C- suite Awards 2023 KOM Group of Companies: Leading Manufacturing Company Managing Director 2023 (Tanzania): Dr Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi
Welcome to the C- suite Awards 2023 CEO Monthly is happy to announce the C-Suite Awards are returning. Now in the second year, the C-Suite Awards aim to recognise and award the C-Level Executives who go above and beyond their responsibilities. A highly competitive industry, C-Suite Executives need to stand out amongst their peers. In businesses that are constantly adapting to economic changes, C-Suite Executives are an integral part of the team. These are the employees who influence business strategy and development, as well as being vital to smooth management processes. An extremely powerful team of executives, these are the employees who shape their respective businesses. A powerful aid to the CEO too, C-Suite Executives are expected to excel, develop, and ultimately aid in their company’s future. This is why CEO Monthly proudly manages the C-Suite Awards. An important team of employees who through their dedication and hard work have earned the right to be celebrated. 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. KOM Group of Companies: Leading Manufacturing Company Managing Director 2023 (Tanzania): Dr Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi 6. Hive-Zox: Most Trusted Global Supply Chain Real-Time Visibility Platform COO 2023 (Switzerland): Miro Skorepa 8. MyCTS: Most Uplifting TechCEO of the Year 2023 (Austria): Armin Forstner 9. The Devmark Group: Best Real Estate Chief Commercial Officer 2023 (Dubai): Manisha Dayaram 11. BitifEye Digital Test Solutions GmbH: Electronics Testing COO of the Year 2023 (Germany): Julien Henaut 12. Three: Best National Telecommunications Network CIO 2023 (UK): Belinda Finch 12. Three: Best National Telecommunications Network CIO 2023 (UK): Belinda Finch 13. Assuras: Best Global Business Consultancy CEO 2023: Tyler King 14. Deutsche Bahn AG: Best Public Transport Chief Procurement Officer 2023: Jan Grothe Contents
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 4 Leading Manufacturing Company Managing Director 2023 (Tanzania): Dr Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi KOM Group of Companies (KOM) is more than merely a leader within its field of specialism. As a diligent and caring organisation, the firm’s operations extend much further than simply manufacturing for profit. We speak to Dr Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi about her role within the company and her ambitions for its future as she is named in the C-Suite Awards 2023. s one of Tanzania’s leading manufacturers of agroprocessing products, as well as industrial goods, KOM Group of Companies was established in 2002 and has grown into a well-known brand that has greatly captured the Tanzanian market. Starting life as Kahama Oil Mills Limited, the firm’s success is one of few inspirational stories about a business that started from humble beginnings to scaling the heights of success through hard work, focus, and determination. The company deals with ginning cotton, processing cotton, and sunflower seeds to edible oil and its by-products are sold as animal feeds. As a known industry leader, KOM is used to working with all types of customers – local or global, large or small. Exceptional quality is the foundation of the company, and is the driving force behind all decisions; whether it’s which materials to purchase or the best way to serve customers. KOM currently operates a broad product portfolio comprising of edible oils from cotton and sunflower seeds, animal feeds, PVC and HDPE pipes and fittings, steel tubes, aluminium fabrication for production of galvanised and coloured iron sheets, plastic pails and jerry-cans, plastic furniture/utensils where a variety of goods are produced ranging from chairs, tables, kitchen ware used in homes and offices, or hospitality amenities in their various shapes and sizes. In addition, KOM owns a pharmacy, supermarket, bakery, and restaurant. The company’s extensive activities don’t stop there either. As a group, through its CSR initiatives, KOM also continues to contribute significantly to the development of local communities. Over the years, the group has been extensively involved in various community development works such as building hospitals and schools, as well as fundraising for numerous charities. Today, KOM Group is actively involved in funding several infrastructures across the region, as well being involved in initiatives that promote clean water, affordable healthcare, and entrepreneurship development. To date, the firm has impacted more than 100,000 people in Tanzania. Dr Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi is Group CEO of KOM as well as the Director of KOM Food Products. She tells us more about her areas of expertise and how she stays ahead of the curve to ensure that the same prestigious levels of service are consistently provided to clients. “We assess customer trends from time to time to ensure that we meet the demands of customers,” Jesca begins. “As one of the leading manufacturers in Tanzania we continuously invest in advanced technologies to make sure that our products are of a high quality and satisfy our customers.” Jesca comes from a very strong business background as her family had been in business for more than 20 years. She holds a Doctor of Business Administration with a specialisation in supply chain management and food processing. Having honed expertise in these areas, she is able to guide the team diligently to make timely decisions and improve the workflow whilst also maintaining sound relationships with all the parties involved in the entire value chain of the business. Always looking for innovative ways to meet its customers’ demands, Jesca tells us about emerging trends that are affecting the market of late, particularly the oil processing sector which is flourishing, with increases in the demand of oil. “We are pleased that