Issue 5 2024 Featuring: Cath Thrupp: A Sustainability Thought Leader SODA.Auto: Driving the Future of the Automotive Industry Headquartered in London, SODA.Auto is transforming the automotive industry by developing a revolutionary range of automotive tools, powered by AI and digital twin technology. The incredible mind behind this budding enterprise is CEO Sergey Malygin, who has recently been named Most Influential CEO 2024 - UK (AI Engineering Tools Development) in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. Here, we dive deeper into SODA’s fascinating work and Sergey’s excellent leadership of the company.
Welcome to the May 2024 issue of CEO Monthly. As always, CEO Monthly is dedicated to providing the latest news and features across the business world to our readership. By sharing knowledge, insights, expertise, and success stories from around the globe, we aim to inspire individuals and promote positivity in a world that is in a constant state of evolution. The world of business continues to change rapidly, and any successful CEO will know how their mindset needs to be purposefully shifting in the same way in order to thrive. In doing so, it is important to be embracing creativity and welcoming fresh ideas from team members, building and retaining a talented, skilled team who feel empowered, and striking a genuine balance between work and personal life. Now, we go on to explore the inspiring stories of our award-winning CEOs. First, we are pleased to be featuring CEO of SODA.Auto, Sergey Malygin on our front cover. SODA.Auto is revolutionising the future of automotive through the development of cuttingedge AI and digital twin technology. We go behind the scenes to discover the innovative work of SODA. Auto and how Sergey’s visionary leadership has led to his well-deserved success within our Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. Elsewhere, we showcase more CEOs whose businesses operate in sectors such as environmental services, community-based youth services, beauty ecommerce, immersive technology, and more. Each of these CEOs have proven themselves to be outstanding in their own ways, but what they all have in common is being brilliant leaders and true specialists in their respective areas. We hope you enjoy perusing this insightful issue and we look forward to welcoming you back again next month. Rebecca Scotland, 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. SODA.Auto: Driving the Future of the Automotive Industry 8. Cath Thrupp: A Sustainability Thought Leader 10. Gina Yazbek: A Thought Leader in Construction Technology 12. Workplace Solutions Made Simple! 14. Lee Williams DL: Community Advocate for Bristol’s Young People 15. Passionate About Making a Difference 16. Lydia Schoonderbeek: Empowering Beauty Journeys 17. Why the Future of Learning Technology is Immersive Contents
NEWS Fred Dixon Appointed President & CEO of Brand USA
The Alberta Insurance Council (AIC) is pleased to announce that Amina Deiab has been named the AIC’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 22, 2024. Deiab is a transformational leader with over twenty years of experience in the public and private sectors, including serving on and working with boards of directors for a decade. She also has extensive experience working at the intersection of large-scale economic development, strategy, energy policy, and governance in a number of leadership roles in the Government of Alberta. “We are excited to have Amina take the helm and lead the AIC as it continues to fulfill its mission to protect Alberta insurance consumers through the licensing and regulating of insurance agents, brokers, and independent adjusters in the province,” says Michael Ilnycky, Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors for the Alberta Insurance Council. “The AIC is on the exciting cusp of transformation and innovation as it strives to become an even more effective regulator, and we are confident that Amina’s regulatory leadership experience and focus on risk and outcomes regulation will be instrumental to advancing the AIC and its services during this time of growth and opportunity. “We thank Darlene Hyde for her dedication and strong leadership as Interim CEO. Her commitment to the AIC and the insurance industry is a credit to her professionalism and expertise, and we appreciate her immense contributions during this transition.” As the new CEO of the AIC, Deiab will be responsible for overseeing AIC operations and providing strategic direction and leadership. Deiab was most recently the Founder of QED Inc, providing advice to boards, chairs, and executive teams to help them build effective corporate governance practices as a bedrock of organizational success. She also previously served as President & CEO of the Safety Codes Council; in that role, Deiab led a significant organizational transformation with a focus on transforming the organization to become a risk and outcomes-based regulator. Deiab spent the first 15 years of her career in the private sector focused on business development across Canada and the U.S. She has also founded her own companies involved in the residential construction sector. She holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute for Corporate Directors and has a Master’s Degree in Public Policy, specializing in Innovation, Science, and Energy Policy from Carleton University. “I am honoured to step into the role of CEO of the Alberta Insurance Council. The AIC has a long and proud history of protecting Alberta insurance consumers and regulating the industry, and I am proud to build upon that legacy,” says Deiab. “It is critical for the AIC to enhance its relationships and partnerships with key stakeholders, increase regulation effectiveness, modernize its systems and processes, and implement improvements to keep pace with changes in the industry. I look forward to working with the AIC Board, industry councils, AIC staff, and our many partners to make progress in these areas, to advance regulatory practices for the industry, and to continue evolving the AIC for the future.” The Alberta Insurance Council announces new CEO Dixon will succeed Christopher L. Thompson to lead the company as it approaches fifteen years of excellence Brand USA, the destination marketing organization for the United States, today announced that, as part of a planned succession