April 2025 Redefining Customer Loyalty in a Digital Age Weaving a strong, symbiotic relationship between companies and their customers is no small feat but, with Reward, it doesn’t have to be difficult. To this day, Reward has given back $2 billion in cashback rewards through the programmes it delivers to banking and retail partners, forging a better – more rewarding – world for us all. We learn more from Jamie Samaha as he wins Most Influential CEO 2025 – Loyalty & Rewards (UK).
Welcome to the April 2024 issue of CEO Monthly. As we present our selection of award-winning CEOs, we are sure there will be inspiration to be found throughout our digital pages. Offering a plethora of expertise, our April winners have been making waves in their respective fields. We’re proud to showcase their award wins as they gain recognition from us at CEO Monthly. Atop our wide range of award-winning CEOs in this issue, we’re proud to feature Reward’s Jamie Samaha as our cover story. Winning the title of Most Influential CEO 2025 - Loyalty & Rewards (UK), we celebrate Jamie’s excellence, innovation, and experience in the rewards and customer loyalty sphere – and we can’t wait to see what he does next with Reward. We invite you to peruse this issue as we offer a collection of celebratory articles and insights with regards to innovation, dedication, and news within a myriad of industries. We sincerely hope you have a prosperous and exciting month ahead, and we look forward to seeing you again in May! Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: www.ceo-review.com AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
4. News 6. Redefining Customer Loyalty in a Digital Age 8. Axel Schultze: Attaining the Unattainable with Agentic AI 9. Science-Backed Consultancy and Development Services 10. Oluseye Olusoga: Fintech Innovator, Financial Inclusion Advocate 11. Altruistic Advocation: How Activist Lady Phyll Empowers Her Community 12. Nscale: European AI Hyperscaler CEO Pushing Boundaries 13. Artur Bounegra: Leading with Integrity and Ingenuity 14. Leading Through Crisis: Lessons in Crisis Management for CEOs 16. The Future of Work: Embracing Hybrid and Remote Leadership Contents
NEWS Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Names Joseph Specter as New President and CEO
In a strategic move poised to accelerate growth, NanoClear Systems Ltd appoints Michal Willis as its new Chief Executive Officer. NanoClear Systems Ltd is revolutionizing water treatment with cutting-edge nano material technology, leading the way in two game-changing innovations: chemical- and electricity-free water disinfection, and process intensification of biological wastewater treatment. NanoClear’s nano-structured, ceramicbased solutions deliver unmatched performance and dramatically reduce system footprint, transforming the future of water and wastewater treatment. Michal, co-founder and former Chief Growth Officer of NanoClear, is a dynamic business leader with a sharp strategic vision and exceptional leadership skills. Since NanoClear’s inception, Michal has spearheaded pivotal initiatives, refining the company’s strategic direction and advancing the applications of its proprietary technology for the water and wastewater industries. She has successfully forged key partnerships with leading industrial and municipal water treatment facilities while driving transformative operational efficiencies—always upholding NanoClear’s unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability. With deep expertise in building both customer success and sales teams from the ground up, Michal will continue to drive impactful growth for NanoClear at every stage. David Novoseller, serial entrepreneur and investor, currently serving as NanoClear’s president said: “Michal is that rare leader who excels with both analytical precision and creative vision. She brings outstanding communication skills, extensive industry experience, a relentless, disciplined drive and integrity that make her uniquely qualified to guide the company forward.” Michal Willis said, “NanoClear offers innovation in an area that has remained stagnant for decades – the biological treatment process which is often the heart of water treatment. It’s an exciting time as we see many advanced technologies, some of which offer A-Z solutions for circular economy and reuse, and NanoClear provides those companies the edge they need to make them stand out, be smaller on footprint while delivering greater efficiencies and better results. The Water Positive trend is also gaining traction, and we are excited to play a role and contribute to the conversation and vision with our innovative solutions.” She concluded: “I am deeply grateful for the trust of our investors and stakeholders. Our journey has been both challenging and rewarding, and I remain fully committed to driving NanoClear’s vision forward—delivering sustainable solutions that make a real impact across industries and taking our mission to new heights.” The NanoClear mission is to develop sustainable, ecofriendly solutions that improve water quality, protect the environment, and offer solutions to pressing challenges worldwide. With solutions that are stackable, modular, and adaptable, NanoClear is able to fit seamlessly into a wide range of applications—from wastewater and aquaculture to algae control and recreational uses. As the exclusive global provider of these unique nano-material solutions, NanoClear’s proprietary manufacturing process remains a closely guarded trade secret. To discover how NanoClear innovations can transform your operations, visit NanoClearSystems.com. Innovative Water Technology Startup, NanoClear Systems, Appoints Michal Willis as New CEO The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation has appointed Joseph Specter as its new president and CEO, drawing on his more than a decade of experience championing cultural legacies and pioneering creative approaches to community engagement to guide the Foundation’s mission of preserving and advancing Frank Lloyd Wright’s principles of organic architecture. “We are delighted to welcome Joseph Specter as the new president and CEO of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation,” said Mark Dreher, board chair for the Foundation. “Joe’s experience in leading missiondriven organizations, his passion for engaging communities and his ability to build strong relationships make him an ideal leader to advance Wright’s legacy. His commitment to expanding the influence of organic architecture and ensuring its relevance for future generations aligns perfectly with our vision. The Board is excited