Exclusive Interview Archives

Ritjana Ceveli: Empowering Talent Across the World

Meet Ritjana Caveli, an accomplished CEO and Co-founder of ERC International – an Executive Search Consultancy dedicated to providing exceptional Human Resource Services, including Recruitment, HR, Diversity & Inclusion, and Nationalisation. With 16 years of experience in Emerging Markets, Equity, and Education, Ritjana has made significant contributions to the industry and has a strong track record of executing investments and restructuring businesses across the GCC and Global Emerging Markets.

Having worked for top investment funds such as Aberdeen Asset Management, Masdar, and Dubai Investment Group, Ritjana’s corporate experience has equipped her with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. She has also been a keynote speaker at various forums in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Bahrain, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia, where she has shared her insights and experience.

She also works closely with the nationalization programs in the GCC, particularly Emiratisation, where she has been instrumental in empowering the local workforce to bring positive change to their countries.

Ritjana holds a degree from the prestigious London School of Economics and has lived in different parts of the world, which has given her a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for culture and history. Her biggest passion when she’s not working is traveling and exploring new cultures.

Establishing the Company

Ritjana established ERC in 2016 with a small team in Dubai. At first, ERC started as an Emiratization boutique search firm, which later got involved in Saudization and from their Ritjana helped it diversify its services in recruitment and executive search services servicing clients in Asia, the Middle East, and East Europe with an angle of D&I and focus in bridging the gap and creating more opportunities for minorities and women.

As the CEO and Co-founder of the company, Ritjana now aspires to have teams across Asia, Europe, and Africa, enabling ERC to stay close to its clients. This international presence will enhance ERC’s ability to serve its existing clients, spanning 17 different geographies, and infuse an international flavor into its operations. By strategically positioning teams across different continents, Ritjana aims to strengthen ERC’s customer relationships, understand local nuances, and provide tailored solutions that align with its client’s specific needs and cultural contexts. This expansion plan reflects Ritjana’s commitment to delivering exceptional service while fostering meaningful connections with clients worldwide.

“When we started off, just like with every new business, the challenge was building a strong rapport with clients and earning their trust. However, for us as a team, we saw challenges as opportunities and were able to overcome them together united as a team. Setting up this business as someone who didn’t come from the background wasn’t an easy ride. However, as an entrepreneur, you learn that there is no Plan B; you have to keep on pushing and delivering upon your commitments.”– remembers Ritjana.

Bringing Change

ERC International sets itself apart from other recruitment companies through its distinctive End-to-End Account Management approach. The company strongly emphasizes developing an in-depth understanding of market sectors, taking it a step further by integrating diversity into its services. ERC fully acknowledges the significance of diversity across nationality, gender, minority representation, and sexual orientation. By embracing and celebrating diversity, ERC crafts customized talent solutions for organizations and corporations operating in diverse borders and markets. This inclusive approach enables ERC to access exceptional talent from around the globe and offers equal opportunities to top talents, irrespective of their geographical location.

Synchronizing with Recent Developments

Ritjana places great importance on staying competitive in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing environment. She and her team participate in webinars, conferences, and strategy meetings to better understand their clients’ talent strategies. They then take this information back to their drawing board to determine if any internal operational or delivery processes need to be changed or adjusted to deliver better outcomes for ERC’s clients. To aid in their efforts, Ritjana and her team use AI-driven tools in sourcing and research, along with various techniques to expedite their research skills, as part of ERC’s brand promise of delivering within 48 hours.

Standing Out

ERC International stands out in the market for several key reasons. Firstly, the company is known for its resilience and resourcefulness, always finding innovative solutions. Secondly, it prioritizes transparency in client relationships, fostering trust and open communication. Another distinguishing factor is ERC’s commitment to fast service delivery, addressing the common stigma associated with recruitment companies. ERC has built a strong reputation for fulfilling commitments promptly.

Ritjana believes one of ERC’s key strengths lies in its multicultural team across five countries. This diverse composition provides the company with a unique advantage. It grants the company much-needed access to a wide range of talent pools and deep cultural understanding, enabling it to offer comprehensive solutions to clients that go beyond recruitment. The ultimate goal for ERC International is to establish long-term partnerships with their clients, acting as trusted business advisors rather than simply a talent placement agency. This holistic approach involves going above and beyond to provide value-added services and strategic support to clients, driving their success.