our company is meeting the sustainable goals 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, and 9,” Jesca elaborates. “On the other hand, in the sunflower oil processing sector our government is now pushing for double refined oil. There is an increased demand for this product. This is pushing processors to invest in more sophisticated technologies to meet this requirement.” The firm is recovering well from the pandemic, especially since the launch of Agenda 10/30 in Tanzania which is seeing more efforts towards reviving the agro sector and, as major players within this sector, KOM is already taking advantage of the numerous agroprocessing opportunities. Digital business is also on the rise in Tanzania with KOM serving more customers online, possibly as a result of Covid-19 as more and more companies and consumers adopt digital as their go-to way to engage. “We approach new clients using various ways,” she elaborates, explaining how the firm approaches new business. “We make use of business networking events, Mar23333 A
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 5 conferences, and seminars to meet new clients. Our team also approaches clients through social media platforms. Some clients contact us as well on our website and on LinkedIn. “When we approach new clients, we understand what they need and meet this demand accordingly.” Describing her own leadership style as “laissezfaire”, Jesca further explains that, through delegation, she is able to focus on the strategic side of the business while her team concentrates on operations. “That is how we achieve our common goals,” she states. “My vision now is to continue scaling KOM to greater heights. We are looking to expand into more countries across the globe. Where our CSR and charity work is concerned, KOM is committed to continually improving the lives of Tanzanians through various community development initiatives.” Recently, Jesca gained recognition for her dedication and hard work by being named Leading Manufacturing Company Managing Director 2023 (Tanzania) in the C-Suite Awards 2023. This award is testament to all that Jesca has put into KOM to drive the business forward over the years. Whilst she now envisions growing the firm to become a global brand, and opening facilities in more locations worldwide such as Europe, UAE, and Asia, she also has her sights set on personal development too. “With regards to my own career my plans are to continuously develop myself to keep serving KOM better,” she enthuses. “And to also keep helping and developing others in their personal and professional journey.” Contact Details Contact: Dr Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi Company: KOM Group of Companies Web Address: www.komgroupnet.co.tz
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 6 Most Trusted Global Supply Chain Real-Time Visibility Platform COO 2023 (Switzerland): Miro Skorepa Providing next-generation supply chain digitalisation solutions for visibility and monitoring in real-time is the name of the game at Hive-Zox International SA (Hive-Zox). We speak to visionary leader, Miro Skorepa about the start-up firm as he is recognised for his hard work and dedication in the C-Suite Awards 2023. ince 2020, Hive-Zox International SA has been providing the next-generation supply chain digitalisation solution for visibility and real-time monitoring. Catering primarily to pharmaceutical companies, the firm also has a presence in general logistics, perishables, and the luxury sector. It strives to lead the way to autonomous logistics and provide its services in a straightforward, hasslefree manner, with no hidden costs. Hive-Zox is positioned at the cutting-edge of technological development, harnessing the power of mesh computing, 5G, and printed electronics, among other advanced technologies. The firm’s flagship product, BEEcon X showcases its commitment to pioneering innovation, integrating the latest advancements to deliver unparalleled service and functionality. Moreover, it has recently launched a new Connected Label device. With its credit card-size dimensions, a mere 1.5 mm thickness, and printed batteries boasting extraordinary longevity, it is a testament to the forward-thinking approach of its founders, such as Chief Operating Officer, Miro Skorepa is Co-Founder. “The Connected Label device positions us at the forefront of the industry,” he states, “demonstrating our capability to transform and shape the future of technology.” In his capacity as COO, a role that primarily focuses on managing the operational aspects of the organisation, Miro tells us that innovation is a key element within his remit. “My approach to staying ahead of the curve is based on three key principles: continuous learning, individualised service, and proactive communication,” he begins. “In a rapidly evolving world, I understand the importance of staying current with industry trends, tools, and technologies.” Taking the time to understand each client’s unique needs and goals, then customising the service offerings accordingly, ensures that every client gets a tailored solution that is most effective for their specific situation. “No two clients are exactly the same, so I never use a one-size-fits-all approach,” elaborates Miro. “I keep my customers informed about new developments that could impact their business and offer strategic advice on how to navigate these changes.” Much research and development in the area of IoT goes on behind the scenes in order to create bespoke solutions for every new client. Part of Miro’s role is to listen and respond to their needs to fully understand the base of customer success. “The key is to build trust into our solution and organisation that we can bring value for client’s organisation,” he continues. “Once a client has decided to work with me, my focus shifts to ensuring they receive the best service possible. This involves regular communication, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to meeting, if not