for the Foundation’s next chapter under Joe’s leadership and looks forward to working together to strengthen our mission and impact.” Specter, who most recently served as president and general director of Arizona Opera, is eager to partner with the Foundation’s dedicated community in support of Wright’s enduring philosophy. “It is an incredible honor to join the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation as its next president and CEO,” said Specter. “Wright’s vision for improving lives through the principles of organic architecture is as relevant today as ever, and I am eager to collaborate with the Foundation’s dedicated team and community to amplify his influence. Together, we will deepen our engagement with architects, scholars and supporters while strengthening the Foundation’s resources to preserve and advance Wright’s legacy. I look forward to building new relationships and ensuring that Wright’s philosophy continues to inspire generations to come.” Under Specter’s leadership at Arizona Opera, the company became a nationally recognized leader in innovation and impact over the past eight and a half years. During that time, the company—which provides main stage performances in both Phoenix and Tucson, as well as statewide educational programming—has significantly expanded its philanthropic support, including securing multiple seven-figure commitments that strengthened the organization’s artistic and community programs. During Specter’s tenure, Arizona Opera also commissioned and produced its first three world premieres and meaningfully expanded its education initiatives. Among the company’s achievements during Specter’s tenure was the commissioning and premiere of the “Taliesin West Version” of Daron Hagen’s opera Shining Brow, based on Frank Lloyd Wright’s life and work. “On behalf of the Arizona Opera Board, I extend sincere congratulations to Joe on his new role as CEO of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Joe’s visionary leadership has had a profound transforming impact on Arizona Opera. We are delighted that he will continue to contribute to the cultural landscape of our state. We wish Joe, his family and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation great success in this exciting next chapter,” said David Heap, board chair of Arizona Opera. Before Arizona Opera, Specter served as general director of Austin Opera, where he led the company through 32 percent budget growth, increased subscription revenue and strengthened fundraising through major donor commitments. Earlier, as director of institutional relations at the Metropolitan Opera, he managed a portfolio of 100+ institutional funders, generating over $5 million in annual support and helping to secure more than $3 million in new sponsorships. Specter also brings five years of experience working in financial services at the investment house Lord Abbett, where his responsibilities included relationship support of a portfolio of institutional investors representing $2.6 billion in assets under management. With the full confidence of the Board, Specter will guide the Foundation’s efforts to steward Wright’s historic sites, archives and legacy, while championing new opportunities to bring the vision of organic architecture to a broader audience. He will officially assume his role in early May 2025. For more information about the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and its programs, visit FrankLloydWright.org.
Redefining Customer Loyalty in a Digital Age
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 7 Feb25195 Weaving a strong, symbiotic relationship between companies and their customers is no small feat but, with Reward, it doesn’t have to be difficult. To this day, Reward has given back $2 billion in cashback rewards through the programmes it delivers to banking and retail partners, forging a better – more rewarding – world for us all. We learn more from Jamie Samaha as he wins Most Influential CEO 2025 – Loyalty & Rewards (UK). Based in London, with offices in Belfast, Dubai, and Singapore, Reward is an innovative and purpose-driven company with the aim of making everyday spending more rewarding – supporting consumer budgets while enabling banks and retailers to connect with their customers on a deeper level. Reward ensures that data, technology, and digital advertising are used as combined forces to power customer engagement solutions that drive real impact for businesses, turning one-off visits into a fruitful, long-lasting relationship. Jamie Samaha shared: “What sets us apart is our position at the intersection of Banking Loyalty and Commerce Media. We provide best-in-class consumer behaviour insights, helping brands make smarter, data-driven decisions, elevate omnichannel experiences, and ultimately, drive stronger engagement and lasting loyalty.” Appointed as CEO in 2023, Jamie has brought over two and a half decades of experience to the firm – and his expertise is not only consistent with Reward’s mission, but echoes the very essence of what Reward stands for. Jamie’s entrepreneurial drive has always been fuelled by the challenge of expansion, engaging with customers, and building businesses that create real impact. He led Pinpoint’s expansion across Asia Pacific, culminating in its successful sale to Mastercard in 2015. Stepping into a global leadership role, he gained invaluable experience operating at scale, learning how to navigate complexity and drive strategic growth. He reflected: “Spending seven years at Mastercard was a defining phase of my career. Operating at a truly international scale, I learned how to navigate complex environments, influence across multiple stakeholders, and think about scale and impact in a way that goes beyond just operational execution. Those years made me a better leader and CEO and now, as I return to medium-sized, founderled businesses, I bring a more rounded, strategic perspective – helping founders and leadership teams take their vision and scale it into something much bigger. “Leadership is a constant evolution. I’ve led multiple businesses through different stages of growth, and in each role, I aim to bring my best self – but I’m also always learning and adapting. One of the biggest lessons I’ve taken with me is that great leadership isn’t just about the business; it’s about people.” Since Reward’s establishment, Founder Gavin Dein led the company with a mission to not only transform customer engagement but to truly give back and make a positive impact on its surrounding communities. Reward continues to scale and make even more deeply rooted connected with consumers, customers, and