass. Cofinex is also a proud member of FICCI, Singapore Fintech Association (SFA), Crypto Valley, Startup India, and India Blockchain Forum. Beyond that, the platform has received grants from Google Cloud and multiple awards, including recognition on World MSME Day 2023 and during the Bharat Blockchain Yatra.

Advising the Aspiring by Sarvesh:

• Remain laser-focused on solving genuine problems and providing value to users.
• Deeply understand your market and listen attentively to user feedback.
• Embrace adaptability to navigate changes and evolving needs.
• Prioritize security, compliance, and delivering exceptional user experiences.
• Surround yourself with a skilled team and foster a culture of continuous innovation.
• Uphold core values steadfastly throughout your entrepreneurial journey.
• Recognize that challenges are part of the journey, and dedication brings rewarding outcomes.

Company Overview:

In his humble words, Dr. Faiz R. Abbasi, Global Distribution Lead at Barco, describes his entry into the audio-visual as quite accidental. However, as you delve deeper into his fascinating journey, you realize the amount of industry success he has achieved is not a product of mere luck.

Faiz’s breakthrough into the field began when a leading audio-visual company visited his college for campus placements. Pursuing an MBA at the time, Faiz successfully secured a placement through a rigorous selection process and began his professional career as a Territory Manager for Sales in Mumbai, India.

It was “the” moment that sparked in Faiz a passion for the audio-visual industry that has only grown stronger as the years have passed—marking the beginning of his illustrious career as one of the most influential business leaders to watch in 2024.

A Turning Point

Faiz’s journey to leadership began in his school and university days, operating in roles such as class monitor, cultural secretary, and general secretary of the Student Union—instilling in him a sense of responsibility and leadership early on.

A turning point was when Faiz was asked to lead a team in the Middle East. It was a professional milestone, as it involved managing diverse teams and navigating complex market dynamics. Since then, Faiz has led numerous teams, consistently striving for collective success.

His journey with Barco started five years ago, as the National Business Head for India and the SAARC region. He has progressed into various roles and capacities within the same organization since then. Currently, he leads the global distribution strategy for Barco’s Immersive Experience business unit, which includes projection and image processing products—working with diverse partners worldwide.

Adapting to Change

Managing change has been one of the biggest challenges Faiz faced. Especially in the audio-visual industry, balancing shifting priorities while maintaining team morale can be daunting. To overcome this challenge, he focuses on transparent communication—ensuring his team is informed and involved in key decision-making processes.

Conflict resolution and decision-making during uncertain times is yet another blockade. To navigate these complex challenges, developing leadership skills and seeking mentorship have been pivotal.

Whether triumph or challenges, the profound impact Faiz can make on his team, organization, and the industry is what motivates him to continue leading through. Witnessing his team grow and succeed, and knowing that their collective efforts drive innovation and positive change, fuels his passion for leadership. According to Faiz, challenges are opportunities for growth and learning, and overcoming them together strengthens the team spirit. 

“The vision of a better, more connected world through advanced audio-visual technology keeps me motivated and inspired every day.”

Embracing Diversity

Integrity, empathy, collaboration, accountability, respect, transparency, and continuous learning are the seven core values that guide Faiz as a leader. Faiz believes in leading with authenticity and maintaining high ethical standards in all his interactions.

Professionally, he prioritizes the well-being of his team, cultivating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. To stay ahead of the curve in the audio-visual industry, Faiz is also dedicated to continuous learning, both for himself and his team.

Faiz’s people-first approach sets his leadership style apart. He prioritizes building strong, trusting relationships with his team and stakeholders—not overlooking the key role of a motivated and structured team in achieving organizational goals. By being adaptable, Faiz effectively navigates a diverse cultural landscape, promoting collaboration across borders.

“My commitment to data-driven decision-making ensures that our strategies are grounded in accurate insights and trends, enabling informed and effective actions.”

The Expansion Vision

As the Global Distribution Lead, Faiz is passionate about driving innovation and expanding Barco’s reach into new markets. Equally important to him is mentoring and developing future leaders, ensuring that the audio-visual industry continues to thrive with fresh talent and innovative ideas. 

Faiz has a unique approach to enhancing Barco’s market presence. For mature markets, he aims to grow further by keeping relationships alive and partners motivated. Under his leadership, the company maintains transparency and a healthy relationship with its long-term partners. 

For emerging markets, Barco plans to expand its distribution footprints and work with distribution partners to fill gaps and distribute its products. For this, the strategies include promotions, campaigns, and a continuous learning approach to remain innovative.

“The opportunity to work with diverse teams and partners across the globe to deliver cutting-edge audio-visual solutions is incredibly fulfilling.”

Memorable Learning Experiences

Throughout his career, the power of listening is one of the most invaluable lessons Faiz has learned. By truly understanding the perspectives and concerns of his team, he makes informed decisions to foster a collaborative environment. Adaptability is another cornerstone of his leadership philosophy—embracing flexibility and openness to change.

Faiz highlights two significant sales pitches as learning experiences: 

1. On his first day at the job, Faiz accompanied a senior sales associate to a presentation for a Bank. Unfortunately, he was unaware of the customer details and was just asked to shadow his senior. The proposal was not well-received. This taught Faiz the importance of thoroughly researching the organization and customizing the sales pitch to fit their specific needs.
2. Faiz was asked to present his sales pitch to the former CEO of a reputed bank. He also met many other C-level executives from major companies, where he had to be polished, well-trained, and thoroughly prepared to present in front of such esteemed leaders. It was a remarkable opportunity and a substantial learning experience.

Words of Wisdom for the Aspiring

To aspiring future leaders, Faiz’s foremost advice is to identify your passion and purpose early on. He emphasizes that continuous learning and always seeking knowledge are crucial qualities to stay updated with industry trends. Embrace innovation and remain open to new ideas and technologies. Building a robust network of mentors and peers can provide invaluable support and opportunities for growth.

Moreover, he suggests prioritizing customer needs and leading with integrity to ensure your actions consistently align with your values. Effective communication is essential for building trust and fostering collaboration. 

“Stay persistent and patient—success often requires time and perseverance.”

Advice to Younger Self

Reflecting on his career, one piece of advice Faiz would like to give to his younger self is to prioritize self-care and set boundaries early on—underlining the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Learning to say no when necessary is crucial for managing workload and avoiding burnout. 

He would also advise embracing failures as learning opportunities and remaining persistent during challenging times. Trusting the journey and staying true to his values have been key to his growth and success. He believes these principles would have guided him in navigating his career with greater resilience and fulfillment.

Striking the Work-Life Balance

Maintaining a work-life balance as a leader requires intentionality and discipline. I set clear boundaries between work and personal life, prioritizing tasks to ensure efficiency. Regular breaks and short walks help me stay focused and energized. Planning family time and vacations is essential for recharging and maintaining a healthy balance. 

Reflecting on his daily activities and adjusting the schedule as needed helps Faiz stay organized and productive. By committing to these practices, he sustains both his professional effectiveness and personal well-being.

Earned Accolades

Nine years ago, Faiz set up the government business practice for an audio-visual company. This initiative opened new avenues and significantly contributed to the company’s growth. Beyond that, expanding the distribution footprint in the SAARC region as the National Business Head for SAARC was another notable milestone for Faiz.

Under Faiz’s leadership, Barco has demonstrated adaptability and strategic vision—expanding its distribution network into numerous emerging global markets. Moreover, getting nominated for the “APAC 40 under 40” and “Channel Chief” awards were proud moments that recognized Faiz’s leadership efforts.

Sources of Inspiration for Faiz:

• Prophet Mohammad
• Lee Iacocca
• Nelson Mandela
• Abraham Lincoln
• Warren Buffett 
• Mahatma Gandhi
• Tariq bin Ziyad

Industry Mentors:

The following leaders have imparted invaluable knowledge and insights into the audio-visual business.

• Ankur Goel
• Roshan Gupta
• Sanjay Bansal
• Rajiv Bhalla
• Marc Remond
• Wouter Bonte
• Ta Loong Gan
• Nathalie Andersen

Influential Leadership Insights

Book:

• “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek: Emphasizes creating a culture of trust and collaboration, prioritizing team well-being.

Philosophy:

• Servant Leadership: Focuses on serving others and putting team needs first, empowering them to reach their full leadership potential.

Quote:

• John C. Maxwell: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Encapsulates leading by example, knowledge, and effective guidance.

A sense of frustration grew within as he witnessed affluent individuals consistently recoil at the high premiums associated with life insurance – a cost that only exacerbated existing tax and legacy challenges. His conviction to offer a solution solidified when a prominent U.S. law firm approached him.

“You are one of three insurance professionals we are considering for a client requiring $50M of insurance.”

This presented a unique opportunity for Manuel (Manny) Vidal, Founder and CEO of Premium Finance Group (PFG), as he proposed a bold strategy. He would personally cover the initial premium, eliminating a significant financial hurdle for their client. It was a calculated risk, but Manny believed in the transformative potential of this approach. After presenting his proposal, he awaited their response.

Three days later, the phone rang. It was the law firm instructing Manny to proceed with the order. 

This moment was an epiphany for Manny. It represented a paradigm shift in how affluent individuals viewed life insurance. More importantly, it forged a lasting bond. The client, a renowned entertainer, remains a valued client to this day, a testament to the impact of Manny’s innovative solutions.

A Journey towards Financial Security

Manuel, or “Manny” as his colleagues know him, began his impressive career in banking. As a Vice President at Citigroup, he spearheaded the introduction of innovative financial products across Latin America. This early success laid the groundwork for his next venture, the life insurance industry.

Manny has thrived as a top insurance advisor and producer for the last two decades, collaborating with prominent U.S. and international insurance companies. During his tenure with AXA-Equitable Life Insurance, dedication earned him consistent recognition. He was ranked among the company’s top 10 producers nationwide and was inducted into the prestigious AXA Advisors Hall of Fame in 1995.

Manny’s ambition led him to John Hancock, where he assumed the role of Managing Director. Under his leadership, John Hancock established the nation’s leading Life Insurance Premium Finance platform. This accomplishment showcased his keen understanding of the market and ability to develop innovative solutions.

Driven by a vision to address the specific needs of high-net-worth individuals seeking insurance policies, Manny founded Premium Finance Group (PFG) in 2002. Shortly after, he cemented his reputation by securing the largest International Corporate Owned Life Insurance (COLI) sale ever recorded with a leading offshore insurer. This ground-breaking deal exemplified Manny’s commitment to exceeding expectations.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Manny holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Florida State University. While at Citibank, he further honed his expertise by attending the Wharton School of Business. Here, he completed focused studies in Foreign Market Entry Strategies. This dedication to continuous learning empowers him to steer the intricacies of global finance. Notably, Manny’s fluency in English, Spanish, and Portuguese allows him to connect with a diverse clientele on a deeper level.

Today, Manny stands as a valuable resource for individuals seeking guidance on domestic and international life insurance opportunities. His extensive experience, coupled with his innovative spirit, makes him a trusted advisor in financial security.

Steering Through Economic Storms

Manny’s leadership is defined by his commitment to client guidance, especially during turbulent economic times. Whether steering market downturns or rising interest rates, he prioritizes building and nurturing client trust. This trust is fundamental to the firm’s ability to adapt product offerings seamlessly. The exceptionally low employee attrition rate of under 2% is a testament to Manny’s leadership.

His leadership philosophy is grounded in accessibility, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. His team maintains a competitive edge, by creating an environment of continuous learning and staying ahead of industry developments. This proactive approach solidifies client trust and loyalty, contributing to the Premium Finance Group’s enduring success.

A Legacy of Financial Stewardship

“Premium Finance Group’s mission is to ensure that your family and loved ones, your estate, and your business are protected.”

Premium Finance Group is a family-owned enterprise with a rich history spanning over three decades. Born from a deep-rooted commitment to providing exceptional financial solutions, the company has evolved into a global leader in premium finance.

Premium Finance Group empowers clients to finance their entire premiums at highly competitive interest rates by specializing in unlocking the full potential of life insurance policies. It provides services like premium finance, family and wealth protection, business succession planning, Insuring key employees, universal life insurance, and term insurance.

This innovative list of services is made possible through a robust network of prestigious global banks and financial institutions, ensuring clients consistently secure optimal financial outcomes.

As a pioneer in the industry, Premium Finance Group stands out as one of the few platforms in the United States capable of offering premium finance services to international clients. This unique capability underscores the company’s global reach and commitment to serving a diverse clientele.

Beyond its financial expertise, Premium Finance Group is renowned for its unparalleled knowledge of the insurance landscape. As a premier provider of cutting-edge life insurance solutions, the company collaborates exclusively with top-rated insurers in the United States and offshore markets. This strategic partnership allows PFG to offer clients access to the most competitive and reliable insurance products available.

With an extensive network of esteemed insurance firms in key global markets, Premium Finance Group operates with meticulous adherence to regulatory standards and ethical principles. This unwavering commitment to integrity has solidified the firm’s reputation as a trusted advisor and industry leader.

Risk-Mitigated Growth Strategy

“We’re fortunate that, given the design of our product, we don’t need to innovate or take a risk to stay the course.”

By providing clients with a guaranteed floor of 0% and a cap of 10%, the product effectively eliminated downside risk. This allowed PFG to focus exclusively on growth strategies.

It relied on word-of-mouth referrals to identify potential marketers. Those individuals exhibiting the desired sales abilities were then enrolled in a training program emphasizing on-the-job learning.

Since its inception, PFG has solidified its position as the industry leader in premium finance. Leveraging an extensive network of global financial institutions, it ensured clients had access to a wide array of financial solutions. As one of the few platforms offering premium finance to foreign nationals in the United States, the firm has carved out a distinctive niche in the market.

A Foundation of Resilience and Growth 

The firm’s initial phase was marked by the challenge of achieving the requisite production levels to sustain operations. However, technological advancements offered a solution. By granting clients direct access to carrier platforms, Premium Finance Group empowered them with real-time product performance tracking, enhancing overall client satisfaction.

To expand its product and service offerings, the company forged a strategic alliance with a premier multifamily group, gaining access to industry-leading solutions.

A pivotal moment in the firm’s growth trajectory arrived with the favorable interest rate environment of 2002, which catalyzed exponential expansion.

Premium Finance Group’s enduring success can be attributed to its commitment and original business plan, despite encountering various obstacles. A steadfast belief in its mission and a robust succession plan secured continuity for clients, solidifying its position in the market.

Premium Finance Group is making that a reality for clients by working to ensure it offers the best solutions, products, and lenders. 

The healthcare industry has long been dominated by a reactive approach, focusing on treating illnesses and injuries after they occur. However, a shift towards preventive care and regenerative therapies is gaining momentum, aiming to address health issues before they escalate into more severe and costly conditions. This proactive approach not only helps to prevent issues that often arise later in life but also reduces the need for expensive treatments and long rehabilitation timelines.

Brent Kruel, CEO of BioFunctional Health Solutions, Inc. is a well-known leader in this industry. His leadership style demonstrates a commitment to addressing global health challenges and driving change through care, innovation, and strategic leadership.

Transition to Entrepreneurship

Brent Kruel’s journey began with a personal commitment to health and wellness, developed through his athletic pursuits as a Division 1 varsity track competitor at the US Air Force Academy. After graduating from the academy as a Distinguished Graduate, Brent served as a medical service officer in the Air Force, where he gained experience managing hospital operations and deployed to combat zones, including Iraq in 2004. Building on his experiences, Brent pursued his Master of Healthcare Administration at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, ranking at the top of his class. After leaving the Air Force in 2007, Brent applied his expertise within large healthcare organizations and founded BioFunctional Health Solutions in 2018.

Handling Conflict and Challenges:

Personal health challenges influenced Brent Kruel’s leadership at BHS. Despite his success as a healthcare executive, Brent Kruel faced significant issues like brain fog, depression, and a torn ACL. These challenges inspired him to establish BHS after finding relief from a simple intervention. Over seven years, BHS has developed innovative treatment programs and a robust provider network. Brent’s experiences drive his commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and providing patient-centered care at BHS under his leadership. 

Ethical Leadership

“The Air Force Academy is potentially the world’s premier leadership laboratory and I was blessed to attend such an esteemed institution.”

Brent Kruel

Brent has learned an influential leadership model at the Air Force Academy that emphasizes the importance of both individual and collective success. This model highlights the significance of effective communication in achieving success and nurturing positive relationships.

The communication model he applies is:

BHS aims to develop a culture focused on integrity, respect, and empathy. This supports the company’s mission to revolutionize healthcare for future generations. It understands the significance of developing excellence among healthcare professionals and believes maintaining mutual respect is crucial for achieving objectives.

Objective Quality Measurements 

“It is critical to memorialize that conversation in writing, as informal as possible, but still written down so that expectations are very clear for all parties.”

Brent Kruel

At BHS, open communication is highly valued for delivering quality work and promoting innovation. The company’s culture prioritizes the value of ideas over hierarchical rank, ensuring decisions focus on the best outcomes for customers and patients. BHS uses objective measurements, including patient feedback, to evaluate the quality of care provided. This approach emphasizes personal growth for healthcare providers through factual data and actionable plans, while also focusing on strong work ethics for performance development.

Ethics at Work 

“Being ethical is foundational to success. If a leader is not trusted they will fail. In short, a leader must make promises and keep those promises. You may have to make compromises as it relates to profitability and convenience, but never make compromises in quality.”

Brent Kruel

Even though facing challenges within the medical sector, BHS is dedicated to maintaining high ethical standards. The company is focused on providing exceptional healthcare, emphasizing safety, effectiveness, and affordability. Despite the availability of more cost-effective options in the market, BHS prioritizes acquiring top-tier equipment and supplies to ensure unmatched quality. The company is committed to continual improvement and consistently applies expertise to deliver optimal solutions.

Sustained Growth and Impact

BHS maintains a clear direction, values, and goals within the organization. This ensures that every decision made aligns with these principles, avoiding any confusion during periods of change. When faced with an important decision regarding service delivery and market expansion, BHS prioritizes transparent communication and seeks feedback from all team members. This approach has resulted in a strategy that promotes long-term success.

It allows for innovative healthcare delivery to a wider audience while maintaining high-quality care. Brent Kruel is confident that this strategy will set BHS on a path of sustained growth and impact for generations to come. He believes in collaborating with experienced specialists and adopting a servant-leadership approach in healthcare. He supports the growth of his team by going above and beyond to enable their success, even if it means performing basic tasks.

Empowering Team 

“Our most valuable employees are those that desire to master their jobs and stay in them to grow others to do the same.”

Brent Kruel

BHS supports the goals of the healthcare professionals and staff and values their aspirations and strengths. The company recognizes and respects those who prefer to focus on their current roles and compensation is not limited based on position. BHS prioritizes personal excellence and teamwork for growth. Collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential for team development. It uses modern technology and carefully chosen services from around the world to handle healthcare.

Professionals at BHS are dedicated to patient safety and optimal care outcomes. Brent Kruel advises new leaders to prioritize building teams that share values over solely focusing on matching skill sets. He feels that it is easier to improve skills than to align values, and without shared values, teams may encounter more problems and conflicts.

Patient-Centric Quality Care

Believing in a patient-centric approach to defining quality care, BHS values patient feedback and uses it to evaluate performance and improve the services. It prioritizes measuring what truly matters, such as successful health issue resolution and improved quality of life. By highlighting these metrics, BHS ensures meaningful outcomes for customers. The care model at BHS promotes healthy competition to achieve results for patients. When a provider falls short of expectations, BHS quickly identifies the issue and provides training and mentoring support to improve the provider’s practice with the team’s experience.

Staying Ahead

BHS has a professional team with a wealth of military experience. It focuses on innovation and adaptability, essential for national defense and saving lives. BHS values a culture of innovation and adaptability in the healthcare industry, which is constantly changing. It encourages the team to share their insights and knowledge to provide the best possible care. It helps healthcare professionals stay updated with the latest treatments and practices through ongoing education.

Recently, BHS has implemented a new scheduling and patient engagement system. The company took proactive steps to communicate the changes to everyone and gather feedback and concerns from all parties involved. By addressing and integrating their input, BHS improved change adoption and customer experiences by integrating input, aligning with their executive team’s patient outcome goals.

Driving Innovation in Healthcare Services

At BHS, the executive team is committed to enhancing patient outcomes within the U.S. healthcare system. It believes in revolutionizing healthcare by focusing on quality care and extending this approach to all employees. This vision has gained support from stakeholders and customers, leading to increased service utilization. The company aims to simplify healthcare and prioritize outcomes for each individual. Since its establishment, BHS has been recognized as a pioneer in pain and musculoskeletal health. In 2023, BHS strategically aimed to collaborate with global experts in brain function, cancer, autoimmune diseases, and chronic illnesses, leading to significant partnerships. These alliances seamlessly integrate into BHS’s specialized network and nurse-led programs, delivering highly effective care across medical fields. 

The stock market plays an important role in economic growth, providing opportunities and risks for investors. Managing the wealth of information, including news updates, financial reports, and broad data sets, can be challenging due to emotional preferences that may lead to impulsive decisions. 

However, advancements in technology are transforming the stock market. AI-powered tools can analyze complex data, uncover hidden market trends, and guide strategic trades. These tools can adapt and improve over time with machine learning capabilities, offering insights and support to investors. 

Responsible leaders in this industry prioritize transparency, accessibility of these tools, and ethical development to ensure a fair and tech-driven future for all investors.

Logan Weaver, Founder & CEO of Surmount AI, is a prime example of a trailblazing leader in this industry. His dedication to excellence and personalized investing has distinguished Surmount AI apart as a major competitor in the industry.

Early Inspiration 

“I went to a mathematics private school in Maryland and my grandfather (CFA, CPA) thought that my interest in math could apply to markets, so he got me started paper trading on Investopedia in the 6th grade and I was instantly hooked.”

Logan Weaver

Saving persistently over two summers, Logan collected around $4,800, which he then invested directly. His early success in trading led him to explore deeper into the field. Logan discovered books on algorithmic trading during his exploration, which influenced his approach. He spent years learning, testing, and building his understanding of the potential synergy between technology and finance. In college, he developed a system to make the strategies accessible to his friends and family. This eventually led to Surmount AI, a platform that utilizes technology to provide individuals with advanced trading strategies.

Public Markets as a Source of Wealth 

When Logan was in school, he observed a trend where more people invested in public markets. The number of individuals managing their investments directly was increasing rapidly, and it became clear to Logan that the future of wealth management would be different from the past and present. He wanted to contribute to shaping that future because, if approached correctly, public markets represent one of the strongest sources for wealth generation and preservation.  

From Beginner to Expert

Specializing in using advanced technology, Surmount AI assists individuals in trading stocks more effectively. The primary product of the company is a computer program that analyzes stock market information to determine the optimal times to buy or sell stocks. This program utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to learn from data and make intelligent decisions.

Regardless of the experience level, Surmount AI’s platform is accessible to all traders. It offers tools to automate tasks and provides insights based on data to help in making well-informed investment decisions. Additionally, Surmount AI prioritizes the security and confidentiality of user information, consistently seeking innovative ways to enhance trading strategies in today’s dynamic markets.

Breaking the Mold

Surmount AI has helped various investors successfully manage funds, guiding them to discover strategies tailored to their specific portfolios and needs. A majority of Surmount AI users consistently outperform the S&P by utilizing data-driven approaches. In the past, the investment process in the industry typically followed a standard, one-size-fits-all model. Financial advisors and many modern platforms use generic questionnaires to place investors into prebuilt portfolios. This approach often prioritizes standardization over personalization, potentially overlooking the individual client’s requirements. 

By offering high levels of customization, Surmount AI sets itself apart. Whether it is an individual investor or a representative managing a client’s interests, the company ensures that investment goals, needs, and preferences are aligned seamlessly. This approach assists investors in navigating the markets in a way that suits their unique circumstances and aspirations.

Building Tomorrow

Under Logan’s leadership, Surmount AI has built a strong team with years of experience in the industry. The company’s main focus is on learning from its users. In the past six months, the team at Surmount AI has learned a lot from engaging with users and has gained valuable insights into their needs and the company’s future direction. Securing additional funding has opened up new opportunities for growth and innovation, which is a significant milestone for the company. 

Excellence in Action

Surmount AI is proud to have a team of industry professionals dedicated to providing ongoing value to consumers. The emphasis on talent selection highlights the company’s commitment to excellence, ensuring that each team member contributes significantly to their mission. This focus on building a top-tier team demonstrates Surmount AI’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction, positioning them for continued success and growth in the market.

The following are customer testimonials highlighting the impact of Surmount AI’s team and services:

• “Surmount democratizes access to passive trading to everyone. It’s an incredible vision as a business and as an agent of changing how the world invests.”— Andy Ballester, Founder of GoFundMe.

• “As a former quant, I was excited when I saw the platform that Logan and the Surmount team have built to bring the power of hedge funds and family offices to everyday investors. As I dug into due diligence, I found more and more to impress me, and it’s a pleasure to be both an investor and a strategic advisor to this energetic crew.”—David Sifry, Founder of Questy.AI, Former Quant.

• “It’s very exciting to see Surmount not only give users the power to create unique strategies but also a place where they can help others put them to action. Finally, users aren’t forced into limited opaque strategies.”—Brian Gillis, Co-Founder of DNS Filter.

• “Surmount is on a mission to democratize investing and algo-trading for everyone. I truly believe in Surmount’s platform and marketplace approach for the community of individual and institutional investors to share trading strategies.”—Ram Boreda, VP of Product at Egnyte.

In a world grappling with environmental degradation and resource scarcity, solar energy isn’t just a sustainable option, it’s a necessary transformation of our energy infrastructure. However, the transition to sustainable energy options requires awareness and understanding, so people can make informed decisions and wise choices. Prioritizing educating people on solar, ReNew Solar Solutions fosters trust and confidence in this renewable resource. 

Unlike traditional companies prioritizing quick sales, ReNew Solar’s customized approach ensures homeowners get a system that truly meets their needs. The company is spearheaded by Owner & CEO John Hrudicka, a purpose-driven and niche leader in the solar industry. Guided by his vision, ReNew Solar Solutions positions itself as a trustworthy partner in this energy transition, helping to create a more sustainable future, one homeowner at a time, one business at a time. Thanks to its contribution towards sustainability, The Enterprise World has featured the company as the “Most Recommended Solar Tech Company in 2024.”

The History Behind its Establishment

Motivated by their shared values and a desire for meaningful impact, John & Krista decided to leave their corporate careers and start their own company. They aimed to create a business with “purpose” and “positive impact”. John’s deep concern for climate change significantly influenced their decision. While many choose to make climate change a political issue, he chooses to pay close attention to the “science” behind climate change and the catastrophic consequences to follow if not addressed.

There is a native American proverb that has stuck with both John & Krista… “we do not inherit the Earth from our Ancestors we borrow it from our children”. Their company was formed to reflect these values, focusing on sustainability and making a difference, even if their actions are just a small part of a larger effort. John acknowledges that while their impact might be just a small contribution…  “the entire ocean is affected by a single pebble”. This belief drives their business philosophy, how they treat customers and the emphasis on providing information & education to help homeowners and businesses make the decision to Go Solar!

From the outset, John and his wife committed to a long-term approach, even if it meant leaving money on the table. They refused to adopt the predatory practices common in the solar industry for the sake of profit, where many companies chase the quick dollar through aggressive, deceptive sales tactics and subpar service. Instead, they built their business on the foundation of honesty, transparency and integrity. They do not employ traditional salespeople, rather, they have consultants and highly skilled professionals, including a master electrician, licensed electricians, commercial general contractor and NABCEP certified staff.

The company’s design philosophy centers on excellence and customization. They use the most accurate and sophisticated software in the industry, ensuring that systems are designed by licensed electricians rather than a salesperson focused on making their commission. This focus on custom solutions with the customer at the center, meeting their personal objectives sets them apart from almost any other solar company. Each solar system they design is tailored to their customers’ unique needs and objectives, ensuring optimal performance, value proposition and satisfaction after the “last check is written”.

ReNew Solar Solutions is both strategic and purposeful to provide not just a “product” but a comprehensive solution that addresses the specific “energy management” objectives of each homeowner. The company recognizes and identifies various factors to deliver a personalized and high performing system, such as the individual’s specific backup needs and property characteristics. This meticulous approach ensures every customer receives a solution that is optimized to meet their specific goals and investment in solar.

ReNew Solar has emerged as a leader in the solar industry, driven by its commitment to long-term strategy, customer satisfaction, and environmental responsibility. By prioritizing these values over short-term gains, John and his wife have built a business that is positioned to prioritize the customer and contribute positively to the planet. Moreover, their journey from corporate executives to purpose-driven entrepreneurs emphasizes the impact of aligning business practices with personal values and long-term vision.

A Company and Culture of Action & Words

John is renowned as a niche leader in the solar industry. He firmly believes in the importance of culture within his company and often says, “Words don’t carry a culture; actions do.” This belief guides his leadership and the management of the company. John & Krista fully understand, if they don’t practice and demonstrate “actions” in support of the desired culture then it is certain that nobody will follow. This is not just about employees, but their partners as well, as they view their manufacturers, distributors, marketing agency, etc. as an extension of ReNew Solar Solutions. 

ReNew Solar operates on a simple yet powerful tagline: “We treat you, the way we want to be treated.” This means treating the customers’ investment in solar as if they were their own. He further highlights, “We treat our customer’s investment in Solar as if it were our own, as if it were our house we were putting Solar on and our money we were spending”. This principle is applied rigorously at ReNew Solar, even if it means advising customers against solar, turning away customers whose homes and/or investment are unsuitable for solar. 

John further explains that while the solar industry has thrived on “cheap money”, that comes at a significant cost to the homeowner. ReNew Solar Solutions takes a very different approach that literally results in the loss of sales. While the industry standard involves financing with hidden dealer fees, which can be substantial,

ReNew has been diligent to practice transparency. For example, a 4.99% rate over 25 years can result in a dealer fee as high as 35%. Because the solar contractor absorbs this cost for the benefit of providing low interest/long term financing, many contractors bury this cost within the overall system price… and do not inform the customer!  John refuses to “go along” with this deceptive practice, as simply put… this is not how he would like to be treated.  He and his team explain the dealer fee to customers and even advise against this type of financing. John acknowledges, “We influence our customers to avoid this type of financing.”

ReNew fully understands the consequence that it will be a common occurrence that a customer will not choose to invest in solar armed with this knowledge and understanding, and a sale will be lost.  John is content with this, as he will tell you that upholding their culture, brand, reputation and personal integrity is a far better outcome than duping a customer for the sake of making a sale.  This is the ultimate example of ReNew staying steadfast in avoiding short-term decision-making at the sacrifice of long-term culture and integrity.

ReNew Solar Solutions is dedicated to providing customers with as much information and education as needed in order that their customers are equipped to make the best decision for themselves and their families.  ReNew believes that whatever decision the customer makes is the “right one” if that informed decision aligns with their personal objectives and considers all the information and data available to them. There is a hint of selfish intent on the part of ReNew… they know if they “treat customers the right way”, they will tell other people; even if they, themselves, did not elect to Go Solar.