By embodying resilience, transparency, and swift service delivery, combined with a multicultural team and a commitment to comprehensive client solutions, ERC International has carved its place in the market as a trusted partner and valuable resource for businesses seeking exceptional talent and strategic guidance.

“In the last 3 years, we have been closely involved and supporting the ever-growing startup ecosystem in the Middle East by supporting their teams to grow with tech talents, programmers, data scientists, CTOs, etc. We are proud to partner with some of our clients and see their growth become our growth,”- Ritjana.

On Women Entrepreneurs

Ritjana is deeply passionate about advocating for women in entrepreneurial roles. She firmly believes that the increasing representation of women as entrepreneurs has significantly impacted business and economic growth within the country. Women-owned businesses have a vital role in society, not only by generating employment opportunities but also by driving demographic shifts and serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of female founders. Ritjana recognizes the UAE’s remarkable progress in promoting women’s entrepreneurship, showcasing the breakthroughs made by women in overcoming barriers and achieving success. As a woman, she takes immense pride in witnessing the strides women have taken on their entrepreneurial journeys. However, she also acknowledges that there is still work to achieve complete equality and empowerment.

RiskXchange: Changing the World of Cyber Security for Better

Founded by Darren Craig, RiskXchange is a leading information security technology company, which helps companies of all sizes fight cyber threats by providing instant risk ratings. RiskXchange provides a powerful AI-assisted, yet simple automated, and centralized unique 360-degree security risk rating management approach. It generates objective, quantitative reporting on a company’s security risk and performance, enabling organizations with evolving requirements to conduct business securely in today’s open, collaborative, digital world.

Establishing RiskXchange

Darren has amassed over 27 years of experience in Cyber Security, tracing back to his early days as an apprentice in electronics. Following the completion of his training, Darren had the privilege of honing his skills with renowned organizations like Philips, Motorola and Natwest Banking Group. It was during his tenure as a network security engineer in Natwest Banking Group that he began delving deeper into the intricate realm of security.

As his knowledge expanded and confidence soared, Darren embraced a bold opportunity to embark on an entrepreneurial path. Joined by a group of trusted colleagues, he ventured into the world of entrepreneurship and established a security-focused startup. The venture surpassed all expectations, culminating in a remarkably profitable exit a mere five years later.

Following his successful stint at the security start-up, Darren’s desire to broaden his business acumen and collaborate with major banking corporations motivated him to join IBM. Within IBM, he held various influential roles in global business and sales. However, he soon recognized a pressing need for a groundbreaking solution within the cybersecurity industry. This realization ultimately led him to make the pivotal decision to leave IBM behind and establish RiskXchange in 2017.

“My journey has been long and arduous, but it has been worth it. It has equipped me with a unique perspective on the industry and allowed me to bring innovative solutions to the market. I am proud of my journey and its impact on the cybersecurity industry,”- remembers Darren.

About RiskXchange

RiskXchange understands the overwhelming nature of cybersecurity threats and compliance issues that businesses face, regardless of their size. In response, this cyber security firm has meticulously crafted its service to be refreshingly straightforward. With RiskXchange, clients do not need to possess specialized cybersecurity expertise to navigate the complexities of protecting their businesses. The company’s comprehensive range of user-friendly and simple services empowers clients to confidently utilize their solutions without unnecessary complications.

RiskXchange’s commitment extends beyond monitoring clients’ cybersecurity posture and compliance. The firm also diligently monitors their supply chain, ensuring that all vendors and partners adhere to best practices. This capability provides significant relief for companies relying on extensive networks of suppliers and partners, as it can be challenging to keep track of everyone’s compliance status.

In the event of any issues, RiskXchange offers expert guidance on resolving them, eliminating the need to hire expensive cybersecurity professionals. Moreover, with their 24/7 monitoring, RiskXchange maintains constant vigilance for potential threats or compliance issues. This proactive approach enables the prevention of problems before they even arise, granting clients peace of mind and enabling them to focus on the smooth operation of their businesses.