partners as its team dedicates themselves to the company’s mission. Jamie is well-aware of the digital transformation that every industry is experiencing in current times, and he leads Reward with a keen eye for detail, years of experience, and an appetite for not only continual growth, but also creating an environment where people feel empowered to succeed. He enthused: “I’m very hands-on in fostering our culture. I’m a big believer in empowering people and creating an environment where talent can thrive. A big part of that is championing workplace equality – achievements such as reaching gender pay-gap parity, and We live to power the world’s best loyalty programmes. “ “ initiatives like Reward Women in Tech are just some examples of how we support mentorship, career development, and leadership opportunities.” Atop Reward’s plans for international expansion, the company is set to further enrich its services. Jamie elaborated: “We are deepening our capabilities in data and AI, ensuring our partners can harness enhanced intelligence to drive more effective customer engagement strategies. We’re also exploring further acquisitions, having recently acquired Hospitality Data Insights (HDI) to strengthen our data insights and analytics capabilities. “Additionally, we are strengthening our partnership with Experian, which invested in Reward last year. Together, we are bringing to market enhanced intelligence and audience activation solutions, helping businesses better leverage their first-party data to drive more targeted, measurable engagement strategies.” Jamie’s future with Reward looks bright indeed and technological and personal advancements unfold. It’s a pleasure to take a moment to celebrate Jamie’s success in our Most Influential CEO Awards 2025. Contact: Alice Ford Company: Reward Website: https://rewardinsight.com/
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 8 Artificial Intelligence is a complex but crucial tool that can be used to optimise the operations of any businesses when wielded correctly, though the technology is also vastly misunderstood by the market. BlueCallom is a leading company that exists in this space to demonstrate the many beneficial qualities to artificial intelligence. The company is currently reshaping the global business landscape by developing top-tier agentic artificial intelligence business solutions, driven by pioneering inventor and engineer Douglas Engelbart’s vision of “Human Intelligence Augmentation”. Axel Schultze founded BlueCallom in 2020, though his inspirational journey to CEO did not follow the most traditional path. “I was a terrible student at school,” he recalls. “It just didn’t catch my interest. When in the army, I realised that my ‘career’ was ‘no career’. I heard the saying from Confucius, ‘Do what you wholeheartedly love, and you will never work a day in your life’. So, I started to do what I love, and that was programming computers.” After becoming the top programmer of his organisation within a year, Axel moved onto product management, before gaining experience in marketing and sales. When he came to establish BlueCallom in 2020, Axel had adjusted Confucius’s phrase, altering it to: “Do what you wholeheartedly love, and look for people who love what you do”. “That little twist helped me to understand early on that it’s not just about me,” he adds. “More importantly, it’s about making others happy.” As the CEO of BlueCallom, Axel leads with the qualities of empowerment and inspiration, continually striving to build a team of individuals who share his passion in alignment with Confucius’s teachings. Believing that speed is more important than perfection and value is added in the execution, Axel guides his team with a strategic approach that has been honed through years of direct experience in the field. Boasting a team of passionate professionals who love what they do, Axel has well positioned BlueCallom to continue leading the industry in agentic AI business solutions. In fact, Axel cites the team as being an instrumental part of BlueCallom immense successes. Each member has been meticulously chosen for their contributions towards the company-wide vision. “I like to hire people who are far better in a specific Axel Schultze: Attaining the Unattainable with Agentic AI The business landscape is evolving at a rapid pace, driven by continuous advancements in AI technology. Based in Zurich, BlueCallom is a company positioned at the forefront of such advancement, developing agentic AI business solutions to empower organisations to achieve onceunattainable business objectives. Rather than shying away, BlueCallom is embracing the evolution and revolutionising the landscape for enterprises throughout Switzerland. Join us below as we speak with Axel Schultze, the Founder and CEO behind BlueCallom, following his recent recognition in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2025. area than I am,” Axel tells us. “My biggest personal success is helping people achieve goals they thought were unattainable. I work with everyone on eye level and invest into them like they invest into BlueCallom. I’m very proud of my team; they’re a remarkable gang. It’s easy to build a powerful company with exceptional people.” The support of such a forward-thinking team is crucial when navigating the everchanging business landscape. BlueCallom plans to continue leading the technological revolution, empowering businesses across a number of industries in taking control of their development and streamlining operations through innovative agentic solutions. Axel predicts that the implementation of artificial intelligence will help society to become more independent and autonomous, once fully embraced around the world. With this in mind, we at CEO Monthly magazine wonder what the future holds for the visionary Axel, named Most Influential CEO 2025 for AI-Driven Business Solutions. Currently, Axel tells us: “I am working on creating a thought leader circle of great minds to discuss how artificial intelligence will change our entire existence, and what we can do to help our children, grandchildren, and employees of all age levels prepare for what is coming. But this is not a doomsday scenario – quite the opposite – but it can feel too good to believe, which can also be a challenge.” Moving forward, Axel will continue to lead BlueCallom to excellence as he utilises the company’s vast innovative capabilities to champion the advancement of artificial intelligence throughout Switzerland. Guided by common sense and intuition, Axel has a clear vision of the future in sight and will build upon his inimitable ability to rapidly adapt to excel in this dynamic space. We at CEO Monthly magazine wish Axel the best of luck with his future endeavours and eagerly anticipate the ways in which BlueCallom will reshape the future of work and learn with his unparalleled AI business solutions. A Contact: Axel Schultze Company: BlueCallom Web Address: www.bluecallom.com