Another important aspect of John’s leadership is his emphasis on teamwork. He often shares his philosophy: “It is never the case or possible for the leader to always be the smartest person in the room, to know everything and be in all places at all times. The team always, always trumps any individual.” As a sports enthusiast, he believes that business, much like in sports; that winning and sustained success is a function of being the best team.

He likes to cite that in sports, the scoreboard is binary in telling you whether your team won or lost… even if Michael Jordan scored 50 points and the scoreboard shows the Chicago Bulls lost, something broke down within the team that resulted in suboptimal performance.John has always been an advocate and firm believer of regularly involving his team in decision-making and ideation processes, because he knows collaborative efforts will yield better results.

He states, “I commonly bring my team into the fold of decision-making, creativity, all these things. Because I firmly believe I am going to yield a better result, and two, I know they’ll own it more passionately if they were part of or perhaps drove the solution.” This fosters a sense of ownership and commitment among team members, which ultimately drives motivation, engagement and collaboration/alignment – core pillars of a great team.

In summary, John’s leadership is defined by a strong belief in culture, transparency, and teamwork. His dedication to treating customers with honesty and respect, providing thorough education, and fostering a collaborative team environment sets his company apart in the solar industry. This commitment to core values ensures that every decision made by the company is in the best interest of both the customers and the team, ultimately driving long-term success and growth.

At the Forefront of Tech Advancements

ReNew Solar Solutions is always at the forefront of technological advancements. Recognizing the swift pace of technology, the company has adapted numerous times to stay ahead, but more importantly, provide the very best technology and equipment to their customers. John strongly believes in differentiation: “If you’re not differentiated, then you’re relegated to compete on price. I don’t want to compete on price.” Most companies in the solar industry focus on just throwing up racking and panels and moving on to the next job. In contrast,

ReNew Solar Solutions invests significant time in “consultation” with the specific intent to understand their customer’s needs and deliver a unique, optimal design. This customer centric and comprehensive approach ensures the best value proposition is delivered to the Homeowner.

John explains that knowledge and expertise of Tennessee’s self-consumption solar program and the implied inclusion of batteries is a critical foundation for accurate design and delivering on their customer’s objectives. “Self-consumption” simply means that the power generated by solar is used directly by the customer. Therefore, batteries are essential as approximately 75% of a homeowner’s power consumption occurs outside of “core sun-hours” for solar production.

Batteries not only contribute significantly to utility bill reduction, but also provide energy independence through backup, and less or elimination of reliance on their utility.  Ironically, ReNew will tell you that most of their customers pursue solar to achieve “energy independence” to protect their home and family. A classic phrase ReNew likes to use… “if you OWN YOUR HOME; why not OWN YOUR POWER”! 

Design with batteries is the core competency of ReNew and the most important foundation for delivering a solar system solution that does what the customer wants! Many companies overlook this, as this is the hard part, as batteries bring increased complexity to both design and installation, tenfold that of a solar-only system. 

ReNew Solar Solutions dedicates extensive resources and training to this skill. For example, five team members of the ReNew team have attended a 5-day school dedicated to battery design and installation.  ReNew’s design and crew teams are certified in all the major battery offerings. The company employs both a master electrician and licensed electricians, as this skillset aligns most closely with the complexity batteries introduced to a holistic solar system. 

ReNew doesn’t stop at batteries in providing you with the industry’s most comprehensive energy management system.  The production of solar is only one side of the equation; consumption of power at the home is the other side.  To that end, ReNew installs a Sense Solar Home Monitoring device with every system.  This device not only tracks your solar production via an app, but also your home power consumption… down to the individual discrete appliance and device level.   This comprehensive data and information enable the customer to more effectively manage their energy,

reducing their utility bill further and optimizing backup in a grid down situation.  ReNew Solar Solutions also provides EMP Shields, protecting against electromagnetic pulses strikes (EMP and lightning strikes, with a $25,000 insurance policy for lightning strikes.  More and more customers are educating themselves and are growing increasingly concerned over both grid frailty and vulnerability, causing them to more aggressively seek energy independence solutions.

ReNew Solar Solutions is also a partner with Pearl Certification, which selects and works only with top-tier companies that contribute to energy efficiency at the home. At present, Pearl only partners with less than 1% of all Solar contractors nationwide – ReNew Solar Solutions is proud to be one of them.  Pearl will not only certify your solar system but provide a professional appraisal of the solar system’s added value to your home, differentiating ReNew Solar Solutions further.

Another distinct area of differentiation is ReNew’s new partnership with SolarInsure, backed by Zurich, an AM Best A+-rated company. SolarInsure offers a 30-year warranty on all PV components and doubles the battery warranty to 20 years!  If a battery drops below 50% capacity or becomes defective even upon the 19^th year, they replace it for FREE with no deductible.  Even if ReNew and/or the manufacturer goes out of business, you are still covered!  ReNew Solar Solutions is the only company in Tennessee authorized to provide this insurance policy. 

This leads us to perhaps the most compelling aspect of ReNew’s business model and putting the customer at the core – Service!  Yes, the system design is critical, the installation is important… but equally important is the company that stands behind their product after the last check is written!   ReNew Solar Solutions provides the industry’s best LIFETIME Craftsmanship Warranty, while other companies only have 1-5 years. They have a dedicated service department led by their former, best crew leader, ensuring prompt and effective resolution of any issues. ReNew’s LIFETIME Craftsmanship Warranty, combined with SolarInsure and dedicated Service brings their Homeowners the ultimate “Peace of Mind” that they have a life-long trusted partner in their renewable energy journey.  

Commitment to Team Culture and Excellence

ReNew Solar Solutions deeply understands the importance of building a cohesive team. John firmly believes that the solar industry, while challenging for recruitment, thrives on the synergy and fit of its members. He advocates a comprehensive recruitment approach, extending beyond core competencies, knowledge, and experience. He emphasizes that candidates’ technical skills become secondary if they do not align with the company’s culture. During recruitment, the company ensures that every candidate meets a minimum threshold of competency and experience.

However, the emphasis is placed equally on their cultural fit, in fact, it is the “ante in the game”.  New hires at ReNew Solar are introduced to the company’s ethos and operational principles. This introduction is pivotal as it reflects how the company interacts with customers and conducts business. If a candidate fails to resonate with these values, it likely indicates a mismatch with the company’s culture.

John recognizes that recruits that come from other companies could possess “bad habits” that may cause risk to the ReNew way of doing things. While ReNew Solar Solutions will give a chance to a well vetted candidate of this nature, their philosophy historically has been that it often requires more effort to break down those bad habits than it would to train someone new. The harmony within the team at ReNew Solar Solutions is intentional and highly valued.

The company selects individuals who work well together, understanding that teamwork is essential for successful installations and great customer outcomes. John instills in his team the importance of mutual responsibility and accountability. He encourages his crew to consider the welfare of their colleagues and their families, fostering a family-oriented atmosphere within the company.

This family-oriented approach, how they treat both customer and employee, is the essential foundation to their belief system and culture. They believe in creating an environment where employees feel valued and will likely stay long-term, enjoying their work and contributing positively to the company culture. Occasionally, the company brings in individuals who seem to fit initially but later prove otherwise. In such cases, this is dealt with swiftly that is in the best interest of the company and the individual.  The company has a strong belief that individuals can be either cancerous to the “team” through negative behavior or motivate/energize the team’s alignment and performance… They want the former!

John & Krista take immense pride in their team, particularly when customers mention team members by name in their reviews or feedback they provide. This is a testament that they are choosing the right people, building a strong team and driving a sustainable culture. Make no mistake, ReNew believes to their core that their culture is more important than technology, design, installation, etc. to ensure “long-term” success. Culture trumps strategy, every time!

Leaders play a vital role in the nonprofit consulting industry, especially in areas such as fundraising, event development, and strategic growth. They bring specialized knowledge, innovative strategies, and a collaborative approach to assist organizations in maximizing their impact. Their responsibilities include guiding nonprofits in creating effective fundraising campaigns, developing impactful events, and implementing growth strategies. Their presence and dedication serve to inspire and mobilize both internal teams and external supporters, ultimately driving the success of nonprofit missions.

Vallye Adams, Founder & CEO of Etavele Solutions, is a well-known leader in this industry. With over 15 years with prominent nonprofit organizations, she brought a wealth of expertise when she founded and established Etavele Solutions. Vallye’s expertise includes fundraising, event development, expansion strategies, and new market growth. Her passion and dedication are evident in all aspects of her work, making Etavele Solutions a strong support system for nonprofits looking to elevate their fundraising efforts.

The Birth of a Vision 

“I am excited about all I will continue to learn and all I can continue to do to make a difference.”

Vallye Adams

Vallye Adams has accumulated 25 years of experience in various roles across different industries, all of which have significantly contributed to her personal and professional growth. She began her journey with a series of temporary jobs after college, gaining valuable insights into diverse work environments and improving her adaptability skills.

She then advanced through multifamily housing and residential services, followed by a successful career as a real estate professional. These experiences highlighted the importance of exceptional customer service and helped her develop strong interpersonal skills. Showing leadership potential, she consistently sought more responsibility, managing large portfolios, implementing strategic initiatives, and building high-performing teams.

Transitioning into the non-profit sector marked a new chapter in Vallye’s career, starting from entry-level positions and working her way up to an executive leadership role. Here, she utilized her managerial expertise to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need, discovering a passion for philanthropy and collective action.

Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Vallye founded her non-profit consulting firm, combining her deep understanding of non-profit management with a genuine desire to empower organizations. Additionally, she pursued licensure as a female auctioneer and emcee, adding a unique skill set that complements her consulting work and allows her to support non-profits through engaging events.

Throughout her journey, Vallye has faced numerous challenges, including setbacks and funding uncertainties both personally and professionally. However, these obstacles have only fueled her determination, strengthening her resilience and reinforcing the importance of empathy and compassion in driving meaningful change.

The Impact of Personal and Professional Experiences

Vallye Adams believes that her life experiences, both personal and professional, have played a significant role in shaping her current leadership position. Among these experiences, there have been several standout moments that have been pivotal. Building strong relationships is something she values highly as one of her greatest strengths essential in any business. Her ability to connect deeply with donors, board members, volunteers, and other stakeholders has been crucial in garnering support for non-profit organizations and forming partnerships.

In her roles within non-profit leadership and consulting, Vallye encounters ongoing challenges and obstacles. She approaches these with adaptability, critical thinking, and a knack for finding innovative solutions, which she sees as essential in overcoming these hurdles. Her focus on building resilience and honing problem-solving skills allows her to navigate complex situations and drive positive outcomes.

Additionally, Vallye’s passion for the causes and missions of the non-profit organizations she supports is widely acknowledged. Her dedication and commitment stem from a genuine belief in making a difference and improving lives. This passion not only drives her own success but also inspires others, leading to meaningful and lasting change.

Key to Team Engagement

As a respected leader, she emphasizes the importance of encouraging open dialogue and teamwork to effectively identify and address potential ethical risks. Vallye recognizes the progress made by businesses but highlights the unique challenges faced by non-profit organizations in this area. While ethical consulting is not her primary focus, she suggests regularly evaluating and updating ethical policies and codes of conduct. She recommends collaboration with experts to ensure they remain relevant, effective, and in line with industry standards.

Vallye emphasizes several core principles in her leadership philosophy:

• Open Communication: She values transparent dialogue within her teams, ensuring everyone is informed and engaged.
• Integrity: Acting consistently with integrity and honesty guides her decisions and actions.
• Empowerment: Vallye trusts her team, delegates effectively, and supports their growth and success.

Enhancing Organizational Sustainability

Vallye, from her non-profit consulting firm, “Etavele Solutions,” focuses on promoting a culture of innovation and adaptability through various key strategies. She encourages her team to think creatively and embrace unconventional solutions, while also valuing diversity in backgrounds and perspectives. Vallye fosters a collaborative environment, where inclusive brainstorming sessions are held to generate new ideas across departments. She emphasizes the importance of celebrating and rewarding innovation, leading by example to demonstrate her commitment to embracing change and continuous learning.

In a recent initiative, Vallye Adams led the Etavele Solutions team through a transformative project aimed at trademarking a nonprofit program to train organizations the CAMP initiative, involving community engagement, identifying ambassadors and raising awareness to showcase and fund the mission and continue program growth impact.

Additionally, recognizing the need for broader support, Vallye is developing “What’s Next for Non-profits,” a website/app designed to guide non-profits in their growth journey by connecting them with specialized resources. This innovative approach aims to enhance organizational sustainability and impact within the non-profit sector worldwide.

Continuous Learning

At Etavele Solutions, Vallye Adams values the importance of continuous learning and professional development in cultivating talent. She promotes a culture that encourages both teams and consulting clients to embrace ongoing education. Vallye advocates for resources such as training programs, workshops, conferences, and online courses to support growth, as well as the pursuit of certifications and advanced degrees to enhance skills. Recognizing achievements is a priority for Vallye; she publicly celebrates successes and provides incentives that align with professional development goals. She also encourages mentoring and coaching relationships within teams to transfer knowledge and nurture leadership skills, reinforcing a culture of continual learning.

Vallye Adams values accountability for herself and her team, as she believes it is essential for maintaining high performance and achieving goals. She uses strategic methods to set clear expectations and defined responsibilities, such as setting SMART goals and utilizing the S.O.R.T method to break down goals into manageable steps. Additionally, Vallye supports continuous training and development opportunities to promote professional growth and enhance individual and organizational success.

Building Trust and Shared Ownership

Vallye emphasizes the importance of effective communication in leadership. She maintains open lines of communication within her organization by promoting a Communication Culture that encourages transparency, collaboration, and open dialogue. Vallye ensures that everyone feels comfortable expressing ideas and concerns by promoting accessibility and approachability— her door and phone are always open. She prioritizes responsiveness by providing timely feedback and guidance to encourage ongoing communication. Vallye Adams also encourages collaboration through cross-functional projects, brainstorming sessions, and team-building activities, believing that these efforts enhance creativity and foster shared ownership among team members.

Innovation and Stability in Decision-Making

Vallye Adams often finds herself in situations where she must provide suggestions and encouragement to clients, offering best practices and shared experiences to assist them in making decisions that align with their needs and culture. She advocates for a decision-making approach that considers innovation, stability, and sustainability. Vallye supports organizations in exploring new ideas while preserving their existing successes and mission-driven impact. She promotes a growth mindset, encourages thinking big, and envisions future growth. Vallye always considers whether a decision will contribute to a culture that fosters growth and advances the organization’s mission and vision. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and views unmet goals as opportunities for growth.

Crafting a Clear Path Forward

In her role as a leader, Vallye Adams offers the following advice to emerging leaders:

• Establish Your Purpose: Identify your strengths and utilize them to discover your passion and purpose. Consider utilizing tools such as the “Clifton Strengths Assessment.”

• Embrace Continuous Learning: Make an effort to learn something new each day and remain adaptable. Adopt a mindset focused on growth.

• Cultivate Relationships: Develop strong connections with your team, colleagues, and mentors. Effective communication and collaboration are essential.

• Enhance Leadership Skills: Concentrate on improving emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and decision-making. Seek feedback and learn from others.

• Take Thoughtful Risks: Embrace uncertainty and view failures as learning opportunities. Use setbacks as chances for personal growth.

• Maintain Resilience: Persevere through challenges with a positive outlook. See obstacles as opportunities for personal development.

A prominent business leader should be adaptable to the changing business environment. He should be emotionally intelligent, innovative, open to new ideas, willing to take risks, and possess effective communication skills. 

Jason Lau, CEO of Fence Empire LLC, is one such leader who has left an impact on the fencing industry with his sustainable and ethical leadership. With his expertise and understanding of fencing and woodwork, he aims to drive the company toward continued success and growth while maintaining the commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Inspirational Family Generation Business

Jason Lau comes from a southern Chinese family that has run a sawmill for three generations. The family’s factory expanded after creating basic furniture. After graduating, he joined a state-owned export and import company in China that specialized in lumber. He started a wood export enterprise in 2009. Large orders, particularly from Home Depot, pushed the enterprise to concentrate on fence pickets—leading to its rise as the fence industry leader. 

While working, the challenges faced by the clients because of time zone differences inspired Jason to start Fence Empire LLC. While the aim was to provide exceptional, timely service, it became apparent that the company needed a more flexible and responsive approach. 

Changing the Fencing Industry 

Founded in 2017, Fence Empire LLC dedicates itself to overcoming time zone barriers and ensuring its clients receive the best possible service, regardless of location. Its primary focus is providing high-quality Japanese Cedar fences, leveraging its three generations of expertise in the industry. It offers a range of products, including residential, commercial, and industrial wood fences. The company also invests in ornamental metal and aluminum fences. It supplies high-quality iron and aluminum fence panels and railing in the market. It has a good reputation and is associated with eight famous brands: JapCedar, Americraft, ProRail, Feshield, FeDeck, AmeriTimber, AmeriGuard, and AmeriRail.

Fence Empire directly sources raw materials from Japan and handles its own saw-milling, processing, packaging, and sales—creating a complete and self-sustained ecosystem. With an experience of over three decades in the wood industry, it has developed mature production techniques. Its direct procurement of raw materials, combined with scientific management, allows it to minimize production costs to the greatest extent. By selling directly to the United States and providing after-sales service without time zone differences, it achieves the most competitive prices and high-quality service.

Leading the Company to Success

Eight years as the CEO of Fence Empire, Jason has led the company toward immense growth and success. Below are the responsibilities he overtook to maintain the Fence Empire’s long-standing success. 

• Developing and implementing the Fence Empire’s strategic visions and goals and ensuring that its directions align with its mission and values.  
• Overseeing day-to-day operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in all business activities. This includes production, procurement, sales, and customer service.
• Managing the company’s financial health, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning. Ensuring profitability and sustainable growth.
• Ensuring a seamless supply chain, from sourcing raw materials directly from Japan to managing its saw-milling, processing, packaging, and sales.
• Maintaining high standards of product quality and service, overseeing quality control processes, and addressing any issues promptly.
• Leading and motivating the team. Ensuring that employees are engaged, productive, and aligned with the company’s goals. Providing opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Ensuring excellent customer service and satisfaction. Addressing customer needs and concerns promptly and effectively, providing after-sales support without time zone barriers.
• Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities. Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers.
• Ensuring the company complies with all relevant laws and regulations, both domestic and international.
• Continuously seeking ways to improve the company’s products, processes, and services. Staying abreast of industry trends and advancements to keep the company competitive.

The Role of Modern Business Leaders

Jason believes that over the years, business leadership has evolved significantly. Technological advancements have made it essential for leaders to be tech-savvy, understanding, and leveraging new tools and platforms to stay competitive. Globalization has broadened the scope of business operations, requiring leaders to be culturally aware and adaptable to different markets. The workforce demographics have also shifted, with millennials and Gen Z bringing new expectations for flexibility, inclusivity, and a more collaborative work environment. 

Today more than ever, there is a greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical leadership, with leaders expected to prioritize corporate social responsibility. Moreover, the rise of remote work has further changed the landscape—necessitating effective management of virtual teams.

Strategies to Overcome Failures

Handling failures and setbacks is an integral part of a business leader’s journey. Jason approaches these setbacks by viewing them as opportunities to learn and grow. Being resilient is important. He analyzes and understands the root cause of the failures and extracts valuable lessons from those experiences. This process helps in making informed decisions moving forward. It’s also crucial to keep the team motivated and aligned with the company’s goals, especially during challenging times. 

However, Jason also recognizes that sometimes setbacks require a shift in approach or new solutions to overcome obstacles. He does this by being flexible and willing to adapt strategies as needed. He also engages with mentors, peers, and the team for feedback and support. He believes that collaboration often brings new perspectives and innovative solutions.

Important Leadership Lessons

Throughout his career, Jason has learned some valuable leadership lessons. The major lesson is that having clear, transparent, and frequent communication with the team, suppliers, and customers builds trust and ensures everyone is on the same page. Leading by example is also important. He demonstrates the values and work ethics he expects from others. This fosters respect and encourages the team to emulate these behaviors. 

By trusting his team and empowering them to make decisions, he fosters innovation and accountability while boosting the morale of his employees. Moreover, he highlights the importance of continuous improvement and having a customer-centric approach as key factors to staying ahead in the industry. 

Work-life Balance

Jason believes achieving a perfect work-life balance is crucial for personal well-being and professional success. He allocates specific times for work and personal activities and ensures that he adheres to this schedule as much as possible. He trusts his team and delegates tasks effectively. This empowers his employees and frees up his time to focus on high-priority areas and personal life. To strike a balance, Jason establishes clear boundaries between work and personal life. Understanding the importance of regular breaks, he takes short breaks between work and goes on vacations to recharge. 

“Spending quality time with family and making time for self-care is essential for maintaining an overall balance and he makes sure to implement it in his life.”

Advice for Young Business Leaders

For aspiring young business leaders who want to attain success in their respective industries, Jason has the following advice:

• Embrace continuous learning and focus on value creation
• Build strong relationships
• Be resilient and stay persistent
• Lead with integrity, and focus on team building
• Take calculated risks and embrace innovation
• Maintain a healthy work-life balance

In the digital age, where borders are porous and vulnerabilities abound, the leaders in the security and safety of nations stand at the forefront of innovation, constantly adapting and evolving to meet emerging threats head-on. Their proactive approach to cybersecurity, counterterrorism, emergency response, and crisis management not only protects national interests but also contributes to global stability and peace. Through their collaborative efforts, they foster international cooperation, information sharing, and capacity building, transcending geopolitical divides to confront shared challenges and build a safer, more secure world for future generations.

Rizwan Jan (Chief Information Officer at The CNA Corporation) is experienced in leading strategic IT initiatives and driving digital transformation across diverse industries. In his current role at CNA, Rizwan is responsible for shaping and executing the organization’s IT, cyber, physical, and industrial security strategy, ensuring alignment with CNA’s mission and driving its success. 

Strategic IT Leadership

As Chief Information Officer (CIO), Rizwan’s role encompasses a wide array of strategic, operational, and leadership duties pivotal for propelling business growth and advancing innovation. In the contemporary digital landscape, IT functions as a catalyst for transformative change, empowering organizations to explore novel revenue streams and revolutionize their business models. Rizwan’s objective is to ensure that technology not only supports but also propels the business towards success.

At the heart of his responsibilities lies the alignment of the organization’s IT strategy with its overarching business objectives, ensuring that technology enhances operations, drives innovation, and contributes to a competitive advantage. This involves crafting and executing the IT strategy, overseeing IT infrastructure and operations with a focus on cybersecurity, and making prudent investments in technology to balance costs with potential benefits. By keeping abreast of emerging technologies and trends, Rizwan identifies opportunities that can advance the organization’s interests and spearheads initiatives that align with long-term objectives.

Securing the Future

Before joining CNA, Rizwan held the dual role of CIO and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF), where he orchestrated the development and implementation of a comprehensive information security program. With academic credentials in Business Administration and multiple technical certifications, including CISSP and CTPRP, Rizwan actively contributes to advisory boards and organizations focused on cybersecurity and IT governance.

Contribution to Operational Excellence 

As Chief Information Officer (CIO), Rizwan has led transformative initiatives in cybersecurity, industrial security, and technology, resulting in significant advancements and accolades. His strategic overhaul of CNA’s security operations earned the organization a rare “Superior” rating from the DCSA, showcasing his adept leadership and relationship-building expertise. Rizwan’s cost-saving measures through decommissioning legacy systems facilitated investments in innovative technologies like ServiceNow, Zscaler, and Varonis, enhancing efficiency and security. Furthermore, his thought leadership contributions have positioned the organization for sustained success in navigating the evolving digital landscape.

Cultivating a Culture of Learning

In Rizwan’s perspective, cultivating the right talent and capabilities stands as paramount for unlocking growth opportunities. To ensure the workforce is poised to drive innovation, he prioritizes upskilling initiatives and employs various strategies to attract skilled professionals. These initiatives are tailored to equip the team with state-of-the-art tools and techniques. Additionally, Rizwan champions a culture of continuous learning and improvement, urging teams to remain curious, explore new technologies, identify business process redesign opportunities, and share knowledge and best practices. 

By investing in employee training and development and advocating participation in industry certifications, he guarantees that the team remains at the forefront of technology. This proactive stance not only enhances the team’s skills but also nurtures a collaborative and forward-thinking environment, distinguishing the team and significantly contributing to the organization’s success. Rizwan’s commitment to continuous learning not only broadens the team’s capabilities but also cultivates a culture of innovation and excellence within the organization.

Bridging Research and Policy for National Security

The CNA Corporation is an independent, nonprofit research and analysis organization committed to safeguarding the nation’s safety and security. With an 80-year history, CNA’s scientific rigor and pragmatic approach to data have proven invaluable to leaders confronting intricate challenges. CNA utilizes operations research to tackle military inquiries within the Center for Naval Analyses and address domestic issues through the Institute for Public Research. The organization comprises a diverse array of professionals, including mathematicians, engineers, physicists, chemists, and economists. Additionally, it boasts specialists in international relations, homeland security, community safety, public health, and data science.

Decommissioning Legacy Systems

Rizwan encountered significant challenges in his role at the organization, including resistance to change, managing the decommissioning of legacy systems, and resource allocation. Despite these hurdles, he successfully led initiatives resulting in cost savings, streamlined operations, and rapid transformation of the IT infrastructure. Integrating new technologies enhanced efficiency, security, and organizational culture. Rizwan’s leadership contributed to the process re-engineering initiative that drove the organization’s modernization efforts, positioning it for continued advancement in the digital landscape.

The catalyst for the company’s modernization effort was Rizwan’s strategic decision to champion and spearhead a 3-year Digital Transformation roadmap that directly aligned with the CEO’s strategic plan. This pivotal shift commenced with instilling a culture of transparency and encouraging collaboration across functions and departments. By dismantling silos and promoting open dialogue, Rizwan cultivated an environment conducive to the generation of innovative ideas.

A significant aspect of Rizwan’s role entailed harnessing technology to streamline processes, elevate customer experiences, and pioneer novel business models. Collaborating closely with fellow senior executives, Rizwan identified strategic areas ripe for technological intervention. Subsequently, he led initiatives that actualized these innovations, such as deploying advanced IT solutions and leveraging AI tools to streamline operations and boost productivity. This comprehensive digital transformation not only optimized internal processes but also positioned the company to effectively address the evolving needs of its sponsors and customers.

Strategic Adoption of New Technologies

The enduring success of CNA is deeply rooted in its steadfast dedication to excellence and strategic embrace of cutting-edge tools and technologies. As a professional studies and analysis organization contributing significantly to national security, CNA’s reputation hinges upon the quality and rigor of its work. Foundational to this reputation is the unwavering adherence to strict regulations governing IT infrastructure, security, physical security, and industrial security, such as NISPOM and DCSA, ensuring the highest standards of security and compliance are maintained.

CNA takes great pride in its commitment to analytic excellence, upholding rigorous standards, and delivering dependable, high-quality analyses. The organization’s researchers exhibit a keen enthusiasm for adopting new technologies, driving continuous improvement, and enhancing efficiency across all operations. By promoting a culture of collaboration and innovation, CNA ensures that its work remains impactful and of the utmost quality, sustaining its position as a preeminent leader within the industry.

Decades of Dedication 

As a professional studies and analysis organization, CNA focuses on producing studies and analyses that contribute significantly to national security efforts. With a history spanning over half a century, CNA’s analyses have played a pivotal role in supporting the Department of Defense in areas such as recruiting, retaining, and educating an optimal force. Specializing in personnel issues, CNA’s analysts hold Ph.D.’s in economics and boast extensive experience in direct collaboration with Navy, Marines, and sailors.

For more than 80 years, CNA has applied sophisticated mathematical and scientific approaches to real-world military and domestic operations, exercises, and training. Through initiatives like the CNA Field Program, CNA’s analysts work closely with officers, sailors, first responders, Navy, and Marines, ensuring that their analyses are grounded in practical insights derived from direct engagement.

What sets CNA apart is its unique combination of deep academic expertise and hands-on experience. By collaborating closely with military and first responder personnel, CNA ensures that its work remains both theoretically sound and highly relevant. This distinctive blend of skills enables CNA to deliver innovative and highly effective solutions, establishing its reputation as a leader in the field.

Principles for Effective Government Research

In serving the expansive government contracting sector, Rizwan contributes to CNA’s principles aimed at ensuring its research remains honest, accurate, and applicable for public policy decision-makers. To achieve this, CNA employ the following strategies:

• Upholding absolute objectivity: CNA rigorously test hypotheses, mitigate biases, and remain impartial, thereby safeguarding the credibility and trustworthiness of their research.
• Employing imaginative and innovative techniques: CNA approaches each problem with creativity and an open mind, allowing facts to guide their analysis and solutions.
• Developing a comprehensive understanding of issues: CNA delves into all facets of an issue to provide thorough insights that effectively inform decision-making processes.
• Emphasizing a process-driven and results-oriented approach: CNA adheres to stringent ethical standards, ensuring that projects are executed within stipulated timelines and budgets, thus delivering reliable outcomes.
• Prioritizing open and clear communication: CNA maintains transparency with clients, keeping them informed about procedures and progress using unambiguous and understandable language.

These guiding principles enable Rizwan and CNA to meet the multifaceted needs of government clients, offering dependable, insightful, and actionable research solutions.

Catalyzing Change

In Rizwan’s vision for business transformation, he recognizes the evolving significance of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) in leveraging IT to propel business growth, profitability, and innovation. Within the government contracting sector, the shift towards digitization presents vast opportunities to streamline operations, enhance service delivery, and promote transparency and efficiency.

As CIO, Rizwan envisions himself at the forefront of this transformation, harnessing AI’s potential to streamline operations, drive innovation, and steer the organization towards future success. Recognizing the increasing demand for tangible business value from technology initiatives, even amidst constraints, he aims to integrate advanced AI to enhance cost efficiency, reduce manual workloads, and allocate resources strategically for business development.

Charting the Future

The government industry, with its diverse needs, stands to gain significantly from digitization. Through the adoption of innovative technologies and methodologies, Rizwan believes they can address critical challenges, improve public service quality and accessibility, and enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness.

Rizwan’s forward-thinking perspective emphasizes leveraging technology for substantial improvements in the government contracting industry. Central to this transformation is the role of the CIO, guiding the integration of AI and other advanced technologies to create a more efficient, innovative, and effective sector. Embracing these changes, Rizwan believes, will enable the government to better serve its constituents and navigate the complexities of the modern digital landscape.

Insights from Rizwan Jan for Budding Leaders

Rizwan’s advice to aspiring CIOs revolves around the strategic integration of IT across all facets of organizational operations. He emphasizes the importance of breaking down silos and promoting collaboration between IT teams and business units to develop solutions that align with strategic objectives and deliver tangible business value. This collaborative approach requires nurturing a culture of cross-functional teamwork, effective communication and shared accountability for outcomes.

For budding CIOs, Rizwan advocates for a proactive stance in anticipating and shaping future opportunities rather than merely reacting to current business needs. He encourages IT teams to actively seek out ways to leverage technology to address emerging trends, customer preferences, and market disruptions. This entails stimulating a culture of foresight, strategic planning, and continuous improvement, positioning IT as a strategic partner in driving organizational growth and innovation.