Solving Primary Challenges of the Industry

As an Information Security technology Company, RiskXchange can help solve several challenges facing the cyber security industry, such as:

Evolving Threat Landscape: RiskXchange offers 24/7 monitoring and threat detection services that can help organizations stay on top of the latest threats. Our service is designed to be adaptable and can keep up with the changing threat landscape, so you don’t have to.
Shortage of Skilled Professionals: With RiskXchange, organizations don’t need to hire teams of expensive cybersecurity professionals. Our service provides expert advice and monitoring, which can help fill the skills gap and give organizations the support they need to protect their networks and systems.
The Complexity of Networks and Systems: RiskXchange offers a comprehensive service that can monitor networks and systems and applications across both cloud-based and on-premises internet-facing environments. Our service is designed to be scalable and adaptable, so it can handle even the most complex systems.
Lack of Cybersecurity Awareness: RiskXchange can help raise cybersecurity awareness by providing easy-to-use services that don’t require deep technical knowledge. Our service can help organizations understand their security posture and identify areas for improvement.
Compliance and Regulatory Issues: RiskXchange offers compliance monitoring services that can help organizations stay on top of regulatory requirements. Our service is designed to be flexible and can be customized to meet the specific compliance needs of each organization.

In a nutshell, RiskXchange offers organizations a comprehensive solution to overcome the challenges prevalent in the cybersecurity industry. With its range of services, RiskXchange provides comprehensive, scalable, and adaptable solutions that enable organizations to stay ahead of the ever-evolving threat landscape. It also assists in bridging the skills gap by offering expertise and support, helping organizations navigate complex networks and systems. Additionally, RiskXchange contributes to raising cybersecurity awareness within organizations and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. Overall, RiskXchange equips organizations with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively address the multifaceted challenges of the cybersecurity landscape.

Disrupting the Industry

Under Darren’s leadership, RiskXchange is disrupting the cybersecurity industry by providing innovative, more effective, and efficient solutions than traditional approaches. The company’s technological prowess is built upon a distinctive platform that harnesses the power of machine learning and artificial intelligence. This cutting-edge technology enables RiskXchange to analyze massive volumes of data and swiftly identify potential threats in real-time. By leveraging these advanced capabilities, RiskXchange sets itself apart as a trailblazer in the cybersecurity domain, providing organizations with unparalleled protection and peace of mind.

One of the main key ways that RiskXchange is disrupting the industry is by providing a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity and associated compliance requirements, which cover the new evolving Digital Operational Resilience Act as well as existing security frameworks including IOS 27001, NIST 800-53, and many others. Rather than focusing solely on network security or application security, RiskXchange provides a holistic view of an organization’s entire cybersecurity posture including compliance. This includes assessing vulnerabilities and compliance in third-party and fourth-party vendors, evaluating the risks associated with cloud-based services, and monitoring social media, the Dark web, and other online hacker forms for potential threats.

The organization is also disrupting the cybersecurity industry by making cybersecurity more accessible and affordable for businesses of all sizes. By leveraging cloud-based technology, RiskXchange provides its services at a fraction of the cost of traditional security solutions. This makes it easier for small and mid-sized businesses to implement effective cybersecurity measures and protect themselves against potential threats.

Another area where RiskXchange disrupts the cybersecurity industry is through its commitment to providing a user-friendly interface and experience. Recognizing the importance of accessibility and ease of use, RiskXchange has developed an intuitive platform that simplifies the management of cybersecurity risks for businesses. By offering a user-friendly interface, the company enables organizations to navigate and utilize their services with ease, even for users without extensive technical expertise.

Lastly, RiskXchange is disrupting the industry by taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity. Instead of adopting a reactive stance where incidents are addressed after they occur, RiskXchange’s technology is specifically designed to proactively identify and mitigate potential threats before they have a chance to cause harm. This helps businesses stay ahead of the curve and prevent cybersecurity incidents from occurring in the first place.

Looking at the Future

As a leading provider of innovative cybersecurity solutions, RiskXchange has set its priorities for 2023. With a focus on growth, the cybersecurity company now plans to expand its reach and increase its customer base through targeted marketing efforts and strategic partnerships. This includes investing in new technologies and hiring additional sales and marketing staff to increase visibility and drive revenue growth.

In order to achieve these goals, RiskXchange will heavily invest in its workforce by prioritizing employee training and development to enhance their skills and enable them to deliver the best possible service to customers. In addition, the company is committed to fostering a positive workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

On the other hand, RiskXchange is continuously developing new products and services that meet the evolving needs of its customers. This includes investing in research and development to create cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions that provide greater protection against emerging threats.

Customer satisfaction remains a top priority for RiskXchange. The company understands that every organization has unique requirements, and it is committed to delivering the highest level of customer service and support. RiskXchange actively engages with its customers, seeking to understand their specific needs and challenges. This customer-centric approach enables the company to tailor its solutions and provide personalized cybersecurity strategies that align with the unique requirements of each customer.