exceeding, their expectations. I also make sure to stay updated on the latest developments in supply chain management so I can continue to offer the most effective and efficient solutions.” Miro’s professional journey is marked by a continuous commitment to driving efficiency and profitability in supply chain and logistics operations. Starting his career in the field of supply chain management with Royal Philips Electric, he spearheaded significant business redesign programmes and managed complex logistics solutions, contributing to substantial cost savings and improving service delivery. His subsequent role at Bacardi-Martini allowed Miro to further expand his skills in global logistics and customer service. As Logistics Director and then as Logistics & Customer Service Director for EMEA, he managed sizable logistics operations, implemented best practices, and enhanced freight reliability, all whilst reducing costs. Most recently, his position at Hive-Zox International has seen Miro leveraging his expertise to create supply chain excellence and explore new frontiers in the Internet of Things (IoT) space for supply chain monitoring and location tracking. Dedicated to inspiring and empowering his team to achieve their best, while promoting a culture of continuous learning and improvement, Miro invests in understanding each team member’s strengths and areas for growth, and Mar23415 S
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 7 then working to align their responsibilities with their skills and interests. “My leadership style can be best described as transformational,” he enthuses. “As a leader, I maintain open lines of communication, encouraging my team to voice their ideas, concerns, and feedback. This not only fosters a sense of belonging and respect, but also leads to more innovative and effective solutions. I’m a strong advocate of constructive feedback and believe that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning.” His overall vision is to create an environment where everyone feels valued and is driven towards excellence in their respective roles. Miro aims to build a highly skilled, agile, and resilient team that is capable of navigating the complexities of the global supply chain landscape. To ensure everyone works towards a common goal, Miro invests time in clearly articulating the strategic objectives of Hive-Zox, believing that everyone on the team should understand not just what their tasks are, but also how their work contributes to the overall success of the organisation. “Lastly, I believe in celebrating wins, both big and small,” he states. “Acknowledging the hard work and accomplishments of the team fosters a positive work environment and encourages everyone to continue striving towards our common goals.” And one such achievement that will certainly not go unnoticed is the recent recognition that Miro himself received in the C-Suite Awards 2023 as he was named Most Trusted Global Supply Chain Real-Time Visibility Platform COO 2023 (Switzerland). Now, as the future looks bright, his ultimate goal is to continue to help his clients optimise their supply chain operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, thereby contributing to their overall business success. Miro plans to do this with the extended us of AI and expansion to new markets, in the short term. “We are young start-up and therefore growth is exponential and hopefully will not slow down in coming years,” he finalises. “I still have long to go before I can retire, and I plan to enjoy the start-up vibe for as long as possible. Developing organisation, coaching and mentoring my team, and raising talents and future stars.” Contact: Miro Skorepa Company: Hive-Zox International SA Web Address: hive-zox.com
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 8 Most Uplifting Tech CEO of the Year 2023 (Austria): Armin Forstner MyCTS provides technology and software solutions that adapt to complex business needs with human-centric processes and designs. Helping people to gain work processes efficiencies is the firm’s main goal and we speak to CEO, Armin Forstner to find out more about how it achieves this. s one of the most renowned technology partners of InterSystems in Central Europe, MyCTS develops bespoke and secure business software, working for its clients 365 days a year. This bespoke software delivers time- and cost-efficient solutions, scalable to all the challenges of the client’s specific industry sector. By merging technology and positive leadership, MyCTS ensures that it stays ahead of the curve and is consistently able to offer innovative solutions and prestigious levels of service with its clients firmly set in the centre. “We are young in thinking and rich in experience,” explains Chief Executive Officer, Armin Forstner. “We love what we do and we do it for our clients.” Highly skilled in positive psychology, behavioural science, and mindfulness, Armin tells us more about his role within the organisation and his leadership style. “Over the course of my career, I have established protocols and systems to optimise productivity, output, and quality,” he begins. “As well as this, I have demonstrated excellence in general management, positive leadership, organisational development, and social impact.” Armin possesses extensive experience in leadership, training, and people development, plus client and account management, and multi-stakeholder project management. Furthermore, his passion for applying positive leadership principles with his team and clients creates a kind, open work culture where people are thriving. “I am one of the subject matter experts when it comes to positive leadership, publisher of ‘positive & mindful leader’ magazine and a frequent speaker at leadership events,” continues Armin. “I live what I teach as CEO of MyCTS. This evidencebased leadership approach guarantees the best results.” Currently in a big transformation of its business, including growing Apr23653 A and entering new markets, MyCTS is placing