process, its Board of Directors has appointed Fred Dixon as the company’s new President & Chief Executive Officer, effective July 15, 2024. Dixon will succeed Christopher L. Thompson, who announced his retirement in July 2023 and held the role of Brand USA’s President & CEO from 2012 to 2024. Thompson will continue to work with the Company through September 30, 2024, as an advisor to facilitate a seamless leadership transition for Brand USA and its partners. Dixon joins the company with significant experience and a proven leadership track record in the travel industry as the current President and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions, New York City’s official destination marketing organization. With more than 30 years in the sector, Dixon is poised to lead Brand USA and bolster its position as a global leader in destination marketing. The Brand USA team is excited about the new perspectives he will bring to drive growth. “We are delighted to welcome Fred as Brand USA’s next Chief Executive Officer,” said Todd Davidson, Brand USA Board Chair and CEO of Travel Oregon. “Fred brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from across the travel and tourism industry and his strategic, visionary and humble leadership proved that he is the right person to take Brand USA and the marketing of the USA’s rich and diverse destinations and experiences to even greater heights. Brand USA’s ability to drive impact with stakeholders and optimize the travel industry’s critical economic contributions to the U.S. economy will prosper under Fred’s leadership.” Dixon will oversee all of Brand USA’s operations as the company prepares for its next phase of growth as tourism remains strong within the U.S. “I am grateful for my time as the President & CEO of Brand USA, and I know that the future of the company will be in great hands with Fred at the helm along with the dedicated team and the Board,” said outgoing President & CEO Christopher L. Thompson. “I will work closely with Fred and our Board of Directors to ensure a seamless transition of responsibilities.” “I am incredibly honored and excited to serve as the next President and CEO of Brand USA,” said Dixon. “The U.S. is one of the world’s premiere travel destinations that will only continue to draw and delight visitors from across the globe, and we are well positioned for future growth and success. I want to thank Chris for his many years of leadership and his friendship. I look forward to joining this team and working across the industry to propel us forward.” Dixon will become President & CEO effective July 15, 2024.
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CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 7 ollowing an impressive career in the automotive and telecommunications industries, Sergey Malygin was inspired to establish SODA in 2023, envisioning a world in which brand-new vehicle models can be brought to life with just a few clicks. During its first year of operation, the company has achieved remarkable success, launching a multitude of products to the market. This includes SODA.Validate, SODA.Sim, SODA AI Hub, SODA.Library, and SODA SDV Kit. SODA products address a range of challenges currently faced by the automotive industry. For example, with budgets per vehicle rapidly decreasing, the traditional method of delegating tasks to a large number of suppliers and spending millions on each of them is not sustainable. Recently, Chinese companies have developed the ability to deliver a competitive product in a short period of time. In order to compete with this, automakers must speed up vehicle creation and reduce development costs. This is where SODA SDV Kit comes in. The product is the world’s first ready-to-use kit for making a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV), consisting of AI-powered engineering tools, flexible E/E architecture, and a software library with over 200 features, software, and tests. The kit makes vehicle software engineering twice as fast whilst reducing its cost by three quarters, all without compromising on quality, safety, and security. Since early on in his career, Sergey has taken on a variety of leadership positions, including Product Manager, Director of Programme Management, and Chief Technology Officer. In this, he has headed up teams consisting of up to 750 employees. As a result, when he branched out on his own to establish SODA, he was well-equipped with the leadership experience needed to drive his new team to success. At SODA, when Sergey and his team prepared to launch Validate Studio, an automated testing tool for automotive software, Sergey noticed a crucial component was missing: AI. With the launch imminent and little time for restructuring, Sergey tasked his Chief Architect to find ways to integrate AI. In a very short time they developed and seamlessly integrated AI co-pilot, which assists engineers in writing tests and radically reduces the human time. This significant adjustment was a shock for the team, yet the integration was seamlessly executed. Sergey’s strategic insight into technology trends and his effective resource management allowed the team to enhance SODA.Auto: Driving the Future of the Automotive Industry Headquartered in London, SODA.Auto is transforming the automotive industry by developing a revolutionary range of automotive tools, powered by AI and digital twin technology. The incredible mind behind this budding enterprise is CEO Sergey Malygin, who has recently been named Most Influential CEO 2024 - UK (AI Engineering Tools Development) in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. Here, we dive deeper into SODA’s fascinating work and Sergey’s excellent leadership of the company. the product without delaying the launch, achieving outstanding results. Sergey enjoys setting up goals that challenge his employees to go beyond their perceived limits. Often, people may doubt their abilities, but once they embrace Sergey’s guidance and take on tasks they thought were beyond their reach, remarkable transformations occur. They achieve great successes and gain a newfound pride in their capabilities, realising they can accomplish far more than they imagined. Although this operating mode is demanding, Sergey has successfully built a team that thrives on overcoming challenges and strives daily to become better versions of themselves. Sergey