Overall, RiskXchange’s priorities for 2023 demonstrate its commitment to growth and customer satisfaction while investing in its workforce and developing cutting-edge products and services to meet its customers’ evolving cybersecurity and compliance needs.

Vladimir Penkov: Chairman and Senior Partner of Penkov, Markov & Partners, Navigating Legal Matters with Robost Solutions

With its latest issue, Tycoon Success Magazine is back with some successful business executives who are making a difference through their ideas and creativity. Here is the success story of an accomplished businessman and lawyer with years of enriched expertise in the relevant field. An industry veteran renowned for his efforts to positively influence the legal profession, Vladimir Penkov is the Chairman and Senior Partner of Penkov, Markov & Partners, one of the leading legal firms in Bulgaria.

The Man of the Hour

In the key position of Chairman, Vladimir Penkov is successfully spearheading the firm and taking care of the different legal matters for a number of the firm’s long-standing clients. His areas of expertise include negotiations, legal research, drafting, and client representation in a variety of commercial law areas, including banking and finance, corporate law and commercial contracts, competition, privatisation, and foreign investments; investment management; mergers and acquisitions; project finance; public procurement; licencing and know-how agreements; tax law; telecommunications; media and IT; energy law; and renewable energy sources.

“There are often unforeseen obstacles in the way of becoming a reputable lawyer at a reputable international law firm like Penkov, Markov & Partners from a state employee-lawyer in a ministry or a foreign trade organisation in a socialist country. The visionary leader summed up his professional experience by saying, “Adapting to a democratic state ruled by the rule of law with a free market economy demands not only vision and initiative but also confidence, patience, tenacity, and endurance, as well as a lot of hope.

Empowering the Legal Reformation in Bulgaria

Penkov, Markov & Partners is the first law firm in Bulgaria with a modern work structure. It was founded in 1990, immediately following the democratic changes in the country, with the goal of strengthening the rule of law, establishing best business practises and a level playing field for companies.

Since the beginning and up until the present, we have worked hard to fully satisfy the individual demands of our clients and have developed the essential methodology for doing so, which is followed by all of us. This calls for delivering more than just theoretical “cabinet knowledge” and having the guts to think creatively and beyond the box, to combine knowledge with the wisdom of court and life practise. This gives us the assurance to look for unique, creative solutions and to support them alongside our clients the prominent practitioner stated.

Towards a Positive and Innovative Transformation

In the direction of a positive and innovative transformation, a more rapid response to the actual needs of the clients is made possible by the combination of professionalism in various legal fields, empathy for the client’s problems, and public engagement. This also increases motivation and commitment to find (often unexpectedly for the client) the most suitable innovative solution. This calls for fortitude and tenacity.

These are Penkov, Markov, & Partners’ own professional standards.

This describes the developed corporate culture of Penkov, Markov & Partners, which is an effective source of individual inspiration and an amplifier of accomplishments. This is the change that Penkov, Markov & Partners is trying to bring about.

All clients who seek to take advantage of fine investment opportunities and therefore need the appropriate specific legal support, personal commitment, and the feeling of a path walked together could benefit from this approach.

Overcoming the Major Hurdles Along the Way

The primary hurdles for Vladimir included starting a firm without any experience, resources, equipment, or clients, as well as working on the many new laws that were about to be adopted in Bulgaria at the time.

Second, it is difficult to make conventional results and stick to a way of thinking because new legal disciplines have been rapidly growing in recent years.

In addition to the previously mentionedstumbling blocks, it can also be difficult to come to the right conclusions and establish clear action plans while maintaining the autonomy and independence of the team. The best advice, which could offer the client the greatest efficiency and comfort, is rarely the first professional legal opinion that is available.

From the Chairman’s Desk

In my book ‘The Colourful World of a Lawyer’, which came out recently, I try to give myself an answer to these and some other questions, if that is at all possible. When you have solid professional training and come from a nation where nearly everything was controlled by the state and then all of a sudden things start to shift, having the flexibility to start a business and organise it is simultaneously not only a huge challenge, but a strong motivator as well. I started taking the planned action right away, applying what I had already learned while also picking up a lot more knowledge. When you lose focus, you stop noticing a lot of little but significant aspects of life.