Within his organization, Rizwan promotes a culture of collaboration and innovation by engaging closely with business units, IT teams, and stakeholders to co-create solutions that address strategic priorities. This involves facilitating workshops, brainstorming sessions, and maintaining open communication channels to gather feedback and build consensus on the adoption of new technologies. By adhering to these principles, budding CIOs can effectively guide their organizations through digital transformation and toward success.

“Recent developments within thMarkus Hoecherle brokerage community, sparked by a million-dollar settlement from N.A.R. and other organizations, suggest upcoming changes in fee structures. These changes are expected to have a significant impact on the brokerage business, affecting agents, buyers, and sellers nationwide.”

Markus Hoecherl

Markus, the Founder & President of Domunus, was motivated to start the company after identifying challenges within the real estate industry. Recent changes in fee structures and operational inefficiencies caused by different systems were significant obstacles. Markus set out to create a solution that could simplify real estate transactions, lower costs, and improve efficiency. Domunus tackles these issues by providing a combined platform for transaction management, standardizing data, and offering real-time insights, ultimately revolutionizing the industry’s approach to brokerage and transaction management.

Centralized B2B Management Hub

Headquartered in New York City, Domunus, under the leadership of Markus, provides a centralized B2B management hub for real estate agents, sellers, buyers, and its service providers. The platform aims to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and offer real-time transaction data. Markus believes that such a solution is essential in the industry. The launch of the platform is scheduled for this spring/summer, generating anticipation within the real estate sector. 

Domunus is currently in discussions with national real estate groups, indicating strong interest in its offerings. The platform is designed to improve efficiency and facilitate growth in real estate transactions by providing users with the necessary tools and information. It aims to save time and money for agents of all sizes, potentially leading to significant cost savings. As more users join, Domunus targets to become a networking hub, generating new leads and facilitating future deals. The platform also connects service providers, offering opportunities at competitive prices. 

Streamlining Complex Transactions 

Domunus has identified a significant gap in existing brokerage software, which tends to prioritize marketing over transactional processing. Markus saw an opportunity to innovate and redefine the industry with his platform. The platform aims to streamline complex real estate transactions and improve collaboration among agents, sellers, buyers, and service providers. The design process was careful and focused on addressing various challenges, such as transaction friction and the need for structured processes and partnerships. 

Domunus’ marketplace serves as a central hub for consolidating information and data to enhance transaction efficiency and cost-effectiveness for all stakeholders. The platform offers unique advantages like a single-sign-on option and white-label capabilities, which help avoid integration issues common with standalone software. Domunus is positioned to drive business growth and operational excellence in the industry. It offers a user-friendly interface that facilitates seamless workflows, direct access to opportunities, reduced lead times, and real-time operational control.

Inspiring Vision and Innovation

Markus believes that leadership involves a combination of transformational and authentic principles. For him, transformational leadership entails inspiring others with a compelling vision and giving his team the freedom to innovate. He challenges the status quo and drives change that aligns with their common goals. Markus emphasizes that authentic leadership is based on transparency, integrity, and genuine connections. It involves being true to oneself while building trust and respect within the team. These principles come together to form a strong framework. Markus not only motivates and guides but also creates an environment where every individual feels valued, empowered, and motivated to achieve collective success with integrity and purpose.

Mentorship in Talent Development

Taking a proactive approach to talent management is highly valued by Markus. This involves implementing strong systems for talent identification, such as performance reviews, skill assessments, and feedback from managers and peers. Recognizing potential and aligning strengths with organizational needs is crucial, especially for a growing company like Domunus. Once talent is identified, development includes targeted training, growth opportunities, and challenging assignments to enhance capabilities. 

Mentorship plays a key role in this process, pairing talented individuals with experienced leaders who provide guidance, share insights, and offer career advice. This supportive environment promotes continuous learning and personal development, nurturing talent and encouraging a culture of collaboration and leadership succession. By investing in mentorship, Domunus ensures long-term success and sustainability, empowering individuals to contribute effectively while aligning their career aspirations with organizational goals.

Strategic Planning for Competitiveness

Recognizing the importance of company advancement involves taking into account various factors, including market dynamics, customer insights, technological opportunities, internal capabilities, and strategic alignment with long-term goals, as Markus acknowledges. This process requires meticulous planning, comprehensive market research, and innovative ideas to remain competitive and address changing customer demands. 

By gaining insight into customer preferences and trends, identifying gaps in the market, and evaluating competitors’ strengths and weaknesses, Domunus sets itself apart with unique value propositions. Additionally, staying informed about technological advancements allows for the incorporation of new technologies to enhance functionality, improve user experience, and lower costs.

Balancing Innovation and Risk Management

Markus believes that innovation is a crucial factor in organizational decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between promoting innovations and managing risks, while also ensuring stability and profitability. Encouraging a culture that values calculated risks is essential, along with providing resources for research, development, and learning from failures. Maintaining stability requires effective risk management and operational efficiency. Open communication with stakeholders helps align innovative efforts with business goals for sustainable growth. Markus promotes a systematic approach to decision-making. He focuses on identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies such as avoidance, reduction, sharing, and acceptance. He also promotes collaboration among teams for thorough risk assessment and adaptation to changing circumstances.

Enhancing Customer Experience

Markus believes that the company, which is primarily focused on technology, uses digitized transactions to address market inefficiencies. Technology plays a significant role in enhancing the customer experience by providing access to information and services at all times and locations, which helps in making faster and better business decisions. Automation tools ensure quick responses to basic queries and offer 24/7 support. The platform places a strong emphasis on clear messaging to avoid miscommunication and keep all parties updated on transaction statuses. Real-time updates help to keep customers informed and engaged. Overall, technology is crucial in creating a seamless and satisfactory experience by improving accessibility, personalization, efficiency, and communication.

Continuous Improvement and Business Support

Domunus is a centralized and collaborative hub for real estate transactions, offering a single platform for all participants. This innovative solution allows partners to efficiently interact and finalize deals. Markus mentioned that this achievement was the result of a thorough process to address the challenges, needs, and desires of parties from various industries. It also aimed to tackle two major gaps in the real estate market: the fragmented transaction process and inefficient business practices. By utilizing customer feedback and the latest technological advances, Domunus strives to continuously improve user experience and assist in business growth.

Preparing for Launch

Markus and his team are preparing to release the first version of their platform for pilot testing this summer. This marks a pivotal point in their journey, targeting select users in the real estate sector for an exclusive Private Beta. This program will provide tailored support to help users advance their unique objectives, offering a competitive edge and access to a discount and reward program. Markus is inviting mid- to large-scale brokerages and boutique agencies to take advantage of this opportunity and be part of the transformative launch. Domunus aims to revolutionize the industry, with a strong belief in the platform’s potential to reshape the landscape. Early feedback has been positive, showing confidence in their ability to redefine industry norms. 

Ongoing discussions with national real estate groups indicate a growing interest in Domunus and its innovative solutions. Domunus aims to redefine real estate transactions by offering efficiency and growth through synchronized collaboration, customized opportunities, and real-time transaction data. The platform serves as an ultra-efficient online hub, empowering agents, sellers, buyers, and service providers with the necessary tools and information to operate securely and expand their businesses.

The Indian mining sector faces a multitude of challenges. Right from identification of right asset to obtaining mining permits to environmental concerns, social license to operate, timely project development and efficient operations management for cost control. A consultancy firm can help this sector by streamlining options and providing strategic planning. That is what ReVal stands for, to advise and guide clients across the value chain and provide strategic view and unlock value. 

Pukhraj Sethiya Co-founded ReVal Consulting Pvt. Ltd. in April 2022 to offer complete solutions for addressing technical, commercial, and financial challenges faced by the companies in mining and metals sectors. ReVal Consulting is committed to managing every step of the mining and processing value chain, ensuring a synchronized approach from start to end. 

Reshaping the Mining Sector of India

ReVal Consulting is a consulting and professional services company founded by Industry Veterans Mr. Kumar Rajesh Singh and Mr. Pukhraj Sethiya to provide expert advisory services to Mining Sector clients in India and abroad bringing together multitude of skills to provide end to end solution to challenges client faces. Its qualified experts bring together the experience of the entire life cycle of the mining business. The company’s objective is to advise and help its clients realize value, reassure valued stakeholders, and re-validate existing plans and operations to maximize value to shareholders. 

ReVal Consulting’s vision is to become the most preferred consultancy house for solving the challenges that capital industries face and creating value for all stakeholders. It has three core values: innovation, trust, and sustainability. 

• Innovation – It focuses on bringing innovative ideas and solutions to clients to address root causes by involving experts from diverse backgrounds.
• Trust – The company’s focus is to build a long-term trustworthy relationship with its clients and team. It also provides solutions that, when implemented, help clients establish trust with stakeholders. 
• Sustainability – The company’s solutions prioritize providing long-term and sustainable outcomes to its clients and society at large. By conserving resources, enhancing recovery, and minimizing the cost of reducing carbon footprint, the company can achieve this. 

Crossing Hurdles through Valuable Lessons

Every business goes through hardships. In Mr. Pukhraj’s fifteen-year career, he had learned several valuable lessons. 

1. Perseverance is key when pursuing opportunities.
2. Aim high but keep expectations grounded, avoiding premature celebrations.
3. Embrace mistakes and failures as opportunities for growth.
4. Build a strong team ready to tackle challenges.
5. Cultivate relationships with friends and mentors.

These lessons have guided ReVal Consulting’s strategy, driving it to pursue aggressively while learning from setbacks. The company also faces a significant obstacle in the form of identifying, developing, and retaining the appropriate talent.

Implementation of Strategies

ReVal Consulting focuses on bringing different strategies and agile and shorter TAT services. It provides customized solutions to clients with a focus on value creation and bringing together multiple skill sets. It also offers a full spectrum of services across the mining value chain to enhance client satisfaction and forge enduring relationships. From exploration to project implementation, it focuses on partnering with clients in implementing its advisory solution to realize results. Engaging with clients from the exploration stage, assisting in project evaluation, partner selection, and investment sourcing, and helping ongoing implementation support the company’s work alongside clients to see results and readjust solutions under practical circumstances. This helps build trust and confidence through its comprehensive approach.

Since the company operates in advisory services, its investment is in the latest software and honing the skills of its people to help realize the best outcomes for its clients. With its investment in skill building, it can bring forth differentiated advice with a focus on business outcomes.

Commitment towards Long-Term Success

ReVal Consulting’s commitment is to create a long-term impact and realize that actual value goes hand in hand with its focus on long-term engagement. It achieves this by partnering in the implementation process rather than just preparing reports. Its offerings in project management and operational planning with implementation are to create a long-term impact on cost and a sustainable project footprint. The company is promoting the practice of “plan your mine and mine your plan” as part of its services. Most companies are expected to adopt this approach in the future. It represents a significant cultural shift in the mining industry, promoting sustainable, scientific, and environmentally friendly mining practices with a minimal ecological impact.

Standing Out from Others

ReVal Consulting focuses on value generation and unlocking value for its clients. The company provides a one-stop solution for all technical, management, and financial matters to Infrastructure and Capital industries in general and to mining and metals sector in particular. It works on the operational planning and implementation part along with its clients, especially in the mining sector, which makes it stand out from others. It also brings together experts with multi-geography and multi-mineral experience who have implemented these solutions in a live scenario, hence its team has more practical and hands-on experience. 

Maintaining a Team of Talented Individuals

ReVal Consulting understands the importance of attracting and retaining top talent. To achieve this, it offers competitive compensation and provides regular guidance and coaching to shape the employees’ personalities. Moreover, it provides opportunities for direct client engagement, as the founders prefer to play the role of coach to help their people achieve their full potential. It adopts a fairly good level of people’s policies, including feedback, appraisal, other employee benefits, etc. 

The company successfully retains and continuously engages its top talent due to several factors. Firstly, these individuals recognize the value created by their efforts as they work on long-term projects and implement them alongside clients. Secondly, they appreciate the challenging and differentiated work opportunities they receive. These are just a few reasons why the company is able to maintain a high level of talent retention and engagement.

Promoting Self-Motivation Philosophy

Consulting is a people business and every individual counts in it. Right at the hiring level, ReVal Consulting prefers to hire self-motivated people who align with the company’s goals. While it is a small organization, it focuses on employee engagement and tries to create policies and provide facilities similar to leading organizations. It has adopted a flat organizational structure and fostered a culture and environment where everyone can voice their opinion. To promote a culture of client-centric approach and innovation, most of its people work out of the client’s office to know what the client needs and also to help the client implement its advice correctly. 

Looking Ahead for Bright Future

The future holds great promise for ReVal Consulting. With abundant opportunities in India and the dynamic energy and innovative thinking of the younger generation, the company is optimistic about its growth trajectory. It aims to become the leading consulting firm in the Indian mining sector and eventually expand into other industries and geographies. With a focus on developed India, it sees a lot of growth and investment in coal and the metal mining sector. With the government’s clear focus on self-reliance, the mining sector will need to invest more and ReVal Consulting is a partner for them to realize their value.

Mr. Pukhraj has a positive outlook toward ReVal Consulting’s bright future. He says, “India as a country has many opportunities, and the younger generation is more energetic, brighter, full of ideas, and courageous. In such a sweet spot, I see the future of ReVal as bright, and we are already on the path to being the preferred consulting organization in the mining sector in India.

We are broadening our services in the mining sector by including geology and exploration in our portfolio. We are gearing up to explore other industries, mainly infrastructure and power sectors. We see ourselves working with our clients not only on conceptualization but also on the implementation of projects. Further plans are to explore crucial opportunities to go global and expand our horizons!”

Advice for Other Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Mr. Pukhraj has advice for those entering consulting, mining, or entrepreneurship. It’s vital to realize that success doesn’t come overnight. The journey is essential for growth, and setbacks are part of the process. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and adjust the course. Instead of getting discouraged by setbacks, see them as chances to gain valuable insights. Rather than fixating on short-term wins, focus on continuous improvement and long-term goals. Last but not least, entrepreneurs have everything in their job roles, so while delegating effectively, be ready to take charge at any moment to deliver results as planned. 

Growth in the healthcare industry requires thorough research, innovative thinking, and visionary leadership. A healthcare researcher and leader should commit to the well-being of the patient and should adapt to technological changes. Dr. Mehmet Ali Soylemez, Founder & Managing Director of Soylemez Investment, is one such leader who has made significant changes in the healthcare sector with his dedicated research and groundbreaking innovations. He aims to make a difference by empowering healthcare professionals in their clinical decision-making, ultimately leading to improved patient care and reduced healthcare costs.

The Inspirational Work & Journey

Dr. Mehmet Ali Soylemez completed his studies at the Istanbul University, School of Medicine. Apart from being an entrepreneur, he is a distinguished medical doctor and scientist, with expertise in clinical genetics, general surgery, and medical physiology. He is a member of several scientific associations – the Turkish Medical Genetics Association, the American Society of Cell and Gene Therapy, the European Society of Human Genetics, and the American Society of Human Genetics. He has won several awards throughout his career, some of which are,

• European Society of Human Genetics; Fellowship Award, 2011, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

• GHP – Global Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Award Winner in 2023, Staffordshire, UK.

• CIO Bulletin Innovation Excellence Award Winner in 2024, New Jersey – USA.

• The Silicon Review 30 Fabulous Companies 2024 Award 

• 30 Fabulous Invention Award Winner in 2024, New Jersey – USA.

Dr Mehmet Ali Soylemez’s immense knowledge and research have significantly influenced the healthcare industry, especially in diagnosing and managing diabetes mellitus and diabetic foot syndrome. One of his notable achievements is the identification of biomarker procalcitonin. His passion for collaboration and improving diabetic treatments has helped Soylemez Investment gain recognition. 

Advancing the Healthcare Industry

Mehmet Ali Soylemez Investment, established by Dr. Mehmet Ali Söylemez, is at the forefront of technological innovation, aiming to advance multiple industries. Recognized for its ingenious contributions, particularly in advancing diabetic treatments, the company has earned accolades such as the Innovation Excellence Awards. With a commitment to constant improvement, the company dedicates itself to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible–leaving a lasting impact on healthcare and beyond. It is driven by ethical principles, with a focus on respecting human values and client needs. The company’s mission centers on advancing treatments for Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Foot Syndrome. 

Söylemez Investment operates in a wide range of industries, from real estate to IP Investment. Dr Mehmet Ali Soylemez’s focus is on IP Investment within the company. He is open to working with biotech and diagnostic firms around the world that are after investment in accelerating their entry into the market. The company’s scientific goal is to design an individual diagnostic treatment plan to help every one of its diabetic patients achieve the best outcome possible. 

The Diagnostic Biomarker Tool

The importance of designing individualized diagnostic treatment plans to optimize outcomes for diabetic patients is emphasized by Dr. Mehmet Ali Soylemez. His pioneering research has led to the widespread use of procalcitonin as a diagnostic biomarker for diabetes mellitus and diabetic foot syndrome. To safeguard his property, the company has submitted a patent application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for two inventions related to diagnostic biomarkers. These patents aim to secure the company’s position in the US market and support its long-term strategic vision of growing with advancements in diagnostic and preventive healthcare.

Dr. Mehmet Ali Soylemez is the rightful owner of the European patent for this invention titled Pancreatic Diabetes in Patients with Normal Blood Leukocyte Counts Using Procalcitonin. It is registered with the European Patent Office. It is also protected by three national registries, including the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Turkey. These highlight the significance and uniqueness of his work. He envisions that the future of diagnostic and preventive healthcare advancements will rely on diagnostic biomarkers and molecular genetics. The company must be prepared to evolve to these market changes in the next five to ten years. 

Changing the Healthcare Industry With the Invention

The identification of procalcitonin led to the revolutionization of the scientists’ understanding of these conditions and more effective treatment. The research has resulted in approximately 40 peer-reviewed publications on procalcitonin as a biomarker tool. It highlights its superiority over traditional diagnostics like HgbA1c. 

HgbA1c shows three months of potential diabetic complications while procalcitonin shows a much smaller timeline – in the span of 24 hours – of potential damage from complications. It does this by identifying patients at risk of complications early on. So diabetic mellitus and diabetic complications can be treated faster and much more successfully. 

Despite significant challenges, this development comes after two decades of hard work to raise awareness of the biomarker’s effectiveness in the market. The invention of procalcitonin has been submitted as a proposal for the Lasker Award 2024, Harvard Medical School’s Warren Alpert Prize 2024, and the European Inventor Award 2024. 

The decision to go against the tide requires courage and can often be what separates good leaders from the greats. The leadership journey of Ashwini Bhole, Associate Principal and Head of Product Development for Financial Markets at eClerx, is a prime example of such exceptional leadership.

Before 2000 when most people considered Information Technology (IT) an unknown field with an uncertain future as compared to Computer Science, Ashwini had other ambitions. Fascinated by all things technology, she decided to pursue studies in Information Technology to leverage its transformative power, making her one of the most iconic tech leaders to watch in 2024.

Laying the Career Foundation

Early exposure to computers and programming further boosted Ashwini’s interest in technology. On the other hand, the thrill of writing her first lines of code laid the foundation for her career. Inspired by some of her professors, she took special interest in learning about encryption and application security. The learning that she carried helps her even today when designing the architecture for applications that handle the most sensitive PII data.

In the long haul, mentorship from experienced leaders in the tech industry, who offered their guidance, support, and insights proved valuable in tackling industry challenges and helped Ashwini capitalize on opportunities. Right in her early career, she developed an appreciation that all the power of technology is inconsequential, until it solves a problem, whether for business or broadly for humanity. These experiences collectively reinforced her commitment to the tech industry—driven by a passion for creating technology-driven solutions.

Fast-Paced Tech World

A degree in Information Technology provided Ashwini with a strong technical foundation and helped her understand the true potential of technology. Her first job in a tech startup made her familiar with the fast-paced, dynamic environment of the tech world.

Transitioning to a well-established tech company, she was soon promoted to a leadership position that tested her leadership acumen and strategic thinking. This experience gave her opportunities to work on large-scale projects and learn from experienced professionals.

Staying updated with the industry trends is especially important in the tech world. To stay ahead of the curve, Ashwini attended various industry conferences, enrolled in advanced courses, and completed a Post-graduate Executive Management Programme followed by a Post-graduation in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence.

Core Leadership Values

Integrity and communication are at the core of Ashwini’s leadership philosophy. Ashwini encourages individuals to share different perspectives and have healthy debates, ensuring every voice is valued. This approach not only fosters a collaborative environment but also strengthens the team’s synergy. 

Empowerment, innovation, and a growth mindset are equally vital to her leadership. Ashwini strives to create a culture where people feel empowered to take ownership, make decisions, and contribute their talents—investing in their growth through opportunities for learning and development.

Committed to fostering creativity and continuous improvement, Ashwini embraces experiments and new ideas to stay ahead in the AI and data science field. By supporting ongoing education, professional development, and personal growth, she helps individuals reach their full potential—driving both personal and organizational success.

Tackling Challenges through Determination

Managing change and maintaining team morale is challenging, particularly during organizational restructuring or the implementation of new technologies, says Ashwini. To tackle individual concerns, she promotes ownership and collaboration by actively involving team members during the transition period.

While natural, resistance to change across the organization can create anxiety and disrupt productivity. Prioritizing clear communication and explaining the reasons behind the changes and their long-term benefits is crucial in such situations.

Especially during such tough times, Ashwini acknowledges and celebrates successes—big and small. Regular one-on-one meetings and team-building activities keep everyone aligned and motivated. Moreover, showing genuine appreciation for hard work and offering professional development opportunities leads to a supportive environment.

According to Ashwini, balancing immediate results with long-term strategic goals is crucial to organizational success. To manage this, she establishes clear priorities and communicates them effectively to ensure team alignment. At eClerx, this balance is achieved through regular progress reviews and adjusting strategies as needed.

When conflicts arise within the team or with external stakeholders, Ashwini recommends approaching the situation with a mindset of understanding and resolution. According to her, actively listening to all parties involved and facilitating open, respectful discussions helps identify root causes and find mutually agreeable solutions.

A driving force behind Ashwini’s leadership is her constant pursuit of innovation. A passion for technology compels her to push boundaries and develop solutions that address real-world challenges. This, coupled with a clear vision and a commitment to positive societal impact, fuels my motivation during both triumphs and setbacks.

“I find fulfillment in knowing our work improves customer lives and fosters long-term success for the company and its stakeholders.”

She motivates her team to pursue ambitious goals with her leadership and as per HR partners 360-degree feedback, her team members admire her and her peers respect her knowledge. Her senior managers appreciate her role in creating innovative solutions that set the company apart in the industry. She is also a trusted advisor to her close family – they ask for her advice on important decisions in life, such as education for the children or tough choices for her siblings.

Ashwini values the trust that her company and colleagues have in her leadership, and is thankful for the environment that they have created to help her excel. Ashwini also cherishes the unwavering support that her family has provided all through her career – her parents, in-laws, siblings, husband and their teenage son.

Leadership Lessons and Accolades

Developing the first Robotics and AI-driven product from concept to market launch was a pivotal achievement for eClerx. It was a strong market fit and the timing was precise, earning positive feedback from early adopters and impressive traction in the market. This success led to a major revenue boost, including a 100% year-over-year revenue growth rate for the product within the first three years, underscoring the market demand for eClerx’s solutions.

To successfully execute such projects, assembling a high-performance team was essential for eClerx. Attracting top talent in Microsoft stack, AI, data science, and business development allowed the company to foster a collaborative yet innovative work culture that drove high performance and employee satisfaction.

For its innovative contributions to the tech world, eClerx was recognized with prestigious awards such as the “A-Team Innovation Awards 2023” and “NASSCOM AI Game Changer.” 

Moreover, Ashwini was honored with the “Women to Watch Out for in AI & Analytics (2022)” award by 3AI.

Exciting Market Dynamics

The dynamic nature of the market is what excites Ashwini and keeps her engaged. Innovative product development allows her to create cutting-edge solutions using AI, machine learning, and big data analytics–transforming ideas into market-leading products. Furthermore, collaborating with engineering, design, marketing, and sales teams fosters creativity and innovation.

Beyond that, she enjoys analyzing trends, understanding customer needs, and crafting strategies that differentiate eClerx’s products. Understanding the vitality of customer-centricity, Ashwini finds engaging with customers to translate their pain points into impactful features rewarding.

Journey of Patience and Resilience

Ashwini highlights “Leaders Eat Last,” a book by Simon Sinek, where he encourages leaders to redefine leadership, highlighting how leadership is not about personal gain, but fostering a trusting environment where people excel. This resonates with Ashwini’s belief in servant leadership, prioritizing team growth and well-being. 

Additionally, Ashwini highlights a Steve Jobs quote, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower“ as inspiring words that motivate her to constantly push boundaries. 

 “Embrace the journey with patience and resilience, and don’t be afraid to take calculated risks.”

Leaders Who Inspire Ashwini

• Steve Jobs: Visionary leader, who revolutionized products (iPhone, iPad). Inspired by his design & user-centric approach, innovation drive.

• Sheryl Sandberg: COO of Facebook, a champion for women leaders & diversity. Inspired by her advocacy for empowerment, resilience, and work-life balance.
• Andrew Ng: Co-founder of Coursera, AI leader. Inspired by his passion for education, AI knowledge sharing, and practical applications.

Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

● Growth mindset: Embrace learning, see challenges as growth opportunities, and failures as lessons. Adapt, overcome, and innovate!

● Customer focus: Understand their needs, gather feedback, and create solutions that exceed expectations. Put them first!

● Strong team: Surround yourself with talented, passionate people who share your vision. Invest in them, empower them!

● Focus & flexibility: Have a vision, and set goals, but be adaptable. Balance is key in a changing world.

● Continuous innovation: Encourage creativity, experiment, stay informed about trends, and take calculated risks to stay ahead.

● Strong relationships: Network with entrepreneurs, leaders, and partners. Build meaningful connections based on mutual respect and value.

Ashwini’s Tips to Achieve Work-Life Balance

• Boundaries: Set work hours, communicate them, and use tools to schedule focused work and personal time.
• Prioritize: Focus on high-impact tasks, delegate, and use the Eisenhower Matrix for efficient time management.
• Mindfulness: Practice meditation or deep breathing to manage stress and improve focus. Apps like Headspace can help.
• Hobbies: Schedule time for activities outside of work that bring you joy and reduce stress.
• Social Connections: Nurture relationships with loved ones and colleagues. Plan regular social activities.
• Goals: Set realistic goals for work and personal life. Break down big goals and celebrate progress.

Today, technology has proven invaluable in managing specialized services and complex financial tasks across various industries. Top companies utilize it to provide customer satisfaction. One such company is EQ India, which offers financial technology services to the EQ Group’s global clients. Recently, it has been recognized as a Top Employer for its HR practices in the UK, US, and India.

Offshore Unit of EQ Group

The EQ Group is a UK-based company and the leading provider of professional shareholder, pension, and remediation services in the UK and the second largest in the US. Based in Bangalore, EQ India serves as the offshore unit of the EQ Group. It operates with EQ’s entities in the UK, US, Netherlands and Poland.

Founded in 2014, it handles back-office tasks for the EQ Group and works with 49% of FTSE 100 companies and 35% of S&P 500 firms. The company operates out of Chennai and Bangalore with around 1,800 employees, comprising more than a quarter of EQ’s global workforce. A pioneer in using technology to enhance client and end-customer experience, it helps serve 36 million shareholders worldwide.

Core Values it Thrives On

EQ India has adopted the EQ Group’s core values of commercial, collaboration, improvement, and trust. Trust forms the foundation of the company’s services in the sensitive and specialized field of global financial operations. For the company’s success, collaboration plays a crucial role as the teams are spread across countries. It understands and works on constant improvement towards growth. Being a commercial organization ensures customer success and profitability. The teams of EQ India are taught to adhere to these values while carrying out their daily responsibilities and in their interactions with colleagues worldwide.

Overcoming Hurdles

The share registry industry is highly specialized, and finding individuals with the expertise of domain and technical knowledge is more demanding. EQ India addressed this challenge by recruiting promising individuals and transforming them into specialists through comprehensive training programs. The senior management supports continuous learning through certifications, online training modules, and even bringing in trainers from the US and UK. Internal promotions are prioritized, ensuring a steady pool of loyal, experienced talent to fuel growth and serve as internal ambassadors.

Continuous Growth and Success

In recent years, EQ India has experienced significant growth. It aims to expand by more than 20% each year in the coming years. This growth will lead to the company constituting 50% of the EQ Group’s global workforce. Apart from core operations, it will also focus on innovation and technology transformation.

Anand Ramakrishnan, the Managing Director of EQ India, and his team have been focused on improving the company’s capabilities. They aim to move beyond simply replicating processes and instead evolve into Centers of Excellence (CoE). These CoEs will drive value for the EQ Group. This has helped the Group offshore modules of work rather than just specific processes, which has immensely aided EQ India’s growth.  

Mr. Anand credits the robust talent strategy for the company’s continuous growth. The principles that the company adopted, like focusing on employee engagement, diversity, encouraging innovation, and having open and transparent communication across the company, also contributed to its growth. He believes that these principles and the company’s values tie all colleagues across countries together, leading to an ability to contribute quickly and seamlessly in multicultural environments. He also emphasizes the importance of having a razor-sharp focus on customers and building a customer-centric organization. With the advancement of AI across industries, GCCs have to upskill, reskill, and recruit for the technology and use it, with context and caution in mind. 

Company Culture

EQ India’s leadership team has a strong awareness that softer and intangible factors create a good workspace. To keep morale and engagement high, senior management pays careful attention to employee satisfaction. Initiatives like acting quickly on the anonymous monthly employee feedback from the Peakon tool and offering well-being programs are continuously identified and followed through. The leadership team takes the initiative to personally mentor the employees, build customized career paths, and upskill the framework so the young team members can achieve the highest potential. 

At EQ India, diversity is an important tenet so every employee can feel valued and heard. The country’s varied cultural identities are celebrated through numerous festivals and events. Forty percent of the company’s teams are women, and programs such as return-to-work for new mothers are in place too, making it a fair and equal-opportunity employer.

Leading Through Empowerment

Mr. Anand’s leadership philosophy revolves around empowering his teams. All leaders, managers, and team members are encouraged to collectively advance the vision. They are also encouraged to tap into their individual strengths and ingenuity. This approach ensures collective success, rather than individual glory. Openness to new ideas throughout the company, especially among leaders, is also important to establish a strong culture of innovation. Knowing that managers support them when they experiment and fail provides a fertile ground for creativity to flourish. Leaders of a pioneering set-up must always be prepared to guide the team through anticipated and unforeseen challenges.

Technological Advancements

The Finance Shared Services CoE has successfully unified company-wide finance processes onto a single platform as a significant step in the group’s global digital transformation. Core shareholder operations from the USA have been moved here, freeing up the onshore offices to build deeper relationships with clients. EQ India follows a measured approach while achieving these advancements. The EQ Group takes a balanced stance toward digitization in the larger context of its sensitive role as a financial custodian. 

Mr. Anand and his team have been mindful not to rush into adopting or implementing today’s technologies because others are using them. Any platform or solution has to go through rigorous evaluation to ensure it will not compromise the sensitive financial and personal data the company handles. Additionally, an in-house solution should align with the organization’s core values.