has always had a keen sense for technology trends, accurately foreseeing the rise of SDV, AI, and Digital Twin technologies in the automotive industry. This foresight allowed him to incorporate these technologies into the foundation of all SODA products. Understanding the challenges of penetrating the market dominated by big OEMs with substantial legacies, Sergey strategically targeted automotive startups, which were more receptive to implementing innovative solutions. This approach paid off, with companies like Charge Cars and Helixx becoming first SODA customers. Sergey also anticipated a shift towards new business models in the automotive sector, where companies would adopt integrated technologies, simplifying supplier management and cutting costs and production times. This vision has materialised, attracting future clients among automotive startups who now integrate SODA technologies into their business models, enhancing their appeal to investors. As a result, it is no surprise that Sergey has been named Most Influential CEO 2024 - UK (AI Engineering Tools Development) in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. Looking towards the future, Sergey’s upcoming plans are centred around the release of a new product, SODA.Create, putting the last brick into SODA Tools Suite called SODA V. This comprehensive solution enables seamless engineering experience for requirements management, architecture, software design, and system and vehicle validation in a single user-friendly tool, enabling clients to avoid the hassle of integrating several separate automotive tools. Furthermore, SODA is actively onboarding new customers, and some exciting partnership announcements are on the horizon. F Contact: Sergey Malygin Company: SODA.Auto Web Address: soda.auto
Cath Thrupp: A Sustainability Thought Leader
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 9 Mar24098 In the current climate, the challenge of sustainability is one that is affecting all industries and with a lack of transparency between investment and outcome, scalable outcomes are not always achieved. Carbon Planet is on a mission to build a more sustainable world by originating, advising, and developing impact projects at scale. Spearheaded by CEO Cath Thrupp, Carbon Planet is passionate about providing bespoke solutions to scale landscape restoration and support local communities. Recognised in this year’s Most Influential CEO Awards, Cath Thrupp is the visionary behind Carbon Planet’s objective to reimagine capitalism and create a more equitable world. Since its inception, Carbon Planet has become a leading global provider of advisory services in the natural capital, carbon, and environmental markets. By leveraging carbon, eco-markets, and advanced technology, the company provides innovative environment and land restoration solutions and advisory for large scale global impact projects. Carbon Planet is passionate about helping local communities create new jobs and regenerative industries. Working in collaboration with Global Impact Funds, Carbon Planet designs tailormade solutions to help countries and companies meet their Net Zero and ESG impact goals. The business strives to deliver measurable value by focusing on how cutting-edge technologies can be used to support global transition. With over 25 years of industry experience, Cath Thrupp is an environmental leader who has advised, designed, and led large water and natural resource projects in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Through her role, Cath realised the need for solutions that address the key issues preventing sustainability. With Carbon Planet, Cath envisioned a way for farmers, traditional owners, and local communities to benefit from the success of global impact projects and natural capital. Each bespoke solution is designed to increase community ownership of projects, provide unique learning opportunities, and produce greater benefits for local communities. Cath Thrupp says, “My focus as CEO is to set the long-term vision of the company, build the culture, work with like-minded leaders around the world, and design an agile, innovative organisation for the future. Everything I have learnt, from water management to real estate investment, through to online marketing, future of work, and personal mindset, has shaped my thinking and the company’s development. “The last few years have been focused on thinking deeply about what our world needs to achieve Net Zero and the SDGs. We consider how business models will need to change to achieve our global targets and create a circular economy. It is also essential to understand both geopolitical situations and the needs of everyday people, and how converging technologies can be leveraged to support the global transition.” Carbon Planet strives to create positive social and environmental impact by utilising technology to connect global investment to scalable impact projects. Its immersive projects include river restoration, coastal resilience, circular economy villages, supply chain decarbonisation, renewable energy/water, and many more. By implementing state-of-art technology, Carbon Planet can measure and validate outcomes, build sustainable supply chains, and provide education to landholders and investors. Every project has a digital twin to help the company predict outcomes, with investment via smart contracts and blockchain. Carbon Planet offers engaging education with 3D technology and uses IoT sensor networks to measure on-ground outcomes in real-time. Working with a rapidly changing climate and its subsequent impact on local communities and the environment poses significant challenges. Like many other businesses, Carbon Planet is navigating the climate change challenges. To achieve this, the company has invested in futuristic mentors and established strategic partnerships with other progressive global leaders. Carbon Planet has also leveraged new technology to adopt a data-driven approach. An example of this is AI global climate models, which the organisation uses to understand geographical climate risk for its projects. Cath Thrupp shares, “Since the Covid pandemic, one of the greatest opportunities has been to connect more with like-minded leaders around the world. There is much more collaboration and there are many more global learning opportunities. This has made my role much more