Most Influential CEO Awards 2024 Most Influential CEO Awards 2024
Welcome to the Most Influential CEO Awards 2024 “Never mistake the power of influence” Jim Rohn. CEO Monthly Magazine has been celebrating CEOs since we published our inaugural issue back in 2017. It’s no secret that what we perceive as a good leader today, is very different to what it would have been twenty years ago. Modern leadership has been borne out of the complexities of modern workplaces and the increasingly diverse team members working within them. It takes a lot of things to become a truly great leader, but one thing is for sure; to be effective in leading an organisation big or small, influence is a fundamental element. CEO Monthly Magazine’s Most Influential CEOs are handpicked by us every month, based on our own comprehensive analysis and research. It’s not just a vanity list of the typical household names but it’s a real-world representation of those who influence and lead within their organisations every single day. Jo Holloway, Senior Account Executive 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.
6. TCU Place: Tammy Sweeney: An Influential CEO Building Communities Through Events 7. Recenso Services: Leading the Way in Programme Modernisation 8. smzh ag: Clarity, Commitment, Collaboration 10. Pinnacle Risk Consultancy: The Pinnacle of Specialist Security 12. Total Facility Solutions Ltd / TFS Group: A Total Solution for Facilities Services 13. Rail Europe: Rounding off a Century in European Train Travel 14. Petite Amélie: Industry Leader Proving the Power of Perseverance 16. Plumery: The Man Behind a Digital Banking Revolution 17. Negocios TV: Spain’s Trusted Source for Economic Media 18. Lions Cricket: Spreading the Pride of Cricket in South Africa 19. Cefaly Technology: Trailblazing Migraine Treatment and Prevention 20. Hercules Building Systems: Where Strength Meets Innovation 21. BET Group Global Pty Ltd: Changing the Disability Narrative 22. Daryl Harris: Your Architectural Wrap Partner 23. PROMEA: Taking Social Insurance Seriously 24. Artvera Private Wealth Management: Artur Bounegra: An Influential Leader in Wealth Management 25. PayPoint: Proven Payment Solutions Pioneer 26. Alchemy Crew: Thought Leadership in Digital Transformation 28. Aim Limited: Data Solutions for Business Transformation 30. Neutral Carbon Zone: Sustainability Integrated into Every Business 31. Walfinch: Franchising Home Healthcare for the Greater Good 32. Avanti Communications: Kyle Whitehill: People Champion 34. Afanti Media Ltd: Excellence in Welsh Broadcasting 35. Lythix LLC: Toni Jameson: Leading Lythix LLC to Success 36. Brüllen Pty Ltd: Frozen Dessert Machines CEO’s Warming Story of Triumph 38. XpertDPO Ltd: Stuart Anderson: Trusted GDPR Compliance Expert & Data Security Consultant 40. Gold Ace Real Estates: A Golden Ace in the Hole 41. Source Beauty: Lydia Schoonderbeek: Empowering Beauty Journeys 42. CarbonPlanet: Cath Thrupp: A Sustainability Thought Leader 44. Boyer Management Group: Workplace Solutions Made Simple! 46. Cassette Group Ltd: Why the Future of Learning Technology is Immersive Contents
47. Gibbs Hybrid - Programme Solutions & Consultancy: Passionate About Making a Difference 48. Commnia: Gina Yazbek: A Thought Leader in Construction Technology 49. SODA.Auto: Driving the Future of the Automotive Industry 50. Young Bristol: Lee Williams DL: Community Advocate for Bristol’s Young People 51. Traianus Partners: The Founder and CEO for the Future of Cryptocurrencies 52. Yasmine Mahmoudieh Design: Award-Winning Architect and Designer: Yasmine Mahmoudieh 54. Arescosmo: Most Influential CEO 2024 – Italy (Defense Manufacturing) 55. Steer Health: The Next Generation of Healthcare 56. Stephen’s Green Club: Ray Mooney: Setting New Standards in High-Class Hospitality 57. Wildfire Strategies: Transformation Across the Workplace Landscape 58. GoldCore: The CEO Taking Gold and Silver Investment Global 60. Agencia Áurea: The Creative Communication CEO 61. Link2Tek, LLC (L2T): Most Influential National CEO 2024 – North Carolina (Communications) 62. Birbals Inc: A Journey Driven by Dedication and Determination 63. Little Bird: The Little Bird with Big Ideas 64. TransitCare Limited: Caring For Your Independence 65. USEYA Corporation: Extending Reality one Innovation at a Time 66. Tradeshape: Shaping the Future of Financial Software 67. bigspark: The CEO Sparking Big Ideas 68. Turmec: A World Leader in Sustainable Waste Management 70. Asendia Italy S.r.I: The Entrepreneurial CEO Achieving eCommerce Excellence 72. Idea Harbor: The CEO Putting People First 73. Mr. Turing: Generative AI Transforming Data into Valuable Insights 74. Discovery Partners: Discovering How Trust Leads to Success 75. ADSQUIRE: Digital Advertising Designed for Lawyers 76. Melton Building Society: Efficacy and Excellency in Every Endeavour
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CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 6 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 4 2024 6 lanning an important event down to the smallest of details to deliver an exceptional experience to every guest is no easy task. Equipped with a vast amount of flexible space, a beautiful ballroom overlooking downtown Saskatoon, 21 meeting rooms, a 2,000-seat world-class theatre, and a talented team of events professionals, TCU Place is the perfect venue for many occasions, from corporate conferences to extravagant weddings, galas and graduation banquets. No matter your vision, the company’s experienced and detail-oriented team will help you to create the event of your dreams. While profitability is essential for any business to remain viable; TCU Place is also committed to having a meaningful economic, cultural, and social impact on its community. By providing a beautiful space for events, TCU Place connects people in Saskatoon through purpose, celebration, and learning. With community impact so important to TCU Place, it is no surprise that the organization is led by an individual who is as passionate about the community as she is about the team and guest experiences. With a diverse background in human resources and venue management, Tammy Sweeney became CEO of the company in 2020. Since then, she has been responsible for overseeing a large team of up to 300 employees, partners and contractors in all areas of the building, including theatre, building operations, catering, sales, marketing, finance, and IT. Tammy focuses on balanced business metrics including financial, employee engagement, community impact and team development. Although there are tasks that need to be done for the business to achieve its goals, people are the driving force behind all operations and must therefore be motivated to bring their best selves to work. Tammy has created a flexible working environment, both in terms