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 9 Science-Backed Consultancy and Development Services Because navigating the fourth industrial revolution that we are currently in the midst of is no easy feat, Astraterra is there to hold the hands of its smart city and ‘new space’ clients, helping them to cement their leading positions in environments fraught with everything from new regulations and technological disruptions to global paradigm shifts. Heading up this operation is Dr. Mireille Elhajj, who established the business in 2016 and has not looked back since, ultimately leading to her being championed as the Smart Cities CEO of the Year 2024 – UK. A multifaceted consultancy operating out of the UK, Astraterra and its industryleading team of experts deliver comprehensive support services for discerning companies that recognise the necessity of innovation in today’s space and technology markets. Utilising cutting-edge scientific and analytical tools, this business excels across a range of complex projects for a whole host of operations. Whether they operate regionally or internationally, this strategic consulting firm delivers measurable value to all of its clients. CEO, Dr. Mireille Elhajj commented: “Astraterra’s mission is to create a difference in the world socially and environmentally by harnessing the latest technologies. Whether be it taking part in projects, or supporting new social and governmental initiatives, Astraterra is for societal resilience. By staying ahead of technological disruptions, global paradigm shifts, and regulatory changes, we foster innovation in open markets worldwide.” From help navigating market shifts to making strategic choices reflective of a wider corporate strategy, Astraterra prides itself on an ability to ensure that all client businesses are aligned around common goals and operate atop an internal culture comprising diversity, security, and resilience. Because ongoing training is also vital, the company delivers extensive educational programmes that go beyond standard academia to cover everything from smart city application to positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) for space projects. It is Astraterra’s pioneering work concerning the resilience and sustainability of smart cities through the application of Earth observation and PNT models, that has particularly caught our eye, with some of its recent projects in this area including the creation of a robust parametric platform for planning and designing sustainable smart cities, a research paper on of a GNSS signal interference detection method that uses fractional Fourier transform for GNSS receivers, and the construction of a modelling/design platform in conjunction with D.G. Cities and Imperial College London. These projects have all been made possible by Mireille Elhajj, Astraterra’s CEO and a multitalented individual whose expertise spans everything from space and transport to mobility and infrastructure. Boasting a stellar educational background, Mireille studied transportation and Intelligence Systems at Imperial College London up to PhD level, before returning to the school and serving in a variety of lecturing roles. Mireille remains a Visiting Associate Professor to this day, as well as being a valued member of the institution’s Industrial Advisory Board and a member of the International Astronautical Federation Administrative Committee on Connecting Emerging Space Ecosystems for Europe sub-committee, where she advocates for women in Space. Having previously directed an iteration of Imperial College London’s Integrated Space Science Programme (ISSP), it is clear that Mireille’s knowledge of her specialist subject runs deep, something corroborated by her participation in events run by the likes of The Saudi Space Commission and her fellowship at the Royal Institute of Navigation. Before entering into the smart city/new space sector, Mireille even worked as a banker in London’s leading banks, as well as a financial consultant for speciality funds and family offices. With this far-reaching expertise in tow, it is no surprise that Mireille’s approach is grounded in science and underpinned by intuition and a commitment to deliver a fully tailored service for every organisation that her firm partners with. Mireille told us: “As a CEO, the challenges I face, such as high-pressure decision-making, balancing short-term needs with long-term vision, managing stakeholder expectations, resource allocation, and maintaining innovation amidst rapid technological changes, have become valuable opportunities for growth.” Her past has helped her to embrace upcoming challenges. She continued: “These experiences have strengthened my strategic planning, communication, adaptability, and decision-making skills, helping me to lead with confidence and clarity.” Astraterra’s Mireille Elhajj is not only a remarkable CEO, she is also a catalyst, an advisor, and an innovator with her sights set on creating a better world for everyone. Mixing her renowned expertise with a mindset revolving around inclusion, equity, and sustainability, this is a person for whom the title of Smart Cities CEO of the Year 2024 – UK only just scratches the surface – making Mireille both a highlight of this programme and a standout figure in her dynamic industry. Contact: Mireille Elhajj Company: Astraterra Web Address: https://astra-terra.com/ Dec24087