Company’s Plans for Future

EQ India continues to work on the concept of GCC 4.0 while fulfilling the EQ Group’s goals. It is working on various group initiatives, including digitization, self-service, data management, enterprise architecture, data management, process automation, and many other such group initiatives. Increasing digitization will unlock data for analytics-led decision-making for the entire organization. India’s CoEs are being set up for more global functions, like procurement and project management. The company is also a key player in the group’s journey to the cloud. 

Similar to all corporations, whether local or global, GCCs must collaborate with broader Indian ecosystems, such as academia and universities. This collaboration aims to create symbiotic relationships that combine the best from the HQ’s global practices and India’s talent. GCCs can reach out to local community leaders and NGOs to participate in social impact initiatives, so employees and communities can contribute meaningfully. EQ India is also actively involved in building local schools and contributing to other social causes.

Leaders in the cybersecurity industry are at the forefront of protecting digital assets and systems from cyber threats. These leaders possess expertise, innovation, and influence that shape the industry’s direction and standards. They play a crucial role in advancing cybersecurity technologies, policies, and practices to address the evolving landscape of cyber threats. They are pioneers in developing innovative solutions to combat cyber threats. Driving research and development efforts to create cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and behavioral analytics to enhance security posture and resilience. 

Craig Miller (Partner and Practice Manager at Keep IT Simple) brings over 25 years of experience to the table, having worked extensively in IT and cybersecurity consulting, engineering, and support. His passion lies in cybersecurity, where he helps organizations design and implement secure infrastructure and data protection models aligned with cutting-edge best practices. He stays ahead of the curve by constantly monitoring new and emerging threats that target businesses, schools, and government institutions. 

A Security Specialist with Deep Expertise 

At Keep IT Simple (KIS), Craig leads a team that offers comprehensive cybersecurity consulting services. These include designing and deploying secure systems, along with responding to incidents like virus outbreaks. Craig is a strong proponent of prevention, and his team offers services like cybersecurity framework implementations, assessments, compliance checks, and vulnerability testing to proactively identify and address cybersecurity program gaps specific to each client’s requirements. 

Craig’s dedication to his field is evident in his training, certifications, and memberships. He is a member of the Center for Internet Security (CIS) working groups, a Certified Ethical Hacker, a Certified Hacking Forensics Investigator, and holds multiple vendor certifications from Microsoft® and others. This extensive knowledge allows him to provide a well-rounded approach to cybersecurity. 

36 Years of Excellence  

Keep IT Simple (KIS) is a long-standing IT solutions provider based in Fremont, CA, with a rich history spanning 36 years. They have extensive experience serving both commercial and government organizations, having completed thousands of successful projects. KIS offers a comprehensive range of solutions, including network design, security services, virtualization, Cloud, telephony, IT outsourcing, and e-business solutions. Notably, they maintain full compliance with USAC requirements, hold Green-Light status with the FCC, and have a strong track record of delivering solutions under the e-Rate Program. Additionally, KIS holds contracts with CMAS and NASPO. 

Founded in 1988 by Sean Canevaro, KIS was envisioned as a company that could address diverse client needs without being constrained by manufacturer sales incentives. Sean’s vision emphasized the importance of great people sharing their talents and expertise with both each other and their clients. Today, Sean remains at the helm as CEO, and his vision has become a reality. 

Navigating Technology Trends 

Throughout its history, KIS has continuously adapted to the pace of technological advancements, evolving from providing basic hardware to delivering complete virtualized networks. Despite these changes, their commitment to providing cost-effective solutions, maintaining quality, and delivering exceptional customer service has remained steadfast. 

Over the years, KIS has expanded through strategic collaborations with six different companies, each contributing to building a more robust business. With one of Northern California’s largest multidisciplinary consulting staff, many of whom have been with the company for a decade or longer, KIS prides itself on being the best at what they do. They invite potential clients to discover how they can leverage their expertise to address their IT needs effectively. 

From Military to Cybersecurity 

At a young age, Craig Miller joined the military and served for 14 years, gaining experience in intelligence, reconnaissance, and other skills relevant to security in general. During his service, he also pursued college, including legal studies. In his military career, he served as an infrastructure engineer, developing general network design using Cisco, Microsoft, and Novell skills. This laid the foundation for his expertise as a network and systems engineer. Craig also served as an Intelligence Analyst responsible for securing data honing his security skills.  

After leaving the military, Craig joined KIS and became a leader in building its services organization. Under CEO Sean Canevaro’s vision, KIS transitioned from a value-added reseller to a consulting and services firm. Craig Miller played a key role in formalizing this service offering and developing a new model with practice areas managed by practice managers. This collaborative structure allowed KIS to become a fully capable cybersecurity firm, where Craig now leads in acquiring and developing cybersecurity solutions and optimizing skills to support clients. 

Leading Through Change 

One of Craig’s biggest challenges was maintaining and developing the necessary skills for his team as the company evolved and formed multiple partnerships. There needed to be more in their ability to support clients across various technologies. To address this, Craig championed and implemented a formalized training program to ensure engineers and practice managers quickly acquired the needed skills. Given the rapidly changing market, particularly in cybersecurity, Craig Miller’s focus was on building a strong foundation in cybersecurity skills and advancing their capabilities specific to the client’s needs. This approach enabled the company to provide deep, efficient support to clients and stay current with emerging trends and technologies, continuously improving their service offerings. 

Project Management Excellence  

Craig explains that KIS offers various services, with cybersecurity being a primary practice area. Additionally, they specialize in cloud services, including private cloud and partnerships with providers like AWS and Microsoft. Their expertise extends to virtualization, working with major vendors such as VMware, Microsoft, and Amazon.  

KIS stays committed to adjusting and optimizing its support of current and evolving markets, such as the recent VMware acquisition by Broadcom. Craig Miller supports consulting services to assist clients with best practices and formalizing their implementations. Moreover, KIS provides project management support, ensuring clients have the necessary oversight and management to complete projects effectively. 

Holistic Service Delivery  

KIS’s uniqueness lies in the deep understanding and knowledge within each practice area, coupled with the crossover of skills among them. Their cloud engineers, for instance, possess expertise not only in cloud technologies but also in areas like Microsoft, virtualization, and Linux. This interdisciplinary approach allows KIS to pull skills from different practice areas as needed to fulfill client projects or services internally. Unlike organizations that focus on vertical markets, KIS prioritizes the diverse needs of their clients, spanning various industries such as education, government, commercial, healthcare, and transportation. Rather than specializing in vertical application-level aspects, KIS focuses on enhancing their client’s ability to communicate, process data, and operate within their respective industries.  

Recently, KIS introduced a Managed Service Provider (MSP) model to better serve their clients. This outsourced managed service solution encompasses desktop infrastructure, desktop as a service, infrastructure as a service, software as a service, and cybersecurity as a service. Although still in development, the management portion of the MSP model has been completed and launched over the past months. Despite being in its early stages, the service desk has garnered significant attention, with over five companies signing up solely through word of mouth. This success highlights the promising potential of the new practice area even before its full implementation. 

Leading by Example  

Craig Miller wants to highlight another practice area at KIS, the cabling and physical security practice, encompassing security cameras and physical layer infrastructure. This addition expands the KIS portfolio, reflecting the commitment to offering comprehensive solutions tailored to client needs. The success of KIS is rooted in the philosophy of prioritizing client success. While maintaining strong partnerships with vendors and market leaders, KIS’s primary focus is understanding and meeting the unique goals and objectives of each client. This client-centric approach has garnered long-term loyalty, with many clients remaining with KIS for decades due to their unwavering dedication to client interests. 

From a young age in the military, Craig Miller learned leadership principles emphasizing proficiency and growth. Since joining KIS in 1999, his leadership philosophy has revolved around leading by example and fostering leadership among employees. Craig seeks qualified technical experts and individuals with leadership potential, aiming to develop them into practice managers and partners through mentorship and professional development programs. Several employees have already progressed along this path, with more on track to become practice managers and partners in the future. 

Future-Proofing Cybersecurity 

Transitioning from a military leadership role to being a team member and then a leader as a civilian was initially challenging for Craig, who had a more top-down leadership style. However, he learned the value of collaboration early on. Embracing a collaborative approach proved to be more effective in leadership and technology work. This shift in leadership style has been incorporated into Craig’s mentorship efforts, assisting other prospective leaders in their development. 

Craig Miller has extensive experience in cybersecurity compliance, pen testing, incident response, threat analytics, and forensics. Through his experience, he has learned that cybersecurity, while important, is more manageable than often portrayed. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of identifying and protecting sensitive data, having immutable recovery capabilities following best practices, and maintaining visibility within the overall environment to detect anomalies and threats. Response is critical, and an incident response plan is a critical element of any cybersecurity program. He stresses the need for controls, policies, and procedures to be applied, along with implementing tools that can automatically respond to anomalous behavior. 

Looking to the future, Craig predicts that cybersecurity will become more AI-focused, with AI being further integrated into various products and solutions to combat evolving threats effectively. He believes that AI will play a crucial role in the future of cybersecurity and is working to bring this to clients as vendors produce quality AI services in their products. 

Blueprint for Tomorrow 

Craig’s inspiration stems from his childhood experiences, particularly from his parents, who taught him the importance of taking ownership of his actions and self. This transferred to owning the client’s concerns as his own and consulting with them accordingly. Additionally, many early technology leaders influenced him, showing that one can start small and still achieve greatness through dedication and commitment. The consistent message Craig Miller received was that having a strong work ethic, applying oneself, and taking personal responsibility is crucial for success. 

Speaking about his legacy, Craig thinks it revolves around leaving everything better than he found it. Specifically, he aims to create and grow KIS into a more prosperous, significant, and thriving business that can stand the test of time. His goal is to leave a lasting impact that others can build upon.

The technology, information, and internet industry are significant for several reasons. It drives innovation and economic growth by continuously developing new products, services, and business models. Through Internet services and digital technologies, individuals, businesses, and organisations can connect, collaborate, and exchange information directly, regardless of geographical barriers. Leaders in this industry play a crucial role. They are responsible for driving innovation, setting industry standards, and shaping the direction of technological development.

Sudhir Kunder, the CBO of DE-CIX India, is a well-known leader in this industry. He decided to join DE-CIX India to transform the internet industry in one of the world’s largest and most diverse countries. His inspiration came from a desire to make the Internet efficiently accessible and reliable throughout India. Starting with just 74 customers in December 2019, Sudhir has faced thrilling challenges in expanding and improving the service.

Leading the Asia-Pacific 

DE-CIX India, the largest Interconnection Platform in the country, has over 600 + connected networks across India, offering Premium Interconnection Platform Services like peering, DirectCLOUD, and Microsoft Azure Peering Service (MAPS). Operating carrier and Data Centre Neutral Exchanges, it interconnects Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), Over-The-Top (OTT) players, DNS root servers, national and international telco networks, and social media networks across major metropolitan areas.

With Internet Exchanges in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, DE-CIX Mumbai quickly became the Largest Internet Exchange in the Asia-Pacific region amongst 153 exchanges and 29 countries. Powered by DE-CIX, the operator of one of the world’s largest Interconnection Platforms in Frankfurt, Germany. DE-CIX India is a data center and carrier-neutral Internet exchange operator with a nationwide license, operating fully legally compliant services consistently.

Overcoming Awareness Challenges 

“We have been dedicated to making business operations seamless for our customers, ensuring that assistance was always just a phone call away. As a result, we strive a lot to give them the best-in-class services.”

Sudhir Kunder

One of the challenges for DE-CIX India was educating their ISP customers about the benefits of peering. Some ISPs were initially unaware of how to fully utilise the services they had. This required a significant investment of time and effort in managing the entire customer lifecycle. DE-CIX India’s commitment to providing support throughout the customer’s journey, including sales, pre-sales, and post-sales, has been noticeable.

It assists customers in obtaining ASN numbers, procuring licenses, and ensuring the financial and technical well-being of their organisations. The company has observed that some customers may not be optimising their investment in peering services or negotiating effectively with transport layer partners for competitive pricing. By engaging with customers throughout their lifecycles, the company aims to facilitate the onboarding process and educate them on leveraging existing fiber infrastructure within different network types.

Empowering Leadership

Sudhir utilises a leadership approach focused on empowering individuals to reach their full potential and promoting a culture of innovation and collaboration. He places importance on clear communication and transparency to ensure alignment with collective goals. By building strong relationships based on trust and respect, he aims to create an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are appreciated and innovative ideas can flourish.

His management style is characterised by situational leadership, emphasising teamwork, empowerment, and continuous development. Sudhir believes in providing the team with the necessary tools, support, and trust to encourage creativity and a sense of ownership. Collaboration is key to achieving optimal results, supported by ongoing training and skill enhancement efforts.

Prioritising Attitude over Talent

Identifying and developing talent within DE-CIX India is a key priority for Sudhir . His approach is centered on the belief that people are important, guiding the company in creating a supportive environment where the potential is acknowledged and nurtured from the ground up. Sudhir’s recruitment strategy prioritises attitude over talent, recognising the invaluable importance of the right mindset. While skills can be improved and developed, he understands that a positive attitude is foundational for success within DE-CIX India.

To develop talent, a comprehensive approach is utilised, including training, coaching, mentoring, and guidance, ensuring that the team is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their roles. Mentorship plays a crucial role in this process, developing an environment of continuous learning and growth. This has helped DE-CIX India to create a culture where individuals are recognised, nurtured, and given opportunities to succeed. 

Building a Resilient Network

DE-CIX India has introduced innovative solutions such as Peering DirectCLOUD and MAPS that have transformed the connectivity landscape. These solutions offer scalable, reliable, and ultra-low-latency connectivity options, replacing traditional transit methods. By facilitating direct interconnections to CDNs and CSPs, the platform helps reduce costs associated with dependence on full duplex bandwidth. This allows businesses to reinvest their savings into growth and innovation. 

As digital operations continue to grow, DE-CIX India’s platform plays a crucial role in providing reliable cloud connect services, CDNs, and enterprise applications. It also reduces reliance on on-premises infrastructure and private networks. With a distributed architecture that ensures continuous uptime and robust disaster recovery, DE-CIX India offers unparalleled network resilience and redundancy. The platform helps businesses embrace digital transformation by offering advanced, cost-effective, and scalable interconnection solutions. This promotes innovation and agility for a modern, efficient, and resilient future.

A Game Changer for Business Efficiency

DE-CIX India has made enhancements to network performance, decreased latency, and improved connectivity for customers with the implementation of advanced technology and strategic services.

HOCHTIEF and Microsoft Azure Peering Service (MAPS):

HOCHTIEF, World’s 5th largest construction conglomerate, faced latency issues with Microsoft’s servers. By using DE-CIX Germany’s MAPS, it reduced latency by 90% and halved trouble tickets. Connection time to Microsoft Teams dropped from 53 milliseconds to 5 milliseconds, enhancing communication and boosting productivity.

Narayana Nethralaya and DirectCLOUD Service:

Narayana Nethralaya, a renowned eye care institution, enhanced its digital operations by implementing DE-CIX India’s DirectCLOUD service. This resulted in a significant decrease in latency from 330 milliseconds to 40 milliseconds, improving patient care management and internal processes.

Driving Success through Innovation

DE-CIX India has shown notable growth since its establishment, now serving over 600 customers compared to 74 in December 2019. The company has expanded its Interconnection Platform to Hyderabad, improving its presence and connectivity options. Technological advancements, such as 400 Gigabit Ethernet Access in Mumbai, guarantee fast and reliable data exchange. With an increased network capacity of 800 Gigabit in Mumbai, DE-CIX India continues to prioritise providing high-quality future ready services to its customers and supporting the growth of the digital ecosystem.

Promoting Peering Services helped ISPs save on bandwidth costs and attract more participants, establishing itself as a hub of interconnectivity. Initiatives like DirectCLOUD and MAPS transformed ISPs into Digital Solution Providers, offering faster and more secure cloud connectivity. This shift diversified revenue streams, increased competitiveness, and met evolving customer demands. DE-CIX’s low-latency connectivity benefited Enterprises, SMEs, and SMBs, providing scalable IT infrastructure without compromising performance. Overall, DE-CIX India’s dedication to customer needs and innovation led to significant growth and success.

Ownership for Seamless Service Delivery 

“As we build this new business unit, we will also ensure that we take care of our partners’ interests every step of the way.”

Sudhir Kunder

The decision to expand DE-CIX India’s service portfolio is a strategic process led by Sudhir and his team. Within the DE-CIX ecosystem, innovation and expansion are ongoing priorities to meet the changing needs of customers. The recent acquisition of national long-distance (NLD) license by DE-CIX India has created new opportunities for strategic growth. This license will enable the establishment of an Enterprise Business Unit (EBU), incorporating both direct and indirect business models. The EBU will allow Sudhir and his team to oversee the entire customer lifecycle in the enterprise domain. 

Balancing Innovation, Stability, and Profitability

According to Sudhir , at DE-CIX India, it is important to maintain a balance between innovation, stability, and profitability. It places a high priority on compliance and carefully considers its investments, as evidenced by its decision to obtain licensing early on despite ambiguities. This dedication to following the law has helped instill confidence in domestic and international clients, highlighting the company’s customer-focused approach. Sudhir believes that this emphasis on customer experience has played a significant role in DE-CIX India’s success as one of the most profitable Internet Exchanges worldwide, known for its reliability.

Remaining innovative and competitive in the changing interconnection and networking industry is essential for DE-CIX India. 

Here is how DE-CIX India has accomplished this:

• Customer Focus: DE-CIX India prioritises customer feedback to shape relevant and valuable services.
• Technology Integration: Initiatives like DirectCLOUD and MAPS integrate advanced tech for secure cloud connections with top cloud service providers like AWS. Oracle Cloud, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
• Strategic Expansion: Recent investments, including obtaining a national long-distance (NLD) license, enhance service portfolio to meet market demands.

Informed Decision-Making

Sudhir’s approach to risk-taking and decision-making at DE-CIX India combines careful analysis and strategic foresight. He sees each decision as an opportunity to steer toward success with a clear understanding of the business environment.

Instead of relying on gut feel, DE-CIX India makes informed choices based on thorough research and market insights, ensuring that every risk is calculated and aligned with long-term objectives. This approach extends to expanding into new markets, investing in new technologies, and launching innovative services.

 Financial prudence is crucial in the company’s decision-making. It invests in growth responsibly, ensuring expenditures are justified and sustainable. Regular reviews and assessments are key to its approach. Recognising the constantly changing business landscape, DE-CIX India frequently evaluates strategies and performance to identify improvements and potential risks. This proactive approach allows it to adapt quickly, ensuring agility and resilience in the face of challenges.

“As per the World Economic Forum, there is a need to upskill a billion people by 2030, but the question is how? ReSkills took the vow to invest in skills development to facilitate the transition from school to work. By doing so, we can create opportunity and automation in the modern world.”

Jin Tan

Recognizing the importance of upskilling and reskilling in a developing job market, Jin Tan, Founder & CEO of ReSkills, identified a unique opportunity. The transition to remote work and the growing automation of industries emphasized the importance of individuals continuously improving their skill sets. This realization sparked his passion to address the education gap and support people in succeeding in the digital age.

Jin is a prime example of a leader in the education sector committed to delivering impactful work and encouraging innovation. His initiative arises from a passion for improving learning experiences and preparing students for the future.

Bridging the Skills Gap 

Jin holds the skills essential to leading the organization and offers specialized services to the clients. He has faced challenges in leading ReSkills due to the complexities of the education landscape. The educational sector is changing, so it has been essential for Jin to stay flexible and responsive to new trends. To address this, Jin has promoted a company culture that prioritizes continuous learning and values feedback. He has also used technology to improve ReSkills’ solutions and ensure they stay up-to-date. With perseverance and his team’s dedication, Jin has established his organization as a top online LIVE learning platform in Asia and Africa, positively impacting users and communities. 

From Learning to Leading

ReSkills is a subscription-based global online learning platform committed to making education and learning affordable and accessible to individuals worldwide. The ReSkills’ learning content is certified by global authorization bodies. It covers a broad range of career learning topics within the categories of professional growth, career enhancement, and business entrepreneurship. It ensures learners get well-designed, practical, and impactful learning services tailored to their needs. With guidance from global coaches and industry leaders, ReSkills emphasizes providing workplace-relevant knowledge to complement academic learning in today’s rapidly evolving society.

Empowering Excellence

Empowerment, collaboration, and a dedication to excellence are the main aspects of Jin’s leadership. He values creating a trusting environment where each team member feels appreciated and is encouraged to share their unique perspectives. Transparency and open communication are key components of Jin’s leadership style, as he leads by example with integrity, humility, and a strong commitment to working together towards common goals.

Jin actively supports professional growth and development, nurturing a culture of innovation and resilience within the organization. He promotes a growth mindset, inspiring the team to adopt change and learn from both successes and challenges. Ultimately, Jin’s philosophy results in collaborative efforts that have a meaningful impact and are in line with the organization’s vision of transforming education through innovative approaches.

Innovation at Work

Under the leadership of Jin, ReSkills has experienced consistent growth in terms of user adoption, course offerings, and revenue. The subscriber base has seen improvement, with increased engagement levels across the platform. Additionally, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of accredited micro-certifications issued through the platform. This indicates the recognition of the courses’ quality and relevance in the professional world. 

The introduction of the buffet-style subscription model priced at $12 per year was a turning point for ReSkills’ growth. This pricing strategy has made high-quality learning more accessible to a broader audience, removing financial barriers and making education more inclusive. The affordability and flexibility of the model have resonated well with users, leading to increased uptake and contributing to the company’s expansion.

Breaking Boundaries

ReSkills has modernized traditional work methods by providing a flexible, accessible, and personalized approach to learning. Unlike old education systems with fixed schedules and physical classrooms, it allows learners to access online courses at their convenience from any location. Utilizing technology, the organization breaks down geographical barriers and makes education more inclusive for individuals regardless of location or background. It offers diverse courses encompassing both soft and hard skills, enabling learners to customize their learning journey based on their interests and career objectives. 

Innovating Beyond Boundaries

The following are the strategies for elevating the products and services:

Engagement Redefined

ReSkills values accessibility, flexibility, and quality in its operations. The user-friendly interface and mobile-responsive design make learning possible from anywhere and at any time. Interactive features such as real-time feedback, adaptive learning paths, and collaborative activities encourage active engagement among users. This promotes understanding and leads to improved retention and application of knowledge.

ReSkills is committed to continuous innovation and competitiveness. It achieves this by investing in research and development, employing agile methodologies, adopting a customer-centric approach, and forming strategic partnerships. These efforts help the organization stay ahead of industry trends, adapt quickly to market changes, and effectively meet customers’ evolving needs, establishing its position as a leader in the educational technology sector.

Nurturing Talent

Jin focuses on identifying and developing talent within the organization through performance evaluations, feedback sessions, and recognizing growth potential. Tailored training programs enhance both technical and soft skills, preparing employees for their current and future roles. Mentorship plays a key role in Jin’s approach, providing guidance, knowledge transfer, and career support for skill development, communication, leadership, and teamwork. These relationships also offer valuable networks and personalized advice for career growth. Overall, Jin’s strategy aims to cultivate a culture of learning and development,  empowering individuals for success and aligning with long-term goals.

Flexibility in Action

Following are the ReSkills’ management and decision-making approaches: 

• Practical Approach: Assess risks and potential drawbacks of new ideas or plans.
• Comfort with Uncertainty: Determine the acceptable level of uncertainty in decision-making.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Rely on facts and research to guide choices, focusing on customer needs and market trends.
• Preparedness: Maintain backup plans for unexpected outcomes, ensuring readiness to adapt if needed.
• Adaptability: Stay alert and flexible to change course when necessary, addressing challenges and seizing opportunities.
• Continuous Learning: Learn from experiences to improve skills and expertise over time.

Calculated Risks for Sustainable Growth

Jin promotes innovation while upholding core values and long-term objectives. He allows teams to experiment with new ideas and learn from mistakes. Additionally, he prioritizes stability and profitability by thoroughly evaluating risks and planning scenarios before introducing new initiatives. Through analyzing potential impacts on financial and operational aspects, Jin ensures efficient risk management and closely monitors key performance indicators.

By analyzing data and market research to drive sustainable growth, Jin maintains profitability and adapts to changes with his strategic decisions. This approach helps the organization capitalize on growth opportunities while minimizing disruptions, leading to long-term success.

S.M.A.R.T Learning Hub 

ReSkills has successfully launched the S.M.A.R.T Learning Hub under the myESG100. The hub aims to provide free learning opportunities to individuals worldwide, focusing on those in rural areas. It is a platform for education, information, and connection, all supported by sustainable, green energy.

The vision is to create a world where everyone has access to high-quality education, reliable information, and seamless connectivity, regardless of their background or location. This vision also includes a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, where green energy sources not only power daily activities but also drive ambitions and projects.

Imagine a world where frustration with unreliable suppliers melts away. Where someone is fluent in metalworking and is an expert in optimizing the production line. Imagine that someone is also capable of selecting the perfect cutting tool and steering every process nuance. BlackHawk Industrial is someone who is creating such a world for manufacturers across the globe.

BlackHawk Industrial is a trusted partner focused on cutting tools and metalworking consumables. This expertise enables the company to innovate and provide customized solutions.

BlackHawk Industrial is continuously expanding its range of products to cater to a wider audience beyond a single niche. The company’s reach impressively spans a significant footprint within the U.S., Mexico, and strategically located facilities throughout Asia and Europe. 

Via its global reach, BlackHawk champions a core mission – to be the number one choice for industrial manufacturers who need technical service and production savings.

This philosophy ensures a personalized touch, enrooting itself firmly in the soil of innovation and success.

Revolutionizing Manufacturing Supply

BlackHawk Industrial’s story began with a simple yet powerful vision to empower manufacturers with the tools they need to excel. Initially focused on the core principles of metalworking and cutting tools, its ambition grew alongside its expertise. Today, BlackHawk stands tall as a global leader in manufacturing consumables.

This remarkable rise is fueled by more than just products. BlackHawk Industrial prioritizes a human-centric approach built on a deep understanding of local markets. The company empowers its teams and cultivates a genuine sense of partnership with its customers. This synergy is further bolstered by a central infrastructure that equips local teams with the resources needed to thrive globally.

BlackHawk Industrial’s mission extends beyond mere distribution. It aspires to be a trusted partner, delivering cost-saving solutions through a powerful combination of technical expertise and innovative applications. The company’s dedication to excellence in execution, teamwork, and integrity sets it apart. This commitment to quality and reliable partnership guarantees a solid foundation for BlackHawk’s continued growth, with its core values remaining the unshakeable compass guiding the journey forward.

Products and Services: 

BlackHawk Industrial’s commitment translates into a comprehensive product and service offering. 

With this extensive product catalog, BlackHawk Industrial provides the tools, expertise, and support to empower the clients manufacturing success.

From Fragmented Assets to Industry Leader

BlackHawk Industrial’s path to success wasn’t linear. Initially, the company, formed through a collection of assets, faced a challenge – a lack of cohesion. Scattered priorities led to awkward process performance. However, BlackHawk didn’t shy away from the hurdle. Its growth unfolded in two strategic phases.

• Phase One: Building a Unified Foundation (2010-2015)

The first five years were dedicated to meticulously consolidating these assets. BlackHawk Industrial prioritized streamlining operations, nurturing a unified spirit, and creating a collaborative environment. This focus on employee engagement laid the groundwork for future success.

• Phase Two: Integration (2015-2019)
• Phase Three: Strategic Expansion and Deepening Relationships (2019-Present)

The past few years have been marked by remarkable expansion through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. BlackHawk’s leadership understood the importance of investing in its people. The company built strong teams, actively engaged with suppliers, and forged partnerships with key national accounts. Additionally, its strategic acquisition and integration efforts further fueled its rise.

BlackHawk Industrial’s success also stems from its approach to customer service. In an industry where large distributors often neglect high-tech support while smaller players lack the resources to meet evolving needs – BlackHawk stands out. It has carved a niche by prioritizing in-depth, technically-driven service.

Big Enough to Serve, Small Enough to Care

One of the key ingredients in the company’s success story is John Mark’s leadership approach as President and CEO. John was drawn to BlackHawk Industrial’s founder’s vision and joined the team to help make it a reality. The challenge was clear – a company with untamed processes and untapped potential.

John’s leadership philosophy is a powerful blend of ambition and empowerment. He sets ambitious goals for the company and encourages continuous learning where competing hard, being the best, living and breathing teamwork, and acting with integrity are core behaviors. He leads by example, putting in the hours and demonstrating these values in everything he does.

John believes in taking calculated risks, a philosophy he describes as “cautiously aggressive.” He understands the importance of mitigating risks while maximizing impact. Every bold move is accompanied by well-defined contingency plans, ensuring calculated risk-taking. BlackHawk Industrial starts small, meticulously learning from each step before scaling up. This ensures measured innovation that balances progress with stability and profitability.

The company cultivates talent through a unique approach to performance management. John emphasizes open and honest communication, where leaders identify individual strengths and weaknesses. He promotes knowledge sharing through collaboration, nurturing a spirit of mentorship where colleagues learn from each other in a less formal setting.

According to him, leadership is setting goals and encouraging the team to achieve extraordinary things. Such a philosophy is a welcoming environment. Teammates of all makes and models are respected. And if BlackHawk’s core behaviors run through your bloodstream, it’s a team to be on. BlackHawk Industrial’s culture is described in three words, no matter what. It’s committed to customers’ success, no matter what. It’s committed to each other as teammates, no matter what. And it’s committed to supplier partners, no matter what. At the end of the day, BlackHawk is committed to success, no matter what.

Redefining Industry Standards

BlackHawk’s journey is a narrative of revolutionizing the way manufacturers operate, transcending mere growth. Its deep-rooted philosophy revolves around the customer, a commitment that manifests in proactively identifying and tackling production cost challenges.

BlackHawk Industrial disrupts traditional models by offering a seamlessly integrated platform that is more efficient and transparent for its partners. This platform unlocks cost-saving opportunities and streamlines services, creating a user-friendly experience that sets a new standard for excellence.

The company’s spirit further extends to its recent foray into an adjacent product category. This successful venture demonstrates the ability to capture incremental business opportunities while ensuring a dependable and high-quality experience.

BlackHawk Industrial goes beyond distribution as it is a trusted partner, continuously redefining industry standards through relentless customer focus. This commitment to progress and partnership has paved the way for a future where BlackHawk Industrial and its clients can achieve extraordinary things together.

Government contracting is a complex industry, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. Amidst their pursuit of growth, going through the tedious process of registrations, certifications, and regulations can often be an overwhelming and time-consuming task for them.

Led by the industry expert in business development, and its President and CEO, Jason Bortz, Select GCR is one of the leading firms that helps these businesses and entrepreneurs by simplifying the government contracting process. They have helped over five thousand businesses with their expertise in registrations and certifications, alongside comprehensive Government Contracting Education & Marketing solutions.

The genesis of Select GCR stemmed from an opportunity to aid businesses transitioning to SAM.gov in 2012. Initially focusing on application assistance, the company soon recognized a demand for marketing and business development services. Select GCR’s  journey has been marked by the challenge of adapting to the government’s constantly changing scenarios while honing the service offerings to provide maximum value to their clients.