of hours and roles. Whether they work best at a specific time of day or need to attend a family event, many of the team members are able to adjust their working hours accordingly and take time off when needed. This empowers them to meet the needs of guests and clients while also taking care of themselves and their families. Of course, the busy event schedule also needs to be managed. Tammy Sweeney: An Influential CEO Building Communities Through Events Located in beautiful downtown Saskatoon, the largest city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, TCU Place is one of the region’s best conference facilities and performing arts venues. Formerly known as the Saskatoon Centennial Auditorium, the elegant 104,000-square-foot venue provides an ideal setting for a wide variety of occasions. At the helm of TCU Place stands CEO Tammy Sweeney, who has recently been named Most Influential CEO 2024 - Saskatchewan (Banquets) in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. “In an industry where employee turnover has been a challenge, I am happy to report that our retention rate is over 80%,” comments Tammy. “People enjoy working here. We regularly seek feedback from our employees about their experience, and over 90% report back that they love their jobs. It is hard work, and the hours are long and varied, but our team has commitment and heart.” Having become CEO of TCU Place in the early days of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Tammy has faced her fair share of challenge. Initially, she found that, despite her 17 years of experience in the events industry, each day was a learning curve. “We had no live events coming in, yet a team of people who were used to creating and servicing live events,” she explains. “I wanted to keep our core fulltime people, because one day the pandemic would end, and we would need a team of great people to pull us forward. The decisions and connections made during that time are valued by our team today.” With the live events industry having changed dramatically in recent years, TCU Place is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic. However, under Tammy’s leadership, the business has successfully adapted to the necessary changes, and its revenue numbers remain strong. Now, she is focused on the future, aiming to build an exceptional, sustainable organization that will continue to positively impact its community. For her continued excellence in leading the team at TCU Place, Tammy Sweeney has been named Most Influential CEO 2024 - Saskatchewan (Banquets) in the Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. Currently, she is involved in the planning of a bold new downtown entertainment and events district development project that will include a new arena, a renovated theatre, an expanded convention centre, a new rapid transit bus, and a much-needed public plaza space. This project is in its early stages, but Tammy hopes that the funding plan and design concepts will be approved by the end of 2024, and Saskatoon takes the next key steps toward a vibrant and thriving downtown. P Contact: Tammy Sweeney Company: TCU Place Web Address: www.tcuplace.com
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 7 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 7 2024 13 Leading the Way in Programme Modernisation Recenso Services helps Communications Service Providers (CSPs) to transform and digitalise their operations. Its team aligns its goals with CSP stakeholders and customers to audit programmes and improve their functionality, testing procedures, cybersecurity, and overall alignment with their intended goals. By focusing on enhancing business outcomes and profiles, it aims to modernise services in line with the latest environmental practices, reimagining workflows for the utmost sustainability. The organisation is ultimately people-centric, aiming to benefit everyone involved with each digital service it creates and improves. It’s committed to ensuring that no one fears AI replacing human employees and tackles the concern that digitalisation can complicate user experience. By leveraging best-practice and pragmatic use of AI, the team enhances customer experience while enabling and empowering employees. The team runs automated tests to identify software risks and bottlenecks to improve function and digitalise purposefully, ultimately enhancing business outcomes and profiles. Alberto has gone the extra mile in his role, earning Most Influential CEO 2024 – South East England (Digital & IT Modernisation). Alberto steers the business according to the core values at its heart: integrity, action, quality, and trust. Recenso is keen to provide transparent, honest service and takes responsibility for ensuring the best possible outcome. The team is constantly monitoring performance internally, developing in line with this and evolving to provide an everimproving client offering. It’s committed to identifying risks and bottlenecks to deliver ontime, on-budget, and with client satisfaction in mind. Alberto takes a hands-on approach to leadership. He aims to foster a collaborative, creative, and innovative work environment, taking every opportunity to provide learning and development to ensure an up-to-date skillset. The company thrives on its culture of client-centric attitudes and Alberto’s priority to support and empower staff at every level. “Our approach means that programme staff come into work smiling – motivated to do their best work – and leave the day smiling, feeling a sense of achievement and personal fulfilment.” As CEO, Alberto doesn’t alienate himself from teams within the business, instead aiming to empathise in all he does and maintain positive internal relationships. He demonstrates this attitude in part by showing trust in staff, delegating responsibility generously, and rewarding it well. It’s all about transparent communication and approachability for this CEO, though he recognises that there’s always room for improvement. A willingness to solicit and accept feedback forms an important part of this attitude. He’s always committed to serving his staff and recognising their service to the company, believing that respect and service should never be one-sided in a relationship. Like any industry, Recenso’s has suffered hardships throughout its life. Economic fluctuations, recruitment issues, and rapidly advancing technology have all posed challenges to the company, especially those related to recycling and sustainable practices. Recenso takes every step it can to work in an ecofriendly manner, and this often comes at the cost of finding creative solutions to problems, adapting quickly to adopt new technologies and meet everevolving industry demand. The business takes these issues in stride, expanding into new markets and investing heavily in cutting-edge recycling