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 10 When it comes to services relating to fixed income, structured finance, equity markets, and M&A advisory, there is no source more trusted or knowledgeable than Parthian Partners. Combining its shared expertise with deep technical insights, the firm delivers a string of pioneering solutions for individual clients, corporations, and government departments Operating out of the beating heart of Nigeria’s biggest city, Lagos, it is the overarching vision of Parthian Partners to carve out a legacy for itself as one of the most important financial institutions across the whole of Africa. Working vigilantly towards this vision, the firm offers its clients a comprehensive, fully integrated service ecosystem that allows them to more than meet their economic goals. At the helm of this impressive operation is Oluseye Olusoga, who, after being named as the Most Influential CEO 2025 – Capital Markets (Nigeria), spoke with us about his career and the firm. alike. Through these encompassing services, Parthian Partners is paving the way for both financial integration and sustainable growth right across African industry. A firm built on the cornerstones of diligence, integrity, excellence, and teamwork – and all underpinned by a steadfast commitment to delivering nothing short of impeccable service – it is the resilience stemming from these values that clients appreciate most about working with Parthian Partners. The environment that the firm operates in is undeniably tough, and only by utilising this inherent resilience to anticipate, adapt, and remain on the right track can it hope to continue to add the maximum value for its clients and wider society. “We prioritise longterm value creation and take a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring that we stay ahead of industry trends and deliver exceptional service.” Vital in ensuring that the team behind this operation continue to work to the highest possible standards, CEO Oluseye Olusoga does more than simply oversee the firm’s direction, he also delivers strategic leadership and takes a very hands-on role when it comes to managing the many different facets of Parthian Partners. Understanding needs and traversing challenges, Oluseye is especially talented when it comes to balancing risks and opportunities, formulating effective strategies to empower his team at every turn. Guided by the simple philosophy of doing whatever it takes to make the customer happy, the journey that Oluseye has been on throughout his professional career has proven invaluable in shaping this approach. A graduate of the UK’s Warwick Business School at the University of Warwick, Oluseye begin his career as an investment banker, before moving to Citi as a trader and finally to Parthian Partners in 2012. This experience, combined with his stellar academic credentials, makes Oluseye a tenacious and driven executive. When it comes to his employees, Oluseye recognises the differences between leading a small team and a larger organisation. With Parthian Partners having undergone significant growth in the 13 years since Oluseye first ascended to the top of the company’s operational ladder, this is a CEO well versed in both of these areas. Be it effectively delegating responsibility amongst middle management or promoting a culture of accountability, Oluseye demonstrably has what it takes to keep his employees satisfied. “I believe in a collaborative leadership style – one that encourages open dialogue, fosters a culture of continuous learning, and prioritises both individual and collective growth”, says Oluseye when asked about his approach to managing the firm. “Over the years, I have become more focused on developing future leaders within the organisation, ensuring that the company remains strong and adaptable regardless of external pressures.” Our rapidly changing world is seeing these pressures mount significantly, especially when it comes to global politics and technological advancements. These changes are already starting to make themselves felt in this space, meaning that Oluseye and his team have to be prepared for anything. It is for this reason that this fintech innovator and economic thought leader has devised a future-proof strategy focusing on continuous learning, building strong alliances in the industry, and staying one step ahead of the curve. Finally, when it comes to his own career, Oluseye signs off by telling us: “For me, success is not just personal – it’s about enabling others to succeed as well. My goal is to empower the people I work with, helping them to achieve their full potential. My greatest success lies in witnessing the growth and flourishing of those I’ve mentored and invested in.” A selfless, talented, forwardlooking financial services CEO, it is our pleasure to celebrate Oluseye Olusoga by naming him the Most Influential CEO 2025 – Capital Markets (Nigeria). Contact: Oluseye Olusoga Company: Parthian Partners Web Address: parthianpartnersng.com Oluseye Olusoga: Fintech Innovator, Financial Inclusion Advocate
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 11 Altruistic Advocation: How Activist Lady Phyll Empowers Her Community Established in 2005, UK Black Pride began as a small gathering organised by Lady Phyll and other Black Lesbian activists. An arranged trip to Southend-on-Sea in 2004 for Black Lesbians quickly evolved into what is now known worldwide as UK Black Pride. After a successful inaugural event in Southend-on-Sea, UK Black Pride was officially launched the following year in 2006 and has since grown to become Europe’s largest celebration for LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and Caribbean heritage. Motivated by the underrepresentation of Black LGBTQ+ individuals in mainstream Pride events, UK Black Pride strives to create a dedicated space for these communities to celebrate their identities and foster solidarity. The organisation takes an inclusive and intersectional approach, addressing not only LGBTQ+ issues but also the unique challenges faced by people of colour within these communities. Thanks to Lady Phyll’s leadership and advocacy, instrumental in promoting social justice and fighting discrimination, UK Black Pride stands today as a movement advocating for the rights and dignity of Black LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide. Lady Phyll is a political activist renowned for her inspirational work advocating for racial, gender, and LGBTQ+ equality. Attending school in Lea Valley, Lady Phyll first became politically active at the age of 11, upon the realisation that her experiences in this world were to be different than those of her Caucasian schoolfriends. Throughout school, Lady Phyll was inquisitive about her education, often kicked out of classrooms for raising valid concerns about her curriculum’s direction – why the students were only taught about the Battle of Hastings or Henry VIII’s wives, and not about slavery and the history of Africa and Asia. Having led a career deeply rooted in political and social justice, Lady Phyll entered the workforce as a Civil Servant for the Department of Works and Pensions and also Fraud Investigation Service. In 2008, she took on the position of Head of Political Campaigns and Equality for the Public and Commercial Service Union, the largest Civil Service Trade Union. Alongside leading UK Black Pride, Lady Phyll also served as Executive Director of Kaleidoscope Trust from 2019 to 2024, working to uphold