A Solution for Small & Medium Businesses

Select GCR is an administrative, processing, marketing, and business development firm dedicated to guiding businesses through every stage of government contracting, from initial registrations and certifications to securing lucrative government contracts. With  innovative government marketing strategies Select GCR has helped clients procure over $700 million in government contracts.

Select GCR  specializes in a range of services including city, county, state, and federal registrations and socio-economic certifications, performing government-targeted market research, and finding contracts and contact details of relevant stakeholders. They also provide a comprehensive Government Contracting Education & Marketing solution. They are committed to constantly enriching their services to provide greater depth and value to their clients. With the aim to foster lifelong client relationships anchored in tangible results by focusing on improved accessibility, clarity, and personalized support.

Select GCR’s expertise lies in navigating the data to unearth valuable opportunities for their clients and ensuring secure contracts with minimal competition. 

Crossing the Hurdles

Challenges are the stepping stones for any company’s growth. Select GCR’s major challenge lies in determining the most effective business model amidst the complexities of government contracting. They recognized the many different facets within this realm and decided to strategically focus on assisting businesses in entering this environment. Their goal is to equip businesses with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to establish a dedicated government division within their organization, thereby enhancing revenue opportunities through government contracts.

Driving Success in Government Contracting

The realization that mere certifications were insufficient for the client’s success triggered Select GCR’s drive to enhance their services. Identifying a gap in the market wherein businesses lacked guidance on navigating the intricacies of government contracting, the firm devised comprehensive educational documentation and innovative marketing programs to address this need. To this date, they have aided numerous businesses in achieving registrations, certifications, and a collective success exceeding $700 million.

Select GCR’s long-standing success can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to listening to clients and adapting to industry trends. They strive for continual improvement, embodying the ethos of HOPE – Helping Other People Everyday – in their daily operations, ensuring that they provide superior service with each interaction.

Since its inception, Select GCR has witnessed remarkable progress in its metrics. Presently, they have a staggering 97% success rate on first-time registration and certification submissions, alongside a notable 67% repeat business percentage, indicative of their client’s satisfaction and continued trust in their services. Through an exhaustive 18-month study on client engagement in their marketing program, Select GCR refined its approach to ensure client success. This culminated in the introduction of guaranteed services, promising the clients government contract attainment upon diligent adherence to the prescribed marketing plan. The company’s unwavering focus on client satisfaction compels it to strive for continuous improvement in all aspects of its services.

Recently, Select GCR has expanded their government procurement advisor division, emphasizing a personalized approach to their clients. Through the annual marketing program, clients are assigned dedicated teams to guide them through each aspect of the contracting process, from foundational learning to contract acquisition. This personalized support has been instrumental in the firm’s continued success.

Nurturing Excellence With Mentorship

To ensure that the company has devoted and talented members, Select GCR employs a meticulous hiring process, involving various managers to assess candidates’ diverse qualities. Once onboarded, their comprehensive training program enables new hires to build a solid foundation, with ample opportunities for growth and career development within the firm. Mentorship plays a crucial role in this process, guiding team members to leverage their strengths and passions for collective success.

Innovative & Strategic Approach for Growth & Success

The ability to remain innovative and competitive is crucial for the growth of a company and its team, alongside developing a well-executed strategy. While Select GCR  doesn’t devote extensive time to competitor research, it prioritizes staying ahead through pioneering marketing strategies and their unique educational approach. Select GCR  delivers targeted contracts and contacts tailored to each client’s business capabilities while providing comprehensive education on navigating the intricacies of government contracting. This proactive approach ensures that their clients have the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed in the changing world of government procurement.

Select GCR’s overarching goal is continual improvement, both personally and professionally. Although they prioritize innovation, they remain vigilant about maintaining stability and profitability. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as HubSpot and AI integration, they enhance the services while ensuring financial viability. Their  Select GCR Pro program exemplifies this balance, offering advanced capabilities while remaining steadfastly focused on delivering tangible results.

Meticulous planning and data-driven analysis characterize its decision-making process. Select GCR  implements changes gradually, supported by extensive meetings, A/B testing, and a defined plan. Regular reviews enable the firm to gauge effectiveness and adjust strategies, ensuring prudent risk management and sustained growth.

Philosophical Approach

Select GCR’s leadership philosophy revolves around HOPE – Helping Other People Everyday. This ethos fosters a familial atmosphere at the company, motivating its internal team and clients. By embodying a mindset of constant assistance, they cultivate enduring relationships built on trust and mutual success.

Use of Technological Advancements

The implementation of technology has been a beneficial point for Select GCR. Their revolutionary software program SGCRP (Select GCR Pro) provides clients with unparalleled access to data from various government websites and databases, including but not limited to city, county, state, and federal data. This aggregated platform ensures seamless accessibility to vital information from any device worldwide, facilitating a streamlined user experience.

The introduction of this program eliminates the need for clients to navigate multiple platforms, offering quick access to comprehensive information in an organized format, enhancing efficiency and productivity. This consolidated platform streamlines the search process, providing unparalleled efficiency compared to traditional methods. Additionally, Select GCR’s training program, integrated with a Learning Management System, facilitates expedited learning for its clients. 

Concluding, Select GCR’s journey is a testament to the power of strategic guidance, personalized support, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, paving the way for countless businesses to achieve their government contracting goals.

In India, pursuing social justice is fraught with challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, caste discrimination, and gender inequality. Lawyers play a crucial role in overcoming these obstacles by providing legal remedies to marginalised communities, advocating for fair laws, and ensuring justice is accessible to the poor and disadvantaged.

Many lawyers offer pro bono services to bridge the gap for those who cannot afford legal representation. They challenge discriminatory laws, file public interest litigations (PILs), and work to uphold the constitutional right to equality. By holding the state accountable and championing human rights, lawyers act as agents of social change.

Vishal Vijayrao Kale, Founding & Managing Partner at Kale & Shinde Associates is a distinguished second-generation Digambar Jain lawyer with a dynamic 25-year career specialising in litigation and arbitration. For years, Vishal Kale has championed the rights of the underprivileged, dedicating himself to pro bono work that has profoundly impacted many lives. Through his free legal services, he has bridged the gap between the judiciary and economically disadvantaged individuals, ensuring they have access to justice. 

Creating a Legacy of Arbitration and Litigation

Vishal Kale exemplifies the best of the legal profession, combining his professional expertise with a deep commitment to social good.He has been appointed as a government arbitrator for multi-state cooperative societies in the banking sector and as an arbitrator for numerous commercial disputes by the Honourable Bombay High Court.

Vishal Kale Advocate as a Counsel played a key role in arguing the Public Interest Litigation along with other Counsels which resulted into creation of  rules for the Maharashtra (urban areas) Prevention of Trees Act, 1975, and his efforts in Public Interest Litigation (PIL) 93 of 2005 were appreciated  by Honourable Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, then a Judge at the Bombay High Court.

A Pillar of the Legal Community

In the high-profile EVM hacking case, Vishal successfully represented a Bhartiya Janta Party candidate, bolstering confidence in EVM machines—this case was a landmark judgement and his role in this complicated EVM case was well acknowledged by her Ladyship Justice Mrudula Bhatkar.

Currently, as a Partner at Kale and Shinde Associates, a leading law firm with a PAN India presence, Vishal advises prominent clients such as the Poonawalla Group, Mahindra and Mahindra, Adani Group, Shapoorji Pallonji, Bank of Maharashtra, Deutsche Bank and many other business tycoons. He also represented the Pune Police in High courts and Tribunals.

Beyond the Courtroom

Vishal is dedicated to social causes, serving as a trustee at SAMPARC orphanage and actively participating in environmental conservation through various Public Interest Litigations (PILs) in the National Green Tribunal. Though not affiliated with any political party, he works on social initiatives like rainwater conservation and river pollution prevention.

He continues the legacy of his father, Prof. Vijayrao J. Kale, and is a disciple of Dr. Sudhakar E. Avhad. Vishal’s wife, Pallavi Kale, is a notary public, appointed by the Central Government and practising family law. His father-in-law is a retired judge who now practises criminal law, and his maternal uncle is also in the judiciary, highlighting a family deeply involved in legal and judicial service.

Knowledge is Power

Vishal’s efforts extend far beyond providing legal representation. He educates impoverished communities about their rights, empowering them to seek justice actively. This educational approach ensures that the beneficiaries are not just passive recipients but engaged participants in the legal process. In a society where ignorance of rights can lead to exploitation and injustice, this proactive educational element is crucial. He regularly takes lectures and public awareness about the rights of the parties. 

In addition to his legal advocacy and environmental initiatives, Vishal is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of legal professionals. He lectures at multiple colleges and institutions, sharing his extensive knowledge and practical experience with aspiring lawyers. Through hands-on training sessions and comprehensive modules, he prepares students to navigate the intricacies of the legal field. Every year more than 50 interns and 40 juniors are trained under him.  

Commitment to Education

Vishal Kale’s educational efforts extend beyond theory. He has crafted numerous training modules that incorporate real-world scenarios, ensuring practical and meaningful learning experiences. Impressively, he holds copyrights for 16 of these training materials, underscoring his innovative approach to legal education. He has provided these notes free of cost to all learners and new in-law subjects as a training module. 

Despite his substantial academic contributions, Vishal Kale maintains a low profile, avoiding media attention and public praise. His decision to stay out of the spotlight reflects a sincere dedication to the legal profession and its progress, driven more by service than by seeking recognition and hence we have taken a note of this gentleman and decided to give him a token of appreciation. 

Planting the Seeds of Change 

While Vishal Kale’s commendable legal and educational endeavours deserve recognition, what truly distinguishes him is his simultaneous dedication to environmental sustainability. For the past five years, Vishal Kale has been a staunch advocate for tree planting, making substantial contributions to ecological harmony. Without seeking publicity, he has personally planted over 1500 trees across diverse locations such as schools, hospitals, and public parks in last five years.

This dual commitment to social and environmental causes highlights a comprehensive approach to justice. By promoting environmental stewardship, Vishal Kale acknowledges that justice encompasses more than just human interactions. 

Excellence in Legal Service

Kale and Shinde Associates is a registered full-service law firm located near the District Court in Shivaji Nagar, Pune, having its branch in Mumbai and Delhi committed to providing personalised and high-quality legal support and effective advocacy. The Law Firm handles litigation matters with dedication and expertise.

Renowned for their swift and top-notch service, Kale and Shinde Associates uphold high standards of efficiency and quality output. They specialise in litigation, ensuring quick resolutions and flexibility in scheduling, and offer comprehensive legal advice across various domains of law.

Champions of Change

In every society, the legal profession bears a profound responsibility for maintaining peace, order, and justice. In India, where social complexities and inequalities are pronounced, the role of lawyers transcends mere courtroom advocacy. They serve as guardians of justice, champions for the underprivileged, and defenders of the rule of law. Vishal Kale stands as a notable example of such dedicated service, embodying a dual commitment to advancing social justice and promoting environmental conservation. And hence we decided to confer upon him the title of “Most Successful Lawyers to Watch in 2024 (APAC).”

“As quoted by John Quincy Adams, a leader should inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more.”

In today’s business landscape, such leadership qualities are indispensable, guiding companies through periods of change and uncertainty. Leaders like Dr. Tobe Aguocha, the Construction Project Manager at Valero, exemplify this philosophy, shaping the future of the organizations through his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to excellence. With 15+ years in construction, overseeing projects from $150M to $850M, Dr. Tobe emerges as a leader in inspiring innovation, driving growth, and empowering teams for success. Join us as we learn more about how he does that.

Professional Evolution

Dr. Tobe Aguocha’s career journey began in his late father’s furniture workshop in Nigeria, where he developed a passion for design and construction. This early exposure led him to pursue and complete a degree in Architecture, followed by a Master’s degree specializing in hospitality design and architecture. After practicing as an architect and delivering high-level commercial projects in Europe and Africa, Dr. Tobe found the design scope alone to be limiting, as it did not encompass the construction aspects that brought his designs to life.

This realization propelled him to expand his expertise in the construction industry. He achieved this by earning an MBA in production, process, and cost management. Dr. Tobe Aguocha”s career subsequently transitioned into project management within the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. His projects span multiple continents, including West Africa, Europe, the United States, and particularly London, where he collaborated with renowned international companies in various industries such as hospitality, retail, mission critical, and oil & gas. 

As he progressed, Dr. Tobe managed projects of considerable size and budget, including those exceeding 3 million square feet and valued at over $300 million. His cumulative project budget surpassed one billion dollars. Throughout his career, Dr. Tobe has been driven to deliver projects that meet client time, budget, and quality expectations and enhance the construction processes.

Motivated by continuous improvement and client concerns primarily about costs, Dr. Tobe Aguocha embarked on a doctoral research program focused on cost management in construction projects. This academic pursuit further deepened his commitment to refining construction methodologies.

For Dr. Tobe Aguocha, success in any project—whether commercial or industrial—is not merely about meeting the basic requirements but also about advancing the efficiency and quality of the delivery process. This approach has established him as a leader in the field, dedicated to leveraging his expertise to foster knowledge sharing and process improvements within the construction industry.

Innovative Energy Leader

Valero Energy Corporation was established in 1980. It was named after the mission San Antonio de Valero—better known as the Alamo- and has grown into North America’s largest global independent petroleum refiner and a leading producer of renewable fuels. Valero stands at the forefront of the energy sector as a company deeply engaged in petroleum refining and crude and renewable energy production. Valero’s commitment to innovation, ingenuity, and unmatched execution enables it to meet the world’s increasing needs for reliable and sustainable energy. The company prides itself on being a top-tier producer of essential fuels and products vital to modern life, continuing its legacy to future generations.

Moreover, Valero fuels lives while protecting communities and the environment. This is evident in its industry-leading safety records and ongoing efforts to reduce emissions. The company’s operations extend across 15 petroleum refineries in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, as well as 12 ethanol plants in the U.S. Midwest. Additionally, Valero is a joint venture partner in Diamond Green Diesel Holdings LLC, which owns renewable diesel plants adjacent to Valero’s refineries in St. Charles, Louisiana, and Port Arthur, Texas.

Valero envisions a future where energy is reliable, affordable, and sustainable, as well as an opportunity to advance the future of energy through leading-edge innovation and flawless execution. The company is dedicated to caring for the environment, employees, and communities, striving daily to be the industry’s safest and most reliable operator. Its focus extends to producing everyday products and maintaining environmentally responsible refining and renewable fuel operations, thereby delivering long-term value to its shareholders.

Comprehensive Management

Dr. Tobe Aguocha’s role at the company encompasses various strategic and operational responsibilities. He is primarily responsible for strategic planning, meeting detailed building requirements, and coordinating project schedules. Dr. Tobe is also crucial in managing contractor and subcontractor profiles to align with project delivery expectations. Additionally, he develops detailed financial projections for project development stages to safeguard project integrity from start to finish.

In addition to his strategic planning duties, Dr. Tobe Aguocha directs pre-construction activities and is heavily involved in sourcing initiatives. This consists of negotiating contracts, formulating budgets, and leading project teams. He oversees bid summaries, manages labor pricing and schedules, and evaluates subcontractors’ selections. Dr. Tobe has also administered development service agreements with various partners and teams. Furthermore, he researches economic trends and advises the company on potential impacts, such as material shortages, to mitigate risks effectively. Dr. Tobe’s multifaceted role is pivotal in navigating the challenges inherent in the dynamic construction field.

Overcoming Obstacles

Throughout his tenure at Valero, Dr. Tobe Aguocha has embraced challenges as opportunities for improvement rather than setbacks. One significant hurdle he faced was the disruption in the supply chain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to shortages in essential production equipment. Dr. Tobe proactively sought alternative suppliers for critical components to mitigate this, ensuring that production timelines remained on track. Another challenge he encountered was securing a qualified workforce that met Valero’s high standards of competence. Aligning contractors and vendors with Valero’s unique project requirements and delivery expectations posed another obstacle, highlighting the importance of ensuring full buy-in from all stakeholders.

Moreover, unforeseeable risks, such as regulatory changes and governmental impacts, have often emerged, requiring agile responses and strategic planning. Despite these challenges, Dr. Tobe Aguocha remains vigilant in addressing manageable issues like project delays, demonstrating his commitment to navigating operational challenges and transforming them into opportunities for growth and improvement at Valero.

Academic Contributions

With his extensive education and expertise, Dr. Tobe has actively engaged with the academic community. He serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Texas in San Antonio, where he teaches the Construction science management capstone class—a graduate course tailored for students who are either currently employed in the construction industry or about to enter it. His role extends beyond lecturing, as he also mentors students, preparing them to handle industry challenges and navigate their careers effectively.

Dr. Tobe’s dedication to education and mentorship is part of his ongoing professional journey. He continues to explore various solutions within his field, maintaining an active role in research. Having completed his research on cost overruns, he has recently initiated a new study on risk management and project controls, collaborating with industry experts. Dr. Tobe has authored several articles amongst which is a publication in the construction business review on ” Navigating Datacenter Complexity: Smart building automation integration in Mission critical construction”. This blend of practical experience and academic involvement underscores his role as a construction project management leader and a significant contributor to industry knowledge.

Team Building Philosophy

Dr. Tobe Aguocha’s leadership philosophy at Valero centers on assembling the right team, emphasizing that mere skill set sufficiency is not enough. It is crucial for him that his team not only possesses the necessary technical skills but also shares the group’s philosophy and aligns with the company’s goals. To him, cultural fit and openness to equity and inclusion are paramount. He ensures that every team member feels heard, regardless of the magnitude of their suggestions.

A critical component of Dr. Tobe’s approach involves talent development. He does not expect all team members to start fully informed; hence, he prioritizes mentorship and coaching. He prepares his team for tasks through training sessions and access to essential resources and information. Moreover, he is committed to fostering growth opportunities within the group. Regular engagement with team members helps him identify and discuss potential growth paths within the organization.

Feedback and recognition are integral to his management style. Dr. Tobe believes in providing immediate and frequent feedback to help team members understand their strengths and areas for improvement. He also ensures that accomplishments are recognized appropriately through financial rewards or other acknowledgment forms.

Mentorship Approach

Dr. Tobe also serves as a mentor and educator at a university. His philosophy is centered on not imposing his opinions or ideas on mentees. Instead, he focuses on understanding their interests and encouraging them in their chosen fields. He emphasizes the importance of becoming an asset to any organization by equipping mentees with the necessary information and tools. He prepares them to meet the challenges they might face and to excel in their project delivery. 

Furthermore, he encourages a mindset that fosters project delivery and task management excellence. He instills in his mentees that adopting this mindset and attitude is essential for their success. He also invites them to approach him with challenges, promoting a collaborative problem-solving environment. This approach prepares the mentees to shine in their roles and gives them the liberty and responsibility to develop solutions that best fit their challenges. 

Strategic Innovation

A commitment to continuous research and innovation marks Dr. Tobe Aguocha’s approach to staying ahead in the industry. Rather than viewing competitors as adversaries, he sees them as potential partners but acknowledges the importance of benchmarking against them.

His key strategy involves relentless research to uncover new methodologies and technologies to enhance project delivery. Dr. Tobe Aguocha understands that staying at the forefront means embracing change and constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness. By leveraging emerging technologies and refining processes, Dr. Tobe ensures that Valero construction remains ahead of the curve. He emphasizes proactive problem-solving, seeking to anticipate and address challenges before they arise.

Stakeholder Engagement Strategy

To enhance client experiences, Dr. Tobe Aguocha implements innovative strategies, one of which focuses on stakeholder engagement, particularly with government entities. Recognizing the potential delays caused by the lack of understanding among officials, Dr. Tobe adopts a proactive approach to inform and educate key stakeholders.

At the outset of each project, he identifies and engages internal and external stakeholders, particularly city and state officials. Understanding that informed stakeholders are more likely to expedite approvals, Dr. Tobe familiarizes them with the project’s intricacies.

The company further ensures that officials comprehend the project’s scope and significance. This proactive engagement fosters a collaborative relationship, encouraging officials to work closely with the team to streamline the approval process. By transforming government entities into informed partners, Dr. Tobe’s strategy not only facilitates smoother project execution but also aligns stakeholders with the urgency and importance of timely approvals.

Future Initiatives

Looking ahead, Dr. Tobe discusses Valero’s expansion into renewable energy production as a key focus. One notable endeavor is the establishment of the Diamond Green Diesel refinery plants, with approximately 12 facilities across the United States. These plants utilize raw materials for renewable energy production, aligning with Valero’s commitment to sustainability.

A significant development on the horizon is the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which is recognized for its climate-friendly attributes. Valero plans to roll out numerous SAF production units globally, including in the United States. This initiative reflects the company’s dedication to meeting the rising demand for eco-conscious solutions domestically and internationally.

Advice for New Entrepreneurs

Dr. Tobe Aguocha highlights the importance of market research and innovation for entrepreneurs, urging them to stay proactive in identifying industry opportunities. He stresses the need for a customer-centric approach, emphasizing understanding and meeting customer needs for sustained growth.

Continuous innovation is key, with Dr. Tobe urging entrepreneurs to improve processes and project outcomes constantly. He advises agility and adaptability, especially in responding to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Collaboration and partnership are also vital, with Dr. Tobe Aguocha recommending engagement with professional organizations for innovation and growth. Lastly, he emphasizes investing in talent and fostering a diverse, inclusive culture for effective problem-solving and solution embracement.

“With 15+ years in construction, overseeing projects from $150M to $850M, Dr. Tobe Aguocha emerges as a leader in inspiring innovation, driving growth, and empowering teams for success.”

Delivering superior performance on a consistent basis is the main challenge for many portfolio managers.

The performance of many mutual funds and ETFs.

The industry of actively managed products seems failing to deliver the value that it is supposed to produce. Over the last 20 years:

• 93% of funds underperformed the benchmark S&P Composite 1500.

• 94% of large-cap funds underperformed the benchmark S&P 500. 94% of small-cap funds underperformed the benchmark S&P SmallCap 600.

• 95% of mid-cap funds underperformed the benchmark S&P Midcap 400. 

• 94% of multi-cap funds underperformed the benchmark S&P Composite 1500. 

Similar results were found for growth and value funds of various capitalization categories. 

Source: Alpha Architect

In theory, active funds, with their meticulous stock selection, should outperform their benchmarks. But in reality, they often fall short, consistently underperforming the market indexes. 

Source: SPIVA Scorecard

The missed opportunity 

Active funds and ETFs are supposed to use methodologies suited to profit from the performance dispersion across stocks. Performance dispersion offers the opportunity to beat the benchmarks by capturing the outperformers and avoiding the underperformers.  Over the last 6 months in the US large-cap investment universe, the top 25% performers posted an average gain of 44% and the bottom 25% performers lost an average of 11%. That marks a 55% average differential between the losers and the winners. However, how many active portfolio managers have been able to profit from this fact?

What the industry is missing.

Why actively managed products are unable to exploit the performance dispersion and deliver just average returns? Maybe they just need and deserve better information and smarter tools. The conventional research, data and systems broadly used, obviously fail at providing an edge and at facilitating to exploit the performance dispersion. It is time to consider expanding the information framework and using more advanced analytics and leading-edge technology that can make a difference. Better information can support better decisions and can deliver better performance.

Trendrating Empowering Professional Investors.

The mission of Trendrating is exactly to fill this critical gap and to provide the intelligence and insights that can help exploit the performance dispersion across stocks. The starting point is fact-finding and unveiling what best captures alpha. Our solution enables efficient discovery via rigorous testing, optimization and validation of the actual alpha contribution from any parameter and combination. Trendrating wants to offer an answer to critical questions, such as:

• What are the selection criteria that are best rewarded by the market over the cycles?

• Which fundamental parameters yield the greatest profits by identifying outperforming stocks?

• Which combinations of selection rules guarantee a robust investment decision framework to optimize the performance?

Answering these questions makes the difference and an objective fact-finding process is the only way to find the definitive answers. Trendrating technology is making this possible and easy.

How does it work?

• Pick any selection rule from a rich database of parameters, covering fundamental, quantitative, volatility, size, and trend metrics. Decide the allocation and rebalancing rules. 

• Test in any investment universe across 15 years of market cycles and assess the actual alpha contribution. 

• Explore alternative combinations of rules that check more quality boxes. 

• Optimize and discover the winning mix. 

• Validate the results with rigorous evidence across the years. 

• Design your winning strategy and execute it.

Interesting findings.

The possibility to test and assess the value of any parameter in selecting stocks over a broad time window and across a statistically significant sample can be enlightening. The ability to explore different combinations of rules and compare historical performance can offer a wise, sound information framework, based on facts rather than hypotheses.

Amongst the findings are:

• Different markets and different sectors may reward distinct fundamental rules. What works for one sector may not work for another.

• The selection of US stocks using single-value metrics has not been very successful for the last few years. However, by checking more boxes and adding a growth ranking can dramatically enhance returns.

• Combining the best-performing fundamental metrics with a filter to discriminate positive vs. negative trends may offer superior returns consistently.

Knowledge of facts protects from the pitfalls of assumptions.

Discretionary investors can use Trendrating platform to enrich their knowledge and use the resulting insights to optimize their investment strategies and model portfolios. Systematic investors can easily build, document and execute custom-made, rule-based strategies. Investors can profit from the additional market intelligence and the well-documented insights provided by Trendrating, and not available in other systems and services. The contribution to alpha that can be extracted from using our platform is fully transparent and measurable. This is the foundation of our proposition, setting our solution apart from conventional offers. 

About Trendrating:

Trendrating mission is to provide advanced analytics and leading-edge technology helping hundreds of global money managers to maximize their performance and enhance risk control. Our clients face increased challenges in the current stock market cycle and need superior data and solutions, that provide better market intelligence to exploit the broad performance dispersion across stocks. Conventional data and ordinary research are often ineffective at delivering alpha. Trendrating solutions enable pragmatic fact-finding about what is the historical performance of different selection parameters including fundamental, quantitative and trend criteria.

The solutions also make it possible to explore investment strategies by checking more boxes and discovering the best combinations for any specific investment universe. This valuable market intelligence, not easily available,  can make a big difference in the quality of the investment process.  In 2021 Trendrating was awarded as one of the ‘Best Data Analytics Companies of The Year’ by CIO Bulletin. In 2022, it was awarded as one of the ‘Best Strategy Management Solution Providers’, by the same interactive, preeminent leadership platform. In 2023, Trendrating was featured on the cover of the Enterprise World Magazine, as one of the ‘Most Trusted Advanced Market Analytics Solution Provider Platforms’, as well as one of the ‘Top Performance Management Platforms To Watch’.

About Trendrating customers:

The solutions of Trendrating are supporting a broad range of tasks and can easily fit into most investment decision processes. Customers include asset managers, mutual fund managers, wealth managers, Hedge fund managers, advisors and family offices. The use cases are:

• Analysis of the performance dispersion across stocks, markets and sectors.
• Exploiting sector rotation.
• Validation of investment ideas via a detailed and enhanced ranking functionality.
• Spotting investment opportunities that combine the best parameters.
• Timely portfolio risk management and optimization.
• Building, testing, execution and tracking of your customized improved investment strategies.
• Historical analysis of the alpha contribution across fundamental criteria.
• Customized Reporting Templates

Since launched by the Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, the Make in India initiative has brought countless business success stories to life. Enabling local and global businesses to access an environment on Indian soil where they can compete and thrive has remained one of its core objectives.

However, not every industry was ready to take advantage of such growth opportunities due to unreliable ecosystems—the OEM industry being one of them. During its foundation year, one of the premier OEM players, Vizin India Private Limited, faced similar challenges. In 2018, Vizin noticed they needed the help of China and other countries to source even the tiniest components.

Under the leadership of Gaurav Dureja, Director and Founder,  Vizin India Private Limited effectively tackled this problem through backward integration and an in-house factory that continues to produce over 40% of its raw materials to date—making him one of the most visionary business leaders to watch in 2024.

Road to Becoming a Leading OEM/ODM

Gaurav Dureja founded VIZIN with an objective to become a leading OEM/ODM manufacturer in the mobile accessory industry. At the time, no factories focused exclusively on the Make in India initiative. To fill this gap and turn it into an opportunity, Vizin began its journey with seven team members and launched its initial product lineup of five chargers. Over the past six years, as the mobile accessories industry has grown and evolved, so has Vizin.

Enhancing Daily Connectivity

Vizin India Private Limited’s primary product categories encompass a diverse range of mobile accessories designed to meet the needs of today’s tech-savvy consumers. 

The lineup includes Smart Watches, Power Banks, TWS, Neckbands, Chargers,Data Cables Sound Bars and Sound Box. Each category gets developed with a focus on innovation, quality, and user convenience. 

“By continually expanding and refining our product lines, we aim to provide comprehensive solutions that enhance everyday connectivity and device usage for our customers in India and across the globe.”

Made in India—Made for the World

Vizin recognized a massive business opportunity in the overseas markets early on, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, as the countries wanted reliable product alternatives. Soon, Vizin became the first Indian-based mobile accessories manufacturer to export internationally.

Catering to its international clientele, Vizin participated in international exhibitions in 2023 and 2024—receiving extraordinary responses. Its Made in India, Made for the World initiative strongly captivated the consumers. 

“This international exposure has significantly boosted our presence and reputation in the global market.”

Pandemic and its After-Effects

The post-COVID-19 landscape created significant opportunities for businesses led by the growing demand for Indian manufacturers globally, positioning India as the prime contender for reliable product alternatives.

With this shift, Indian businesses like Vizin were able to reach an advantageous position. Maximizing the opportunity and leveraging demand, Vizin established itself as a mobile accessory industry leader—meeting the global market needs with high-quality, Indian-made products.

A Well-Equipped Workforce

Gaurav Dureja firmly believes that a team is the cornerstone to achieve business success. Vizin boasts a highly skilled professional team capable of tackling any challenges. Through their dedication and expertise, Vizin has reached new heights of success. 

Through a collaborative and dynamic work environment, Vizin ensures that every team member contributes to its vision and growth. By doing so, the organization can innovate consistently and excel in the cut-throat mobile accessories industry.

Growing from 7 to 800 

From its initial team of 7, Vizin India Private Limited has grown significantly with over 800 members in 2024. Offering more than 200 SKU’s, Vizin has established itself as India’s only manufacturing unit capable of producing a complete range of mobile accessories products.

“We are one of the Indian Company to receive SMETA Certification in our Industry, highlighting our commitment to ethical business practices.”

Vizin is dedicated to the Make in India initiative, reducing its reliance on imports from 100% to 50% by locally developing and sourcing its components. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Vizin was one of the vital supporters of the Indian economy, employing more than 500 people. Such initiatives highlight Vizin’s commitment to contributing positively to the community and India’s growth.

“Our journey reflects our vision of innovation, growth, and dedication to making a significant impact in the mobile accessories industry.”

Design, Develop, and Deliver

Gaurav Dureja firmly believes that innovation is vital to staying competitive and driving success. Vizin India has adopted a concept of 3D Approach—Design, Develop, and Deliver. This approach enables it to innovate continuously and enhance its products to meet the constantly changing market demands.

The in-house design team creates cutting-edge yet aesthetically pleasing products. By intricately understanding the market trends and customer preferences, the team translates insights into innovative designs that stand out among its competition.