technologies, reducing environmental impact wherever possible. Atop its suite of sustainability initiatives, it’s also agile, adapting to market trends, and engages in plenty of outreach to raise awareness of eco-friendly practice. Recenso is dedicated to keeping up with the latest regulations and takes pride in the responsibility, constantly striving to stand alongside market leaders in sustainable IT services. “I aspire to become a thought leader in the recycling industry by sharing my expertise, insights, and experiences through public speaking engagements, panel discussions, and publications.” Recenso has quickly risen to become an authority in in programme assurance, consulting, and system integration. Thanks to an expert team and Alberto’s leadership, the company is set to improve the offering of more communication service providers, and it will no doubt continue to excel within the sustainability sphere, bettering clients’ products and services, and the recycling industry as a whole. Contact: Alberto Bellofatto Company: Recenso Services Web Address: www.recensoservices.com May24468 Under CEO Alberto Bellofatto, Recenso Services (Recenso) operates strategically, sustainably, and delivers its best work for the benefit of stakeholders and end users alike. He takes a personal interest in the company’s journey from daily operations to its financial health, all according to a mantra of sustainable innovation. Here, we speak with Alberto to find out just why his leadership approach is so effective.
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 8 J Clarity, Commitment, Collaboration
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 9 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 8 2023 9 Jun24647 As CEO and Managing Partner of smzh ag (smzh), Gzim Hasani embraces a transformational leadership style that encourages collaboration. He works to inspire trust, foster growth, and align his team’s efforts with organizational objectives. This enables the delivery of personalized financial advisory services that empower individuals and SMEs to achieve their goals. Gzim has been named Most Influential CEO 2024 - Switzerland (Insurance & Mortgage Solutions). We speak to him to learn more about his exceptional leadership, his career, and the company that he leads with pride. In his role as CEO, Gzim Hasani leads the strategic direction and operational management of smzh ag. “Every task, no matter how small, contributes to our larger purpose. By approaching each day with clarity, commitment, and collaboration, we transform routine actions into meaningful contributions towards our shared goals. Everyone in the company understands their contribution to the smzh vision and lighthouse,” he explains. Gzim’s journey within the world of finance began in 2009 at Credit Suisse, where he quickly took on responsibility for ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). From there, he moved to Julius Bär, working in the directorate. In 2018, he founded Impegno & Partners, and subsequently took over smzh ag. Starting with just five employees, he has grown the team to over 150. Today, Gzim leads a team that embodies an entrepreneurial attitude to drive innovation and growth. “With short decision-making processes and a flat hierarchy, we respond swiftly to opportunities and challenges. Risk-taking is encouraged within our organization, and I play an active role in maintaining and nurturing this dynamic internal culture.” He places great importance on being a positive role model, for his team and within the industry, and on personifying the core values of smzh: Responsibility, Customer Orientation, Trust, Long-Term Entrepreneurial Spirit, and Independence. Gzim goes on to tell us about his approach to leadership: “Over the years, my leadership style has evolved from a focus on goal and deadline setting to a more employeecentred approach. I prioritise fostering an environment where team members feel empowered to innovate and take on new challenges.” Underscoring this is his mantra of “Collaboration: Achieving goals requires teamwork and cooperation, leveraging collective strengths to achieve shared objectives”. His ambitious team leverage their extensive expertise and specialised knowledge to deliver customised solutions that are perfectly aligned with each client’s specific needs. Through its all-in-one service, smzh is its clients’ trusted partner for every financial, insurance, real estate, tax, and legal need, ensuring their success at every stage of their life. “We provide all our clients with access to top-tier financial services, regardless of their wealth or experience. Our advisory services are free for clients, with smzh earning fees from partner products. This creates a low entry barrier and is unique in the industry,” Gzim explains. This isn’t all that gives smzh a competitive edge, as smzh also implements advanced technology in order to equip and support its advisors whilst maintaining the essential human touch that – not only clients demand – but which smzh also strongly cares about. “Our client-centric approach and bespoke services set us apart from the competition. We focus on technological innovation to enhance our advisory capabilities. Our holistic approach to wealth planning considers all private, legal, and tax perspectives to provide comprehensive financial planning.” smzh has seen rapid growth, which Gzim tells us has required continuous adaptation and a learning mindset. This has created numerous exciting opportunities for team members to grow into new roles, develop innovative solutions, diversify their skills, and foster a culture of versatility and excellence. This entrepreneurial attitude and can-do spirit enable them to welcome new challenges and drive forward-thinking solutions. Creating such a dynamic environment has been instrumental in the company’s success and maintaining its competitive edge. However, while fast growth is a fantastic achievement, it doesn’t come without its hurdles, such as resource constraints and the need for effective prioritisation. Gzim’s dedication towards promoting a culture of continuous learning and open communication has helped the company to overcome these challenges, with its training designed to enhance adaptability and resilience. Gzim views it as important to adapt to each team member’s learning curve and ensure that no one feels overwhelmed or sidelined, saying, “This awareness has helped mitigate potential issues and foster a more cohesive and motivated team environment.” So, what do smzh’s clients say about their experience of working with the company? One delighted individual shares, “I have been thoroughly impressed by smzh’s commitment to providing top-quality financial services to its clients – to me. One of the things I appreciate most about smzh is their attention