much emphasis on organic, sustainable growth and is careful to also plan for the smallest carbon footprint possible, with emissions produced being offset. Recently, for his dedication and hard work, Armin Forstner was recognised as Most Uplifting Tech CEO of the Year 2023 (Austria) in the C-Suite Awards 2023. Moving forward, the firm is going to focus on ‘front end made easy’ using its webHerald front-end developer framework which has proven to be one of its most innovative solutions. As this is now entering new markets and attracting new clients, the future for growth is looking very bright indeed. “Technology can’t be separated from the human experience of it,” Armin elaborates. “Especially when working with large scale ERP Systems, the usability and user-centric designs will allow the best possible uptake of software products in any industry.” Regarding his own personal future, Armin is planning to further share his experience with positive leadership and drive the paradigm shift in leadership to a strengthorientated, human-centric leadership approach that delivers consistent results. Company: MyCTS Web Address: myCTS.at
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 9 Mar23525 Recognized as the United Arab Emirates’ leading development marketing and sales consultancy, Devmark’s goal is to partner with real estate developers to expedite the sale of their projects and maximise their return on investment. This developer-centric approach means that the firm seamlessly integrates and assumes responsibility for the marketing and sales function by guiding developers from the project planning stages until the last unit is sold. “As an embedded team, our clients trust us and their partners respect us because we bring expert understanding of the market and comprehensive services to deliver sales results in shorter periods with lower risk,” explains Chief Commercial Officer, Manisha Dayaram. “The Devmark Group prides itself on our ability to offer developer centric, results-driven, intelligent real estate strategies and solutions. The key phases of our approach include strategic positioning marketing and sales distribution, and technology.” By seamlessly integrating with developers and assuming responsibility for the marketing and sales function, The Devmark Group guides Offering real estate industry leading intellectual property and strategy to real estate developers and investors, The Devmark Group (Devmark) puts its clients first to deliver optimal ROI across the journey to sale. We find out more from Manisha Dayaram as she gains recognition in the C-Suite Awards 2023. projects from the planning stage to the final unit sold. As the Chief Commercial Officer of Devmark, Manisha Dayaram plays a pivotal role in providing leading intellectual property and strategic guidance to real estate developers and investors. Through her deep understanding of the market and comprehensive services, Manisha instills trust in clients and earns respec from partners. “My USP is my experience,” she elaborates. “A multimillion-dirham development is built on numerous complex decisions that require the right expertise to develop simplified solutions. Every detail must be addressed, and every small nuance makes a big difference to the bottom line. It takes experienced people, intelligent insight, and a true partnership to ensure each decision is perfectly timed in the market and with the project.” Having been in development marketing and sales for more than 15 years, Manisha understands the investment her clients are making, with her sole focus being to ensure that achieve sell-out success done with professionalism, integrity, and to best-in-class standards. Before joining The Devmark Group, Manisha served as the Chief Operating Officer at Heaps Estrin Real Estate in Toronto, Canada. Her instrumental role in elevating the company’s positioning, enhancing the brand, and streamlining operational processes led to their remarkable achievement of becoming the number one real estate company in Canada by sales volume, surpassing one billion in sales in 2021. “Whilst successful, they were lacking a clear marketing strategy and operational processes,” she explains. “The owner of the company was a leader in the industry and widely respected and we wanted to elevate the company’s positioning and the brand, as well as create efficiency across sales, marketing, administration, and HR. I am proud to say that I was an instrumental part of taking the company to become the number one real estate company in Canada by volume of real estate sold.It was an absolute milestone for my career.” Now driven to achieve exceptional outcomes on behalf of her clients, Manisha believes in hard work and excellence and these two core values were instilled in her at a young age. Today, her role at Devmark is multi-faceted and she works in almost all areas of the business to achieve the best commercial outcome for both internal and external stakeholders. Because Manisha has such a wellrounded understanding of real estate, and more specifically development marketing and sales, she is an instrumental part of the entire value chain, approaching all new clients by first and foremost listening towhat they need and then crafting the best way to deliver outstanding results. As the UAE real estate market is highly competitive, Manisha is required to constantly stay on top of market trends and to be creative in her strategies. She overcomes obstacles by leveraging her knowledge of the market, building strong relationships, and developing customised marketing plans that are tailored to the unique needs of each project. As part of the leadership team, her vision is to create a positive and productive work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to achieve common goals. “To ensure that everyone works towards a common goal, I place a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration,” she states. “I have also spearheaded our application to be recognized with the global authority on workplace Culture – A Great Place To Work.” The recognition of Manisha Dayaram as the Best Real Estate Chief Commercial Officer 2023 (Dubai) in the esteemed C-Suite Awards further validates her exceptional skills, dedication, and achievements. Her continuous drive for excellence, combined with her wellrounded understanding of the real estate industry, positions her as an instrumental figure in the value chain. Looking ahead, Devmark has undertaken a brand refresh, overseen, and managed by Manisha to celebrate its fifth year in business. Additionally,the company also been appointed to launch Expo City Dubai, a remarkable master community, , —a testament to the unwavering efforts of Manisha and the entire Leadership team.. Contact: Manisha Dayaram Company: The Devmark Group Web Address: www.devmark.ae Best Real Estate Chief Commercial Officer 2023 (Dubai): Manisha Dayaram
