February 2025 Leading the Future of AI SEO Search Optimization: Lee Agam the Award-Winning CEO With a mission to redefine the future of SEO solutions, Nytro Systems is empowering businesses and digital marketing firms through its pioneering AI-driven automated SEO software and digital marketing solutions. CEO Lee Agam, recently recognized in our CEO of the Year Awards 2024, shares his vision, strategies, and contributions to the industry.
Welcome to the February 2025 issue of CEO Monthly. Focusing on innovative SEO solutions, investment data management, web design, and more, our award-winning CEOs are making waves in their respective industries. Not only are they effective in generating unique and tailored solutions for their clients, but they are trusted individuals at the helm of their business – and we celebrate their success here in this issue. Our cover features Nytro Systems’ CEO Lee Agam as he wins the title of AI SEO Solutions CEO of the Year 2024 – USA. Here at CEO Monthly we’re delighted to highlight success such as this as CEOs like Lee streamline our experience of artificial intelligence, specialising in SEO solutions. We also cover feature pieces related to The Role of Executive Coaching in C-Suite Development, where noteworthy individuals are positively impacting the further growth of CEOs and leaders around the world. We wish you a prosperous month filled with excellence and success ahead, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another instalment in March. 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 7. Nytro Systems LLC: Leading the Future of AI SEO Search Optimization: Lee Agam the Award-Winning CEO 8. Olivia Dufour: ‘Elevating Leaders Everywhere’ 9. Become the Best Version of Yourself with Tracy Clark 10. ViDesigns Ltd: Web Design & Development CEO of the Year 2024 – Greater London 11. Geotourist: Timeless Travel Technology 12. Portfolio BI: Investment Data Management CEO of the Year 2024 13. NexPower Energy Inc: Hybrid Vehicle Batteries CEO of the Year 2024 - California 14. The Most Important Clauses All Business Leaders Should Look Out For When Signing A New Commercial Lease 15. The Role of Executive Coaching in C-Suite Development - Kate 16. Executive Coaching: A Key to C-Suite Growth and Development - Shannon Contents
NEWS Global Agency Veteran Brad MacAfee Joins KAOH Media as CEO
Gilbane Development Company, the real estate development and asset management arm of Gilbane, Inc. today announced the appointment of James Patchett as its new president and chief executive officer. He will succeed Edward Broderick who was recently appointed chief executive officer of Gilbane and served as president of Gilbane Development since January 2014. “We are thrilled to welcome James to the Gilbane team,” said Edward Broderick, CEO, Gilbane, Inc. “His track record of creative development projects and investments in cities across the country will be instrumental in driving the next chapter of Gilbane Development’s growth. James has a collaborative approach, prioritizes working with communities and inspires teams, which will foster a culture of innovation and excellence at Gilbane Development. We are confident that James’ leadership will drive substantial growth while maintaining our core values and will build on Gilbane’s role as an innovative and trusted partner in reshaping communities across the country.” Patchett is a proven leader in real estate, finance, economic development, and public-private partnerships with more than two decades of experience. Having held high-impact leadership roles in both the private and public sectors, Patchett brings a unique perspective that aligns with Gilbane Development’s mission of “developing dynamic communities” while meeting housing needs across the country and supporting public partners in achieving outstanding outcomes. “Gilbane is a remarkable company with an outstanding track record of impact in the real estate and construction industry,” said James Patchett, President & CEO, Gilbane Development. “We are at a pivotal moment in the real estate industry, and Gilbane Development is incredibly well positioned to capitalize on this opportunity to deliver returns for our investors and results for communities around the country. I look forward to building on Gilbane’s 155-year legacy, delivering impactful communities, creating value for investors, and leading Gilbane Development into the future as the company continues to experience outstanding growth.” With over $8.5 billion in total development, Gilbane Development has experienced exponential growth over the past decade and is a Top 10 Student Housing Developer (Student Housing Business). Under Patchett’s leadership, Gilbane Development is set for a continued growth trajectory, especially in the core market areas of student housing, affordable and mixed-income housing, marketrate housing, and public-private partnerships. Recent notable successes for Gilbane Development include: • Launching a $500+ million strategic partnership with CBRE Investment Management (CBREIM) for purposebuilt student housing properties across the country; • Working with the public sector to build or rehabilitate over 8,000 affordable/mixed-income units totaling nearly $3 billion. • Delivering nearly $400 million in development of two new transit-oriented projects totaling 1,000+ units at Metro stations in Maryland; • Delivering $2.4 billion in comprehensive public-private solutions for institutional and government clients, encompassing design, build, finance, operate, and maintain models; • Building a property management platform with the formation of three new affiliated businesses managing nearly 3,000 units with over 10,000 beds – Inwood Management, Eastaway Property Management and Calvary Street Management. Gilbane Development Company Names James Patchett as New President & CEO, Setting the Stage for Future Growth and Innovation Former CEO of Porter Novelli, Mission + Cause to lead national renewable energy communications agency KAOH Co-Founders move to new leadership roles KAOH Media is pleased to welcome new CEO Brad MacAfee, as the national renewable energy communications firm continues to expand with portfolio clients in project host communities across the nation and beyond. “Founded by Kelly O’Neil and myself in 