to detail. They take the time to thoroughly understand their clients’ unique financial situations, and then work diligently to develop tailored solutions that meet those needs. Whether it’s investment management, insurance, or other financial services, smzh has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the industry and a commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for me and my situation.” Ultimately, it’s clear to see how smzh has accomplished such incredible success. With Gzim Hasani at the helm and an excellent team behind him, the company’s growth has accelerated significantly, whilst leaving an array of overjoyed clients in its wake. Gzim’s leadership is nothing short of extraordinary, making him a deserving recipient of the Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. Now, smzh has its sights set on the next 12 months and beyond, with no intentions of slowing down. The company plans to expand its service offerings and enhance its technological capabilities. Additionally, it plans to open six new locations in Switzerland and increase its international footprint to serve a global client base. In terms of his own plans for the future, Gzim will be looking to develop his leadership skills and deepen his knowledge of emerging trends in the financial industry. He tells us that he will also aim to mentor the next generation of leaders within the company to ensure their success. He will also continue to value exchanges with other leading personalities, with this networking and his additional entrepreneurial activities and mandates helping him to expand his horizons and push the boundaries of what is possible. Above all else, Gzim Hasani’s goal is to continuously develop himself, his people, and thereby the entire company, offering people perspectives and being a reliable partner for the long run. Company: smzh ag Contact: Gzim Hasani Email: [email protected] Website: www.smzh.ch
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 10 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 8 2023 6 The Pinnacle of Specialist Security hen it comes to security, there is no such thing as a uniform approach. Every situation and every client is different, and so too is the solution that needs to be applied to their case. Offering a fully bespoke and tailored service that expertly covers all of the nuances of a particular brief, Pinnacle Risk Consultancy is, as its name suggests, at the very top of the pack when it comes to specialist security services. From close protection to TSCM (technical surveillance counter measures), this encompassing service covers all possible bases. Pinnacle Risks offers these highend, specialist security services to a range of diverse clients across the globe, from ultraMay24713 Former Royal Military Police officer Tracy Webster established Pinnacle Risk Consultancy, a renowned specialist security services business, back in 2016. This veteran-owned UK business today possesses offices in Yorkshire, Manchester, and London, tactically offering it close proximity to the UK’s major cities and easy access to many of its most bustling towns and counties. With Tracy being recognised as the Most Influential Female CEO 2024 - UK (Security and Protection), we catch up with her to find out more about her journey and this incredible operation. W high-net-worth individuals to celebrities and even members of royal families, as well as at-risk professionals, corporate and commercial entities, and anyone else requiring security within the workplace. Regardless of the client, the company operates with “Presence of Mind”, something that extends to all of its highly experienced male and female bodyguards and field experts deployed both in the UK and worldwide. Thanks to a background in the Royal Military Police and a wealth of experience working in the Specialist Investigation Branch, Pinnacle Risk’s CEO is more than qualified to lead in this sector. In the years since stepping away from the military, this former Redcap has spent her time further honing the skills she picked up during her service, developing by working with the likes of surveillance techniques and on undercover deployments. Whatever the nature of the mission, Tracy acts with a hands-on approach and a strict adherence to legal parameters. Having worked within the private security industry now for the better part of two decades, it pays to go back to the beginning of Tracy’s career to fully appreciate the impact that she continues to have in this setting. In 1996, 17-yearold Tracy Webster decided to pursue her interest in law enforcement and the armed forces, signing on to serve her queen and country for the Royal Military Police. This was far from the norm at the time, particularly for a young woman from a small farming village nestled in the Yorkshire Dales. Many people questioned this decision, and Tracy enjoyed spending the next seven years proving them wrong. Commenting on her time served with the armed forces, Tracy explains, “I learnt so much and my time in the military provided a superb foundation for the rest of my life.” From teaching her the importance of high standards to showing her what it takes to pull together and work as a team, it is the skills Tracy first attained in the Royal Military Police that continue to guide Pinnacle Risk Consultancy to success to this day. As her career in the armed forces began to wind down, Tracy was already looking at transferring her skillset to the private security industry, a move she saw as an obvious and welcome career change. Securing a position at a corporate security organisation shortly after, Tracy was responsible for managing a specialist security unit. Tracy would excel in this role for the next 12 years, until she made the leap in 2016 and set up her own business, a feat she attributes to the knowledge and experience afforded to her by peers and colleagues. Nearly eight years on, Tracy has built Pinnacle Risk into an accredited, leading consultancy firm comprised of a close-knit team of male and female industry professionals. Approximately 85% of this team consists of former military personnel, and the diverse nature of this highly skilled workforce aligns perfectly with the increased demand