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 10 Best Technology Innovation & Security CIO 2023 - Baltimore Miles & Stockbridge is a law firm with more than nearly 100 years of history and with community very much at its core. We find out more about the firm from Chief Information Officer, Ken Adams, in the wake of him being recognised in the C-Suite Awards 2023. Established in 1932 by Baltimore lawyers Clarence Miles and Seymour O’Brien who later merged with a firm founded by Enos Stockbridge, creating the modern-day Miles & Stockbridge PC (Miles & Stockbridge), the firm has played a significant role in shaping businesses and communities along the East Coast. Today, Miles & Stockbridge is a leading full-service law firm with approximately 200 lawyers practicing in seven offices across the midAtlantic region. As part of its ongoing commitment to effect positive change, the firm focuses on partnerships that benefit the community, reflect the causes its colleagues support, and allow it to collaborate with clients and neighbours to deepen relationships. Ken Adams is Chief Information Officer at the eminent law firm, leading and managing an innovative team of technical thinkers to support, build, and progress the tools needed by users to be more productive and competitive in their area of expertise. “I am passionate about teaching my team and helping to keep our firm on the cutting-edge of technologies,” Ken elaborates. “We have focused greatly over the last years on virtualisation and security with our latest accomplishment of ISO 27001 certification.” A progressive thought leader in technology with experience in promoting higher levels of productivity, reliability, and security, Ken is also passionate about innovative and valuedriven solutions. Delighting in empowering and fostering the development of others using tools of diversity and inclusion, and constantly pushing the boundaries of technologies to bring the leading edge of solutions to users, giving them the competitive advantage to win. Some major projects Ken has undertaken include over 10 complete office technology redesigns and implementations with audio visual, computer rooms, furniture design, and innovative cabling schemes; complete virtualisation of all network servers; one of the first firms to move their documents into a secure cloud environment followed by the move to many other SaaS solutions where cost and security were proven wins, and soon to be one of the only firms with total application virtualisation with no reliance on desktop hardware, platform or operating system. Amongst his many accomplishments are Innovator of the Year nominee for work completed in PON (Passive Optical Network) fiber network design and implementation; speaker at leader’s conference on the cost and management benefits of fiber networks in mid-size companies; and published writer for International Legal Technology Association on Remotely managed Helpdesk support. His latest and greatest achievement, however, is being recognised in the C-Suite Awards and bestowed with the prestigious accolade of Best Technology Innovation & Security CIO 2023 – Baltimore. This award is testament to the dedication and hard work put in by Ken and the entire team. “At the end of the day, the story of Miles & Stockbridge is a human story,” he continues. “Real people doing real things to make this firm, our communities, and the world better – more inclusive places for all.” Contact: Ken Adams Company: Miles & Stockbridge PC Web Address: milesstockbridge.com
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 11 Apr23072 Located in the heart of the high-tech development and engineering center in Germany, BitifEye Digital Test Solutions GmbH provides physical layer and protocol test solutions for the conformance, compliance, and characterisation of established and emerging high-speed digital buses, specialising in delivering the world’s best receiver test software for the physical layer test of newly designed semiconductors. The firm has a wide range of partners with which it collaborates very early on in developing a new signal path to find the best solutions for their needs. “Early collaboration is essential in physical layer test to ensure the successful design, development, and deployment of communication systems,” explains Dr. Julien Henaut, the company’s Chief Operating Officer. “One of the key benefits of early collaboration inside standard committees is the ability to identify and mitigate risks. By involving all stakeholders in the design and development process, risks can be identified and addressed before they become major problems.” The business outlook for the physical layer testing market is generally positive, as the demand for high-speed and reliable communication systems continues to grow in various industries, such as communications and A privately held company based near Stuttgart, BitifEye Digital Test Solutions GmbH (BitifEye) is the market leader for high-speed digital receiver testing. We find out more from COO, Julien Henaut. transportation. This demand is driven by factors such as increasing Internet