about global citizenship and much less about the constraints of boundaries. I also see converging technologies as a major opportunity to scale impact towards Net Zero and the SDGs. As a company, we are actively bringing new technology stacks together to help solve environmental and social challenges at scale.” Carbon Planet is focused on maximising agility to build long-term resilience. Its team is completely remote and works across many countries and cultures. The company is committed to sharing its profits and ensuring its employees have a healthy work-life balance. Cath’s role in fostering a collaborative culture encompasses everything from recruiting the right people to measuring the company’s social and environmental progress. By maintaining a clear longterm vision and company mission, Cath can ensure that every team member understands how their role contributes to the overarching goal. Over the years, Cath’s leadership style has evolved but has always focused on team empowerment and bringing together people, technology, and solutions in groundbreaking ways. Throughout her career, Cath has discovered that her ultimate strength lies in understanding complex problems and supporting every individual to grow as a leader themselves. Her visionary leadership style involves maintaining a clear vision, employing the right people, and supporting the team’s professional and personal development. Moving forward, Carbon Planet will continue to focus on building new business models to scale impact and utilising its suite of technologies to increase transparency and accountability. Over the coming year, the company is excited to unveil more impactful and large-scale global projects. On her own career, Cath says, “Success for me is measured by the scale of positive impact that our projects have on the world. In addition to standard metrics, I will be measuring my career and company success by real-world outcomes, such as how many people have been lifted out of poverty, how many more people can feed their families and have access to clean drinking water, what area of land has been restored and how much carbon has been sequestered.” As a thought leader, Cath Thrupp is passionate about delivering systems solutions that recreate approaches for integrated landscape restoration, food production and energy supplies, to ensure long-term jobs, and the future resilience of towns and cities. Through the company’s collaborative partnerships and global market connections, Carbon Planet strives to create scalable solutions that benefit investors and communities alike. Steered by Cath’s ambitious direction, the company has adopted a sustainability first approach, leveraging advanced technologies to envisage a world where natural capital has value, investments are transparent, and communities can create regenerative industries. For her pioneering leadership, we have bestowed on Cath Thrupp this year’s award for Most Influential CEO - QLD (Environmental Services). Contact Details Contact: Cath Thrupp Company: CarbonPlanet Web Address: https://carbonplanet.io/
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 10 ommnia offers a comprehensive Construction Project Management system which includes a suite of features including Tendering, Procurement, Document Management, Project Communication, and much more on one centralised platform. The platform provides professionals with project management tools and sophisticated solutions to meet the everevolving demands of the industry. Commnia enables all team members and stakeholders to stay connected at all times and helps lead projects efficiently from concept to completion. With over two decades of industry experience, Commnia boasts a deep understanding of the construction industry’s specific requirements and challenges. Its team develops bespoke solutions, tailored for construction professionals, to address the industry’s distinct complexities. Driven by a customercentric approach, Commnia is committed to achieving customer satisfaction and exceeding clients’ needs throughout every stage of the process. As Commnia’s dynamic leader, Gina Yazbek provides the company with strategic direction and has fostered a culture of collaboration and innovation. Her role encompasses various responsibilities including market analysis, identifying growth opportunities, and making informed decisions to propel Commnia to the forefront of the construction technology market. Gina is passionate about inspiring the team to excel in their roles, embody the business’s core values, and contribute to its overall success. Gina Yazbek says, “In Australia, where the construction sector is primarily maledominated, my experience as a woman in the industry has presented unique challenges. When I began my career, women were largely underrepresented, particularly in roles outside of traditional office-based positions. Despite these challenges, I was determined to carve out a space for myself in the industry and drive change. “I have continuously sought opportunities to challenge the status quo, leveraging my passion for technology and commitment to driving industry transformation. Through dedication, hard work, and a willingness to embrace innovation, I have overcome obstacles and established Commnia as a leader in the construction technology space. Today, I am proud to champion diversity, equality, and innovation, driving our company forward to empower construction Gina Yazbek: A Thought Leader in Construction Technology For 25 years, Commnia has remained committed to advancing the Australian construction industry through innovative technology solutions. Spearheaded by CEO Gina Yazbek, the business strives to provide construction professionals with innovative tools to streamline their project management solutions, boost collaboration, and promote efficiency. Recognised in this year’s Most Influential CEO Awards, Gina Yazbek is dedicated to empowering her team to maximise their potential, delivering exceptional value and industry-leading support to Commnia’s customers and stakeholders. professionals with innovative technology solutions. My journey reflects the value of perseverance and the potential for positive change, even in the face of entrenched industry norms.” The Australian construction industry is currently facing challenging economic conditions resulting from factors such as rising costs, regulatory