The founder of a company wants to do most of the work himself for as long as possible or to supervise closely. This, in turn, makes it very easy for some to pass on their own obligations to him. Office work becomes an obsession and appears to practically eliminate other significant aspects of life, such as having enough time and providing for your family, or kids.

At the very least, I want to be known as an “approachable, smiling, pleasant boss, always polite and calm” at the end of my work. I’m attempting to make up for my past failings by giving my three grandchildren, friends, and, why not, myself, more love and care.

If I can, I strive to direct all of my expertise and skills towards “visioning, company development, and training.” I dream of pursuing goals that require new ideas and innovative thinking, as the founder of a venture finds it harder to withdraw from the work and the problems of the organisation he has created entirely and continues, despite advancing age, to put forth a committed effort, finding it difficult to achieve the right balance.

Disrupting the Legal Industry

Penkov, Markov & Partners has set the bar high for other market players in terms of innovation and setting up working and resting environments that are conducive to the highest levels of qualification. The good communication and understanding within the team, as well as the qualification opportunities, are a consequence of the already established firm culture and the high motivation of the colleagues to often find the best innovative solution.

The Future Plans of Penkov, Markov, and Partners

To contribute to the strengthening of the reputation of Bulgarian law firms and the country as a promising destination, not only for tourism but also for more investments. The team will be required to combine, perhaps through mergers, even harder work in support of judicial reform and the required changes to the Commercial Act, as well as efforts towards more expeditious administrative decision-making and less bureaucracy.

Before signing off, the visionary leader shares words of wisdom for all young entrepreneurs aspiring to and working hard to grow in the legal segment.

“In comparison to many other nations, Bulgaria offers foreign businesses a far wider range of options and activities. I would propose that they make first contact with reputable law firms and perhaps other advisors rather than solely relying on meetings with the administration. Investments are promoted in Bulgaria by facilitating administrative support and making land purchases simpler. The investments are reliable and protected by the law. Investors should also consider whether the required labour force is readily available.”

Revolutionizing Healthcare: Vivera’s Journey Towards Patient-Centric Drug Delivery

In the world of healthcare, the opioid crisis looms large and adequate patient-centered solutions remain a crucial yet unmet need. Amid the challenge, Vivera has emerged with direct solutions. Cofounded by Paul Edalat in 2018, Vivera was born out of personal tragedy and a mission to put patients first while revolutionizing the healthcare system.

With a focus on safer drug delivery, Vivera is dedicated to improving the healthcare industry for patients, providers, and other stakeholders in the medication supply chain. From their patented smart drug delivery solution and technology, ZICOH, to advancements in prescription medications in the Company’s prescription drug delivery system, TABMELT, Vivera’s ambitious approach has the potential to transform the healthcare landscape for the better.

The Inspiration Behind Vivera

Since his teenage years, the Chairman, Founder, and CEO of Vivera, Mr. Edalat, has had a strong passion for health and wellness. He used his interests and entrepreneurial skills for decades to make a difference in the fast-growing fitness and wellness sectors. However, his priorities shifted when his brother Peter was diagnosed with cancer.

During his brother’s treatment, Mr. Edalat observed the challenges and constraints within the healthcare system, particularly pertaining to how medications were prescribed and administered. His brother was prescribed high doses of opioids to alleviate pain and other side effects from chemotherapy. There weren’t safety measures in place to prevent him from exceeding his prescribed dose. Therefore, as his tolerance to his medication increased, so did his dosage.

As a result, he developed an addiction to his medication before losing his battle with cancer.

“My brother’s passing made me determined to change the healthcare industry in his honor. Since then, I have focused my efforts on creating safer medication delivery systems and putting patients before profits,” said Mr. Edalat.

Shortly after losing his brother, Mr. Edalat sat down with his good friend and now, Vivera’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Mehdi Hatamian, Ph.D. Together, they invented ZICOH, a patented, dose-controlled, smart drug delivery device for prescription medications.

Vivera at a Glance

In the beginning, Vivera set out to create non-addictive pain management solutions through its pharmaceutical and medical device divisions. The Company has grown into several divisions to improve patient care and meet various medical demands.

Vivera Technologies and Vivera Medical Devices are dedicated to creating cutting-edge technology to revolutionize patient care. ZICOH, one of the Company’s flagship products, dispenses precise medication doses and integrates seamlessly with ZICOH Connect^TM, a cloud-based software system that uses artificial intelligence to produce actionable insights for medication adherence, oversight, and compliance.