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 11 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 8 2023 7 for female bodyguards and protection officers. Many female clients prefer working with a female protection officer as they feel more comfortable being protected by a woman. “I am a champion of women in business, especially those operating within the private security sector, as we are a small and rare commodity. I see the value of us supporting each other not just in the United Kingdom, but on a global scale.” A female owner, CEO, military veteran, and trained bodyguard all rolled into one, the role that Tracy plays in the success of the business is crucial. With her background and skillset, she is the company’s unique selling point. Clients from all over the world seek out the business to leverage this knowledge for their own gain, and Tracy collaborates closely with her team to see that this is carried out with maximum impact. Developing this team and ensuring that they thrive in their roles is one of Tracy’s most pressing priorities as CEO. Whilst the welfare of her team and clients is of the utmost importance, Tracy tells us that she refuses to micromanage during deployment, solely because she has faith in the capability of her executive staff to deliver excellence. This is just one of many managerial traits that Tracy picked up during her time serving the nation, a tenure which has influenced her leadership approach no end. The core values that Pinnacle Risk has adopted also largely stem from the British Army, prioritising the likes of trust, teamwork, and leadership above all else. For Tracy, getting stuck in is another big part of her duties. She explains, “when time allows, I operate as a personal protection officer on the ground with my teams. This allows me to maintain my skillset as a protection officer and affords me time with my staff that I wouldn’t ordinarily have.” She continues, “it also allows an opportunity for me to see the quality of my staff operating live on the ground, ensuring they are maintaining the highest standards. I feel this compliments my leadership style and creates stronger bonds amongst my staff.” Unsurprisingly, work of this nature can be stressful for extended periods, sometimes weeks or months at a time. To counteract this, the team pull together as a unit and constantly support one another. As an extension of this, Tracy also strives to remain approachable, transparent, and respectful across all interactions with her team. She puts it best when she says, “I am a firm believer that if my operators are supported by me and enjoying their roles professionally, this reflects hugely on the experience of clients engaging with Pinnacle Risk Consultancy.” It is also important to note that the company is heavily involved with the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC), and Tracy and co. pledge to support the defence community, veterans, and reservists, as well as their families, across the business. A Proud AFC signatory and holder of the Employment Recognition Scheme Gold Award, Pinnacle Risk Consultancy is essentially an extension of the success of the British Armed Forces, mixing its remarkable values with a suite of professional services that guarantee personal protection of the highest standard. Well-versed in everything from female bodyguard services through to TSCM bug sweeps and physical penetration testing, Pinnacle Risk Consultancy takes the safety of its clients incredibly seriously. For its suite of specialist security services and the ongoing dedication that it has across this challenging sphere, we celebrate the company’s visionary leader with this award. Having come a long way from the small Yorkshire village in which she was raised, Tracy Webster is today a pioneer, a leader, and an influential CEO. Contact: Tracy Webster Company: Pinnacle Risk Consultancy Web Address: www.pinnacle-risk.com
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 12 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 7 2024 8 enowned for its professional cleaning services across its homebase of Liverpool and the rest of the UK, TFS Group specialises in the likes of commercial cleaning services, infrastructure, facilities management, and support services. With a particular affinity for services of the sustainable variety, TFS Group has had a huge impact on the sector in recent years, such as when it could be seen carrying out frontline preventative cleaning and decontamination efforts at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. As the world recovers from the pandemic, people require intelligent, cost-effective solutions, and this is something that the company is passionate about providing. Champions of innovation and highly influential in this sector, the team continue to set the bar concerning technological advancements. One example of this saw the further enhancement of TFS Group’s highly intelligent facilities management model, as the company partnered with Siemens and utilised its leading-edge sensor technology to gauge the occupancy of facilities. At the helm here is CEO Luke Martin, whose approach to management revolves around the bigger picture, drawing on key insights across every element of an operation to foster an environment thriving on continuous learning, growth, and development. He explains, “recognising the distance between my position and the shop floor, I consider listening to feedback an essential skill. The more attentively I listen, the more knowledge I acquire, drawing from diverse sources such as employees, clients, and vendors.” It is Luke’s experience operating across the industry that has instilled this ethos in him and shaped his approach to management. Beginning his career in the field of facility management, this as a business development manager for a sizeable corporation, it was not long before Luke’s dedication to his craft saw his region expand to include both the UK and Ireland. This led to an opportunity at a smaller SME firm down the line, and after increasing that company’s turnover by 50%, Luke’s path to the boardroom was clearer than ever. After holding this executive-level position for several years, Luke tells us, “I decided to follow my vision of establishing a facilities management business centred around data, where the speed of service and response was crucial, thereby introducing technology to an A Total Solution for Facilities Services Total Facility Solutions Ltd, trading as TFS Group, is one of the UK’s leading providers of integrated facilities services. Headed up by Luke Martin, recognised here as the Most Influential CEO 2024 - North West England (Facility Services), TFS Group strives to deliver maximum value across all of its offerings, managing the facilities of its clients and caring for their people. On the back of this, it is the company’s ultimate vision to provide sustainable services that far exceed the expectations of clients. industry that was once considered outdated and traditional.” TFS Group was created shortly after, and from its Liverpool headquarters, TFS Group today employees more than 800 highly trained professionals and works in every major city throughout the UK. Overseeing such a sizeable operation is no easy task, but Luke has a number of approaches up his sleeve that ensure uniform quality and success. From leading from the front, to guiding rather than coercing, as well as