changes, and supply chain disruptions. This downturn has had a significant impact on builders and contractors who are experiencing financial strain from reduced construction activity and delayed projects. In response to these challenges, Commnia has developed a strategic approach that emphasises innovation, customer support, and financial resilience. As clients’ needs continue to evolve, the company strives to innovate its products and services to meet emerging challenges. The Commnia team works closely with clients to deliver tailored solutions designed to drive growth and success in the industry. Over the coming year, Commnia plans to evolve its platform with new features and functionalities to further streamline project management processes and provide customers with even greater value. The executive team will also be exploring opportunities to expand the company’s market presence and reach new sectors where its solutions can have significant impact. Commnia understands the importance of client collaboration in developing new modules and enhancing existing ones. In the upcoming months, it is dedicated to closely working with clients to innovate and enhance its offerings, ensuring it effectively meets evolving needs. 2024 is set to be a momentous year for Commnia with exciting plans that will reflect the business’s robust commitment to delivering exceptional value to customers. Reflecting on her future career, Gina Yazbek shares, “My mission is to transform the way professionals in construction view and embrace technology, creating solutions that seamlessly integrate into their daily routines and make them feel truly comfortable with its implementation. Commnia was built by Australian builders for Australian builders and is wholeheartedly dedicated to this cause. Overall, I am excited about Commnia’s future and the opportunities it presents. I look forward to our ongoing journey of growth, innovation, and impact, and I am incredibly grateful for the privilege of leading such an exceptional team.” Under CEO Gina Yazbek’s strategic direction, Commnia will continue its relentless pursuit of innovation driven by the desire to deliver unparalleled value to its clients. Despite ongoing volatility in the construction market, Gina Yazbek has cultivated an agile team that is dedicated to overcoming future challenges and driving growth in the dynamic construction technology industry. For her thought leadership, we have honoured Gina Yazbek with this year’s award for Most Influential CEO - Australia (Construction Project Software). C Contact: [email protected] Company: Commnia Web Address: https://commnia.com/
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 11 Matthias Naumann Insurance Services CEO of the Year 2023 - Ireland Custom House Plaza, Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 1, D01V9V4 +353 1 5925333 [email protected]
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 12 Workplace Solutions Made Simple! hroughout its 25year history, Boyer Management Group has been praised by its diverse and global clientele for just how consistently its associates meet and exceed client expectations when delivering sound guidance and advice. Because each person and client organisation is unique, Boyer Management uses a tailored approach to help each develop to full potential, whilst seamlessly incorporating current and emerging best practices to strengthen what is working well. CEO and Founder Hank Boyer has built a culture around the values of respect, continuous improvement, integrity, innovation, and delivering value. Just as iron sharpens iron, each client engagement serves to help future clients excel more. Believing each person and organisation to be an ongoing work in progress, Boyer Management Group’s guiding principles include: 1. Meet each client where they are and help them get to where they want to be. 2. Always deliver more than you committed to. 3. Be a fiduciary. 4. Leave everything and everyone better than when you started. 5. Learn from everyone. 6. Pay it forward. 7. You are only as good as your last success, and you must earn clients’ business every day. Mar24309 Empowered by its determination to work with organisations that want to get the very best out of their people and with senior managers who want to improve their effectiveness, Boyer Management Group is a standout entity in its field. Now serving a global clientele from its offices in the Greater Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania, USA, Boyer Management Group has delivered a 25-year track record of developing talent as led by CEO and Founder Hank Boyer. Recipient of CEO Monthly’s Most Influential CEO – Pennsylvania (Executive Coaching) title in both 2023 and 2024, Hank stands as an example of excellence within the field of executive coaching. Below, we explore how. T Following a successful 24-year corporate career serving in a variety of leadership roles in technology, communications, and marketing, Hank recognised that the market was ripe for a new entity that could help organisations develop talent in a best-practices environment, and so he forged Boyer Management Group to fill this ever-present need. Since commencing operation, Boyer Management Group has demonstrated an unmistakable knack for living up to its founding expectations. However, to truly understand how Hank developed into the leader he is today, we must focus back on his growing up years. At just six years old, and having grown up on a farm, Hank and his brother combined their respective talents to begin selling handmade plastic wrapped metal clothing hangers doorto-door. Though it may seem a humble endeavour, this venture was just one of many that would influence Hank’s approach later in life – one that, combined with the hard work and persistence to figure things out growing up on a farm, taught him that putting oneself out there was the first step to becoming the best version of yourself. Hank held a variety of parttime jobs during his schooling and into university, which included selling electronics for Tandy Corporation/Radio Shack during his junior and senior years. Upon graduation, he was invited to join Tandy’s management training programme and within four months found himself running a business unit on a P&L. It was this taste of management that kickstarted his pursuit of learning and refining current and emerging