Vivera BioSciences focuses on developing medications for various conditions using its patented TABMELT technology for sublingual drug delivery.

Vivera Neurosciences is dedicated to investigating and developing therapies for disorders of the central nervous system, such as psychiatric, neurological, and fluency disorders, to enhance the lives of patients and offer better options for healthcare professionals.

Vivera Advanced Diagnostics uses its Lab Information Management System (LIMS), LabPort, to deliver patients quick and reliable diagnostic and wellness test results.

The Company has become a multi-faceted business dedicated to improving patient care and meeting various medical demands.

Overcoming the Hurdles Along the Way

As Vivera paves the way toward patient-centric care, it faces many obstacles. Although the healthcare sector is adapting, there are several entry hurdles and, of course, opposition to change in any industry.

Mr. Edalat disclosed, “We confront various challenges as we develop, create, and market our products in addition to the everyday challenges that come with running a business. I maintain focus by tuning out external distractions and concentrating on our patients and pipeline end goals.”

Prioritizing a Strong Team and Culture

The Company houses a team of dedicated professionals with the right mix of skills and expertise, which is critical for success. A positive work atmosphere, open communication, and team development are essential.

Vivera fosters an inclusive culture that encourages open communication and the exchange of diverse ideas. For creativity and success to occur, diversity and inclusion are essential. The executive team has always acknowledged this and incorporated it into the corporate culture.

“Our team reflects our dedication to diversity and inclusion. We make an effort to hire team members with a variety of experiences, skill sets, and backgrounds. This strategy not only brings new ideas to the table but also aids in our ability to comprehend and better serve the demands of our wide range of patients,” stated Mr. Edalat.

Looking Towards the Future

The Vivera team is enthusiastic about the Company’s sustained growth and potential influence in bettering the healthcare sector. Their primary focus remains on providing top-quality care and making it accessible to patients worldwide.

They plan to improve patient experiences and perhaps even treatment outcomes by concentrating on drug delivery. Their long-term goal entails working with healthcare professionals to ensure cutting-edge products like TABMELT and ZICOH are accessible to every patient who needs them.

Mr. Edalat is adamant about coming up with solutions that prioritize safety and well-being. He has seen the risks associated with prescription medications, especially those with a higher propensity for misuse. The prevalent problem of addiction impacts individuals, families, and entire communities.

Vivera’s pioneering technology, ZICOH, was invented with the goal of reducing prescription medication addiction. Additionally, ZICOH can potentially prevent prescription medications from reaching the wrong hands.

Words of Wisdom

Mr. Edalat claims that having a mentor is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs. He is grateful for the mentors that he has had throughout his career and always says that “finding someone who has already achieved your goal and can teach you the ins and outs of the industry is invaluable.”

“Seek a good mentor. This person can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights to help you navigate the challenges of starting a business. A mentor can also help you avoid common mistakes, provide practical advice, and give you a fresh perspective on your ideas,” advised Mr. Edalat.

With a passionate team and an unwavering commitment to patient safety and well-being, Vivera is positioned to make a significant impact on the healthcare industry in the years to come. As the Company continues to develop groundbreaking solutions like TABMELT and ZICOH, its aim is to ensure that every patient can access safe and effective treatments and a better quality of life.

“For aspiring entrepreneurs, mentorship and dedication to one’s vision are key ingredients for success,” said Mr. Edalat.

Vivera’s patient-centric journey serves as a powerful testament to the potential of innovation, diversity, and perseverance to bring about transformative change in the world.

Melanie Clark: Delivering Best-in-Class Marketing Services

Melanie Clark is the Chief Marketing Officer of Abstrakt Marketing Group, a business growth company providing lead generation solutions. Melanie started her career as a Social Media Intern in 2011, and quickly rose to the rank of Social Media Manager before moving up to the rank of Senior Director of Marketing in 2012 and Vice President of Marketing in 2018.

Throughout her career, Melanie has consistently demonstrated a proactive attitude to learning all aspects of the business from a marketing perspective. Since the beginnig of her career, Melanie has recognized the importance of having a deep understanding of the work that her team does and the processes they follow. So, she would come to the office hours before official working time, to learn these programs and processes, which helped her better set expectations and lead her team.

“By learning the creative programs from the experts themselves, I gained valuable insight into the creative process and was able to develop a better understanding of what was required to deliver high-quality marketing materials,”- she explains. “This hands-on approach allowed me to develop a more nuanced understanding of the work that my team was doing, and it helped me to establish strong working relationships with my colleagues.”