engaging with members of staff individually, Luke knows what it takes to drive his team forwards. Trust in both his leadership team and their respective departments is equally key, and by consistently demonstrating his own commitment and diligence, Luke leads by example as opposed to just issuing commands. The family culture that runs throughout TFS Group means that a new member is joining a team and not simply becoming a cog in a machine. Offering incentives like industryleading training, comprehensive employee satisfaction surveys, as well as regional/ national awards and engagement events, Luke is passionate that the competence of his company is reflected in the quality and dedication of his employees. As he so eloquently puts it, “success harbours no secret; it is the result of persistent hard work and the willingness to take calculated risks.” As TFS Group continues to operate at the forefront of the facilities services sphere, making the most of the likes of cutting-edge AI technology to enhance its robotic and mapping capabilities, its CEO remains steadfast in his commitment to his employees and customers alike. With a competitive spirit that thrives on the fear of failure, Luke Martin strikes the balance between being a kind, decent, and approachable person whilst also possessing a knack for making the difficult decisions that see his company continue to thrive. R Contact: Luke Martin Company: Total Facility Solutions Ltd / TFS Group Web Address: www.tfsgroup.co.uk
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 13 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 7 2024 12 Rail Europe provides train booking services across a multi-national catalogue of railway networks. Across France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and beyond, it makes ticket booking a simple experience with a seamless digital platform, firstclass customer support, and competitive pricing. Founded in 1932, the company was originally intended to fulfil a specific purpose: to promote French rail routes to North American Travellers. The first route was sold between Paris and Lyon, and this remains one of the service’s most popular journeys to date, together with the Paris to London route operated by Eurostar. In 1959, the first Eurail passes were added, expanding travellers’ opportunities using the service. It’s since modernised, grown a thriving customer support team, and continued to improve its array of railway networks. Appointing Björn as CEO is among its latest developments. Rail Europe’s mission is to make train travel easy, and under CEO Björn Bender, it’s striding confidently into the future. Fuelled by a culture of continuous improvement, the company has sprung to become a global entity in the rail booking industry and an answer to European sustainability concerns. Björn is a mobility expert, having spent 20 years improving rail travel and gaining valuable experience across a breadth of roles including sales and management positions. He’s regularly invited to lecture at the University of St. Gallen, owing to a blend of first-class education, career success, and sector experience. Today, he’s proud to steward the future of Rail Europe’s remarkable journey. “For me, this transformation combines today’s strengths with tomorrow’s opportunities, that’s what makes us special.” As CEO, Björn considers it a responsibility in all he does to act according to the company’s values. As a business strategist, leader, and even in day-to-day interactions with the team, he promotes a passionate, diverse, and sustainable workplace. It’s Björn’s view that passion breeds creativity, and that building a culture of diverse individuals and voices is key to understanding a wide variety of customer needs, from all over the world. As part of the company’s mission under Björn, Rail Europe operates as sustainably as possible. Simply by advertising rail travel and expanding the convenience of booking services, the company plays a role in aligning Europe’s travel habits with environmental demands and continent-wide sustainability goals. It’s a viable option for many travellers instead of relying on more polluting modes of transport, and the business enthusiastically promotes this benefit. “Rail is already the most sustainable mode of travel, and we believe rail travel has the potential to become the mobility backbone for all of Europe, replacing more and more air travel and individual transport in a very convenient way.” Promoting sustainable travel is an industry challenge that Rail Europe embraces. They demand that a business understands the evolving needs of travellers and aligns its offering to both these and current regulations. Björn is confident that by bettering its offering, the company will continue to affect real change, swaying consumers towards a more convenient rail service, and ultimately act as part of the wider solution to environmental concerns. Rail Europe’s goal is simply to become the best rail booking platform. Through constant technological innovation allowing travellers to book seat reservations for rail passes and maintaining excellent relationships with its customers, its services are constantly improving. Alongside this, it also boasts a renewed, ultra-modern website and app, and it has recently incorporated providers iryo and Regiojet, making constant strides to provide the best possible service and largest inventory. The company has grown 60% over the past year, and this appears to be a forecast of things to come. The team’s continued motivation is only fuelled by this success, and its members all work towards the shared goal of leading the market in train travel booking. Björn, the team, and its partners all look forward to shaping the future of European train travel. When the stakes are as high impact as encouraging eco-friendly habits across the continent or as personal as facilitating memorable journeys, it’s Rail Europe’s pleasure to be a part of. Contact: Justine Rohée Company: Rail Europe Web Address: www.raileurope. com / agent.raileurope.com Rounding off a Century in European Train Travel