2014 and recently marking its first decade of bringing “good energy” to the world, KAOH Media has now reached an expansion point where bringing additional seasoned executive agency leadership to the team is a logical step to help us move to the next level,” says KAOH Co-Founder and current CEO Allan Hug, “In Brad we have found the ideal mix of deep experience, wisdom and clear vision that can help guide us to new opportunities as we continue to serve our utility-scale renewable energy clientele in local host communities and support all aspects of the clean energy transition.” MacAfee’s background in leadership and mission-focused corporate culture includes a nearly 20-year stint at Porter Novelli, where he spent his last four years as CEO and Sr. Partner. He helped transform the agency from a generalist agency to one focused on purpose and social impact consulting. More recently, he founded Mission + Cause, a consultancy and executive search firm aimed at assisting public relations agencies and in-house communications departments in aligning workplace culture for purpose-driven and results-oriented expansion. “When I was initially introduced to KAOH Media, I was immediately struck by the strong leadership, innovation and rapid growth that the agency has achieved in the renewable energy industry,” says MacAfee, “Upon further exploration, I became even more intrigued and excited by the level of creativity and dedication of the KAOH team, and their singular expertise in the space. KAOH Media is driving societal impact at the local and community level. What’s impressive is the agency has figured out how to get hyper-local at scale.” Employee owned and operated, KAOH offers disciplined project managers and experienced storytellers with a passion for clean energy technology, positive community engagement and impactful messaging. The multi-talented remote team hails from every corner of the country and comes from a variety of backgrounds: politics, digital marketing, journalism, media, events, technology, environmental law, design, lobbying, and energy development. With Brad’s appointment to CEO, KAOH Media’s founders, Allan Hug and Kelly O’Neil will be taking on new roles in the organization. Allan Hug, former CEO, will shift to the role of Chief Growth & Innovation Officer where he will be responsible for driving agency growth and expansion as well as its focus on development of new technologies, products and services to elevate KAOH clients in the market. Kelly O’Neil, currently President, will now become President & Chief Client Officer. In her role, Kelly will be responsible for ensuring that KAOH is bringing the best people, approach and service principles to the agency’s growing list of clients. Both Allan and Kelly will continue their roles and responsibilities serving on the agency’s Board of Directors. “I have worked with a lot of communications agency founders during the last several years, and it is rare to find leaders like Allan and Kelly, who care so deeply about their team and clients that they are willing to take on new roles that align with their expertise and passions while also having the courage to bring in an outside leader,” said Brad. “Even better, both founders want to stay and continue to grow the agency’s impact in energy and other areas of social impact. Having the opportunity to collaborate with these founders and the team they have assembled and grown is inspiring.” “KAOH Media’s singular dedication to the learning the renewable energy space over the past decade has sharply honed the agency’s ability to quickly and effectively assess local community growth opportunities, and help lead and support development teams in project areas through every phase from leasing through construction”, says KAOH Co-Founder and President Kelly O’Neil, “We look forward to benefiting from Brad’s expertise in agency management to help us assess how to best navigate the next chapter of growth for KAOH Media.”
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CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 7 Leading the Future of AI SEO Search Optimization: Lee Agam the Award-Winning CEO “At Nytro Systems, our mission is to revolutionize the digital marketing landscape by providing innovative, AI-driven automated search engine optimization solutions that empower both businesses and SEO professionals to automatically improve their search rankings and online visibility faster, better, and at a fraction of the cost.” The dynamic world of SEO optimization and digital marketing search is constantly evolving with the rise of AI technologies such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, and changes in the traditional Google search optimization results. To navigate these rapid changes and help businesses stay ahead of the curve, NytroSEO developed a system that automatically and dynamically updates webpage code with relevant meta tags and search queries, enabling both search engines and new AI Ask/search platforms to better understand and rank them. Nytro Systems has positioned itself as a trailblazer in delivering automated SEO solutions that not only provide actionable insights but also perform the optimization work for you. Under the leadership of its CEO, Lee Agam, the company has carved a unique niche in the competitive AI digital space. Lee Agam, a seasoned executive in the high-tech industry, brings unparalleled expertise to the table. With a strong academic foundation, including degrees from Harvard Business School (Boston, USA) and Bayes Business School (London, UK), and a history of technology and patent innovations, Lee’s innovative approach and vision have propelled Nytro Systems to the forefront of AI SEO technology. Speaking on his journey, Lee says, “Founding Nytro Systems allowed me to combine my technological expertise with a focus on solving real-world deficiencies, creating transformative AIdriven solutions that redefine the SEO landscape.” Reflecting on his leadership style, Lee shares, “I believe in leading by example, focusing on continuous learning, adaptability, and empowering my team to innovate. My philosophy is centered on addressing realworld problems that are often overlooked by mainstream solutions, which has been a cornerstone of our growth and success.” Nytro Systems’ groundbreaking offerings include AI SEO automated software that enhances online visibility while reducing manual effort and cost. With the ability to automate metadata optimization and internal linking, the NytroSEO platform enables businesses to stay ahead in an ever-changing digital environment. “With constant updates in search algorithms,” Lee explains, “we navigate industry challenges by continuously refining our AI-driven techniques, investing heavily in research and development, and maintaining a customerfirst approach. This ensures that we deliver solutions that are not only effective but also adaptable to everchanging market demands.” This unwavering focus on innovation has enabled Nytro Systems to grow rapidly, adding tens of thousands of new customers in 2024 and solidifying its reputation as a leader in this sector. “We have experienced tremendous positive acceptance of our solution in the market. The enthusiastic response from tens of thousands of new customers validates the impact of our technology and underscores the value we bring to businesses worldwide,” Lee adds. The company’s success is also rooted in its collaborative and people-centric culture. Lee emphasizes, “We prioritize fostering an environment of open communication and teamwork. By aligning our team with our mission and empowering them to engage directly with clients, we ensure our solutions are aligned with the real needs of businesses.” This culture of transparency and collaboration has been instrumental in driving the company’s success. For aspiring CEOs, Lee offers valuable advice: “Build a strong, collaborative team and remain adaptable to industry changes. Innovation, integrity, and a relentless focus on delivering value to your customers are key to sustainable growth.” Looking to the future, Nytro Systems has ambitious plans for 2025 and beyond. Alongside its core offerings, the company is set to launch groundbreaking new products and solutions. Lee shares, “We are developing innovative automated internal linking systems to enhance website authority, alongside tools designed to optimize content performance and address operational challenges that businesses face in scaling their digital presence.” As the AI SEO Solutions CEO of the Year 2024 – USA, Lee Agam’s leadership continues to steer Nytro Systems toward new heights. By blending cutting-edge technology with a customer-centric approach, the company is transforming the SEO and digital marketing landscape, ensuring businesses are equipped to succeed in an ever-evolving digital world. “Our focus will be on continuous innovation and delivering value to our clients to maintain our competitive edge.” If you’re seeking a transformative AI-driven SEO platform to enhance your online presence and visibility, Nytro Systems is ready to partner with you on your journey to success. Contact: Lee Agam Company: Nytro Systems LLC Website: https://nytroseo.com/ Jan25021 With a mission to redefine the future of SEO solutions, Nytro Systems is empowering businesses and digital marketing firms through its pioneering AI-driven automated SEO software and digital marketing solutions. CEO Lee Agam, recently recognized in our CEO of the Year Awards 2024, shares his vision, strategies, and contributions to the industry.
CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 8 Olivia Dufour: ‘Elevating Leaders Everywhere’ Every business has its own USPs and pain points, but Olivia Dufour Consulting is an invaluable asset for those who wish to explore and expand their professional skills, as well as calm any storms relating to industry challenges. Olivia tells us, “My advisory firm was born out of necessity at the onset of the pandemic. As we abruptly shifted our reality to remote work, impossibly hard corporate conversations were taking place from behind a screen. Executives reached out to me in the eleventh hour for guidance amid crisis and the mission of my work was solidified. My commitment when collaborating with leaders worldwide is to get to the heart of their hard conversations and make handling them with tact and compassion their superpower.” Her dedicated partnerships with executives and esteemed leaders helps a myriad of businesses to flourish as their leadership skills evolve with the trends of their industry, as well as the needs of their organisation. Olivia is proud to work on any roadblocks that may have presented themselves recently or existed for a while, her commitment to improving businesses from the top down has taken her advisory services far, and her clients – C-level executives – are able to reap the benefits for themselves and their teams. This collaboration ultimately eradicates “hesitation, indecision, and disconnect from core values and the tension that can exist between being seen as an industry disruptor and a timeless icon,” says Olivia. Furthermore, the advisory services Olivia provides are built on the ‘guiding principle that transformation doesn’t have to come at the expense of people – it thrives as a result of them.” Providing advisory services to deliver strengthened self-awareness and mission alignment, Olivia’s consulting firm positively impacts businesses all around the world. Olivia elaborates on her strategic reactions to industry challenges and workforce limitations saying, “When employees face recurring instability, all work suffers as a result. But when C-suite leaders make a commitment to being proactive, fewer downstream impacts are felt and true creativity is preserved.” Helping C-level executives to foster an excellent environment for all employees, providing the certainty and support they need to thrive, Olivia Dufour Consulting has swiftly established itself as a vital resource for executive growth and stability throughout the many organisations as an end product – which is reflective of the leadership demonstrated from those higher up in the business. Olivia shares her thoughts on the key qualities C-level executives should be focused on. She summarises the qualities of a great business leader in five points which will inevitably raise confidence, well-being, and long-term thinking that will ensure each businesses can grow. With regards to the pillars of success for executives Olivia says, “They remain agile and open minded; they foster a culture that