As the Chief Marketing Officer of Abstrakt Group, Melanie worked extremely hard to establish a marketing team capable of effectively supporting the company’s internal marketing efforts, especially during a period of substantial growth. One of the key aspects of creating and building a successful marketing team is investing in the group’s employees. Melanie and her team have created a culture of continuous learning and development, providing everyone with the needed tools and resources to help them grow and succeed.

“We believe that by investing in our team members, we are not only able to attract top talent but also retain them, which is essential in a competitive industry. Much of this we get better at defining and committing to year after year,”- Melanie says.

About Abstrakt Marketing Group

Abstrakt Marketing Group is a nationally recognized business growth company based in St. Louis, Missouri.

Abstrakt builds sustainable sales pipelines and generates predictable sales opportunities. Founded in 2009, Abstrakt Marketing Group has grown to 550+ team members and 2,000+ clients across all 50 states, Canada, and the U.K. Its products include:

Outbound SDR:
Abstrakt Marketing’s high-performing experts set qualified sales appointments with the best decision-makers in its clients’ target market.
Inbound SDR:
Abstrakt’s digital marketing specialists develop websites and craft engaging web content to help potential buyers easily find its clients’ business online.
Bionic SDR:
Its email marketing team sets high-quality sales meetings with qualified prospects through email strategy.
Creative Sweets:
Abstrakt’s creative branch creates high-quality marketing materials, which enhances sales efforts.
Abstrakt Cloud Solutions:
Its Salesforce-certified consultants help clients optimize Salesforce for business growth.
Talent Solutions:
Abstrakt’s recruitment and staffing experts find and place the best candidates for businesses nationwide.

Establishing an Award Winning Culture

Abstrakt Marketing Group sets itself apart by establishing an award-winning culture. The organization has created best practices prioritizing team member growth, development, and engagement. As an example, the marketing company has implemented Abstrakt Gives Back initiatives that include an annual Give Back Day where all team members spend a day volunteering in their local communities as well as 8 additional hours of PTO that team members can use to volunteer. This program serves as a testament to Abstrakt’s encouragement of team members’ involvement in their respective communities, fostering a sense of purpose and facilitating a positive impact beyond the workplace.

As the CMO of the company, Melanie is fully committed to creating a top workplace, that provides continuous growth for people interested in sales and marketing. The marketing company’s focus on supporting team members’ professional growth and development has been key to its recognition as a Top Workplace. Melanie and her team place a high priority on cultivating a positive culture and fostering team member engagement throughout the organization, which has proven instrumental in attracting and retaining top talent.

“I believe that by fostering a work environment that values personal and professional development, we can continue to create a top workplace that inspires and empowers our team members to achieve their full potential,”- states Melanie. “Overall, I am honored to have had such an exciting and fulfilling career journey that led me to this role. I believe that my work ethic, commitment to learning and innovation, and focus on team member engagement and culture have helped to make Abstrakt Marketing Group a leading organization in the industry.”

Tackling Primary Challenges

Melanie feels the primary challenge within the industry lies in the ability to genuinely represent partners. To address this challenge, Abstrakt’s team has devised an extensive implementation process and established a system of monthly meetings. These meetings serve as a platform for ensuring that partners remain informed about ongoing strategies and results, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement. An integral component of these meetings is the comprehensive review of the partner portal, which offers real-time performance data and serves as a centralized platform for providing feedback. Furthermore, the team utilizes Salesforce to record all client communications, mitigating the risk of losing valuable information as team members transition or depart. This approach prevents the loss of progress and eliminates reliance on individual knowledge, ensuring continuity and consistency in partner representation.

Changing the Industry for Better

Abstrakt Marketing Group is actively assisting businesses across various industries through the production of The Grow Show podcast. This podcast was specifically designed to share invaluable “secrets to success” with fellow entrepreneurs, sales leaders, and executives. Each episode encompasses three distinct segments that cater to different aspects of business growth. The first segment, “50 for 50,” offers 50 actionable tips aimed at helping businesses achieve a revenue milestone of $50 million. The second segment, “Tales From Sales,” provides valuable advice on effectively managing a sales team and closing sales. Lastly, the segment titled “Mining For Growth Gold” delves into the best practices of lead generation, uncovering strategies that foster substantial business growth.