the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people on an international scale. Today, Lady Phyll is well-known throughout the UK for her activism on race, gender, and LGBTQ+ rights and is considered to be one of the country’s most prominent lesbian activists. She leads UK Black Pride with a commitment to equality and justice, working collectively to make the public understand the varied issues facing underrepresented communities. For over two decades, Lady Phyll has been relentless in her mission to create a close-knit family through UK Black Pride, ensuring that everybody in her community feels pride of place, and nobody feels left out or isolated on their journey to equality. Through the extensive efforts of Lady Phyll and the team behind UK Black Pride, there now exists a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals of African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and Caribbean heritage. Too often, members of these communities are fighting their battles alone and are being challenged in ways that are impacting their mental health and wellbeing. The remarkable work conducted by Lady Phyll and her peers has shown these individuals that they do belong, opening up space for dialogue and progression to take place, with the aim of working towards a safer and more inclusive future. Moving forward, UK Black Pride is focused on advancing growth and development, while championing the rights of the Black LGBTQ+ community. Under the expert leadership of Lady Feb25177 UK Black Pride is the world’s largest celebration for LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Latin American, and Midden Eastern descent. The organisation is responsible for a spectacular annual celebration during pride month, alongside a number of activities around the UK throughout the year, designed to promote and advocate for the spiritual, emotional, and intellectual health and wellbeing of its represented communities. Today, we celebrate Phyll Opoku-Gyimah (Lady Phyll) – political activist, Co-Founder, and Chief Executive of UK Black Pride, as she features in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2025. Phyll, the organisation remains dedicated to hosting its inclusive annual festival, fostering social connections, supporting community outreach initiatives, advocating for awareness and representation, and celebrating community achievements throughout 2025. With Lady Phyll at its helm, recognised as the Most Influential CEO for LGBTQI Advocacy in the UK, we at CEO Monthly magazine have no doubts that UK Black Pride will continue to reshape the UK’s LGBTQ+ landscape for the better, positively impacting lives and creating inclusive spaces for all. Contact: Phyll Opoku-Gyimah Company: UK Black Pride Web Address: www.ukblackpride.org.uk
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 12 scale is perhaps Josh’s most ambitious venture yet, tapping into the considerable demand for AI infrastructure that the rapid adoption of the technology into all industries has brought about. The company has experienced significant growth on the back of its pipeline of European greenfield data centres, with the business also boasting a wealth of data centre development projects throughout the US, UK, and Norway. Simply put, Nscale is quickly establishing itself as Europe’s AI hyperscaler, with the system excelling in high-performance solutions for LLM and MML workloads. Josh and the team work with several of the industry’s premier hardware providers, including NVIDIA and AMD, to offer cutting-edge AI infrastructure from its portfolio of global data centres mentioned above. With these abilities, Nscale can work towards its mission of leading the way when it comes to sustainable, highquality computing. At the heart of Nscale’s difference is an integrated full-stack approach, which sees this cloud provider owning the entirety of its infrastructure, from the data centres to the hardware and software. Commenting on this, Josh explains: “By owning every segment of the AI Cloud value chain, Nscale can provide its end users with unmatched performance optimisations and cost efficiency. This holistic strategy ensures seamless operations and a clear edge in delivering superior, scalable and sustainable digital solutions to businesses looking to adopt AI globally.” Equally as important in the success of this venture is Josh himself, whose CEO duties see him cover multiple facets of day-today operations and wider strategy. Across it all, sustainability remains front and centre. Nscale greatly emphasises environmental responsibility, leveraging renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies in its solutions and operations. Josh and his team hope to demonstrate that AI can be handled responsibly without depleting the earth’s natural resources. Another considerable area of focus for Josh is securing funding and structuring deals, including nurturing partnerships with fellow brands and striking alliances in the wider field of AI GPU cloud services. Taking such a hands-on role with his company, Josh’s approach to leadership results in clear goals being set and then European AI Hyperscaler CEO Pushing Boundaries Josh Payne has been an entrepreneur since he was just 22 years old and has spent the last decade launching a trio of businesses, securing more than $685m in funding in the process. Nscale, the latest of these highly successful ventures, was launched in May last year and has already proven itself a leading entity in the field of enterprisegrade GPU cloud infrastructure. Named the Most Influential CEO 2025 – Sustainable Computing (UK), we had the opportunity to speak with Josh to find out more. rigorously adhered to. He tells us, “I believe people perform best when they understand how their contributions impact the bigger picture. So, whether through team meetings, one-on-ones, or company-wide updates, we prioritise open communication to make sure everyone stays aligned with our mission.” What follows is a strong team and a culture revolving around trust and openness. Early on, Josh recognised that his urge to be involved in every aspect of the business was neither needed nor sustainable, and this is why he hires talented people whom he can delegate tasks to without a second thought. On the back of this, Josh has amassed a 100-strong team of hybrid workers, with these staff spanning multiple countries worldwide. Leveraging this international workforce, Nscale is on track for significant growth, offering businesses in Europe a sovereign alternative to US hyperscalers. Having already achieved $155m in Series A funding, Nscale is well positioned to succeed in its mission to become the leading global provider of sustainable highperformance computing. With big plans on the horizon, Josh is determined that organisations of all sizes should be able to unlock the full potential of AI while minimising environmental impact. For the rest of 2025, Nscale is working on its European and North American growth strategy, as well as building out its 1.3GW pipeline. Having also recently announced its plans to invest $2.5bn in the UK’s data centre industry over the next three years, it is clear Nscale is destined for more greatness. We wish Josh Payne all the best with the initiatives he is spearheading, recognising him as a best-in-class CEO as a result of his efforts to date. N Contact: Sarah Neill (EA to Josh Payne) Company: Nscale Web Address: https://www.nscale.com/