inspires deep confidence; they are genuine and sincere; they are experts in coordinating communication across groups; they are grounded in long-term thinking and are resilient in the face of change.” Of course, change is absolutely necessary for growth – if it is handled with confidence and a commitment to positive action. Moving with the evolution of their industries, executives are relied upon to have the above qualities and to lead by example through their everyday work, in order to fill their teams with peace of mind and confidence in the company. With over a decade of experience in ‘high-stakes environments’ Olivia is continually utilising the skills she has picked up along the way, as well as the ideals she holds close to her core. Holding certifications in Corporate Strategy from the University of London, UCL School of Management and the Yale School of Management’s Accelerated Management Program. Her attitude towards helping others has pushed her work to the forefront of the executive advisory sector, and her talents know no bounds when it comes to improving businesses via those at the very top. Executive coaching is an integral part of business. Executives also need training, much like their employees – this is to keep them at the very cutting-edge of their industries and able to perform at their best, so that their companies can continue to grow in a positive and impactful direction. It is a pleasure to showcase Olivia Dufour Consulting’s work as Olivia adds even more meaning to executive coaching for C-suite development. Contact: Olivia Dufour Company: Olivia Dufour Consulting Website: www.oliviadufourconsulting.com Jan25115 Working with Fortune 500 leaders, startup founders, and executive board members, Olivia Dufour is reimagining leadership as a whole – helping others to be a guiding light for their business, no matter the size of the organisation. We hear from professional advisor Olivia Dufour herself as her consulting work is highlighted in this issue of CEO Monthly.
CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 9 Become the Best Version of Yourself with Tracy Clark With over 25 years of experience in commercial business, Tracy Clark has steadily become an impactful expert in the world of business coaching. Her knowledge of positive mindsets and the impact of psychology in businesses has taken her far in her industry, and we’re pleased to showcase her services to our readers. Tracy’s rich background in commercial business, understanding and working with team and leadership dynamics has driven her forward into empowering individuals and their businesses. After dedicating 25 years of her time to CWC Group as Managing Director and Board Member, Tracy has seen a plethora of leadership pros and cons – especially with regards to individuals living up to their potential, and the psychology behind their success. “I was ready to create an everlasting legacy by empowering entrepreneurs so I could make an impact on a larger scale.” Helping executives to learn more about themselves and how they can flourish, Tracy makes a positive impact on the corporate landscape as well as the individuals who lead within it. On a mission to help others in unlocking their true potential, she helps them to embark on a new journey to mastering their mindset, increase their positive impact, and become the leader they always wanted to be. “Often, the only thing holding us back from achieving bigger, bolder results is ourselves.” Private Coaching With her devoted 1:1 coaching, Tracy takes individuals on their own tailored journey to being a better leader – for their teams and for themselves. Covering psychology, mindset, self-leadership, identity, and high-performance skills, Tracy’s work is the answer to all of those questions relating to being at the helm of a team or a business. Leadership Team Package This segment of Tracy’s work helps executives to focus on supporting their leadership teams. Aiding those from the top down, she ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to leading in business. This helps teams to make positive changes, increase ROI, and hit goals so much faster – all while aligning with a company’s mission. Group Coaching for Founders Tracy supports founders and entrepreneurs by bringing them together – in order to share their experiences and wisdom. Educating and inspiring founders and entrepreneurs with her growth model, Tracy helps individuals to understand themselves more in order to develop those high-performance habits that truly make a difference to their confidence and selfgovernance. More about Tracy Tracy supports businesses and individuals with her growth programs and coaching expertise in constructive and proven ways. She also contributes to events, in-house training, and conferences with her talks and facilitation skills. Leadership Success Scorecard Additionally, with Tracy’s powerful Leadership Success Scorecard, she is able to offer a 3-4 minute questionnaire which helps individuals to get tailored reports with their scores – with practical steps and insights into how to super charge each score. Winning an award in the Executive Coaching Awards from CEO Today in 2022, Tracy is no stranger to recognition for her dedicated work. With so many stunning client testimonials to her name, she is truly a commendable coach. For example, Mandana White, Founder and CEO, SmartGrid Forums commented: “Tracy is a powerful and influential executive coach. She uses the perfect blend of intuition, experience and questioning to help you uncover what’s truly important to you and your business. I look forward to my weekly sessions, I always know that whatever I am facing in a given week, Tracy will have the questions I most need to consider, in order to unlock the best of my own answers and to commit to taking actions that will lead to the results I most desire. I can’t recommend Tracy enough, she is not only a very effective coach, but is also great fun to work with.” Atop this, Håvard Lillebo, Founder and Board Director shared: “I have enjoyed Tracy´s mentoring and coaching since we connected about a year ago. What sets her apart I think is the mindset and insights accumulated from working with “visionary enthusiasts” over years. She almost knows what my issues are before I get to them – and it feels good to know that she has extensive experience mentoring similar people. I value our quarterly meetings a lot – and it gives me time to think, reflect and pause. And she even adds value between the meetings! Highly recommended!” “Become a Multiplier and scale your business to new levels!” Contact: Tracy Clark Company: Tracy Clark Website: https://tracyclark.london/ Jan25116
CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 10 As the leading Webflow agency in the UK, ViDesigns designs, develops, and delivers innovative websites for ambitious companies. With more than 300 Webflow projects under its belt, the agency has worked with many global top-tier clients, such as Sage, Tony Blair Institute, Compose, RedBull, ChChing, Thrive Learning, Radix, London Interdisciplinary School and many others. “Whether you’re an earlystage startup or an established enterprise, we deliver exceptional work while having Based in Chiswick, London, ViDesigns is a leading Webflow Agency and an official Webflow Enterprise partner. With vast experience in the industry, the firm is the go-to agency for all things Webflow. We find out more about the agency and its fascinating work as we chat to Vimalan Vijayasekaran following him gaining notable recognition in the CEO of the Year Awards 2024. fun!” enthuses Vimalan Vijayasekaran, the agency’s pioneering Founder and Chief Executive Officer. Having graduated from the Imperial College London with a Masters in Computational Biomedical Engineering, Vimalan established ViDesigns in 2021 and hasn’t looked back since. Having successfully completed several hundred Webflow projects in the four years since its inception, ViDesigns invests in Webflow and the community by developing powerful no-code products that help designers and developers to do more with Webflow. In 2022, the firm further expanded its horizons by venturing into product development and subsequently built powerful no-code solutions to allow developers to do even more on Webflow. “Formly, our first product, is the most powerful multistep form solution for Webflow with over 2,700,000 unique loads each month,” Vimalan continues, telling us more about the offerings of the agency. “Since then, we have successfully launched four more products with over 25,000 active monthly users.” These new innovative products include Flowplay and Flowpilot, all of which integrate all attributes directly within the Webflow designer. This means no more toggling between documentation and the Webflow projects and, with just a single click, web developers can add attributes to any Webflow element. A recent project in which ViDesigns played an essential role was that of Intryc – an AI automated customer support system. Intryc embarked on a transformative journey to redefine its brand identity and digital presence after securing YC funding. Within a tight eight-week timeline, Vimalan and the team at ViDesigns worked closely with the Intryc team to design a sleek, product-centric website that captivates users and drives measurable business results. The end result is a visually striking, conversion-optimised site that sets a new benchmark for engagement and performance. Alex Marantelos, the Chief Executive Officer of Intryc, couldn’t sing the praises of ViDesigns enough. Here is what he had to say about his experience of working with Vimalan: “Incredible team! I have always been disappointed working with agencies, and I was initially sceptical, but Vim and his team are truly exceptional and came through a referral from a fellow founder. Exactly what I was looking for—people who will sit down with us to understand our product, market, customers, and the tone of voice we want to resonate with our users. Their service is the definition of a white-glove service for a bespoke, high-quality website that converts.” In recognition of its dedication and hard work, Vimalan gained notoriety in the CEO of the Year Awards 2024 and was bestowed with the prestigious title of Web Design & Development CEO of the Year 2024 - Greater London. A very worthy accolade which is reflective of Vimalan’s commitment – long may it continue! Contact: Vimalan Vijayasekaran Company: ViDesigns Ltd Web Address: https://www.videsigns.uk/ Web Design & Development CEO of the Year 2024 – Greater London
CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 11 Timeless Travel Technology Geotourist is a personal tour guide for the world’s top travel attractions, landmarks and beyond that serves to build an interactive story map of the world to preserve human stories about places. The firm aims to redefine how people experience the world by seamlessly blending technology with travel storytelling, and to educate people who wish to learn about the world around them by empowering individuals, communities, and organisations to share authentic narratives with global audiences in multiple languages. With its commitment to becoming the global travel guide with utilisation of AI, fostering authentic connections through storytelling, as well as data-led transformation for the industry, Geotourist’s emphasis is on sustainable, data-driven economic growth for destinations. Accessibility is also central to its mission. “We aim to make cultural heritage, destinations, and stories accessible to everyone, everywhere,” explains Shaon Talukder, the firm’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our core values - education, innovation, inclusivity, cultural preservation, and user-centric design - drive our approach.” As CEO of Geotourist, Shaon’s role for the team is to set the vision and strategy, drive innovation, and forge global partnerships that amplify its impact. He leads a talented team to expand the platform’s reach and ensure that it stays ahead of industry trends. Every decision that Shaon makes is grounded in the firm belief that every corner of the world has a story worth telling, and that technology should enhance human connection and cultural understanding. “My guiding philosophy is to ‘preserve our human story in our own words for future generations and create an educational landscape that inspires exploration & connection’,” he elaborates. “I’m proud that we are part of the conversation trying to solve some of the biggest challenges in travel and tourism: the preservation of our cultural