best practices in the ways organisations work best, something that carried on through several decades of management and leadership roles. Over the years, he was exposed to innovative methods and ways of leading others that would shape his approach to the CEO role later in life. His biggest learning was the importance of selecting the right people and simultaneously learning from them, which made it possible to grow a profitable enterprise. Education was the key and Hank’s vision was the lock. Combined, these two presented Hank with an opportunity create the Boyer Management Group in 1998. Now, through its impeccably designed leadership curriculum and coaching, Boyer Management Group has both directly and indirectly trained and coached more than 30,000 current and aspiring leaders, in addition to the tutelage of over 10,000 sales and sales management professionals. As such, the practice is widely recognised as a trusted partner in delivering bestin-class assessments that utilise behavioural science to measure someone’s behavioural and motivational makeup, emotional intelligence, and business acumen. Applying the belief leadership starts with selecting the right people for the right roles; Boyer Management Group has produced programmes that help its clients to recruit, develop, and unlock each person’s potential. Though Boyer Management Group has a vast array of exceptional achievements under its belt, Hank singled out two of the organisation’s flagship programmes. Leading Through People™ boasts one of the most extensive modular leadership programmes on the market aimed at all levels of leadership, from aspiring leaders to the c-suite, and B2B Sales Essentials™, an awardwinning modular sales and sales management development programme acclaimed for its transformational results. Both are taught and licensed to clients and are internationally recognised for their efficacy. Both are emblematic of the best-practices talent development approaches found in Boyer Management Group’s coaching and training initiatives. Initially created to elevate those it served, the practice has since evolved to capably carry out this mission, while also honing its own talents in the process. Though it may be an incredibly dynamic framework, it’s one that has had proven positive effects on any client that turns to it for guidance. Boyer Management Group flourishes
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 13 when lending its expertise to those who may have otherwise believed they weren’t cut out for the level of evolution necessary within their industries, and, under Hank’s watch, has succeeded in empowering these very individuals. CEO Monthly sheds light on the leaders that are redefining the meaning of the role, and Hank Boyer is no exception. Leveraging the experience he possesses dating all the way back to his childhood, Hank has created an entity upon which any client can rely – one that has never faltered in bettering those around it. Boyer Management Group’s success stands as a testament to Hank’s commitment to helping individuals and organisations develop their potential. We’re certain that it will continue to thrive following the recognition of its standout CEO. For the second year in a row we are pleased to present Hank Boyer with the title of Most Influential CEO 2024 – Executive Coaching (Pennsylvania). Contact Details Contact: Hank Boyer Company: Boyer Management Group Web Address: www.boyermanagement.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hboyer
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 14 Young Bristol is a multi-awardwinning provider of community youth clubs, outdoor activities, and mobile youth services, as well as outdoor employment and educational opportunities. Since its inception, the charity has strived to create a sustainable impact by Since 1928, Young Bristol has remained steadfast in its mission to support young people between ages 8 and 25 throughout their out of school hours. The spectacular charity has become Bristol’s leading provider of community-based youth services, offering an accessible network to some of Bristol’s most challenging communities. For over 5 years, CEO Lee Williams DL has leveraged his corporate experience to provide Young Bristol with the strategic direction to achieve its collective goals. Recognised in this year’s Most Influential CEO Awards, Lee Williams DL tells us more about this outstanding charity and the impactful role it plays in its communities. building brighter futures for young people across Bristol. Its core values revolve around helping young people become confident, healthy, responsible, and resilient, providing them with opportunities to succeed in life and employment. Young Bristol has been recognised for its valuable contributions and most recently won the Bristol Life Awards 2024, in addition to receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, an honour that is the charity sector’s equivalent to an individual receiving an MBE. It has also seen a number of its young participants being recognised in the Bristol Young Heroes Awards. Over the past 5 years, Young Bristol has grown exponentially and between 2022–2023, the charity had contact with 20,562 young people. Through its Outdoor Employment Programme, 50 participants aged 16–25 achieved qualifications and developed their skills in a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, and first aid. Young Bristol also invested significantly in its team’s development, its buildings, its quality programmes, and fostering strong partnerships. These improvements enabled the charity to provide vital support to 16 communities across Bristol and the surrounding areas. In 2018, Lee Williams DL was appointed CEO of Young Bristol and has been instrumental in providing the charity with strategic leadership and financial management. His primary duties include working closely with the Board of Trustees and delivering strategies while ensuring that operations remain aligned with the charity’s overarching mission. Lee runs Young Bristol as a business with the only major difference being that the team measures its success by the positive impact it has on its young people as opposed to financial performance. Lee Williams DL shares, “When I joined the charity, over 90% of its £300K income came from traditional fundraising. As we have grown the charity’s income (£1.3M 