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 14 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 7 2024 14 Industry Leader Proving the Power of Perseverance ounded in 2010, Petite Amélie is the story of a mother’s personal journey in designing and manufacturing unique accessories for baby and children’s rooms. Founder Joanna was left transfixed by a classic pram in her childhood, and as an adult she sought to create a crib inspired by that same beautiful pram. It was in her father’s studio that she designed the Petite Wagon, the first of a stunning crib collection subsequently made in that same brocante style. Thereafter, Petite Amélie was born. “At Petite Amélie, we believe every child has the right to an inspiring and magical childhood. Our timeless, elegant children’s furniture, thoughtful toys, and highquality textiles are all designed to stimulate imagination and create a safe and creative environment where families can make special memories together,” Patrick tells us. The company’s mission is to inspire families to create such spaces for their children through Petite Amélie’s products. The company strives to be the most beloved brand in the children’s industry worldwide, continually pushing for sustainable innovation and a strong customer focus. Petite Amélie aim to inspire families through its products, combining timeless design with French charm to create a warm and stylish atmosphere. The company hopes to help families create precious memories, preserving Jun24274 Petite Amélie is the leading brand in children’s furniture, crafting timeless and elegant furniture that does not compromise on functionality. Helmed by CEO Patrick Miami, Petite Amélie has gradually expanded its range to encompass a comprehensive collection designed to uplift and enhance the nursery. Below, we speak with Patrick to learn more about the ways in which he has driven Petite Amélie to remarkable success. F the magic of childhood with products that exude magnificent craftsmanship. Patrick joined Petite Amélie in 2023 and has steered the company from strength to strength ever since. Though, his journey to brilliance was not always easy, as Patrick recalls, “Growing up, I often felt misunderstood in school. My quick thinking and fastpaced learning style didn’t fit into the traditional educational mould, leaving me frustrated and underappreciated. Teachers couldn’t keep up and I frequently felt like the system couldn’t see who I was.” But this didn’t stop Patrick. Rather than letting these challenges become obstacles, he allowed them to motivate him. He realised early on that his potential was larger than a classroom setting and turned his focus outside, seeking knowledge from real-world experiences and allowing these moments to shape his future. With experience spanning across all facets of the retail sector, Patrick has developed a deep understanding of consumer behaviour and how it can be influenced. “From the sales floor to executive management, each role taught me invaluable lessons and helped me develop a keen sense of market trends and business strategies,” he tells us. Patrick embraced the fast-paced world of eCommerce early on, driven by an insatiable curiosity of the market. He reports that becoming a digital professional has spurred his desire to stay ahead of the curve by leveraging innovative technologies, further enhancing customer experiences, and driving the growth of the business. Now, Patrick strives to encourage and inspire his team, fostering a culture where innovation can thrive, and everyone can achieve success. He hopes that his journey will motivate his team and testify the importance of resilience, because there is limitless potential within each of us. “Today, as the CEO of Petite Amélie, I lead with a philosophy rooted in my journey. I focus on inclusivity, trust, and openness, creating an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered. My story is proof that traditional paths don’t define success. It’s about believing in yourself, embracing your strengths, and turning challenges into opportunities,” Patrick says. Initially, Patrick would be described as a detailedoriented manager, who was deeply involved in each aspect of his company’s operations. While this approach ensured precision, he also found that it limited his ability to see the bigger picture, and subsequently his ability to leverage the full potential of his team. Over time, he realised that authentic leadership requires placing trust in others. Patrick had to learn to delegate his responsibilities, which empowered his team members to take ownership of their roles.
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 15 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 7 2024 15 While his team were given the space to excel in their areas of expertise, Patrick was now afforded the time to focus on strategic vision and innovation. Looking back, he says, “This transformation wasn’t easy, but it was essential. I became a more effective and inspiring leader by embracing a leadership style centred on trust, inclusivity, and openness. Today, I lead Petite Amélie with a focus on empowering others, and I am confident in the collective strength of our team.” The strength of the team is something that Patrick ensures is well-known, opting to create an internal atmosphere where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work. The culture is vibrant and inclusive, made to reflect the company’s diverse international staff. Each day, Patrick holds a joint lunch so that the team can gather to share their food and personal stories. Such events strengthen intrapersonal bonds within the team and blends professional dedication with personal connection. Patrick attributes this balance of hard work and camaraderie within the team as critical to the company’s success. Promoting such a hardworking culture within the team has certainly been advantageous when presented with complex industry challenges. With many new players entering the market, Patrick notes that many are accompanied by less stringent safety and quality controls. Such companies often prioritise cost over compliance, and manufacture products that do not meet the same rigorous standards upheld by Petite Amélia. This proses potential risks to children, which in turn undermines consumer trust in the entire market. However, Patrick informs us, “At Petite Amélie, we are committed to maintaining the highest safety and quality standards. Children’s products should be crafted with the utmost care and integrity, ensuring they are safe and durable. To navigate these challenges, we continuously advocate for stricter industry regulations and emphasise the importance of transparency and accountability.” Transparency is vital across all areas of Petite Amélie’s operations. While forming strategy, Patrick must not only account for rigorous risk assessment and financial analysis, but also consider stakeholder management. He dedicates himself to maintaining an elevated level of transparency between himself and stakeholders, ensuring that they not only remain informed but also feel valued and included. Balancing risks, finances, and stakeholder expectations can be challenging, but Patrick knows that sustaining such a balance will only drive himself and the company to greater heights. He says, “I strive to achieve steady growth while upholding our unwavering commitment to excellence and integrity in the children’s market. This commitment is not just a statement but a guiding principle that ensures our stakeholders remain not just confident but