usage, growing adoption of cloudbased services, and the need for improved connectivity in the transportation and smart cities sectors. However, the physical layer market is also subject to various challenges and uncertainties. A critical one is the need for continuous innovation to push the limit of copper-based communication systems and reach higher data rates. Another challenge is the profusion of emerging technologies. “Overall, the business outlook is good,” Julien tells us. “However, companies in this market will need continuous innovation, inhouse expertise, and creative thinking to stay ahead of the curve.” Julien joined BitifEye following the death of one of the founders, a recognised industry leader and a significant contributor to the evolution and progression of multiple physical layer specifications. He found an organisation that was undoubtedly successful but experiencing growing pains. “After more than ten years of extraordinary developments, scientific breakthroughs, the company was established as a recognised and respected leader,” he elaborates. “Nevertheless, BitifEye needed more structure on all the product development steps to sustain excellence and pace while maintaining a small team spirit and efficiency.” In his five years with the company, he has, among other things, professionalised the team’s approach to software, modernised the IT infrastructure, and empowered the key stakeholders. Before joining the firm, Julien worked for more than ten years in developing IoT wireless products (innovation engineer, project manager, and system architect) after graduating from the French National School of Civil Aviation (ENAC) and the ISAE-Supaero in electrical and telecommunication engineering for aerospace. “I’m passionate about electronics, engineering, and problem-solving,” he enthuses. “I’m also passionate about human space exploration for the marvel of engineering and team effort it is. Apollo is not the story of 12 men walking on the moon but the 400,000 people working together towards the same goal. “I believe in a comprehensive approach to the various levels of R&D, and I put team empowerment and “lead by humility” at the core of my management style. From the beginning of my engineering career, at the crossroads of research and industry, I have enjoyed developing broad scopes of technical skills and taking on management responsibilities with strong technical implications.” Julien discovered electronics when his dad brought a computer home, and they opened it together to change some parts. Since that day, he has assembled computers and created small electronic circuits/robots. Today he leads an extended team of about 30 software and signal integrity engineers and delights in watching/helping them to push the limits of receiver testing software in over 12 of the most advanced high-speed digital bus standards. “As a conscious leader, I work for the team,” he tells us, elaborating further on his leadership style. “As a manager, I am not only responsible for my own performance but also for that of my team members. My job is to help contributors perform at their best by providing guidance, support, efficient tools, clear goals, and feedback.” Julien is working to infuse some aspects into the company culture, such as responsibility, openness, trust, agility, and a culture where the firm’s success is a shared target. Recently, for his innovative approach and attitude, Julien gained recognition in the C-Suite Awards and was named Electronics Testing COO of the Year 2023 (Germany). As he looks forward, further exciting developments are in the pipeline. “A couple of years ago, BitifEye created a daughter company in a different sector of activity – the fitness and health sector to diversify its activities. Our heart-rate-based training system is a true revolution in how non-athletes can use any eBike to stay healthy. It’s also scientifically proven to help people with cardiac diseases in their rehabilitation training. For our core testing business, we are also exploring using AI and ML to make our SW more powerful and easier to use. Our customers will be able to focus on their core expertise – chipset design - truly.” He adds, “I wish my team to continue growing in a fun and stable environment, become even more diverse, remain curious, and constantly explore new fields. Together we aim to develop SW that is always more efficient to push the limits of wired communications.” Electronics Testing COO of the Year 2023 (Germany): Julien Henaut Contact: Julien Henaut Company: BitifEye Digital Test Solutions GmbH Web Address: www.bitifeye.com
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 12 Mar22259 Best National Telecommunications Network CIO 2023 (UK): Belinda Finch As CIO at Three, Belinda Finch is responsible for all the IT across the Three UK estate, both from a transformation point of view and also business as usual. We find out more as she gains recognition in the C-Suite Awards 2023. Whether it is systems used in stores by retail agents, back-end billing systems, or the digital systems used by Three’s customers, Belinda Finch handles all IT at Three, as well as being responsible for all internal IT systems such as finance, HR, and legal. Having started her career as a Cobol programmer for The Bank of England, Belinda quickly moved into the media scene, loving the variety and excitement around the industry. She stayed here for some years, and was working in a comms role when she accidentally ‘fell’ into telcos. “I worked for all the big ones and I absolutely loved it,” she enthuses. “It was fast paced, at the forefront of technology and connecting people. It’s an industry that keeps you on your toes – there is always something new. It’s exciting.” Being a huge advocate of business-led IT, Belinda is actively rolling out new ways of working at Three, with the associated technology to allow the company to operate in this way. This includes joint multidisciplined teams with the same goals and objectives out in place