2024–25) to match the increase in our programmes and services, trust and grants still play an important role but now only equate to 55% of current income. Over the past five years, we have not only increased our yearly income, but we have massively diversified sources of income and therefore de-risked with alternative income coming from the likes of corporates, events, regular giving, and grants, ensuring we are more financially diverse and sustainable.” For over 40 years, Lee Williams DL has worked in both private and public sectors roles and now uses this experience to support the charity and help his colleagues learn and develop. Lee strives to be a supportive leader, especially when the team encounters challenges which can be crucial learning experiences. Throughout his career, Lee has discovered that good recruitment is key and has amassed a talented team at Young Bristol. Since the pandemic, the working world has changed dramatically across all sectors. Technological innovation now enables more roles to be performed remotely and there is a greater demand for flexible working. As CEO, Lee has embraced these changes to support staff and foster a positive working culture. Looking to the future, Young Bristol will continue to implement its 2022–25 strategy which focuses on five key pillars: Our People, Our Building and Facilities, Our Programmes, Our Influence, and Our Partnerships. Over the next 18 months, the team will introduce several more strategic plans, particularly regarding its buildings and facilities. Creating safe and state-of-the-art buildings is essential to support the team’s delivery of high quality services and provide employees with opportunities to grow and thrive. Lee Williams DL says, “On a personal level, I was really honoured in July 2020 to be appointed a Deputy Lieutenant for the County and City of Bristol. We live in a forever changing world and I have no intention of slowing down or retiring. There is still so much I want to achieve personally and professionally. I intend to keep pushing the boundaries, trying new things, and continuously learning from those around me.” Led by CEO Lee Williams DL, Young Bristol will continue to make a positive difference to the lives of young people and communities around the city. For his incredible achievements, we have bestowed on Lee Williams DL this year’s award for Most Influential CEO - South West England (Youth Charity). Contact: Lee J. Williams DL Company: Young Bristol Web Address: https://www. youngbristol.com/ Lee Williams DL: Community Advocate for Bristol’s Young People
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 15 Passionate About Making a Difference Delivering its remarkable suite of services across the UK, Europe, and the US, Gibbs Consulting is a frontrunner in such areas as Infrastructure, Cloud Services, AI & ML, Cyber Security, Digital Transformation, Data Science Analytics, and Architecure Services. A part of the Atrium family group of companies, which has been responsible for an enormous $5.5 billion worth of sales since its inception, Gibbs Consulting leverages this status to its gain to offer clients from across the world sustained excellence, delivering on its ethos pertaining to innovation, thinking outside the box, and ultimately challenging the norms of the industry. The unique customercentric, purpose-led, and success-oriented business culture employed by Farida and the management team lends itself perfectly to the business’ mixed model that encompasses a number of high-quality technical- and business-based consultancy solutions. The term “onestop shop” is thrown around frequently, but in the case of Gibbs Consulting, it really does ring true. By utilising a number of different and flexible models to adhere to the needs of clients, this team often find themselves expanding their footprint within a partner business on the back of the faultless execution, innovation, and focus that they embody throughout this process. This sustained excellence is embodied perfectly by company CEO Farida Gibbs, a terrific businesswoman who has received a number of accolades throughout her career that all testify to this claim. Farida’s passion lies in helping diverse SMEs foster a positive attitude and mindset to do business with largescale businesses and she is a forefront leader in the Supplier Diversity community and a role model for Women in Tech. Born in the UK as one of four children, Farida’s Egyptian mother and Pakistani father instilled in her from a young age a passion for Middle Eastern cuisine and travelling, and this has resulted in a love and an appreciation for all cultures. From her founding of the business back in 2005 right through to today, Farida has made sure to promote a culture that prizes equality and celebrates difference, an incredibly positive message that affords people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions equal opportunities. Aside from this steadfast commitment to fostering a brighter future for all, Gibbs Consulting is also distinguished through its series of core values, with these defining its excellence in the sphere and reaffirming its customer-centric nature at every avenue which the business explores. There are six key areas that comprise this multifaceted approach. These are: the customer always comes first, quality at speed, integrity, commitment, reliability, and finally, respect and reputation. By keeping this meticulous six-fold approach in mind across its operation, the business can guarantee a uniform standard of quality, with the customer-centred nature of this method being something clients favour the most about the firm. Far from an empty claim, the CEO of Barclays had this to say in a glowing testimonial regarding the company. “Gibbs is one of the most clientfocused companies I have met. They are passionate about high-quality delivery, very determined, and extremely hard working. They have built an incredible network!” This is most certainly the case, and Farida and co. have a track record of attracting businesses of all shapes and sizes, linked by one common thread. A desire to compete with the best of the best in a market that is subject to an endless barrage of fluctuations and advancements. Here to expertly guide her clients through all of these changes, Farida Gibbs is a beacon of positivity, success, inclusion, and female empowerment in a