also inspired and aligned with our directions and decisions.” This commitment to building strong relationships is not reserved for Petite Amélie’s stakeholders, but also for its customers. The company prides itself on its unwavering commitment to customer centricity and aims to support its customers on their exciting journey of becoming parents. Petite Amélie strives to create lasting connections and trust with customers, ensuring that the brand is synonymous with excellence and care in the children’s market. Patrick remarks that his first year as CEO at Petite Amélie has been smooth, bringing him minimal challenges. He says, “This ease is a testament to the incredible team I inherited, who were more than ready to embark on our shared journey. Their dedication, expertise, and enthusiasm have made the transition seamless, allowing us to focus on innovation and growth. Together, we continue to build a bright future for Petite Amélie, driven by a collective vision and unwavering commitment to excellence.” Looking ahead, Patrick predicts that 2025 will be a transformative year for Petite Amélie, as the company prepares to integrate with Jollein, another well-known brand in the group. This integration will take place under Patrick’s leadership and promises to build a solid foundation for the company’s future success. Combining systems, as well as cultures, values, and strengths, is sure to create a unified powerhouse fit to lead the baby and children industry. With Patrick at the helm, the integration will no doubt be a tremendous success for the company. For displaying such creativity, innovation, and dedication, Patrick has been deservedly recognised in our Most Influential CEO Awards 2024. Speaking of the future, Patrick tells us, “As I embark on this exciting journey of integrating Petite Amélie with Jollein, my commitment to our shared success is stronger than ever. As one team, we aim to excel in all aspects of our business, prioritising and supporting our customers through the incredible journey of becoming parents and delivering our goals to all stakeholders. “And about what’s next for me after this thrilling chapter? I look forward to facing the future with the same curiosity and enthusiasm I have always shown.” Company: Petite Amélie Web Address: www.petiteamelie.com
CEO MONTHLY / MOST INFLUENTIAL CEO AWARDS 2024 16 CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 7 2024 16 lumery’s digital banking solutions are built first and foremost with the customer in mind. It provides banks and other financial institutions with a flexible library of tools which cater to a vast range of end users’ needs. These tools comprise a holistic digital banking experience platform which allows financial institutions to adapt to ever-evolving customer requirements with newfound ease. Its services lay the foundation for a digital presence which evolves easily, efficiently, and ensures a swift competitive edge with rapid time-to-market. A core strength of Plumery’s offering is its versatility. Transforming digital banking channels is only an element of its service, as it allows firms to take ownership and design a bespoke digital banking experience around a stable, adaptable architecture. Ben leads the team to design a product which empowers change within clients’ digital spaces, and he knows that this change happens when institutions are provided with the right solutions enabling to make these transformations iteratively. “We not only provide readyto-use digital banking journeys, but also equip firms with the tools they need to craft their own journeys and user interfaces, all without impacting core banking systems.” The company’s solutions enable clients to modernise mobile and online banking without the need to alter core banking systems, with further innovation driven by the embedded analytics within its architecture. The platform’s architecture isn’t solely about producing a streamlined product; it’s also about modernising rapidly and costeffectively, sparing financial institutions from the expenses typically associated with internal development or vendor solutions burdened with high total cost of ownership. As CEO, Ben takes a hands-on approach to leadership, striving to improve systems within the business and promote the team’s shared vision. He spends his time managing duties personally from defining company strategy and leading teams to collaborating with investors. Although leadership can be The Man Behind a Digital Banking Revolution Plumery’s mission is to provide a digital banking experience platform that enables its clients - any financial institution globally - to deliver the right product continuously, reliably, and quickly. CEO Ben Goldin takes pride in bridging the gap between customers and their banks by providing a seamless, developer-friendly solution to Plumery’s clients. Having seen one of the first internet banks at the beginning of his career, Ben knew precisely where his programming journey would lead. That inspiration now fuels the company to revolutionise digital banking, earning him Most Influential CEO 2024 – Netherlands (Digital Engagement). isolating, he’s comfortable seeking support from a strong peer network and leveraging executive coaching. It’s Ben’s view that talking to others is never a sign of weakness and that it’s crucial to use every resource available when making tough decisions. Looking to the future, Ben is excited to unveil improvements across the company’s roadmap, continuing revitalise mobile and online banking and realise the company’s scope for global scale. With headless banking solutions and conversational AI, the waves of the future are clearly visible. Among stateof-the-art improvements to the company’s offering, GenAI-based financial advisory is on the horizon, as well as modern capabilities for SMEs and corporate banking. Ben isn’t just excited to further improve Plumery’s functions, but also remains enormously passionate about the industry at large. “In addition to building and growing Plumery, I am excited to work with several startups and other companies as a non-executive director and board member, sharing my 20+ years of experience in building products and teams.” With this enduring passion, an innovative and versatile product, and a people-first leadership style, Ben is honoured to steward the company through such an exciting time. He thanks his team for its continued excellence, acknowledging that companies are made great by the people who work for them. According to values of taking ownership, problem-solving, and an attitude of candour, Ben instils a shared purpose in every team member. Together, they’re Plumery, and they’re changing digital banking for the better. P Contact: Ben Goldin Company: Plumery Web Address: www.plumery.com
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