heritage; overtourism; underutilisation of local attractions, towns and neighbourhoods; environmental impacts; economic growth and distribution.” Shaon’s background was initially in the sciences, and his first venture into entrepreneurship was at secondary school - running the lunchtime film club with a class mate, who was to become a Co-Founder of Geotourist years later. The idea for Geotourist was born whilst travelling with his wife. With just 24 hours to experience Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) in Australia, and having booked a 5-star local expert with rave reviews online, they were beyond excited. However, on arrival, the couple discovered it was the guide’s day off, and had to book an alternative guide. Whilst seeing Uluru was incredible, Shaon felt he was left without the feeling of passion that he had read about. With the rest of the world to explore, Shaon set out to build an audio-map of the world, where people could preserve and share their stories in location, forever. No one would ever have to miss out on experiences all around them and everyone could understand what makes places meaningful. People could travel seamlessly - anywhere - with places authentically brought to life. Geotourist was born. The team behind the brand comprises a passionate group of innovators, storytellers, and technologists who thrive on curiosity, with the culture being dynamic, collaborative, and purpose driven. “I actively encourage a culture of open dialogue, celebrate team achievements, and create the space to push the boundaries of what is possible,” Shaon enthuses. “The spirit of the team, past and present, continues to inspire me to realise the ambition we have for Geotourist.” Of course, it hasn’t always been plain sailing. Few other industries were as negatively impacted by Covid-19 than travel and tourism, and Shaon had to make some challenging decisions during this period. In order to be ready for the industry as it emerged from the crisis, the team decided to use the time to advance its own technology. Today, the travel industry is rapidly evolving, with challenges like sustainability, technological integration, and adapting to post-pandemic traveller expectations. One in five people now use some form of self-guiding technology, with the market projecting continued growth, and therefore scaling the business and advancing its technical capabilities are increasingly important to Shaon. Recently, for his inspirational approach and dedication to bringing travel storytelling to life, Shaon gained notable recognition in the CEO of the Year Awards 2024 and was crowned with the prestigious title of Travel Technology CEO of the Year 2024 – UK. Over the next year, Geotourist plans to expand the platform’s reach through strategic partnerships, introduce advanced features like AI-powered, personalised holograms and predictive travel, and launch initiatives to promote cultural preservation in underserved regions. On a final note, Shaon has some words of wisdom for budding CEOs: “Resilience is one of the most important attributes of a CEO - there are none that I have spoken with that have not faced challenges nor experienced failure,” he states. “Being able to recover from the blows - and to not allow them to derail you - can often be the thin line between success and failure.” Contact: Shaon Talukder Company: Geotourist Web Address: https://geotourist.com/ Jan25011 AI travel app, Geotourist is setting the world ablaze with its futuristic interactive holograms as seen on BBC World, that aim to highlight cultural heritage preservation whilst bringing personalised travel storytelling to the masses. We speak to the firm’s CEO, Shaon Talukder about his ethos and the rationale behind the firm in the wake of him being recognised in the CEO of the Year Awards 2024.
CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 12 ortfolio BI (PBI) has a mission to provide elegant and scalable solutions to the complex challenges faced by businesses, specifically in the alternative asset management sector. The firm focuses on platform-centric data solutions that integrate software technology, public cloud infrastructure, and IT services, all designed to enhance the client journey and deliver better outcomes. Additionally, PBI prioritizes portfolio data orchestration and cybersecurity to ensure that its clients can operate with confidence in a rapidly evolving market. The core values that guide the PBI team are innovation and client-centricity, while maintaining a strong emphasis on domain and subject matter expertise, and the company strives to be dependable in delivering ongoing solution evolution, ensuring that its offerings are not only effective but also cost-efficient in helping clients achieve their goals. “What truly sets PBI apart in the industry is our deep domain expertise,” explains Jonathan White, the firm’s CEO. “With over two decades of experience in the alternative asset management space, we have continuously used technology to solve specific client challenges. This level of industry experience allows us to deliver tailored, impactful solutions that directly address the unique needs of our clients, making us a trusted partner in the field.” As CEO, Jonathan is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company’s operations, strategy, and overall direction. His commercial background naturally lends itself to shaping its go-to-market strategy, defining its value proposition, and ensuring the effective execution of those plans. A key part of Jonathan’s role is also identifying areas where PBI can improve efficiency, allowing the technical teams to focus on innovation and delivering exceptional service to clients. “My guiding philosophy is rooted in a clientfirst approach,” he elaborates. “This means ensuring the best possible client experience, from the initial conversation to solution development and ongoing support. Every step of our interaction is focused on creating meaningful value and building strong, lasting relationships.” From a leadership perspective, Jonathan prioritizes empowering his teams, believing Investment Data Management CEO of the Year 2024 Data solution & services financial firm, Portfolio BI empowers buy-side firms to take control of their portfolio and trading data through