business landscape where all of these traits combined are almost impossible to find, let alone at the head of the company table. With all of this in mind, it is our pleasure to celebrate Farida as the Most Influential CEO 2024 - London (IT & Business Services) and wish her the best of luck for the future. Contact: Farida Gibbs Company: Gibbs Hybrid - Programme Solutions & Consultancy Web Address: https://www. gibbshybrid.com/ and www. gibbsconsulting.com Mar24550 Farida Gibbs is the mastermind behind Gibbs Hybrid Programme Solutions & Consultancy, or Gibbs Consulting for short. Named as the Most Influential CEO 2024 - London (IT & Business Services) for her outstanding efforts in the field, Farida is proud to be the CEO of Europe’s largest minority woman-owned business and globally certified woman-owned business, a primary DE&I Strategic IT Partner to FTSE100 companies. With Farida at the helm, Gibbs Consulting has proven itself to be a pioneering entity in the field of IT, Infrastructure, and Consulting services, taking a “hybrid” approach to its areas of operation, and underpinning this all with fantastic agile and quality assurance, architecture, automated deployment, and automation at every turn. “To succeed in business, put customers at the heart of everything you do, innovate, execute well, build diverse teams, and lead with integrity.” [Farida Gibbs]
CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 5 2024 16 riven by core values of authenticity, diversity, and empowerment, the business is the first Egyptian beauty e-commerce company, boasting a portfolio of over 90 dynamic brands and 3500 incredible products. The team values authenticity and transparency, ensuring customers trust in the quality and ethical origins of its products. Source Beauty has fostered a vibrant community of beauty enthusiasts, creators, and entrepreneurs who believe in celebrating individuality and supporting industry collaboration. Source Beauty not only provides its clients with unparalleled value, but also emboldens female entrepreneurs to showcase the best of Egyptian beauty. With over 100 local beauty brands available, Source Beauty has become recognised as a pioneer of change and is dedicated to its mission of promoting diverse Egyptian beauty. As CEO of Source Beauty, Lydia Schoonderbeek’s role is central to the company’s growth trajectory and continued success. Lydia shapes the overall vision and direction of the business by ensuring that every decision aligns with Source Beauty’s overarching goals. This requires Lydia to work with her management team to establish strategic objectives, identify growth opportunities, and create a roadmap to success. Lydia says, “I take ownership of every aspect of our business, from content creation to product development. My philosophy revolves around ensuring that every product or initiative reflects the highest standards of quality and excellence. I am deeply invested in ensuring that every product bearing the Source Beauty name meets our customers’ expectations and reflects our values. Moreover, I believe in the importance of continuous improvement and innovation to stay ahead in the competitive beauty industry. Source Beauty is, at the end of the day, not only a beauty company but a beauty tech company. We constantly seek new ways to enhance our customers’ shopping beauty experience.” Lydia began her career journey at Harvey Nichols where she acquired valuable insights into customer service and luxury brands. Her interest in technology inspired Lydia’s move to Siemens, where she enhanced her technical skills and gained experience in the corporate environment and project management. For the next 15 Lydia Schoonderbeek: Empowering Beauty Journeys Since 2018, Source Beauty has remained steadfast in its mission to provide customers with unique beauty experiences through its innovative beauty platform. Lydia Schoonderbeek, CEO of Source Beauty, is the company’s inspirational leader, passionate about empowering clients to embrace their individual beauty. Recognised in this year’s Most Influential CEO Awards, Lydia Schoonderbeek is committed to redefining beauty standards and promoting modern Egyptian culture with a diverse suite of beauty products. years, Lydia worked in luxury retail before transitioning into the publishing industry for five years to explore content creation, editorial management, and digital media. From there, Lydia went on to pursue her MBA at Central Saint Martins, which would inspire her to establish Source Beauty. With a diverse background in retail, technology, publishing, and business education, Lydia brings a variety of skills and expertise to her current role. Lydia’s experience enables her to overcome challenges and identify new opportunities to innovate Source Beauty’s existing offerings. Lydia shares, “The beauty industry in Egypt turned around in 2018 and started saying, we’re interested in you, your story, and your routines. We are seeing a shift in consumer demand for more local, affordable products where customers don’t want to compromise quality. Driven by social media, beauty has, in the last five years, moved to welcome and represent customers all along the spectrum. For beauty brands, their products, and the general measurement of ‘standards of beauty’, Egyptian consumers are looking for representation across several beauty categories. This is good news, as our brands are listening and embracing the needs and wants of our customers.” In 2016, Source Beauty began its journey as a beauty blog before progressing to become the first Egyptian beauty e-commerce company. Its evolution demonstrates the company’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing market conditions. With Lydia’s multifaceted leadership and the business’s focus on local Egyptian beauty, Source Beauty is uniquely positioned to drive positive change and empower customers and beauty entrepreneurs alike to embrace diversity. As the company’s influential leader, Lydia Schoonderbeek ensures that Source Beauty continuously strives to enhance the lives of its valued customers. For her purpose-driven direction, Lydia Schoonderbeek has received this year’s award for Most Influential CEO - Egypt (Beauty eCommerce). D Contact: Lydia Schoonderbeek Company: Source Beauty Web Address: https://www. sourcebeauty.com/
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