“Managing the entire process from design to development, Vizin maintains high standards of Quality check and innovation in each of its products.”

TO BE DESIGNED SEPARATELY

Note: The following section will be designed separately. It generally consists of additional information about the company, industry, relevant infographics, and more. The intent is to enhance readability and add more value to the primary cover story.

Timeline: Gaurav Dureja’s Professional Journey

• 2007: Began the professional journey with a Nokia distributorship. 
• 2010: Expanded into the yarn business.
• 2012: Co-founded Ambrane, a mobile accessories brand through a joint venture
• 2018: Established Vizin India Private Limited, an OEM/ODM mobile accessories manufacturing plant. 

“If you want to predict your Future – See your Current Actions”

Gaurav Dureja

Vizin India Private Limited: Journey to Success

VIZIN’s Core values:

CORE VALUES: VIZIN begins by directing all its efforts toward fostering innovation that leverages the power of teamwork. Its manufactured products embody integrity, and its customer service is founded on principles of trust and honesty, ensuring that the customer remains its top priority at all times.

It aims to work with integrity in a realistic setting, fostering discussion and sharing in a positive environment. VIZIN takes responsibility and pride in all of its work and designs.

WORKING CULTURE: Vizin India approaches each design process with enthusiasm and a positive mindset.

• Consistency is crucial for cultivating loyal clients who contribute to its creative growth.
• To establish a strong presence in the international market, VIZIN employs a multinational approach and infrastructure, all while emphasizing its creative process and aligning it with its objectives.

6 P’s: Every creation and design for any product serves a central purpose and is intended for specific use. The planning process focuses on determining the optimal price to provide its clients with the greatest value. Effective placement and promotion are essential for expanding its business and reaching target audiences that value innovation and smart technology products.

Respecting the elders, especially in the latter stages of their lives, is a valued part embraced by globally renowned cultures that reflect individual upbringing.

Hahn March, CEO of Signal Health Group, is a prime example of such upbringing. Growing up in Vietnam, Hahn was fortunate to be surrounded by caring family members and elderly wisdom. Embracing these values throughout her life, Hahn keenly noticed the problems faced by the seniors and made it her mission to provide them with the best life filled with love and care—while maintaining their dignity.

Hahn March founded Signal Health Group to pursue her lifelong ambitions, aiming to deliver the highest quality in-home care nursing, therapies, and medical social work. The following is the story of Hahn March and how she turned her vision driven by compassion and kindness into a reality with her grit and perseverance–establishing herself as one of the most visionary leaders in the healthcare industry.

Power of Compassionate Entrepreneurship

With a Master’s in Public Health from The City University of New York and a certificate in women’s entrepreneurship from Cornell University, Hahn March began her journey in 2012 in Richmond—a cozy town in Indiana. 

However, her lack of a medical degree could not stop her from revolutionizing elderly care from becoming a reality. Under Hahn’s leadership prowess, Signal Health Group became a nationwide franchise from a humble basement office in Richmond—a testimony to the power of compassion that can turn even the minute things into something remarkable.

Today, the signal group offers diverse solutions in nursing and therapy to hospice and mental health support, comforting those who can no longer care for themselves. This collective effort highlights the core values of the Signal group and its philosophy— compassion, integrity, and personalized care.

Every team member, from nurses and therapists to administrative staff, represents these values, working relentlessly to support those in need. Each service offered by the Signal Health Group extends the typical transactional nature, becoming a meaningful interaction that enhances the quality of life for seniors and their families.

“At Signal Health Group, our mission is to ensure quality and dependable health care services for the Elderly, Veterans, and those in need.”–

Hahn March.

Quality and Reliable Healthcare 

• Skilled Nursing and Therapeutic Services: Signal Health Group goes beyond medical care. Their skilled nurses and therapists provide top-notch medical attention while treating patients with kindness and compassion. It allows people to receive professional medical care in their homes, surrounded by familiar surroundings and comfort. It is like getting the medicine you need with a warm smile, making the healing process a positive experience. Signal Health Group aims to create a world where every medical visit feels hopeful and human, with clinical expertise and a caring connection.
• Personal Care and Companion Services: Signal Health Group recognizes that aging well goes beyond just medical care. They offer personal care and companionship services to ensure seniors feel not just physically supported but also emotionally connected. It’s not just about the tasks, but also about sharing a cup of tea and a conversation or helping with daily routines. These services capture the true spirit of caring – creating moments of joy and connection to combat loneliness.
• Alzheimer’s Care and Dementia Support: Signal Health Group knows Alzheimer’s and dementia require more than just medical knowledge. Their specialized programs provide a safe haven for patients and their families. They create a familiar and secure environment that respects and cherishes the person, even as memories decline.
• Hospice and End-of-Life Care: Signal Health Group recognizes the profound importance of end-of-life care. During this tender time, they become a source of unwavering support and calmness for families saying their final goodbyes. Their hospice care is a commitment to ensuring comfort, respect, and peace in a loved one’s final moments. It’s a promise that no one faces this difficult journey alone.
• Wellness and Mental Health Services: Signal Health Group understands the connection between physical and mental health. They offer comprehensive programs to support those struggling with mental health challenges. These services are the hope for the people suffering in silence, emphasizing the equal importance of mental health and physical well-being. Their approach focuses on removing stigma, encouraging open communication, and creating a safe space for individuals to seek help.

“Our collaborative approach ensures timely and tailored health care services, covering everything from personal and wellness care to hospice support”–

Hahn March.

A Vision Led By Passion

Led by the passionate vision of Hahn March, Signal Health Group offers a prestigious franchise opportunity, allowing compassionate individuals to make a real difference in the lives of our seniors and veterans.

Backed by the franchising expertise and the national reputation of the SBA, Signal empowers entrepreneurs to open their own agencies and deliver exceptional home health care—ensuring their loved ones receive the care they deserve.

Becoming a Signal Health Group franchise owner is a journey of rigorous application and credentialing processes to ensure only the most qualified candidates join the team. Once approved, franchisees begin an extensive training program that covers everything from state regulations to home care management. The same program also equips them with the relevant knowledge and skills to operate their Signal location successfully.

In terms of financing, Signal caters to individuals and corporate franchisees, while the Signal L1 Visa program welcomes international ownership to assist with financing for veterans . This dedication to accessibility ensures the movement of compassionate senior care across the nation.

Currently operating in 11 states, Signal seeks franchise partners who share their passion for senior well-being. With a focus on operational excellence and a supportive structure, Signal offers a rewarding opportunity to build a fulfilling career while positively impacting the healthcare industry.

A Pathway to Franchise Opportunities

Signal Group’s mission is to provide quality and reliable healthcare services. Its professional staff delivers the highest standard of home care nursing, therapies, and medical social work for seniors.

Working tirelessly, the staff aids people with the essential daily activities critical to their independence and the ability to stay in their homes for as long as possible. The administrative staff coordinates and organizes all the required services to provide a personal and seamless experience. A helper is always available to call if you need your questions or concerns addressed.

Signal Group maintains a medical record for all its services, including documentation of each patient’s medical visits, physician orders, progress notes, and OASIS assessments. When you sign the admission documents, you authorize the agency to collect and maintain that record by either paper charts or electronic medical records. 

“Our company takes the utmost care to ensure our patient’s records are secure and their privacy is always protected. You may request a copy of your records by sending your request to us in writing.”

Company Info

“I have the desire to make a difference in the lives of patients seeking hormone therapy.” 

Straight out of Nurse Practitioner training, Carolyn Zaumeyer worked with a physician, giving all his menopausal patients “psych referrals.” 

However, Carolyn Zaumeyer knew there was a better solution and started optimizing their hormones. 

“I was motivated by the encouraging calls I received from patients with prescribed hormone therapy medication (instead of a psych referral) stating how much better they felt and how much happier they were,” she adds.

This ignited passion and a sense of responsibility within Carolyn Zaumeyer to contribute more and help refill hope into the lives of her patients. In 2013, she established LowTE Florida to fulfill her passion, successfully treating over 20,000 patients. 

Today, Carolyn Zaumeyer and her company are a leading hormone provider in Florida, ranked among the top 10 nationwide. 

A Journey of Dedication

Carolyn Zaumeyer’s dedication to healthcare began with her studies at Florida International University. There, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Nurse Practitioner Certificate. Fueled by a passion for women’s health, she continued to hone her expertise under the guidance of leading hormone specialists.

Today, Carolyn is a recognized authority in Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). She established LowTE Florida to provide personalized care to patients seeking to revitalize their health. Her commitment extends beyond the walls of her practice, with over 28 years of exceptional patient care, authorship of two books and over 100 publications, and frequent appearances as a speaker at national and international conferences.

Carolyn’s influence reaches beyond medicine. She has served on prestigious boards, including the Duke-Johnson & Johnson Nursing Leadership Fellowship Program, and held leadership positions in organizations like the Women’s Executive Club and the National Association of Women Business Owners. She has also shared her knowledge as an instructor at Florida International University, Florida Atlantic University, and Duke University.

Driven by compassion, Carolyn Zaumeyer extends her care beyond human care. A dedicated advocate for chimpanzees, she supports Save the Chimps, a sanctuary for rescued primates. Her dedication to her patients, her profession, and the well-being of all living creatures paints a portrait of a remarkable woman who has carved a unique path in the world of healthcare.

From Personalized Care to Global Recognition

LowTE Florida began with a focus on Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy (BHRT) through a personalized pellet system. This approach included in-depth bloodwork, medical history analysis, and discussions about individual goals. Scientific calculations ensured precise hormone dosages tailored according to the needs of individuals. 

“Our goal is to provide each patient with the right hormones (Bio-Identical), the right dose (personalized), and the right delivery system (pellets) for optimal results,” Carolyn asserts. 

Success was swift as the company experienced financial growth, industry respect, and a surprisingly diverse international clientele. Patients from Nigeria, Scotland, Germany, and beyond joined those from the US, Canada, Hawaii, and the Caribbean.

However, the journey was full of hurdles. The biggest challenge was combating misinformation about BHRT and cancer risks. Extensive education efforts targeted patients, healthcare providers, and the public, aiming to clarify the benefits and risks of BHRT. 

“Despite these challenges, I remain committed to our mission of providing high-quality hormone therapy products and services and to continuously improving and innovating to meet our patient’s needs,” she says. 

The Seeds of LowTE Florida’s Triumphs

Prior to founding LowTE Florida, Carolyn Zaumeyer managed a bustling insurance-based Gynecology practice inherited from a retiring colleague. Despite her best efforts, the practice was not financially sustainable. 

“The insurance contracts were unfavorable, and the insurance companies were unresponsive to my requests for better reimbursement rates,” she explains. 

However, this frustration sparked a transformation. After training in Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy, a field she was passionate about, Carolyn saw an opportunity.

LowTE Florida emerged, gradually phasing out the struggling gynecology side. This shift not only secured financial stability but also allowed Carolyn to specialize in her area of passion. Growth was a slow burn fueled by her relentless drive. 

“I kept the mindset that we would grow one patient at a time – and we did. I did presentations for potential patients in my office after hours, in vitamin shops, women’s luncheons, natural food shops – anywhere. I was driven to succeed,” she adds.

A clear vision, strong leadership, and relentless customer focus became the cornerstones of LowTE Florida’s success. Satisfied patients became loyal advocates, generating positive word-of-mouth. Highly engaged employees, deeply invested in patient care, delivered top-notch service. Carolyn Zaumeyer promoted a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring the practice adapted to changing markets and remained ahead of the curve.

Building a Sanctuary of Shared Success

“I am deeply committed to treating my team as an extension of the care I provide to our patients,” quotes Carolyn.

Carolyn’s leadership philosophy centers on creating a supportive and empowering environment for her team. She considers them an integral part of patient care, promoting a culture of knowledge sharing. Frequent knowledge sharing empowers staff to deliver high-quality care in person and over the phone. This creates a sense of mutual support, where everyone feels valued and contributes to the practice’s success.

“I believe that mentorship is the most genuine and rewarding form of support for growth,” she adds.

Her team actively seeks talent and potential within their ranks, observing individuals who demonstrate skill and initiative. Financial support for career development encourages growth, while a sense of ownership enables a feeling of investment in collective success. Ultimately, Carolyn Zaumeyer’s leadership cultivates an environment where individuals flourish, contributing to a thriving team and organization, which she affectionately refers to as her “Sanctuary.”

Embracing Innovation for Stability and Growth

LowTE Florida takes a measured approach to technology, prioritizing calculated risks and incremental innovation. Short-term and long-term goals are defined with a focus on gradual adjustments that promote stability over disruptive changes. This ensures that new technologies seamlessly integrate with the business strategy and financial objectives.

A dedicated budget allows for calculated risks and exploration, fueling improvement. Regular process reviews ensure efficiency and innovation efforts, constantly evaluated against strategic goals. This balanced approach allows LowTE Florida to embrace change and drive growth while maintaining a stable foundation.

Technology plays a vital role in streamlining patient experience. The website – LowTEFlorida.com offers seamless information requests, online new patient packets, and secure upload options for lab results and imaging. Electronic Health Records (EHR) provide instant access to patient information, enhancing treatment accuracy and speed. Prescriptions are submitted electronically through the EHR, further streamlining medication availability. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, LowTE Florida swiftly adopted teleconsultations, increasing efficiency and patient access to treatment.

A Future Focused on Patient-Driven Innovation

“I am dedicated to staying informed about the latest products and services in the marketplace, considering how they might enhance the lives of our patients,” quotes Carolyn.  

Carolyn Zaumeyer actively solicits customer feedback, recognizing its value in pinpointing patient needs, challenges, and areas for improvement. This market awareness and patient insights fuels informed decisions that prioritize patient well-being. Beyond the core medical practice, a robust nutritional supplement line extends LowTE Florida’s reach, available nationwide on popular platforms.

The success of these supplements, particularly the flagship product LowTE FreeTE, has generated a consistent and surprising revenue stream. LowTE Florida has expanded its reach by supplying nutritional supplements to medical offices across the country through its successful wholesale business. Strategic partnerships with manufacturers ensure the development of the highest quality and purest supplements, significantly contributing to the company’s overall success. LowTE Florida’s commitment to quality and innovation enables differentiation in the marketplace and a strong reputation among customers.

A proactive leadership cemented LowTE Florida’s position as a leading hormone therapy provider dedicated to meeting the needs of its patients.

In industrial safety, the importance of reliable and high-quality safety switches cannot be overstated. These critical components play a pivotal role in safeguarding machinery and ensuring the protection of workers across various sectors. Among the leading companies renowned for their excellence in manufacturing top-tier safety switches is Schmersal India Pvt Ltd. With a robust presence in the Indian market and backed by the global expertise of the Schmersal Group, Schmersal India stands out for its innovative solutions, stringent quality standards, and unwavering commitment to enhancing workplace safety. This article delves into the best safety switch manufacturing company- Schmersal India Pvt Ltd as a key player in the industry. 

Mr. Ramji Singh, Vice President of Schmersal India, leads by example, fostering open communication and building relationships with his team grounded in trust, respect, and transparency. Mr. Singh actively listens to their concerns and feedback, provides regular recognition and feedback, and offers opportunities for growth and development. 

Transforming Workplaces into Safer Working Environments

Schmersal India, 100% subsidiary of the Schmersal Group, specializes in developing and manufacturing systems and solutions worldwide to enhance machine safety and promote occupational health and safety. With a core focus on machinery safety & services, it is ingrained in the company’s DNA.

Schmersal India provides comprehensive solutions from a single source, encompassing components, control systems, and software as a solution. The company is adept at crafting tailored safety concepts to suit specific applications, ensuring optimal safety measures.

The tec.nicum business unit of Schmersal India adds value to its offerings through a comprehensive service program, which includes manufacturer-neutral safety training, consulting, engineering, integration & validation further optimizing its range of solutions.

With a global presence, Schmersal operates through a network of branches and eight production sites worldwide. The company remains committed to staying abreast of technological advancements and continuously invests in research and development (R&D) capabilities. This dedication enables Schmersal to consistently provide customers with cutting-edge safety solutions.

Leadership in Action 

Since the inception of Schmersal India Private Limited in 2007, a 100% subsidiary of Schmersal Group, Germany, Mr. Singh has been an integral part of the organization since 2015. He joined as Associate Vice President of Sales and currently holds the position of Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Schmersal India.

Leading with an optimistic and positive vision of the future, he improves the chances of leading a successful team. Focusing on everyone’s innate potential gives him more opportunities to leverage the unique talents of his employees. Mr. Singh consistently demonstrates integrity, honesty, and decisiveness in his actions.

Commitment to Industrial Security

With approximately 350 globally valid patents, Schmersal boasts a unique selling proposition (USP) attributed to its global network of skilled safety consultants and the services offered by its technology division.

A distinctive aspect of Schmersal India is its status as the sole manufacturer of safety switches in the country. This localization reduces logistic delays and costs, serving as a significant USP for Schmersal Safety Products tailored to the Indian market.

Schmersal India observes that while Indian organizations are beginning to recognize the significance of safety measures, raising awareness, and persuading them to adhere to safety protocols remains a challenge. Safety practices within their workforce are often perceived solely as a legal obligation. Establishing a secure infrastructure poses a daily challenge, but Schmersal India remains optimistic about the market’s potential. Fortunately, there is a proactive attitude among individuals who aspire to success. Schmersal India aims to educate and enlighten the industry about industrial safety practices, fostering a culture of learning and awareness.

Leading the Way in Comprehensive Safety Solutions

Schmersal India, as part of the Schmersal Group, offers a comprehensive array of safety switching appliances and systems globally, aimed at safeguarding both human life and machinery. With a portfolio comprising over 18,000 diverse safety products, the company specializes in providing tailored system solutions. Among its extensive product range are safety switches and monitoring systems for guarding doors. Additionally, it offers monitoring safety switches, command devices with safety functions, tactile safety devices, and optoelectronic safety devices.

Furthermore, Schmersal India excels in safe signal processing with offerings such as safety monitoring modules, safety controllers, and safety bus systems. In the realm of automation, the company provides solutions for position detection, command and signaling devices, and devices suitable for hazardous environments (Ex Zone). Additionally, its lift switchgear encompasses position switches with safety functions, door contacts, inductive proximity switches, magnetic reed switches, and elevator positioning systems.

Consistency and Quality 

Catering to a diverse range of industries including elevators and escalators, intralogistics, packaging, food processing, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and machine tools, Schmersal India is a trusted partner in ensuring workplace safety. Additionally, it serves heavy industries such as cement and mining, steel production, coal mining, automobiles, plastics, textiles, and robotics.

Schmersal India’s commitment extends beyond product offerings to encompass comprehensive safety services. These include application consulting, CE conformity assessment, risk assessment in compliance with the Machinery Directive, stop-time measurements, training courses, and the provision of guarding solutions such as safety fences. Additionally, the company offers specialized services in machine safety, automation, explosion protection, and hygienic design, reflecting its expertise and competence in these areas.

As a domestic manufacturing entity equipped with essential infrastructure and expertise, Schmersal India views the current Government initiative “ATMANIRBHAR BHARAT” as a gateway to new business prospects and continued growth. The company is particularly optimistic about the automation sector and is dedicated to enhancing man-machine safety standards.

It is indeed remarkable to reflect on the passage of time, particularly considering Schmersal India’s 17-year presence in the country. What distinguishes the company is its proactive and innovative approach, which began long before the nation’s momentum picked up.

From Vision to Reality 

Schmersal India boasts established R&D teams specializing in electro-mechanical product design and embedded software development for ongoing projects of Schmersal Germany, as well as Industry 4.0 solutions tailored to customer application needs. Currently, a new team is being cultivated for electronic hardware development, with the design and development team having undergone Functional Safety Certification (FSC) from TUV.

Additionally, Schmersal India collaborates with other Schmersal subsidiaries from Germany, Brazil, and China to develop products and solutions tailored to similar market requirements. The company is experiencing significant growth, positioning itself as a rapidly expanding centre for product development and market penetration within the Schmersal Group.

Looking ahead, the challenge for Schmersal India lies in maintaining its influential position amidst increasing competition. While competition is healthy for the industry, the company faces the task of contending with competitors establishing local production and competing on various fronts. However, Schmersal India initiated this journey a decade ago, instilling confidence in the company’s prospects both in India and globally.

In the long term, Schmersal is confident in its ability to serve as a one-stop turnkey solution provider, offering a comprehensive product, services, and solution portfolio to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

Sometimes an industry needs change to keep up with the growing world to maintain its success. Many leaders dare to step up and create a difference and Marco Vitali, Founder & Managing Partner of Sonic Lens Agency, is one of them. He has shaken up the music industry by introducing the world’s most data-forward, insight and strategy-driven approach to sonic branding through Music Intelligence and never looked back.

A Creative Start in the Music Industry

Marco Vitali started playing music at the young age of three and was accepted into Juilliard at the age of eleven. He also has an MBA in Marketing and Finance from NYU and had a career at JP Morgan Securities for almost a decade. He had founded and ran several music agencies before he founded the Sonic Lens Agency in 2019 out of a glaring need gap in the marketplace. 

His job at Wall Street was going well, but he wanted to do something special. The need to create work that he could be proud of and be exceptional at made him quit the role and motivated him to start this agency.

He has collaborated with Nile Rodgers as an artist and producer and gained the opportunity to work with famous artists. He has won numerous titles, including “Brand Strategist of the Year” in 2022 and “Creative Director of the Year” in 2023 by Transform Magazine. His agency fills a vital consulting role that does not yet exist in the market – getting ‘in between’ the client and music producers to help brand teams figure out exactly the best way to approach sonic branding – putting a true strategy in place first.  

Utilizing Sonic Branding

Sonic Lens empowers brands to use music more strategically to supercharge their marketing and branding – an area of tremendous value many marketers don’t yet realize the full potential of. The company disrupts traditional branding practices by emphasizing the importance of music and sound in marketing and branding. They use a unique “music intelligence” process to guide marketing teams and apply their Grammy-level music experience to create Sonic Identity Systems. These systems are designed to be more precise, holistic, and performance-driven, catering to today’s sound-on world.

Sonic branding is one of the most valuable and underdeveloped frontiers in marketing, and Sonic Lens is undeniably a trailblazer in this field. Many have not ventured beyond cookie-cutter solutions, but there is ample opportunity to utilize sound in fresh and inventive ways. With every project the brand undertakes, it is redefining sonic branding into a more holistic and strategy-driven discipline. This is the result of its proprietary and collaborative ‘music intelligence’ process – something Marco Vitali developed in part with Nile to analyze sonic landscapes and create a sonic strategy that goes far beyond the creation of a few signature assets.

The Company’s Creative Products & Services

Sonic Lens Agency creates “sonic identity systems”, or “SIS”. This is the audio equivalent of a “VIS” or “visual identity system”, which every brand sets up to cover all visual identity rules and assets for all situations. While many people think sonic branding is just a mnemonic (i.e. Intel), Sonic Lens creates comprehensive systems that provide brands with flexible styles, modular to fit any situation, and precise in how they evoke specific brand attributes.

It provides other brands with an actual sound and audio language that fits their essence and purpose and lays the foundation for an entire vertical in their equity stack that can be built upon over time with no limitations – just an easy-to-understand set of guidelines and asset toolkits from which to draw.

Their services include consulting – acting as a “sonic lens” so marketers can understand the sonic landscape and apply strategic planning to their own sound. With their vast network of partners, they provide everything else that might be needed, including research, marketing sciences, analytics, focus groups, workshopping, music composition, production, recording, supervision, talent management and negotiation, and more. Sonic Lens is a full-service branding agency that focuses primarily on music and sound.

Crossing the Hurdles

The biggest challenge Marco Vitali faced was flying under the radar as a boutique agency. Sonic Lens is a small company by design, hence, it focuses on fewer projects to do the deep work and plans to continue doing the same. The downside of this is that it is competing mainly against the biggest established sonic agencies with strong sales and PR efforts, and it still has low awareness in this field. There are still lots of opportunities the company simply doesn’t get to see, but as it continues dominating all the awards, this is starting to change.

In the advertising industry, pre-existing relationships have always made it difficult for music vendors to enter the market. This makes sense because music is high-risk and highly subjective, and ad agencies are ultimately responsible for results. Hence, they tend to stick with jingle houses that do consistently great sounding work.  The problem is a tsunami of those jingle houses now profess to do sonic branding and by default are getting this work as well, despite the fact sonic branding requires an additional skillset that is arguably more important than just producing great music.

That is why the need for Sonic Lens exists – to provide that skillset.  Nonetheless, it also continues to be a significant challenge for them to hear about many projects that stay within these comfortable alliances.. Agencies often choose to play it safe with their clients, providing tactical creative solutions rather than the strategic ones a master brand project deserves.

They prefer opting for ideas that sound great as pieces of music rather than ones that are strategically designed to optimize a client’s branding goals and set them apart. There are numerous reasons for this cautious approach. It is an opportunity for Sonic Lens, but a challenge when dealing with a marketing community that doesn’t yet  realize what is possible in today’s sound-on world , let alone what is actually required to do it properly.

Immense Growth in a Short Span

Marco Vitali describes the start of this journey as “jumping off a cliff and hoping the parachute opens”. The work they do at Sonic Lens does not produce repeat clients, thus, they couldn’t rely on past clients for new projects. Yet, when the first three projects won gold in various global awards, it assured Marco Vitali that they had something special, and it was a tremendous PR boost that got them noticed.

He worked for years with Nile Rodgers as an artist and music producer and then CORD Worldwide hired him to launch their  NA branch in 2011. He personally oversaw every Sonic branding project depicted in the attached graph. His unique “music intelligence” process took eight years to develop and prove its effectiveness. Despite the tedious nature of its development, it proved to be extremely effective, and when  Sonic Lens was launched, this process became its major advantage over competitors. As shown in the chart, this smaller boutique approach and dedication to the strategy-first process has resulted in gold for every project undertaken.

As more brands are testing the effectiveness of sonic branding to achieve their branding goals, the results Sonic Lens is achieving have been consistently off the charts. For example, when Sonic Lens rebranded Disney Junior, they focused and tested all their emotional and marketing goals against 820 kids and parents, and every metric over-performed in a big way.  

• 78% of kids liked the new brand track with 41% of girls saying they “loved” it.  
• 83% of kids agreed the new music was “fun”, and, 
• 70% of kids agreed the music was “exciting”.  

To quote their ECD, “Music intelligence enabled us to pinpoint specific connection points with our audience with laser accuracy and deliver on key objectives from our brief.”  

The Long-Standing Success & Achievements

Marco Vitali credits the brand’s long-standing success to their no-shortcuts mentality. He believes in forcing as much thinking and insight into the process as humanly possible, and this takes time and patience. It’s not easy for music people to hold back from jumping into their creative work instead of lengthy analysis and strategy – and that’s why nobody else does it. Having lots of data to create graphs and visualizations to power strategic conversations allows them to do more daring work with greater buy-in, which is important for brands trying to differentiate.

Sonic Lens has recently‌ been inserting more explicit and implicit testing into the music intelligence process, and the output impressed Marco Vitali. In the latest bank rebrand, they added a layer of qualitative focus testing with different consumer segments into the demo assessment stage.

The specific insights they received allowed the company to incorporate the most resonating qualities of its demo work into the revisions, as well as help define how it could stretch the music to better fit different consumer groups by understanding their specific reactions and preferences. When the work was completed and underwent implicit focus testing, the lead researcher at Sentient Decision Science said “this is one of the strongest performing sounds that we’ve ever had the good fortune to see, and we’ve been testing sonic for years so we’ve seen it range all over the place.”

The company has recently collaborated with Ford’s visual branding agency Makerhouse, working hand in hand from day one with their design staff and strategy team. As music is almost always the last add-on piece of the branding puzzle, this was a luxury that never happens in the real world – but the results were off the charts and undeniable. Together, both agencies won every award they entered. They coined this process “synchronized branding” and Marco Vitali has been pushing for similar levels of collaboration ever since.

Honing the Role of a Mentor

As a leader and mentor, Marco Vitali prefers to first figure out what is needed, then seek the blessings of the client and agency partners, and finally assemble the best people in the world specific to each project. This applies to all the roles, from research to production. He appreciates teamwork, especially in the creative phases, and has always achieved great results by putting talented people together. 

Whether it’s collaborating with marketing scientists, pairing up producers and sound designers to achieve something novel, or putting an orchestra together for RZA for his reimagined performance of Wu Tang’s 36 Chambers, Marco Vitali’s role is team building with heavy active participation. He is both a mentor and a participant in this collaboration, thoroughly enjoying the process and finding great fulfillment in it. 

One benefit of the boutique approach is remaining nimble and not being weighed down by having to feed a staff with limited skill sets. The company stays ahead of changes by constantly attracting incredible partners who can bring their skills to the team effort on a per-project basis.  

Leadership Philosophy

Marco Vitali’s leadership philosophy is to guide, not dictate, to do so with tons of encouragement, and to set a high bar with his work ethic. He believes in outworking everybody else and learned this from Nile Rodgers. That commonality between them is why he thinks Nile respects and trusts him, and Marco Vitali instills the same trust in his partners and vendors. He builds all sorts of teams depending upon each project’s needs, but everyone always knows they can count on him to pitch in with their work, guide them every step of the way, and help them achieve new heights.

He tries to work with people who are smarter and more talented than him, but he’s still able to help them achieve success through guidance, support, and a shared passion for doing beautiful work. As one Emmy-winning composer puts it, “Marco Vitali’s creative briefs are unlike anyone else’s in the business – they are detailed road maps to creating exactly what the client wants, filled with tons of inspiration.”

Innovation and taking risks isn’t a choice for Sonic Lens, it’s more of a mandate. The company’s goal is to be known as the GOAT doing the most sophisticated work, thus, they literally have to win gold for every project to reach that goal. The company’s process allows it to do bold, innovative work because it is backed up by analysis and strategy. Without the latter, the former is impossible. This level of dedication requires time and budget. The company is positioned as a premium service provider, and its stability and profitability require it to simply do the best work in its field..

Breaking the Traditional Methods

Marco Vitali thinks disrupting the traditional model of sonic branding and giving brands an all-encompassing voice and sound is a huge net positive. We as humans are living with the most overwhelming sensory overload in history, and a lot of it comes from brands making random noise – just to get your attention or stick in your brain. His broader idea of sonic branding gives brands more cohesion across more of their sound, creating less noise and more harmony.

Sonic Lens is very disruptive in the industry because of its different processes. It doesn’t pretend to know what any brand needs in an initial proposal or propose cookie-cutter solutions. For example, it touts its ‘human intelligence’ during the sonic audits. The music supervisors rate over 500 sonic variables for every communication they analyze – many of them abstract and subjective. While some agencies are claiming AI can do this analysis for them, emotional interpretation is very human and needs the kind of deep dive the company provides. The company discovers every opportunity during the discovery and strategy phases and then designs sonic ‘systems’ that accommodate all of them. It converts brand noise into harmonious sounds. 

Incorporating Technology in the Industry

Technology’s major benefit is its ability to connect global parties in real time on both the client and creative sides of their work. Marco Vitali has been coordinating work with artists around the world for a long time, but COVID helped legitimize this on the client side. It allows Sonic Lens to maintain low overhead and act as a sort of orchestra conductor on every project, making sure all the facets of a project work together in harmony, inspiring and playing off each other.