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 13 Artur Bounegra: Leading with Integrity and Ingenuity The investment landscape is an intricate and complex space, which can be daunting when managing substantial wealth. There are a variety of investment opportunities available beyond traditional stocks and bonds, best approached with expert guidance from a seasoned professional. Artvera Private Wealth Management is a leading private wealth management boutique, renowned for providing a diverse range of investment customised to meet each client’s unique needs. We find out more below, as Artur Bounegra, the firm’s dynamic CEO, is named in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2025. Since 2012, Artvera Private Wealth Management has been dedicated to expertly managing its clients’ wealth, offering a comprehensive range of investment opportunities guaranteed to drive significant results. Based in London, the firm is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority of the UK, providing customised investment management worldwide, comprehensive wealth planning solutions and corporate advisory services to high net worth individuals, their families, and their businesses. From its office in Mayfair, Artvera Private Wealth Management focuses on serving clients from emerging markets, managing their wealth through a wide range of traditional and alternative investment strategies across all major asset classes. What’s more, the firm’s management services extend beyond managing clients’ assets and encompass all financial aspects of their lives. Artvera Private Wealth Management provides comprehensive planning solutions, including financial planning, wealth structuring, tax planning and legal issues, estate planning, fiduciary and trust services, and business succession planning. At its core, the firm is dedicated to helping its clients in better structuring and protecting their wealth, effectively preparing them to pass their wealth to future generations with all tax and legal requirements and constraints considered. Its outstanding investment management and wealth planning solutions are complemented by corporate advisory services designed to optimise clients’ businesses, comprising advice on strategic issues and business planning, mergers and acquisitions, purchasing and selling businesses, restructurings and reorganisations, capital markets, and capital structure issues. Alongside this, Artvera Private Wealth Management also provides life advisory services that cover a wide range of family issues such as international relocation to the UK, UK residency and citizenship, education, healthcare, and concierge services in the UK, offering an encompassing service model that entirely meets the needs of its clients and their families. At the helm of Artvera Private Wealth Management is Artur Bounegra, its Founding Partner and Chief Executive Officer. Artur has a wealth of solid working experience in the financial services sector, particularly within banking and investment management. Prior to establishing Artvera Private Wealth Management in November of 2012, Artur held top management positions including Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chairman of the Board, and Vice-President in several leading Russian banks, including those belonging to large international banking groups such as Raiffeisen Bank and Nordea Bank, as long as working in various boutique hedge funds and investment advisory firms across the USA. After graduating with a Diploma in Accounting and Audit from the State University of Management in Russia, Artur went on to receive his PhD in Economics from the same university, and then his MBA degree from Duke University, Fuqua School of Business in the USA. Desiring to deepen his knowledge in specific areas, Artur invested time into completing multiple professional qualifications, earning a Qualification Certificate in Brokerage and Dealer Activity from The Federal Financial Markets Service in Russia, and a number of UK certificates including Corporate Governance, Conduct Regime, Market Abuse, Data Protection, Anti Money Laundering, and Anti-Bribery and Corruption. Now, Artur is responsible for the strategic management of Artvera Private Wealth Management, though he dedicates a significant portion of his time to providing clients with comprehensive wealth management services that take a boutique-style approach. He has succeeded in leading Artvera Private Wealth Management to great heights since its inception, doing so by leveraging his deep and fundamental knowledge of macro and microeconomics, financial management, accounting, reporting, and auditing, alongside his comprehensive experience and expertise in managing investments in developed and emerging markets. At its core, Artvera Private Wealth Management is a company deeply committed to providing the very best services to empower its clientele in effectively managing their wealth. Expertly steered by Artur, the firm has gone from strength to strength since its inception and shows no signs of slowing its momentum. For his dedication to his clientele and significant contributions towards reshaping the investment landscape, Artur Bounegra has been rightfully recognised as the Most Influential CEO 2025 – Wealth Management UK. Contact: Artur Bounegra Company: Artvera Private Wealth Management Web Address: www.artverawealth.com Jan25391
Leading Through Crisis: Lessons in Crisis Management for CEOs