workflow, analytics, governance & security. We find out more from Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan White, who tells us more about his experiences as a leader as he is recognized in the CEO of the Year Awards 2024. in creating an environment where every employee has the opportunity to grow and thrive. By providing them with the tools and support they need, they can excel in their roles, collaborate effectively, and deliver the best outcomes for clients and the company. Ultimately, his role as CEO is about fostering a culture of trust, innovation, and accountability to ensure all employees succeed together. With a lifelong passion for the commercial side of business, Jonathan’s journey has been one of continuous growth and evolution, with relationships having been central throughout his career, and he believes the key qualities that set him aside as a leader are a combination of emotional intelligence, vision, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. “I strive to lead with positivity, compassion, and empathy, recognizing that genuine connections and understanding are vital in building strong, cohesive teams,” he enthuses. “Being a people person, I value collaboration and always look for ways to empower others to thrive and succeed in their roles. At the same time, I bring a forward-thinking perspective to both employees and clients, encouraging them to think beyond the present and anticipate what’s on the horizon. This approach helps us stay innovative and relevant in a rapidly changing world.” Recently, in recognition of his commitment to the firm and his clientele, Jonathan was awarded with the title of Investment Data Management CEO of the Year 2024 in the CEO of the Year Awards 2024. Now the future is looking bright for PBI, with AI-driven data strategies being a key focus. However, Jonathan shares a few pearls of wisdom from his career for budding CEOs looking to build a strong and capable company. “Take the lead and be at the forefront of every interaction,” he states. “You need to stay ahead, anticipating challenges and opportunities. “Being a CEO is about inspiring confidence and clarity while remaining open to feedback and new ideas. By staying proactive, maintaining a forward-thinking mindset, and leading with purpose, you can guide your organization toward success.” P Contact: Jonathan White Company: Portfolio BI Web Address: www.portfoliobi.com
CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 13 Hybrid Vehicle Batteries CEO of the Year 2024 - California Jack Chiou, the innovative mind behind NexPower Energy Inc., has earned the prestigious “CEO of the Month” award. Chiou’s extraordinary journey, marked by resilience and groundbreaking achievements, has transformed NexPower into a beacon of innovation in the hybrid battery industry. Here, we celebrate his accomplishments and delve into the remarkable story behind his success. Humble Beginnings and Early Genius Born in Taiwan in 1978, Jack Chiou’s talent for invention emerged at an early age. At just 12 years old, he received international recognition, winning multiple awards, including the IWIEF Inventors & Entrepreneurs Expo in Los Angeles in 1990. These early accolades foreshadowed his future as a trailblazer. In 2002, Chiou moved to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in biomedical engineering at the University of Southern California. Living with his aunt in a modest 50-square-foot room and working as a teaching assistant, he saved every penny to purchase his first car, a used 2006 Toyota Prius Hybrid. These experiences not only shaped his character but also laid the groundwork for his vision of creating costeffective and high-performing battery solutions. From Engineer to Entrepreneur After graduating, Chiou began his career as a software engineer at CCC Collision Repair Software. This role offered him a unique perspective on the automotive industry, particularly the high cost of OEM hybrid batteries. This insight ignited his passion for developing affordable and efficient alternatives, culminating in the creation of his first product: the Dr. Prius App. This revolutionary application allowed millions of hybrid vehicle owners to monitor their battery health and predict battery life expectancy. The success of the Dr. Prius App provided Chiou with the funding and confidence to launch “Project Lithium,” a bold initiative to transition aging hybrid vehicles from Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) to Lithium-ion battery technology. Initially, the project received widespread acclaim, offering customers a more cost effective and efficient solution. However, unforeseen challenges emerged as extreme temperatures and driving conditions began to impact the performance of the lithium-ion batteries. Overcoming Adversity By late 2023, NexPower faced significant setbacks. Warranty claims, safety concerns, and online criticism threatened the company’s reputation and financial stability. Yet, instead of capitulating, Chiou demonstrated exceptional resilience. Traveling to Asia, he sought out battery cell manufacturers willing to collaborate on the development of a nextgeneration battery solution. His persistence paid off, culminating in the creation of sodium-ion batteries tailored to withstand extreme conditions. A New Era with Sodium-Ion Technology In December 2024, NexPower’s sodium-ion batteries are setting a new standard in the industry. Most people don’t even know that Chiou is one of the main forces behind the success of the sodiumion battery. The first dozen prototypes have successfully endured two harsh winters without issue, restoring customer confidence and positioning the company for a bright future. Despite personal sacrifices, including forgoing his salary and depleting his savings, Chiou’s unwavering dedication has revitalized NexPower’s mission. A CEO Who Leads by Example Jack Chiou’s leadership extends far beyond innovation. His commitment to customer satisfaction is unparalleled, personally responding to every inquiry and fostering a sense of community among NexPower’s clients. His handson approach and willingness to face challenges head-on have earned him not only the respect of his peers but also the loyalty of his customers. As NexPower continues to redefine hybrid battery technology, Jack Chiou’s story serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs worldwide. His perseverance, vision, and customer-centric philosophy are a testament to what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and innovative thinking. Congratulations to Jack Chiou on being named CEO of the Year. The future of NexPower, under his extraordinary leadership, looks brighter than ever. Contact: Jack Chiou Company: NexPower Energy Inc. Website: nexpowerenergy.com Dec24118 Celebrating Visionary Leadership: Jack Chiou
CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 14 Signing a commercial lease is a pivotal moment for a business owner and can be an exciting new adventure. However, there can be serious repercussions if you sign a bad lease, such as paying too much or finding yourself in a space that isn’t fit for purpose for years to come, or both. Commercial lease documents are complex, and before signing on the dotted line it’s crucial to ensure you completely understand what you’re agreeing to. Here are some of the most important clauses to familiarise yourself with. Security of tenure ‘Security of tenure’ is the tenant’s statutory right under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 to be granted a new lease of their business premises once their current lease expires. This clause can be a real advantage as it facilitates business continuity and can help ensure you aren’t forced to relocate to another space. This is especially important if you have spent thousands of pounds on a fit out, or if you are a retailer and your customers have come to know where your shop is located. By Jonathan Hand, founder of The Lease Negotiator ‘Contracting out ‘ It’s important to understand that your right to security of tenure can be contracted out. If this happens, you’re essentially agreeing to give up your automatic right to a new lease when your current one ends. This means your landlord won’t be legally required to offer you a new lease, and you may need to vacate the premises unless you negotiate a new agreement. Whether this is a problem really depends on your situation. If you have a good relationship with your landlord, they may still be happy to offer you a new lease, even though they’re not obligated to. On the other hand, if your business is growing and you’ll soon need larger premises, then this becomes less of an issue. While contracting out does remove some security, it’s not always a disadvantage. The key is to consider how it aligns with your long-term plans and to fully understand the implications. Break clauses A situation may arise where your business needs flexibility and the power to exit your lease before the agreed term is up. This is where a break clause becomes important. A break clause is a contractual provision that allows either the landlord or the tenant to terminate the lease prematurely, usually before the end of the fixed term. It provides an opportunity for either party to exit the lease by giving notice within a specified timeframe, subject to certain conditions which are set out in the lease Your lease isn’t guaranteed to contain a break clause – it’s subject to negotiation between you and your landlord. However, walking away from a commercial lease without the inclusion of such a clause can present considerable challenges. Not only will you be bound to fulfil the lease terms, but you may also be required to proactively engage in negotiations with your landlord to secure an early termination. It’s crucial to note that walking away from a lease can potentially expose you to financial penalties and legal consequences, so it’s advisable to approach such situations diligently and seek appropriate legal guidance to safeguard your interests. Service charges in shared buildings A service charge is usually a charge your landlord requires you to pay for shared areas, sometimes known as ‘communal’ areas or ‘common’ parts of the property you occupy. It is in addition to your rent payment and provides for the costs and expenses your landlord incurs for keeping these spaces in good repair and condition. There should be a specific provision in your commercial lease which contains all the details about your service charge. This should set out which services it includes, how your proportion payable is calculated, whether third parties will carry out the services the service charge covers, and whether the service charge is limited, or you requested a cap on this at the start of the lease. Dilapidations Your lease is also likely to have a clause covering your responsibilities regarding items of disrepair, also known as ‘dilapidations’. It’s vital to understand your liabilities regarding dilapidations to ensure you avoid a potential claim brought against you by your landlord for breach of covenant. Dilapidations refer to any damage you have caused to the business premises you lease, as well as damage to belongings or fixtures of your landlord that you have allowed to fall into disrepair. As part of the repairing clause, you will be required to repair or ‘make good’ any damage you’ve caused. You may also have to return the property to how it was when you took on the lease if you have, for example, carried out extensive alterations to the property. Your lease will also usually contain dilapidations clauses requiring you to ensure the property complies with all relevant legal obligations. For example, you may need to ensure your property complies with health and safety regulations. If you fail to carry out repairs required of you during the term of your lease, this may put you in breach of the terms and your landlord can then make a dilapidations claim against you. Final thoughts Understanding a new commercial lease can feel like a minefield, but taking the time to familiarise yourself with the key terms and implications can save you from unexpected challenges down the line. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek professional advice, whether from a solicitor, surveyor, or commercial property expert. These professionals can help you identify any potential pitfalls and negotiate terms that work in your favour. The Most Important Clauses All Business Leaders Should Look Out For When Signing A New Commercial Lease
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