They can workshop clients all over the world, conduct focus studies and engage in Q&A in real-time, participate in recording sessions in London and South Africa from the office, direct talent, and even share the session mouse to nudge editing, Furthermore, for research and inspiration technology gives them instant access to any piece of music ever created to ingest and study – another reason this depth of music intelligence could not have existed even just 15 years ago. Technology has allowed them to be leaner and smarter, enabled all stakeholders to be engaged along the entire journey, and for their work to be more exceptional. 

Business leaders who excel in the areas of innovation, foresight, and strategic insight often propel their organizations to the forefront of market trends and technological advancements. These leaders are not merely administrators; they are visionaries who understand the nuances of their industries, anticipate shifts in consumer demands, and harness the potential of emerging technologies to drive growth and transformation.

Among such leaders is Paraj Vidyarthi, the Senior Vice President and Regional Head of Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, and BFSI at Tech Mahindra. Recognized as one of the Most Visionary Business Leaders to Watch, Paraj has demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead through change and deliver innovative solutions that redefine industry standards. His strategic initiatives in digital transformation and his dedication to leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies have distinguished him as a pioneer in his field, driving substantial growth and setting new benchmarks in every sector he touches.

Navigating the Japanese Market and Leading Large Deals

1. Leadership in Top IT Companies

Paraj Vidyarthi has held significant leadership positions in top-tier IT companies, demonstrating his capability to guide and innovate in dynamic environments. His journey has been marked by strategic vision and a forward-thinking approach, enabling him to excel in diverse roles.

2. Breaking into the Japanese Startup Landscape

Transitioning from established IT roles, Paraj Vidyarthi embarked on a challenging journey into the Japanese startup landscape. Understanding the complexities and cultural nuances of the local market, where new entrants often face challenges as GAIJIN (outsiders), he successfully brought several companies to Japan. Notable among these are VVDN Technologies in 2019 and PathPartner in 2021, both of which he helped establish from the ground up.

3. Success Stories: VVDN Technologies and PathPartner

Under Paraj’s leadership, VVDN Technologies has made significant inroads into Japan’s IoT, automotive, and 5G markets, partnering with major players like Rakuten and appliance manufacturers. PathPartner, on the other hand, has thrived in the IoT, semiconductor, and automotive sectors, focusing on ADAS, autonomous systems, and in-cabin technologies. Their clientele includes top-tier companies such as Denso, Aisin, Macnica, and Renesas.

5. Recognition and Vision

Paraj Vidyarthi is recognized as one of the Most Visionary Business Leaders to Watch. As the Senior Vice President and Regional Head of Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, and BFSI at Tech Mahindra, he has shown exceptional ability to lead through change and deliver innovative solutions that redefine industry standards.

6. The Large Deal Maker

Renowned for his expertise in securing large and strategic deals, Paraj Vidyarthi is celebrated as a Large Deal Maker. His recent accomplishment at Tech Mahindra includes securing a global landmark deal worth $150 million—a SAP global rollout deal with a Japanese automotive conglomerate. This achievement has generated significant buzz within the IT community worldwide.

Paraj Vidyarthi’s journey is a testament to his leadership, strategic vision, and ability to navigate complex markets. From breaking into the Japanese startup scene to securing monumental deals, Paraj continues to make significant contributions to the IT industry, establishing himself as a formidable leader and innovator.

Paraj was heading Engineering companies as Regional Country head for APAC at Pathpartner and acted as advisor to various Indian IT companies. He was offered a Strategic position as a SVP & Regional Head by the APAC and Japan business leaders while he was acting as an Advisor for this deal with Tech Mahindra and joined the company from August 2023 to lead company into a Landslide win against 14 Top Notch Giants like Accenture, Deloitte, PWC, HCL, Wipro,TCS, etc. This was a commendable win for an Indian IT company against the Western IT Giants. 

Building Expertise & Driving Growth

Paraj brings 23 years of expertise in APAC and global markets, characterized by his profound knowledge and native-level fluency in Japanese. As a seasoned revenue and P&L owner, he has catalyzed substantial growth and transformation across diverse industries, including automotive, manufacturing, semiconductors, and BFSI, underscoring his multifaceted leadership capabilities. His extensive background includes building and leading local teams, effectively planning and executing sales strategies for large accounts, managing mega accounts, and fostering key account relationships. 

Paraj Vidyarthi has held senior management roles and led local and regional teams for top-tier technology companies such as HCL, Wipro, Polaris, and NTT Data. He specializes in various industries, from manufacturing and automotive to telecommunications, retail, banking, financial products and services, and healthcare. His technological expertise spans enterprise IT streams—including application, consulting, and managed services—and engineering streams like semiconductors, embedded systems, and electronics. Moreover, Paraj has established a robust ecosystem of regional and global partners in GTM areas, product, and delivery alliances and has built top-tier relationships in diplomatic circles, advising the Indian Embassy, IITAJ, INBCC, and other influential entities.

He began his career in the automotive sector at Yamaha Motors, where his frequent travels to Japan enriched his understanding of Japanese management methodologies such as TPM, TQC, QC Circle, Poka-Yoke, Kaizen, and more. His early career achievements include significant projects like Assembly SPR improvement, TPM implementation, the Philippines Taxi project, and the successful development of the Crux-R model. Transitioning to the IT industry, he joined Aithent Technologies before moving to HCL Technologies, where he reported to industry leaders such as Anil Gupta, MD & CEO of the HCL-NEC Joint Venture. This mentorship further broadened his industry and domain expertise, particularly in embedded systems, engineering, and software products and services, propelling his journey as a business leader.

Education & Certifications

Paraj Vidyarthi holds a Master of Business Administration in Sales & Marketing Management from Amity Business School, Tokyo, and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Delhi. His professional development is complemented by certifications in C# .NET, Oracle (OCA), DOEACC Level ‘O’, and programming in C & C++. Additionally, he has pursued an education in computer animation and graphics from the American Institute of Technology and holds an Advanced Diploma in Japanese from Delhi University along with other Japanese language certifications. His diverse educational background is further enriched by certifications in export management and documentation, as well as naturopathy and yoga, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.

Innovating Futures

Established over 35 years ago, Tech Mahindra is a heritage brand known for pioneering systems, processes, and solutions for enterprise clients worldwide. At the nexus of transformative changes, the company introduces NXT.NOW, signaling a commitment to shaping the future of industries. Tech Mahindra’s sustained success is rooted in a strategic approach encompassing three key pillars:

• Run: Operate systems and processes that align with current and prospective business objectives.
• Change: Adapt systems and processes to embrace evolutionary changes.
• Grow: Enhance client business value by offering distinctive solutions in a competitive market.

The company pledges to develop ambitious frameworks for partners aiming to become market leaders, providing comprehensive strategies and advisory services. The company addresses emerging technological trends—including 5G, cloud computing, AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity—placing itself at the forefront of the next wave of innovations.

Advanced Offerings

Tech Mahindra aligns its service offerings with customers’ evolving needs across various sectors. Their extensive portfolio includes Infrastructure and Cloud Services, Experience Design Services, and Business Process Services, which streamline and enhance IT architecture, user experiences, and process efficiencies. Additional services cover Network Services and Testing Services, ensuring reliable network infrastructure and software performance.

Further, Tech Mahindra offers Integrated Engineering Solutions, Performance Engineering, and specialized ERP Solutions, including SAP and Oracle, preparing businesses for the future with cutting-edge technology. Their advanced capabilities extend to Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, and Digital Supply Chain solutions. These services are complemented by Customer Experience, Intelligent Automation, and Sustainability initiatives, fortifying their commitment to driving innovation and excellence.

Progressive Leadership Journey

Paraj Vidyarthi’s career trajectory illustrates a remarkable ascent through the technology sector ranks, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region. Here’s an overview of his key milestones:

• 2000-2005: Engineering & Sales Foundations

At Escorts Yamaha Ltd in India, Paraj Vidyarthi initiated his career in production engineering, where he managed teams and spearheaded new model developments. He transitioned to HCL Technologies in Japan, sharpening his business development, sales, and account management skills, and successfully secured a strategic alliance with IBM.

• 2005-2014: BFSI & Embedded Technology Specialization

Continuing at HCL Technologies in Japan as a Senior Coordinator, Paraj enhanced his expertise in sales support, pre-sales activities, and client relationship management. At SRM Technologies, also in Japan, he shifted focus to managing automotive embedded Offshore Development Centers (ODCs), driving growth within key accounts. As Services Head/Account Director at Polaris Consulting & Services Ltd, he significantly expanded his BFSI client base.

• 2014-2019: APAC Growth Leadership

As a Polaris Enterprise Solutions Limited leader, Paraj Vidyarthi directed sales efforts, boosting revenue growth across both BFSI and non-BFSI sectors. At Wipro Limited, encompassing Japan and APAC, he broadened the client base in the automotive and manufacturing industries through new client acquisitions and expanding existing accounts. Moving to NTT Data Global Technology Services and NTT Data Intellilink Corporation in Japan, he undertook leadership roles overseeing MNC sales and propelled growth across diverse industries in APAC, Europe, and the US.

• 2019-Present: Regional Leadership

Joining VVDN Technologies as Country Sales Manager, Paraj Vidyarthi established local entities and expanded sales across the APAC region. At PathPartner Technology, he now serves as the Regional Country Head, leading the company’s expansion in Japan and APAC. In his current role as SVP, Regional Head of Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, BFSI at Tech Mahindra, Paraj applies his vast experience to steer the regional teams toward continued growth.

Leadership Excellence

Paraj embodies visionary leadership, consistently driving innovative deals and spearheading groundbreaking initiatives throughout his distinguished career. His strategic approach blends astute business development with sales tactics, establishing a robust market presence and generating substantial revenue streams. Notably adaptable, Paraj Vidyarthi excels across diverse environments and industries, showcasing resilience and a versatile skill set. He builds solid relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders, fostering collaboration for mutual success. Paraj’s innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities drive successful digital transformation projects and advance Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Furthermore, Paraj’s leadership ethos prioritizes setting an example, customer satisfaction, and empowering team members. This people-centric approach was demonstrated during the 2010 Japan Triple Disaster, where he courageously remained behind to evacuate 200 individuals, earning recognition for his selflessness. Committed to quality and customer-centricity, he believes in critical thinking, problem-solving, and delivering innovative solutions. He motivates and guides his team, entrusting them with responsibilities for collective success.

Distinguished Achievements

Paraj has been recognized throughout his professional career with numerous awards and honors that reflect his commitment to excellence. In the IT industry, he received the SPOT Excellence Award in May 2011 for his exceptional leadership and dedication during the turbulent times following the natural disasters in Japan in March 2011. His actions not only went beyond the call of duty but also ensured the safety of his associates during the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disruption.

Later, in November 2011, Paraj Vidyarthi was honored with the MERLION Award for his strategic expansion of several key BFSI and Japanese MNC accounts across the APAC region. In January 2012, he received the prestigious KONARK Award from Polaris, recognizing a select few each year for world-class performance, discipline, and leadership. His exceptional sales achievements continued to be acknowledged when he was named BEST SALES PERSON OF THE YEAR in March 2012 for achieving 115% of the annual sales target and securing significant deals within top-level strategic accounts. In May 2014, he was awarded the LONG SERVICE Award after completing five years at Virtusa-Polaris.

Paraj earned the Regional Quality Award in the automotive industry for his leadership in successfully developing and launching the Yamaha Crux-R bike. This included ensuring the model’s clearance for mass production from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and managing a smooth launch by addressing last-minute technical issues. Additionally, his leadership in training programs in Japan on production engineering and new model development has been highly lauded. Paraj Vidyarthi also played a key role in the TPM implementations for the machine shop and significantly improved the assembly SPR, elevating it from 33% to 70%, thereby enhancing overall quality.

Inspirational Family Legacy

Paraj’s extraordinary career is deeply rooted in a family legacy of integrity and service. His grandfather, Parameshwar Dayal Vidyarthi, was a notable participant in India’s freedom struggle alongside Mahatma Gandhi. The values of sacrifice and leadership exemplified by his grandfather profoundly shaped Paraj Vidyarthi’s values and principles.

His father, U. Vidyarthi, was not only an award-winning engineer and sportsman but also a steadfast opponent of corruption, facing numerous threats for standing against the mafia and a corrupt system. Paraj’s mother, a woman of strong principles, provided support during these challenging times, embodying dedication and resilience.

Paraj inherited qualities such as integrity, innovation, visionary leadership, and selflessness from these family influences. These traits have been fundamental to his impressive career trajectory. Paraj also credits his wife, Puneeta Singh Vidyarthi, an academic topper and a pillar of support, for playing a crucial role in his personal and professional life. Her accomplishments include supporting her brothers’ education in Japan, purchasing a house for her parents, and steadfastly supporting her family.

Nurturing Talent and Ownership

Paraj significantly emphasizes continuous learning and development within the ever-evolving business landscape. This commitment extends to his approach to team management. He actively collaborates with his team to identify their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering a culture of continuous growth. He empowers employees to enhance their skill sets through targeted training initiatives and remain ahead of industry trends.

Moreover, Paraj Vidyarthi advocates for promoting ownership among team members. Recognizing the importance of accountability, he entrusts individuals with ownership of their respective domains, fostering a sense of responsibility and driving team productivity. This approach empowers individuals and contributes to the overall success of the team and the organization.

Personal Preferences

Apart from work, Paraj enjoys reading, chess, table tennis, and playing guitar. His favorite books include “Fountainhead,” “Good to Great,” and “Built to Last.” He prefers traveling to Europe and Australia and relishes Indian and Japanese cuisines. These hobbies and preferences offer a balanced perspective to Paraj’s life alongside his professional commitments.

Guiding Perspective

Paraj offers a compelling perspective for aspiring leaders. He sees the region as a hotbed of innovation, with industries like automotive, IoT, and semiconductors driving significant growth, particularly on the India-Japan axis. Paraj Vidyarthi emphasizes deep diving into the local context to succeed in the Asian market. “Going global requires going local,” he says, urging leaders to immerse themselves in the language and cultural nuances of the market. 

“To succeed, leaders should constantly learn, empower, and motivate their teams and maintain strong ethics and integrity,” – Paraj Vidyarthi.

“The “aha moment” that inspired me to venture into manufacturing stemmed from witnessing the profound impact that innovative medications could have on individuals’ lives.”

Her interest in pharmaceutical manufacturing wasn’t born from a single event but from a series of impactful experiences. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of new medications on people’s lives ignited a passion within her. This, coupled with the realization that advancements in drug formulations could address unmet medical needs, fueled a deep desire to contribute to the field.

Tanya Goodwin (CEO and Founder of Botanical Chemist Palm Cove) saw an opportunity to leverage science and technology to develop healthcare solutions. These solutions could truly improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients and animals. 

This combination of factors—the transformative power of medicine, the potential for innovation, and the desire to make a meaningful difference—ultimately propelled her toward a career in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Tanya Goodwin founded Botanical Chemist Palm Cove in 2011, offering personalized health solutions. A deep commitment to patient-centric care fuels her passion for compounding and the art of crafting medications tailored to each individual’s needs. Allergies, preferences, and unique health concerns—Tanya factors them all in, creating a personalized approach that reflects her holistic vision. 

“For me, it’s more than just treating symptoms – it’s about empowering well-being,”

A Passion for Personalized Care

Tanya Goodwin’s path to becoming a leader in healthcare began with over 15 years of experience across diverse pharmacy settings like community, hospital, and even pharmaceutical companies. This broad exposure instilled in her a deep well of expertise and a relentless commitment to ongoing learning. Her impressive credentials—a Bachelor of Pharmacy from the University of Sydney, a Graduate Certificate in Good Manufacturing Practice from the University of Technology Sydney, and specialist compounding training and cosmetic chemistry courses—testify to this dedication.

Tanya Goodwin’s vision materialized as Botanical Chemist Palm Cove, creating a haven for personalized health solutions. Customers found more than just medication:

Innovation is at the heart of the company, driving it to improve products and services. This includes investing in technologies, exploring new market opportunities, and staying abreast of the latest research.

Building a Culture of Well-being 

As the Founder and CEO, Tanya Goodwin’s role is multidimensional. She sets the company’s vision, mission, and strategic direction, ensuring they align with long-term goals and adapt to market trends and customer needs. Building a strong team is essential, and Tanya leads the recruitment and management of top talent, enabling a collaborative environment that prioritizes excellence. She is responsible for managing the company’s finances, including resource allocation, budgeting, risk management, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

Beyond the internal operations, Tanya Goodwin acts as the public face of Botanical Chemist Palm Cove. She cultivates relationships and partnerships while representing the brand to stakeholders, investors, and the community. Her keen eye on industry developments and emerging technologies ensures the company remains adaptable and innovative.

In essence, Tanya Goodwin’s story demonstrates the effectiveness of personalized care and ongoing improvement. As Founder and CEO, she drives the company’s vision, leads its strategic direction, nurtures its culture, manages its resources, and ensures its impact on the well-being of its customers.

A Trifecta of Wellness

Botanical Chemist Palm Cove distinguishes itself through a unique trifecta of factors, prioritizing natural healthcare solutions and genuine customer care. 

First, its personalized approach to health advice ensures each customer receives tailored recommendations focused on individual well-being. This goes beyond simply selling products as it empowers customers with in-depth health knowledge and informed decision-making about health and lifestyle choices. 

Second, exceptional service is vital. Every interaction is characterized by care and attention to detail, building long-term relationships with its clientele. Ultimately, this commitment to care and customer satisfaction reflects its core.

Leading Through Change: Challenges and Opportunities

The road ahead for business leaders is full of challenges and exciting possibilities. Rapid technological advancements demand constant adaptation and innovation to stay competitive, while global uncertainties like pandemics and climate change require resilient and agile leadership. Meeting evolving societal expectations around sustainability, diversity, and social responsibility is crucial for businesses to maintain trust and relevance.

However, according to Tanya Goodwin, these challenges also present opportunities. 

“Leaders can pioneer new business models, nurture inclusive cultures, and drive positive change. Embracing diversity, leveraging data analytics, and cultivating a culture of continuous learning is essential for navigating these evolving landscapes,” she adds. 

She believes that by utilizing emerging technologies, nurturing talent, and building partnerships, leaders can transform challenges into catalysts for growth and innovation.

Overcoming Setbacks

“As a successful business leader, I approach failures and setbacks as invaluable learning opportunities rather than insurmountable obstacles,” quotes Tanya Goodwin. 

She approaches setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. First, she acknowledges and analyzes the root causes and implications with her team and advisors. Open dialogue fosters a collaborative environment where they brainstorm solutions and extract valuable lessons.

A core leadership principle for Tanya is resilience in the face of adversity. She views failure as a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey, promoting innovation and continuous improvement within her organization. She actively enables a growth mindset among team members, highlighting the importance of perseverance and learning from challenges.

Another principle is effective communication and collaboration during difficult times. Ultimately, Tanya Goodwin believes that leveraging failures as stimuli for growth and innovation is fundamental to sustained business leadership success.

A Trailblazing Legacy

Tanya’s illustrious career in pharmacy is evidence of her passion and dedication. It all began with a fascination for the intricate world of drug formulations. Witnessing the life-changing impact of medications on patients sparked a fire within her. Early on, she honed her skills in crafting customized dosages, ensuring underserved individuals received the precise care they needed.

This passion for personalized care fueled her transition into a leadership role. She established her own pharmacy, where she didn’t just dispense medication but pioneered innovative services that demonstrably improved the lives of those in the community. Seeing the positive impact on patient health outcomes was a constant source of gratification.

Beyond direct patient care, Tanya Goodwin has devoted herself to nurturing future generations of pharmacists. She has served as a mentor to countless aspiring students and intern pharmacists, sharing her knowledge and passion for the field.

Reflecting on her achievements, Tanya takes pride in the positive ripple effect of her work. From empowering underprivileged patients to advocating for comprehensive healthcare solutions, her influence has been extensive. Ultimately, her journey is a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.

Life beyond the Pharmacy

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance has been a continuous pursuit for Tanya. With the help of an executive coach, she’s implemented the transformative “Key 8” program, prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries. This allows her to dedicate quality time to family, friends, and exercise, ensuring she’s recharged and refocused for her professional endeavors.

Beyond the pharmacy, Tanya Goodwin’s life brims with diverse interests. She prioritizes spending time with loved ones, cherishing moments of connection. 

An avid outdoors enthusiast, she enjoys exploring nature through hikes and indulging in sports like running, basketball, and snowboarding. When indoors, she embarks on culinary adventures, delves into learning Japanese, and explores artistic pursuits like pottery. Reading and continuous learning are also fundamental to her personal growth.

Striking a balance between personal well-being and productivity fuels Tanya’s creativity. It’s a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment, where every aspect of life contributes to her overall happiness and success.

A Guiding Light for Aspiring Leaders

“My advice to young business leaders is to prioritize learning and adaptability,” Tanya asserts.

Embrace every chance to expand your knowledge base – be it through formal education, mentorship, or hands-on experience. Cultivate a curious and open mind, constantly seeking out new perspectives.

“Remember, challenges and setbacks are inevitable. Build resilience and flexibility to navigate these hurdles. View failure as a stepping stone, a chance to learn and grow,” she adds. 

Finally, Tanya Goodwin emphasizes the power of relationships. Surround yourself with supportive mentors, peers, and advisors who can offer guidance and encouragement. A strong network encourages your growth and success.

“By remaining committed to learning, resilience, and building meaningful connections, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of business and make a lasting impact in your industry. Don’t forget to have fun!”

Tanya Goodwin

A separate learning and development unit for different divisions was standard practice for decades. While the distinct units approach worked well in the past, modern leaders noticed room for improvement.

Around eight years ago, things finally changed—the Arizona Department of Economic Security (AZDES) shifted its approach to a more unified Office of Professional Development (OPD). The transition wasn’t a massive deal on paper, yet it significantly impacted the outcomes across the organization—enhancing employee operations, cultivating a sense of belonging, and boosting productivity.

While there was a lot of support leading up to this change, there were also question marks. At the helm of the Arizona Department of Economic Security, one of the pivotal professional development leaders championing this transition was its Chief Learning Officer  Adele Cook—making her one of the most iconic leaders to watch in 2024.

Finding Inspiration through Challenges

When Adele Cook joined the AZDES, it had a decentralized learning and development function with a “training only” focus. Adele and the leadership at the time realized the massive potential if they could merge the training units. They predicted it would improve quality, processes, timeliness, and efficiency by enabling the training members to work on multiple projects simultaneously—increasing flexibility.

However, the biggest challenge was gaining support in these endeavors. For many years, the training function was a passion project for Adele Cook as she led the efforts to boost its popularity.

Adele Cook has witnessed numerous iterations of the training function—from the decentralized to a community of practice, to a community of excellence, to a federated model, and now to a modified yet federated model. At eight years old, the functioning of the office is currently centralized as the business units choose their projects and staffing levels.

“It took planning and gaining acceptance and support, hiring the best people, and bringing enhanced quality to the mix so that we were serving our agency in the best way.”

A Proud Servant Leader

Adele Cook is a proud servant leader with values revolving around dedication, trust, integrity, fairness, and performance. She believes in cultivating a thriving environment to enable peak performance. The definition of thriving for Adele Cook is providing individuals with psychological safety, where they are heard and cared about with uncompromised transparency.

Communication is a vital part of Adele Cook’s leadership philosophy. She conducts a weekly “CLO Chat” to keep the communication clear and honest. Just recently, Adele Cook shared her leadership point of view with the entire team to better understand their expectation of her. The organization also has “We wills,” to set the tone of interactions and behaviors for all.

“I imagine my leadership style will continue to evolve, but it seems to be working:  the last eNPS of the entire team was sixty-seven, and of management (just a few weeks ago) was seventy-six.”

Metrics related to all the OPD programs:

Organizing Forward-Thinking Initiatives

Today, professional development is an ultimate recruiting and retention tool that frequents the list of things most employees consider before joining the organization—it also necessitates innovation to achieve successful retention.

During Adele Cook’s tenure, creating the federated OPD enterprise model was a critical risk. It required six months of continuous work to gain agreement and a one-year preparation period before implementation to minimize risks as much as possible. According to Adele Cook, innovation and risk typically take the form of forward-thinking initiatives to improve the organizational culture of professional development.

Due to the complex nature of the job, rolling out innovative learning programs with business partners that could potentially fail is a significant risk. It is especially crucial for Arizonians at vulnerable points who might not get the necessary services without solid preparation. OPD mitigates risk by merging innovation with traditional methods targeted around on-the-job performance and the KPIs of business partners.

“Measured innovation enables the team to bring significant yet gradual changes—ensuring stability and continuous improvement.”

Changed Graphs

Nurturing the Talent

To identify top performers, OPD assesses current job skills and leadership potential. The process might involve experience as peer reviewers or project team leads. For instructors, this includes observation and evaluation metrics. It evaluates instructional designers through courseware audits, peer reviews, and learner feedback surveys.

“We value both leadership ability and strong performance while recognizing that advancement isn’t always vertical; we also develop talent for specialized roles.”

Development focuses on certification programs, mentoring by experienced team members, and individual coaching by managers. Learning from colleagues is a key driver of growth, with formal training playing a smaller role and self-directed learning being the most significant factor. The organization actively encourages mentorship by creating dedicated time and has recently implemented a company-wide program to ensure continued excellence.  

Providing Safety and Economic Security

Arizona’s Department of Economic Security (AZDES) is a social services agency with over 9,000 employees state-wide. Its mission is to empower vulnerable Arizonans toward safety and economic security. To achieve this aim it offers numerous comprehensive solutions—from childcare assistance and disability services to unemployment insurance and agency collaborations.

Within this structure lies the Office of Professional Development (OPD), responsible for agency-wide training and development. The office reports to the Deputy Director for Operations. OPD prioritizes speed and performance through a specialized team structure.

Each AZDES division has dedicated OPD instructional designers and trainers who nurture strong partnerships and subject matter expertise. It ensures that training aligns with divisional needs and that instructors are well-equipped to tackle the specific challenges of the program area.

Metrics for the Advanced Leadership Program:

Empowering the Noble Workforce

AZDES offers various learning and development services, including job skills training, leadership development, coaching, and consulting. It continually collaborates with public and private organizations to ensure high-quality, impactful training for the DES team members. The objective is to empower a workforce to uplift Arizonans during their most vulnerable moments.

“I like to say that learning and development is a noble profession, and when performing it in support of the most vulnerable, it becomes a noble calling.”

As a Client-focused and data-driven organization, AZDES tailors its services to their client needs and measures the success of each service through ROI and feedback. It identifies the gaps between client requests and agency trends, constantly creating solutions such as the agency-wide “Person-Centered Approaches” course.

At AZDES, strategic planning plays a critical role in ensuring continuous improvement. Its Breakthrough Objectives (BTOs) focus on long-term agency growth and OPD’s internal development. The current BTO of “Cultivating a Culture of Continuous Learning” expands professional development options while integrating them into agency culture for better accessibility.

Tackling Setbacks with a Balanced Approach

Adele Cook’s primary concern is ensuring the responsible use of taxpayer (investor) funds, avoiding wasted time on unsuccessful products, and adequately preparing her team to meet DES goals.

To avoid failures, Adele Cook accurately evaluates each initiative. According to her, recovering from a failed attempt unharmed is as crucial as achieving success. This emphasis on recoverability fosters psychological safety. By aligning products and services with the business needs, AZDES minimizes the risk of missing the target. Its robust certification programs ensure team competency.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

Ever-ready with its effective learning solutions, AZDES maintains a close relationship with its business partners to support them during the changing conditions. 

Strategically aligning its products and services to the business KPIs puts OPD in a unique position to drive success.

At an agency level, AZDES is currently going through multiple modernization projects —OPD powers professional development and at times helps with the creation of non-training artifacts related to policies and procedures in support of the projects.

Understanding the crucial role of learning and development, Adele Cook spends quality time with her colleagues and attends webinars and conferences to gauge the agency situation better. She transfers these learnings to her team to collectively stay at the industry forefront.

“Our leadership development program is best in class in design and delivery and has driven improvements in productivity, performance, and planned retention.”

A game-changer function

The success of OPD  revolves around creating an environment that empowers the entire organization. Every product is designed precisely with key performance indicators (KPIs) in mind—directly enhancing the performance of its team members. It also helps better support those in vulnerable circumstances.

The investment in a dedicated learning and development (L&D) function is a game-changer for the agency. The internal teams are agile and adapt well to meet specific demands, especially compared to external vendors. This approach has been instrumental in its success, empowering both DES team members and the agency.

Successful Product Launches, Programs, and Solutions

1. Leadership Development Program: 

• Starts with the Leadership Essentials Program
• Followed by a 12-month Advanced Leadership Program with ongoing support
• Adopted by other agencies and featured in conferences/articles
• Success due to collaboration with internal/external experts and subject matter expertise within DES

2. Job-Specific Training Program: 

• Implemented over time and adopted by business partners with positive feedback
• Success due to internal team collaboration

3. Person-Centered Approaches Class: 

• Early program but end-of-class data shows promise for a positive impact

4. DECODE Standard Practice: 

• Combines traditional design with Agile methodology
• Ensures quality, timely, and impactful training
• Well-received by business partners

How AZDES is Leveraging Technology?

• Accessibility First: The program utilizes technology to ensure training is ADA-compliant, promoting inclusivity for all learners. 

• Modern Tools: Cost-effective tools keep the program on the cutting edge, utilizing the latest advancements in technology. 

• Maximized Accessibility: Technology is leveraged to create the most accessible training experience possible.

• State Leadership: The team is a leader in accessibility within the state. 

• Agency Focus Supported: The program proudly contributes to the agency’s commitment to accessibility.

The food and beverage industry is growing rapidly. This growth is driven by changing consumer preferences and behaviors, such as a desire for transparency, online shopping, and organic food options. Convenience plays a crucial role in consumers’ busy lifestyles, leading to the popularity of instant noodles and pre-made sauces for quick and easy meals. 

However, it can be challenging for manufacturers to make a balance between taste and nutritional value in these products. Despite this challenge, industry leaders are actively working towards creating new and convenient options that satisfy the different tastes of consumers worldwide.

Asian Meals is a leading manufacturer in the food and beverage industry. It specializes in the production of instant food and sauces that offer convenience without compromising on quality or flavor.

Building a Brand

“The company was incorporated after at least two years of Research and Development for us to gain confidence that the parameters of which we would like to have our products defined are met.”

Mickey Quah

After working for over 16 years with Exxon and Sime Plantations, Mickey Quah started his own company—Care Food Industries Private Limited, Malaysia’s largest condiment manufacturer and exporter. Based in Kuala Lumpur, the company operates from a modern manufacturing facility spanning 16,000 square feet. Care Food Industries specializes in crafting a diverse array of sauces, instant noodles, pre-packaged soups, and pre-mixed paste under the renowned brand, “Asian Meals”. 

Offering a wide range of over 400 Asian sauce varieties, Asian Meals includes Malay, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Indonesian options to satisfy diverse culinary preferences. The company serves Retail Consumers, Food Service (HORECA), Private Labels, OEM, and Institutional accounts. The company shows a commitment to quality by using products that are minimally processed and not retorted. This ensures that restaurant clients can enjoy the same level of quality as freshly prepared alternatives. 