CEO MONTHLY / APRIL 2025 15 When everything goes wrong at once, what makes the difference between an organisation that stumbles and one that stands firm? After spending two decades working with CEOs through various crises, I’ve noticed something surprising: the organisations that weather storms best aren’t necessarily the ones with robust crisis plans. Instead, they’re the ones that have invested in their organisational health long before trouble strikes. These companies have strong team dynamics, clear communication patterns and a shared understanding of how they work together. When a crisis hits, these fundamental strengths become their greatest assets. The Reality of Modern Crises Gone are the days when a crisis meant a single, contained problem with a clear solution. Whether it’s a cyber attack that reveals deeper security vulnerabilities, or a supply chain disruption that forces you to rethink your entire operating model, modern crises tend to unravel in unexpected ways. The challenge isn’t just solving the immediate problem, it’s handling the consequences that follow. Crises act like stress tests for the overall health of a business. They expose the quality of team relationships, the effectiveness of communication networks and the strength of trust between different parts of the organisation. In healthy organisations, teams instinctively pull together, share information thoughtfully and appropriately and adapt quickly. They understand that while honesty is crucial, information needs to be shared with purpose and consideration. In less healthy organisations you see extremes. Information either gets hoarded or it flows without filter or thought, creating unnecessary panic. Both scenarios can lead to deepening silos, blame cultures and valuable time lost to internal friction. What Actually Works in a Crisis? Build trust before you need it. The foundations of effective crisis response are built in quiet times. The CEOs who handle crises best have usually created an environment where people feel safe raising concerns early, fostering psychological safety across all levels Relationships with their teams are based on genuine trust rather than authority. They regularly spend time understanding team dynamics and happily invest in team development to help people understand how they work best together. Regularly bringing people together to think through “what if” scenarios helps build their collective problem-solving muscles. It also encourages healthy conflict and debate, ensuring different perspectives are heard Clear Communication Requires Both Honesty and Wisdom When things go wrong, people don’t expect you to have all the answers. They do, however, need appropriate information delivered thoughtfully. The most effective leaders approach communication strategically. They: • Share information with intention, always asking: “What do people need to know to feel secure and do their jobs effectively?” • Consider timing and audience carefully. Different stakeholders need different levels of detail at different times • Stay honest while being mindful of what might cause unnecessary anxiety • Remain visible and accessible while creating structured communication channels • Balance transparency with responsibility, recognising that some information might need to be held back temporarily to prevent panic or protect sensitive aspects of the response • Update people regularly, but focus on information that provides clarity and direction rather than sharing every detail The Human Side of Crisis Numbers and strategies matter, but crises are fundamentally human experiences. They create fear, uncertainty and stress. This is where organisational health becomes crucial - it’s the difference between a collection of individuals all trying to cope separately, and a resilient community supporting each other through challenges. Great crisis leadership acknowledges this reality and builds on existing team strengths. Building Stronger Teams Through Crisis When everything’s going wrong, strong leadership and straight talk make the difference. Even in chaos you can take thoughtful action that works. What truly matters is having honest conversations that cut through the noise. Get your teams talking regularly, this way you’ll spot troubles before they become disasters. Keep a close eye on team dynamics as you’ll see immediately who’s pulling together and who’s pulling apart. The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. “ “ Mark the wins that count. When you acknowledge real progress, however small it may be, it shows people what works. Guide your teams to work in ways they can sustain, building on their natural strengths. Turn your toughest challenges into learning opportunities through focused reflection. Stamp out harmful patterns fast, whether it’s people hoarding information or burning themselves out trying to be heroes. Build on what your teams do best while helping them master new skills. Look ahead. Future crises are inevitable and each one will hit differently. Your organization needs sharp instincts to spot trouble early so teams that can flex and adapt and relationships with stakeholders remain rock solid. Practice handling crises regularly - you’ll find the weak spots before they really matter. Adapt to Thrive Crisis management isn’t about having a perfect plan, it’s about building an organisation that can adapt and respond when things go wrong. The best crisis leaders understand that organisational health is their secret weapon. They focus less on managing the crisis itself and more on supporting their people through it, drawing on the foundations of trust, communication and collaboration they’ve built over time. Crises often strengthen already healthy teams while exposing weaknesses in struggling ones. Teams with strong foundations tend to become more cohesive under pressure, finding new ways to support each other and work effectively. Their existing patterns of open communication, mutual trust and collaborative problem-solving become amplified and refined through the crisis experience. The real test of leadership isn’t about preventing crises – they’re inevitable. It’s about creating an environment where teams understand how to work together effectively, support each other through challenges and emerge stronger on the other side. In the end, organisational health isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s your most valuable asset when things get tough. Bio: About Kate Davis: Kate Davis is the founder of Meraki People, an organisational health consultancy specialising in team dynamics and culture change. As a 5 Voices Master Practitioner, she helps leaders and organisations harness the power of different voices to drive better performance. She is the 2023 Paseda360 National Coach of the Year www.merakipeople.co.uk www.linkedin.com/in/katedavisleadership katedavis.giantos.com/store/5-voices - Martin Luther King Jr.
www.ceo-review.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTY1MjM3