along with technology that allows the business teams to make changes themselves rather than ask IT. This strategy is already being rolled out in the data team at Three and there are plans to go further with the goal of having a much smaller operational, security, and architecture guardrail type IT department and the business in control of its own destiny. Three is currently also working on its digital transformation, so it is a busy time for Belinda between juggling this along with BAU. In the transformation space, Three is launching its brand-new B2B offering. As an area where the company hasn’t been prominent in the last number of years, the decision was made to build a brand-new team, products, and IT system. In October last year, Three launched its completely new IT stack, underpinned by the Amdocs CRM and billing systems, and supported by the salesforce. “In order to achieve this programme, which was ground-breaking in terms of time to deliver and ways of working, we ensured the entire transformation was business-led from the beginning, ensuring goals and objectives aligned from both sides,” Belinda elaborates. “We have now launched our business offerings to the market, there is more to come, more releases – but in nine months we have built new systems, a new operation, and are entering a new segment.” In addition to this transformation activity, Three launched its loyalty programme, Three+, which has been having great success in the market – not forgetting SMARTY, the Three sub-brand, which also involved the development and launch of a brand new app. There have also been several initiatives introduced over the last year to help development and empowerment within the company, such as the reorganisation of the entire CIO department to ensure that accountability sat in the right teams. “Every single person within the organisation now knows what they are accountable and responsible for and more importantly feel they are empowered to make decisions to keep the flow of work flowing smoothly,” Belinda enthuses. “The purpose of this move was not only to speed up decision making processes, but also to ensure it was documented and communicated that you did not need to be a ‘certain grade level’ to make key decisions. The outcome of this has been a tangible speed up of decision making, especially in financial and project decisioning. We no longer wait for the monthly steerco to make decisions; we make key important decisions every single day at every single level.” In addition to this, a new incentive called ‘Focus Fridays’ has been implemented whereby the last Friday of each month within core hours (10am-4pm) there is a ‘no meeting’ policy so that team members can focus their time on personal development, training and accreditations, lunch and learns, and wellness activities with the aim of giving everyone the time they need to enhance their learning and a day dedicated entirely to themselves. Throughout all of this, the company has been supporting Ukraine too by providing free calls to and from Ukraine, irrespective of network, and helping provide handsets where necessary. In addition to this, Three has supported a number of Ukrainian technology resources to apply for open roles, especially in the data and digital space. More recently, Belinda herself gained notable recognition by being rewarded for her diligence and dedication in the C-Suite Awards 2023 and was bestowed with the prestigious accolade of Best National Telecommunications Network CIO 2023 (UK). Now, as the future calls, Belinda foresees further developments in the form of two main goals – firstly, completing the transformation programme, and secondly, setting the company up to be a truly business-led IT. “This is a journey and will not happen overnight,” she states. “And this is just the start. It is an exciting time and one I am delighted to be leading.” Contact: Belinda Finch Company: Three Web Address: www.three.co.uk Mar23526
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 13 Mar23331 Based in Dallas, Texas, Assuras is a global management consulting firm that specialises in solving extremely difficult challenges facing organisations around the world. The firm utilises unique methodology and provides alternative perspectives by using its expertise across the board Assuras is globally renowned as a leading management consultancy firm, business practice efficiency leader, and technology solutions provider. Not your typical boutique consulting firm, Assuras takes expert advice a step further, offering complete solutions steamed from combined industry experience and new unique innovative approaches. We find out more from Tyler King. to bring innovative solutions that are new and fresh. In such a fast-paced working world, it is imperative for Assuras to ensure it stays ahead of the curve and always offers the same prestigious level of service across all of its client base. “We have a unique process of working with clients,” explains Tyler King, the firm’s Chief Executive Officer, as he tells us more about the firm’s strategy. “Instead of top-down engagement, we work from bottom up to really determine what challenges are facing the organisation and how we can have the greatest impact. I enjoy engaging clients – one of the ways I ensure we deliver on their expectations is to get to the root concerns and make those our focus items that will determine if and when we are successful.” Tyler oversees all aspects of the organisation at Assuras. Bringing years of selfdeveloped methodologies and experience from prior leadership and consulting positions, he has pioneered sustainable growth in his time at the firm. While attending prestigious universities like Harvard Business School and MIT Slone School of Management, Tyler boasts a career trajectory that includes founding new ventures to success. Geared towards just wanting to do right by every partner, client, and employee, Tyler’s leadership style is centred around uniting and bringing people together. “I work towards a goal by identifying the direction we need to work in,” he elaborates. “I then help our team members by enabling them to be their best and guide them to our common destination.” Recently, Tyler received recognition in the C-Suite Awards 2023 and was named Best Global Business Consultancy CEO 2023. This prestigious accolade is testament to his dedication and commitment to his clients and the business as a whole. With regards to the future, Tyler insists that he wants to make a heavy impact on the world. “Successes are built upon failures, not other successes,” he enthuses. “Accordingly, I try my best to not dwell in stagnation and always try new things.” Contact: Tyler King Company: Assuras Web Address: www.assuras.com Best Global Business Consultancy CEO 2023: Tyler King