The growth of Asian Meals was driven by the following factors: 

• Introduction of products in retail chains like Costco
• Addition of new products to the product line
• Partnerships with other manufacturers and food businesses
• Utilization of social media for marketing purposes
• Expansion of the company’s market presence

Quality Collaboration

Asian Meals is certified with the highest International quality standards like the HACCP, GMP, FSSC 22000, ISO 9001, ISO 22000, FDA, and HALAL. It has been collaborating with a top Japanese sauce manufacturer for over a decade to produce Halal Japanese sauces. This collaboration showcases Asian Meals’ dedication to quality and commitment to meeting the high standards set by the Japanese food industry.

The IR 4.0 digitalization program, covering all aspects of production and administration processes, has recently been implemented by Asian Meals. It also prioritizes automation to minimize potential contamination risks and improve food safety. This proactive approach demonstrates the company’s commitment to implementing technological advancements and ensuring the reliability of the products.

From Packet to Plate

• Instant Noodles: The company offers a variety of instant noodles with different flavors, allowing customers to enjoy the taste of Asian cuisine in the comfort of their homes. Flavors include garlic sesame, curry laksa, TomYam and Kim Chi soup bases providing a range of choices to suit different preferences. Additionally, it offers noodles suitable for those who prioritize their health or follow a vegetarian diet. 

• Pre-mix Sauces: Asian Meals simplifies home cooking with flavorful sauce packets. These convenient packets offer a variety of classic Asian flavors, from Chinese stir-fry sauce to spicy curry  sauce to dips, marinades and pour overs.. With easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can prepare a delicious meal in no time. These sauces can be paired with any dish and promote home-cooked meals. Asian Meals’ sauce packets simplify cooking for individuals, whether they are busy parents, students, or professionals, making it simple, flexible, and delicious.
• HORECA Sauces: Over 400 sauce options are offered by Asian Meals, from Western-style pasta sauces to traditional Asian-style dipping and stir-fry sauces, catering to diverse kitchen needs. The sauces, crafted by experienced chefs, are free from additives, preservatives, trans fats, or artificial flavors, offering both delicious taste and healthier options. Customized sauce services tailored to local preferences help food service operators innovate and maintain consistency on the menus, enhancing brand reputation and satisfying customers’ palates.

Preserving Asian Culinary Traditions

Asian Meals’ vision was to create convenient cooking sauces that were authentic and easy to use, making it accessible for everyone to cook Asian dishes without the need for complex recipes. Through extensive research and development, it ensured that the company’s products met high standards. Additionally, it wanted to address the challenges of sourcing unfamiliar ingredients and safeguard traditional recipes that were at risk of being forgotten. 

The firm has encountered a significant hurdle when trying to develop a shelf-stable product that could match the taste and quality of freshly cooked meals, all while avoiding the use of preservatives or artificial coloring. Despite lacking formal food technology training, it approached this challenge with determination. Seeking guidance from experts and government institutions proved to be a helpful resource in the company’s journey. 

Although Asian Meals encountered setbacks and had to discard several products initially , it remained determined and has graduated  to overcome obstacles and gain knowledge to direct through future challenges. The company stays up to date with the latest food trends. It adjusts the products and presentations to cater to changing taste preferences. With expertise in sauces, Asian Meals provides solutions that make cooking easier and more efficient. It is known for culinary innovation and is ready to meet the needs of consumers.

Recognition of Excellence

Recognized with prestigious awards, Asian Meals showcases exceptional food craftsmanship and an innovative spirit. Through collaborative teamwork, the company achieves significant milestones, establishing itself as an industry leader.

Rowing in the same boat

Under the leadership of Mickey, Asian Meals values the company’s long-term employees and considers them essential team members. Many employees have been with the company for over 25 years, representing unity and teamwork. Asian Meals’ leadership highlights collective effort and collaboration to overcome challenges and achieve ongoing success. Employees are treated with respect and care, nurturing a work culture based on loyalty and trust, resulting in a strong customer base.

Customer testimonials:  

1. “Authentic, premium recipes, Asian Meals is my top choice.”—Helmut F.J Holzer (Certified Chef from the American cooking reality show “MasterChef”)

2. “These delicious, healthy, and all-natural Asian cuisine sauces are a must-have for every household.” —Barb Lance (Housewife, United States)

3. “I’m thrilled to introduce Asian Meals’ premium Asian sauces to the American public! They’ve truly won over the hearts of Americans!”—Nick Johnson (CEO of Asian Etc LLC in Atlanta, USA)

4. “This is the most delicious curry laksa instant noodles I’ve ever tasted.”—Christine Wong (Student, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

5. “Asian Meals is an excellent representation of Malaysian cuisine.” —Dorene Internicola (Reuters journalist, United States)

6. “I can’t believe the black pepper sauce I tasted was from a pre-packaged sauce mix.” —Stephanie Genkin (CNN journalist, United States)

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A roof serves as a protective barrier from weather conditions and adds aesthetic value to a house. Properly installed and insulated roofs can help improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and gain. Hence, having a roofing solution that keeps one protected is important.

Nick Branon, co-founder and CEO of Hero Roofing, is a person who has made a significant change in the roofing industry. Along with providing basic roofing solutions in residential and commercial areas, he provides a complete experience of services in roof rejuvenation, storm damage repair, gutter installation, skylights, and solar roofing. His aim to simplify the daunting roofing industry and provide transparency to his customers sets him apart.

Inspiration and Journey

Nick Branon was born and raised in Fayette and Coweta County, Georgia. He worked as a bartender and competed as a MMA fighter before working as a salesperson in a roofing company. While working there, he pondered over the process and noticed that it was purely transactional, which he didn’t like. There was no thought into how it may or may not truly help the homeowner. A desire to create a better way of doing business inspired him to start Hero Roofing.

He founded the company with his father Todd Branon in 2018 and won the titles of Best of Coweta & Best in Georgia in 2022, and 2023. Apart from being a CEO, he is also a certified GAF energy solar shingle contractor, a GutterGlovePro contractor, and a Velux skylights specialist. He also consults other businesses to help them navigate the complexities of the roofing industry.

One-Stop Roofing Solution

Hero Roofing is a family-owned roofing company that offers full-service roofing for both residential and commercial clients around Metro Atlanta. Its industry experience, unparalleled customer service, and reliable team are the factors that satisfy customers. It is not just a regular roofing company; it delivers a vast number of experienced services to provide a roof for a home. If someone is having an issue with their roof, Hero Roofing offers a detailed inspection so that they can completely understand the available options. The company also collaborates with GAF to provide Roof for Troops, a program that offers roofing rebates to active military members, veterans, and retirees.

The company aims to offer an experience based on customer service and integrity. The industry is historically transactional where the process is – call a customer, talk about damage on the roof, give an estimate, wait for insurance to approve or deny. With Hero Roofing, only about 25% of customers ever utilize their insurance company. This is because the company helps the customers by first listening to their roofing concerns. Then it thoroughly inspects the customer’s roof and shows the homeowners exactly what it finds. Once the customer can physically see the problem,  the company helps them to determine the best course of action. With the company’s various financial alternatives, filing an insurance claim from the customer ranks low on their list of remedies. 

Providing Exceptional Roofing Services

Hero Roofing is a certified installer of GAF’s HDZ, and UHDZ products, in addition to their newest offering, TimberSteel, a metal roofing system. It is an alternative to higher-priced standing seam panel roofing, and the company is a GAF Energy partner for their Solar Shingle roofing system. In addition to roofing, the company is also an installer for gutter systems and LeafGuard/LeafBlaster Pro gutter guard systems and is a proud installer of VELUX Skylights, including their Solar Skylights. 

To keep Hero Roofing a step further in terms of its services, it focuses on consumer demand and internal skill set. It ‘stays in its lane’, when it comes to the work. It focuses primarily on roofing and refers the additional work to other contractors. This allows the company to focus on the newest and most innovative products in its scope of expertise and become the best at that.

Overcoming Challenges

For Nick Branon, being relevant in the saturated market and overcoming the stereotype was the biggest hurdle. The belief that anyone can be a roofer by having a ladder and truck needed to be challenged. Hero Roofing overcame that by offering an exceptional level of service and commitment. Its goal was to be the exception to the industry’s expectations. The company kept pushing and improving with each new client and will continue to do so. 

Growth and Benchmarks

Hero Roofing was gaining stride when the devastating EF-4 tornado hit Newnan on March 25, 2021. At that time, Nick wasn’t thinking about growing the business. Along with his team and family, he went into the servant role for the community. That pivotal moment was when the community learned about Hero Roofing and its efforts and marked the company’s growth.

With growth comes change. Some things that were important in the beginning are not as much of a necessary metric now. Over time, the company has learned to prioritize what is most important for profitability. Nick Branon is a firm believer in supporting local businesses and the community as a whole. Hence, its important benchmarks are measured by how it gives back,  both through sponsorship and by listening to the community when there are those in need.  

Talent Development and Mentorship

Apart from Hero Roofing’s certified roofing services and skylight installation, its exceptional customer service sets it apart. Its team is friendly, knowledgeable, honest, committed, and responsive. They ensure that the work goes smoothly from beginning to end. 

Talking about his team and developing talent in the company, Nick Branon says, “Sometimes understanding people is like herding cats. Having the best intentions is great, but allowing for the ups and downs is the most important part of growth with people.” There is no ‘one size fits all’ to identify a person. By being open and transparent with his team, and giving them the same opportunity, fosters and grows a truly collaborative environment. This encourages new ideas and suggestions based on individual experiences. 

Mentorship is a key component of strong leadership and growth in any organization. Nick Branon mentions that, at Hero Roofing, mentorship is among everyone. In certain cases, it creates an organic environment for self-evaluation and growth. It offers guidance and direction toward the goals, but training and mentorship help everyone to stay on the same path of success.

Being Innovative and Risk-taking

Nick Branon mentions that staying innovative and competitive is a daily workout. He has to remain focused but also be flexible to move with market trends and technology. He and his team constantly train, educate, and adapt. This helps them to offer and install the newest products from GAF. Because of this, the company is at the forefront of new product launches as a preferred installer and is part of their Master-Elite and President’s Club installer group. Being in those exclusive arenas allows it to offer services and warranties that are unattainable to other roofing contractors.

To balance innovation and risk-taking with stability and profitability, Nick Branon relies on the saying, “There is a difference in being a risk taker, and being a riverboat gambler.” The company takes a calculated look at market trends, innovation, and competition in the market by seeing it through the eyes of its team and the consumer. By doing so, and allowing the grassroots mindset to keep them grounded, they can be flexible enough to make quick adjustments. But also firm enough to hold the position concerning internal investments for improvements, such as technology or hiring new talent. 

Use of Technology

Various applications and software systems help Hero Roofing better serve its customers. By employing Customer Resource Management (CRM) software, it becomes possible to effectively manage and update correspondence and notes related to each customer’s process. These applications and software enable communication with customers and monitor their experience. This helps ensure that the services provided meet their promised standards.

Empowering Others With the Power of Ownership

Nick Branon believes in Servant Leadership – taking ownership of the process from the beginning, as a sales representative to the management/ownership level. By creating an environment and culture that is “ownership” driven, each team member takes responsibility for their actions, operations, and the customer’s experience. They keep an open and collaborative environment where everyone can rely on each other for support and communication. It’s not always perfect, but it is organic and the ebb and flow of the interactions allow them to stay largely on the side of success and accountability. 

In recent years, the landscape of the gym and fitness industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, with an increasing number of women stepping into leadership roles and making significant contributions. This shift marks a departure from the traditionally male-dominated domain, as female leaders bring unique perspectives, innovative approaches, and invaluable insights to the table. Shraddha Sheth (Head of Business & Operations, Gold’s Gym India) stands as one of the outstanding leaders in the fitness industry. From pioneering fitness programs to revolutionizing business strategies in the gym she is shaping the future of health and wellness in India. 

From Nutritionist to Trailblazer

The journey to becoming a leader is shaped by various experiences, challenges, and achievements. Key experiences that shaped Shraddha Sheth’s career include:

• Mentorship & Role Models: Shraddha Sheth was mentored by a woman CEO who encouraged her to explore new areas and master them. Initially, she worked as a clinical nutritionist at Reliance Hospital before joining Gold’s Gym. Despite having a strong knowledge of preventive healthcare, she was unfamiliar with sales, which intimidated her. She leveraged her expertise to start a weight loss mission, successfully leading 100 customers to collectively lose 750 kilograms in 8 weeks. This pilot program evolved into a paid weight loss program, generating significant revenue and boosting her confidence as a professional. Her mentors taught her the value of monetizing knowledge and gaining customers’ trust.

• Challenges & Adversity: The path to success was challenging for Shraddha. She treated setbacks as learning opportunities, and her achievements reinforced her resolve. At Gold’s Gym, she learned to sell and deliver excellent customer experiences, eventually managing 16 micro markets. Despite the varying performance of these markets, she remained resilient and re-strategized to revive profitability. Her team’s relentless effort led to achieving the highest profitability in Gold’s Gym India’s history.

• Empathy & Emotional Intelligence: Shraddha Sheth believes effective leadership involves building motivated teams. In the fitness industry, personal trainers are crucial. Although knowledgeable, they needed support in developing soft skills and confidence. She learned their language to communicate effectively, enhancing their experience and boosting their confidence. Today, many personal trainers have been with the brand for 12-18 years, achieving personal and professional stability, which translates into a successful business.

Overall, Shraddha Sheth’s journey to leadership is complex, requiring mentorship, resilience in adversity, and the ability to motivate and support a team.

Leading the Way 

Shraddha Sheth joined Gold’s Gym in India as an employee with a mission to make the brand synonymous with fitness in the country. The first five years focused on learning and operating company-owned clubs, followed by a strategic market expansion. Today, Gold’s Gym operates in 90 cities across 24 states in India, as well as in Bangladesh and Nepal, using a Hub & Spoke model to expand from Tier 1 to Tier 4 cities. The brand emphasizes luxurious facilities, top-notch trainers, and continuous customer engagement, supported by a strong franchise partner network of 135 happy franchisees. As a founding team member and leader in Business and Operations, Shraddha has dedicated 22 years to growing the brand in India.

Gold’s Gym aims to be the foremost fitness brand in India, ensuring that whenever any Indian thinks of a gym, they think of Gold’s Gym.

Mission: To make India fit by providing luxurious, state-of-the-art facilities, and empowering a strong, knowledgeable, and experienced corporate team. Gold’s Gym aims to deliver the best fitness results through exceptional floor and personal trainers while maintaining continuous customer connections and unwavering support for franchise partners.

Gold’s Gym constantly explores new avenues to grow the business, aiming to increase penetration in the country, encourage partners to open multiple gyms as sub-franchisees, and produce skilled, certified trainers to deliver the best results to customers.

Company Pillars:

1. People: Employees and Partners
   • Employees: Encouraged to build sustainable careers, breaking the taboo of gym careers from two decades ago.
   • Partners: Supported by an SOP framework to increase the customer base.
2. Products: Top-end Equipment and Programming
   • Equipment: Installation of top-of-the-line international equipment brands.
   • Programming: Robust, continuous education certification to upgrade skills.
3. Geographies: Explore Territories
   • Gold’s Gym expands its brand presence in diverse markets, from areas with the lowest to the highest populations.

Company strategies revolve around these pillars to ensure sustained growth and success.

Boosting Fitness Engagement in India

The fitness industry in India faces major challenges, primarily combating mindsets and lack of motivation among customers. With less than 1% fitness penetration in the country, both the brand and the industry struggle to change customers’ attitudes towards fitness and encourage healthy habits. 

Key challenges include:

• Engaging in Fitness Regimes: Customers often prefer leisure activities over fitness. For example, given the choice between a free gym workout and a free spa session, most opt for the spa.

• Consequence-Driven Behavior: The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily increased fitness awareness, with more people participating in step, cycling, and home workout challenges. However, this urgency has faded post-2023, leading to complacency.

• Gym Regularity: To achieve transformative results, customers should ideally visit the gym five times a week. In reality, the average customer attends only three times a week, and 30% of those with 12-month memberships use the gym only about 30 times a year.

To overcome these challenges, continuous efforts are made to raise health awareness across various segments. Fun, engaging activities that recognize and reward regular gym-goers are conducted, and more micro markets are added to make it easier for customers to take their first steps towards well-being.

Navigating Gender Bias

As a woman leader in the Indian fitness industry, Shraddha Sheth has encountered several unique challenges:

• Breaking Gender Stereotypes: Shraddha Sheth faces the challenge of breaking through the male-dominated culture of the fitness industry. There is a prevailing perception that leadership roles, particularly in operations and business development, are more suited for men. Overcoming these stereotypes and proving that women can excel in these positions has been a significant hurdle. Shraddha acknowledges the few male mentors have played a pivotal role in shaping her into a dynamic leader by empowering her.

• Balancing Professional and Personal Life: Like many women in leadership roles, Shraddha Sheth grapples with the challenge of balancing the demands of her high-responsibility job with personal and family commitments. The fitness industry demands long hours and unwavering dedication, making it challenging to strike a balance. Shraddha credits her family for their unconditional support and belief in her abilities. “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.“

• Earning Respect and Authority: In a male-dominated industry, Shraddha Sheth faces the task of earning respect and authority as a leader. This requires consistently demonstrating competence, resilience, and strong leadership skills to garner the trust and respect of colleagues,  and stakeholders. She believes High EQ builds respect and responsible authority through emotional intelligence and strong relationships.

Despite these challenges, Shraddha Sheth’s 2-year journey with Gold’s Gym has been remarkably rewarding. Through perseverance, continuous learning, and the support of a dedicated team, she has made significant contributions to the growth and success of the brand in India. Gold’s Gym India is the fastest-growing master franchise outside of the United States of America. 

The Gold Standard

Gold’s Gym has solidified its position as a premier fitness brand in India by building a strong reputation and loyal customer base. Its global recognition and credibility reflect its commitment to delivering high-quality services and adhering to international standards. With state-of-the-art facilities and skilled trainers, Gold’s Gym offers a premium fitness experience, attracting customers seeking top-notch amenities and safety. The brand fosters loyalty by recognizing and rewarding customers and benefits from an influential sub-franchise partner network, further enhancing its visibility and market reach.

Gold’s Gym in India has achieved remarkable achievements and milestones:

• Fastest Growing Master Franchisee in the Gold’s Gym Network Worldwide: Gold’s Gym India contributes to 25% of the global Gold’s Gym network, solidifying its position as the fastest-growing master franchisee globally.

• Most Successful International Gym Chain in India: Through franchising, Gold’s Gym has achieved consistent growth in India, establishing itself as the most successful international gym chain in the country.

• Mastering the Art of Pre-sales: Gold’s Gym has mastered the pre-sales process under the leadership of its team. By implementing robust strategies, they cover 20-25% of the total investment in new projects before launch. The first few pilot pre-sales projects achieved an impressive 40% coverage of the total projected investment, demonstrating their commitment to success.

• Creating a Second Home for Customers: Gold’s Gym clubs have evolved into more than just fitness centres; they have become social hubs for members. By prioritizing superior customer experiences and fostering strong connections, Gold’s Gym has achieved higher loyalty and retention rates among its customer base.

• Incredible Expansion Across India: The Gold’s Gym brand has expanded its presence to over 90 cities across India, showcasing its remarkable growth and strong market presence nationwide. Also touched milestone of operating clubs in Nepal -Kathmandu, Bangladesh

The Path to Success

As a woman leader in the fitness industry, Shraddha Sheth has gained valuable insights from her journey. Embracing her unique perspective in a male-dominated field, she and her team have cultivated strong connections between customers and gym employees, resulting in the largest loyal member base serving as brand ambassadors. Building confidence within her team has been crucial in realizing the brand’s vision of making India fit. Prioritizing collaboration and networking, Shraddha Sheth has established relationships with industry peers and utilized partnerships with sports leagues to position the brand as a global leader in health and wellness. 

Understanding the significance of self-care, she leads by example by integrating fitness into her routine. Shraddha Sheth’s empathetic leadership extends support to customers struggling with self-esteem, fostering a belief in transformation. Continuous learning and growth are central to her approach, as she seeks insights from international leaders to implement best practices. Celebrating achievements, regardless of size, is fundamental to her leadership style, recognizing the contagious nature of success. Through these lessons, Shraddha Sheth effectively navigates challenges and positively influences her organization as a woman leader in the fitness industry.

The Next Chapter

Gold’s Gym aims to adapt to changing consumer needs and leverage emerging opportunities for innovation and expansion. The company has introduced digital fitness learning solutions and virtual certification programs to encourage youth participation in fitness careers. More gyms mean more members, requiring more staff to handle everything from front desk operations to personal training. This will be done through Gold’s Gym Fitness Institute.

Expansion into micro markets is a key strategy for future growth, alongside efforts to promote health awareness among Indian consumers. Gold’s Gym targets 200 clubs in the next 3 years which will create more job opportunities and aims to increase monthly employment earnings up to many folds These plans reflect the company’s commitment to evolving with consumer preferences, taking charge to produce skilled experts to operate gyms to the next level and driving growth in the fitness industry.

Purpose-Driven Leadership

Shraddha Sheth emphasizes the importance of effective time management and giving undivided attention to all roles, along with mastering the art of delegating responsibilities. She advocates for spending time on activities that rejuvenate rather than drain one’s energy.

What drives Shraddha Sheth, both in prosperous and challenging times, is the profound purpose behind her business: transforming the lives of customers, nurturing the careers of employees, and generating job opportunities for newcomers, all contributing to the progress, growth, and development of India. This inspiring thought serves as a constant motivation for her.

A Vision for Tomorrow

Every leader reaches a point where they must consider the future of their business and the impact of their leadership on its growth. Initially, building the company may be a solo endeavor, but eventually, hiring employees becomes necessary to accomplish tasks. Understanding how one’s leadership style influences others, including employees and customers, is crucial. One piece of advice is to embrace uniqueness without hesitation.

Shraddha Sheth reflects on the mission initiated just 22 years ago, aspiring for future leaders to discover numerous avenues to enhance accessibility and ease of fitness, making it the primary choice for customers. She advocates for utilizing technology to increase penetration and awareness of fitness. The legacy of a customer-centric approach and instilling confidence in the youth to believe in their potential remains paramount. Shraddha Sheth envisions the brand’s continued growth, with the goal of reaching 200 clubs in the next 3 years, providing employment opportunities to at least 3000 aspiring youth, and initiating two million individuals on their fitness journey. The commitment to the mission remains unwavering.

The aerospace industry’s product line is broad, as flight vehicles require millions of individual parts and a support system. It is one of the largest sectors in the US and continues to evolve to have advancements in autonomous aircraft and the use of lightweight materials. 

PKL Services, Inc. has emerged as one of the leading companies in the Aerospace Industry. The company’s expertise and commitment to quality workmanship have positioned it as a proven industry leader in aviation maintenance and logistics services.

From Small Beginnings to a Leading Company

Retired US Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel, Mr. Samuel Flores, Jr founded PKL Services in 2003. He has an extensive background in Logistics and Supply Chain Management and saw the need within the military for more logistics support, so he began providing that support with PKL’s early contracts.

PKL Services started as a small company with a handful of employees but saw immense growth and its reputation gained momentum. The company expanded into international maintenance and repair operations to support the US Marine Corps in Iraq and Afghanistan. 

PKL’s vision is to be the aircraft maintenance, training, and logistics market leader. It is built on steadfast components of its Ethos which are founded on professionalism, knowledge, leadership, and service. The company values its employees as their greatest asset and has some of the most skilled, talented, experienced, and professional employees that cater to the company and the customers. 90% of PKL’s workforce is military veterans who bring their dedication to the military and their unique skill sets to continue their aviation careers. In the last 21 years, the company has stayed true to its mission and vision and built a reputation that is esteemed in the industry.

Serving the Customers in Aerospace Maintenance

PKL Services takes pride in being an elite provider of skilled personnel. It excels in delivering aerospace maintenance, training, and logistics services. It is dedicated to continuously improving, exceeding customer expectations, and implementing quality standards in dynamic environments.

When the company started over 20 years ago, it offered maintenance services related to painting and corrosion control at a single location at MCAS Miramar in San Diego, California. Over time, it expanded to many service provisions and now has employees in multiple locations around the US as well as having multiple contracts in the Middle East. PKL employs hundreds of personnel worldwide, serving both foreign and domestic governments.

PKL Services strongly emphasizes working closely with its customers to gain a thorough understanding of their requirements and meeting frequently with them throughout the contractual period. The company constantly receives high-ranked CPARs (customer performance reviews) on the contracts for their ability to meet the deliverables on a contract. The company ensures that its customers receive the solutions they need. This is done through quality staffing solutions and also involves introducing creative solutions and taking advantage of innovative technologies. The employees’ expertise is relied upon to solve challenges in the field.

PKL understands the importance of nurturing its relationships with partners, customers, and experts throughout the industry so that it stays on the pulse of the industry’s growing needs. The company remains committed to being prepared and adaptable, offering new solutions to its customers as they navigate the developing landscape of this industry.

Hurdles the Company Faced 

Over the years, the Aerospace industry has experienced growth and competitiveness, and PKL Services has committed to grow alongside it. It has trademarked its proven training program, OmniSpec®, and began introducing more technologically advanced training techniques to its clients and customers. This includes utilizing augmented reality and virtual reality for training and personnel development. By using this technology, the company can provide its customers with the opportunity to better train and educate their personnel. This can be done in any location, without being limited by physical or geographical constraints. At the same time, the company can achieve greater efficiencies and improved effectiveness.

The industry has also experienced significant changes with contract limitations and government oversight. This is an issue that many companies in the aviation industry continue to struggle with. Margins are decreasing and competition is increasing. As a result, PKL Services has been prioritizing a strategic pivot. This involves pursuing opportunities in other countries, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. Additionally, the company has been focusing on Direct Commercial Sale contracts. These contracts typically offer better margins, which ‌increases revenue and profitability. This approach allows PKL Services to work more closely and interactively with its clients directly.

Goals and Strategies The Company Undertook

In recent years, PKL Services has maintained multiple re-awards and strong contract relationships and plans to grow its contract base by expanding upon these current contracts and actively pursuing new contracts. It is expanding its reach and opportunities in multiple regions and countries to provide fresh prospects for growth. And it will continue to market OmniSpec® to more industries and clients to build its past performance and revenue streams into new areas for PKL.

As a company, they have implemented and continue to pursue efficient and innovative means of operating as PKL. It has a nearly paperless environment and utilizes efficient remote functionality at its corporate headquarters. This has allowed the company to expand its corporate personnel to other regions of the US to attain the best candidates for positions. 

Staying up-to-date within the industry is important. PKL Services does this through its network of connections in the military and civilian workforce. The leadership team and business development team of PKL Services have extensive industry connections. They are well-connected to active military personnel worldwide and retired military veterans who are now working in civilian roles. Additionally, they have strong relationships with individuals from various Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) companies, manufacturing companies, and professional organizations within the aviation industry. These connections allow PKL to keep its pulse on the industry and changes as it begins to make an impact.

PKL Services’ team dedicates itself to attending various international and domestic conferences and conventions every year. These events can help it connect with individuals from various organizations, agencies, and countries to discuss the needs and solutions of the aviation industry.

Honing Responsibility & Leadership

Michael Naylor, the CEO of PKL Services dedicates himself to the hundreds of employees the company has located around the world. This ensures that these employees have the resources and opportunities available to support themselves in their careers and families to keep the company growing and successful. Since Michael is a veteran himself, he understands the unique skill set that the employees retain. He is committed to helping these employees transition into the civilian career space after they leave the military. 

He is also eager to help PKL Services grow to support more organizations and customers worldwide. Michael travels, as needed, to meet with dignitaries and decision makers as potential partners and customers to ensure that the PKL team is best suited to provide quality services and personnel where the company is most needed.

Healthy Work Culture

The work culture of PKL Services is based on professionalism and camaraderie. Its commitment lies in upholding a standard of excellence and fostering a culture of respect among its employees and towards the customers. Its ethos is Row True – in which everyone is in the same boat, rowing in the same direction, and supporting each other to reach the ultimate end state. Management and personnel across the company worldwide are all dedicated to the efforts of PKL Services and each other. 

Over the years, PKL Services has received multiple awards for workplace culture, including being named Top Workplaces in San Diego, CA, and Idaho. The company has received recognition as a top veteran employer by multiple organizations including Monster and Military.com. Above all, the results from annual employee surveys consistently reveal that, on average, 90% of its staff express satisfaction with their experience at PKL Services. 

The Influence of Military Veterans

The majority of its leadership teams on each contract are military veterans as well. This promotes the development of a harmonious culture within PKL Services. It acknowledges the sacrifices made by its employees and sustains favorable working relationships with customers. They all speak the same language and work well together towards the same end goal.

PKL Services ensures that its mission statement and values are clear and accessible to all its employees, partners, and customers. The company commits to providing skilled, professional personnel and focuses on attracting and hiring the best candidates for our positions. PKL Services maintains a dedicated and experienced corporate team. This team ensures consistent communication, employee interactions, business processes, and policies across the organization. They work diligently to support and maintain these important aspects throughout the company.

Staying Ahead in the Industry

PKL Services is meticulous about quality and compliance. Their Quality Management System is both ISO:9001-2015 and AS9110:C certified. These procedures and dedication to compliance ensure that the company has the team, resources, expertise, and personnel required to meet the needs of its customers and maintain performance regardless of external circumstances. 

These certifications require regular auditing and reviews of the company’s processes and worksites. The purpose is to ensure that the company maintains and adheres to the required standards. This is crucial for effectively and safely carrying out daily tasks and fulfilling mission objectives and contractual obligations. These quality and compliance requirements have become a part of its culture and are something many of its competitors have not been able to acquire.

The company has also invested heavily in advancing maintenance sustainment training through its trademarked training system, OmniSpec®. The full-spectrum training system offers customization options for each customer. This is achieved by combining traditional classroom education with computer-based systems. It also incorporates augmented reality (AR) environments, virtual reality (VR) labs, and Assisted Live Display Technology (ALDT). These technologies work together to create a comprehensive and adaptable training experience. The OmniSpec® system makes training interactive, collaborative, and supportive. 

Through training with OmniSpec, PKL enables its customers to no longer down aircraft or equipment to train. Its customers can access the training 24/7 at any location in a fully networked environment, ensuring that training proceeds without interruption. In addition to OmniSpec®, PKL also provides train-the-trainer courses to enable senior-level technicians to provide instruction to less experienced personnel in the field.

PKL Services is an agile company with a lean infrastructure. It doesn’t outsource tasks and the employees are directly involved in each aspect of the business. Hence, the company can adapt quickly, make strategic pivots, provide prompt responses, and keep costs low. It can work harder for each of its customers and partners to ensure deliverability and exceptional results.

Advice for Other Organisations

PKL Services had the following advice for other companies:

• Take care of the employees and understand their needs and concerns. Keep them informed of the business requirements and concerns as well.
• Understand the customer’s challenges, requirements, and concerns, and communicate frequently.
• Be visionary about what is happening with the industry over the next 3-5 years.