CEO MONTHLY / C-suite Awards 2023 14 Best Public Transport Chief Procurement Officer 2023: Jan Grothe Deutsche Bahn AG (DB) is the national railway company of Germany, and a state-owned enterprise. But what goes on behind the scenes is just as important as the customer-facing side of things. We find out more from seasoned procurement professional Jan Grothe, as he is named in the C-Suite Awards 2023. With more than 1,200 million travellers a year, over 60,000 million of which is goods traffic, Germany needs a strong rail system. And this is what Deutsche Bahn strives to provide. With its new supplier management, the Procurement arm of DB (managing a vast 27 billion Euro spend) is collaborating with current and potential suppliers even more transparently and intuitively so suppliers can find everything about the firm, procedures, and processes, as well as current information on contracts and projects, with just the click of a button. With nearly 21,000 suppliers under the main company’s belt, DB Procurement strives to ensure that the Group has access to materials, capital goods, and services that are readily available, costeffective, and of excellent quality to safeguard the company’s innovative strengths as well as its sustainable success in the market. The strategy of the procurement department is clear: to be the business units’ partner of choice by making procurement simple and intuitive; staying flexible in its actions and use its deep understanding of customers; to play a major role in making DB carbon-free by 2040; and to ensure the DB Group’s economic clout. Jan Grothe is the firm’s Chief Procurement Officer, taking on the position in March 2021. Born in Berlin in 1973, Jan’s previous roles at Deutsche Bahn include Head of Procurement Infrastructure and also the responsibility for principles, strategy, and IT systems in procurement. Ultimately, he has been with the company since 2001. Jan has noticed trends emerging over the last few years within the industry. For example, manifold influences on supply chains over the last few years have seen a paradigm shift due to the pandemic, war, and inflation. “We have had to ask suppliers to deliver us, not the other way around,” he explains. “We are experiencing delivery bottlenecks, price increases, logistics difficulties, and production pressure, but also concerns about a secure energy supply continue to weigh on the global economy. We have reacted with a more professional risk management, a more flexible organisation to be able to focus resources where mostly needed, plus an expansion of the supplier landscape.” Of course, the Covid-19 pandemic brought with it tremendous challenges, however it did also serve as a catalyst for digital innovation. The effects of the pandemic have made it clear that companies need to deal with structure and transparency in supply chains in order to reduce risk. Jan has also noticed that the entire ecosystem has become more complex, leading to an evolution of his role as CPO at the firm which he notes has become much more strategic, and detecting process efficiencies, ensuring cost control, and pure procurement expertise are now just one facet of the job. “Never before has procurement been of such operational and strategic importance as it is today,” elaborates Jan. “In my view, a good CPO is like a captain on a stormy sea: giving a clear direction and trusting his team to navigate the ship back to calmer waters – he relinquishes control.” And this is why Jan believes that it is all the more important to empower his teams and expand the strategic skills of employees to create powerful, strong, and independent teams. “My USP in the current role is analytic, future-oriented, and always open for new developments based on clear strategy,” he tells us. “I’m open-minded, curious, always looking for innovations, and I’m customer-focused, always putting them at the heart of our procurement strategy.” Recently, for his pioneering approach and ability to adapt to challenges, Jan was recognised in the C-Suite Awards 2023 and named Best Public Transport Chief Procurement Officer 2023 for his role at DB Procurement. Now, his vision for the future revolves around an increased human interaction and sustainability post-pandemic as he stands for a flexible organisation, with investment being the only sure-fire way to meet the demands and requirements of tomorrow. “I foresee procurement with the best possible impact on the environment, society, and the economy over the entire life cycle,” he enthuses. “Opening up markets with more resource-efficient products using various procurement levers, strengthening green and socially healthy supply chains, with specific measures and performance targets defined for this. “As for me, I shall continue to be a pacesetter in terms of intuitive, sustainable procurement, adding further value to the company through an outstanding procurement function and thus being an accepted business/strategy adviser at board level, while creating a procurement place that is inspirational for young talents.” Contact Details Contact: Jan Grothe Company: Deutsche Bahn AG Web Address: https:// lieferanten.deutschebahn. com/supplier
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