John Chuang: Delivering Reliable and High-Quality Medical PC Solutions with His Venture, Onyx Healthcare

“A leader knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” This special edition of the magazine features Mr. John Chuang, President of Onyx Healthcare USA , as part of our effort to provide best-in-class content to our global readership.

A professional medical IT solution manufacturer, Onyx Healthcare USA Inc., has emerged as an exemplary brand under the leadership of John Chuang because of his unwavering dedication to offering clients dependable and superior medical PC solutions. Hence, this story is dedicated to the outstanding journey of John Chuang and his innovative endeavour.

The Exceptional Success Story

John Chuang is a renowned business leader with an extensive professional background. He established an operational business structure and launched Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc., in 2012 with the goal of enhancing patient care using cutting-edge technologies. Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc., has advanced to a position of prominence in the healthcare technology sector under his direction. Today, the company is well known for its cutting-edge, compliant medical-grade computer products, which include tablets, panel PCs, displays, and embedded systems.

John has placed a strong emphasis on delivering outstanding customer service and support while also creating solutions that are specifically tailored to the needs of healthcare professionals. His relentless dedication to strengthening patient care and increasing workflow effectiveness has given Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc., a solid reputation in the industry.

John Chuang currently heads Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc., with his passion for innovation, client-centered strategy, and long-term outlook. They are advancing the business as a premier supplier of cutting-edge healthcare technology solutions in the United States as well as worldwide with the support of their dedicated workforce.

Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc. at a Glance

Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc. is a prominent supplier of cutting-edge healthcare technology solutions in the US. It provides medical-grade computing solutions, including tablets, panel PCs, displays, and embedded systems that are approved by UL/EN 60601 medical standards. In order to design scalable and interoperable solutions that are specific to healthcare providers’ particular workflow requirements, Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc. works directly with them. Additionally, the business provides thorough post-sale services like technical support, instruction, and maintenance. Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc. serves its clients by supplying cutting-edge healthcare technology solutions for better clinical outcomes. The company is dedicated to improving patient care and workflow efficiency.

The Key Differentiating Factors

Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc. stands out from its competitors with its specialised focus on healthcare technology and its commitment to innovation and customization. Due to the company’s extensive knowledge of the healthcare sector, it is able to develop goods and services that are specifically designed to satisfy the specific workflow demands and specifications of healthcare practitioners, guaranteeing high quality, dependability, and adherence to medical standards.

Onyx Healthcare USA, Inc. offers a wide range of AI-powered medical devices, including mobile patient rounding solutions, an AI inferencing development server, mobile clinic assistant tablets, edge patient monitoring devices, and medical imaging solutions. These products utilise cutting-edge AI algorithms for decision assistance, predictive analytics, and real-time analysis of patient data, giving healthcare providers insightful information right at the point of care. The goal of Onyx Healthcare’s AI technologies is to improve patient care, clinical decision-making, and operational efficiency for healthcare providers through seamless integration, increased data protection, and effective data processing.

Overcoming Uncertainties

The primary challenges that John and his team have encountered in this dynamic market are keeping up with quickly advancing technological developments, staying one step ahead of the competition, ensuring compliance with shifting laws, and satisfying the growing demands of the healthcare sector for creative and dependable medical IT solutions. In a fast-paced, cutthroat market, they successfully addressed client needs and sustain high levels of customer satisfaction. To overcome these obstacles, they give research and development top priority, make investments in talent and knowledge, promote collaborations with business partners, and have a flexible mindset to adjust to shifting market conditions.

Onyx’s Healthy Work Environment

Onyx promotes a culture of ongoing learning and research, which fosters creativity and innovation in the workplace while preserving a positive work environment. John, the leading man, at times, challenges his team’s conventional thinking while also giving them the tools and encouragement they need to pursue fresh concepts, recognize and reward creative thinking, and foster opportunities for cross-functional cooperation and idea sharing. In order to create a positive working atmosphere that encourages creativity and innovation, he also places a high priority on work-life balance, open communication, and employee well-being.

Diversity and Inclusion in the Organization

John, a leader who places the needs of the people first, cultivates a culture that values the diversity of thinking, background, and experiences. He actively searches out varied talent, creates opportunities for marginalized groups to flourish, invests in training for employees on diversity and inclusion, and holds executives responsible for fostering inclusivity. He tries his best to foster environments that are free from judgement and encourage open communication. He strives to leverage the potential of different points of view to spur creativity, improve decision-making, and achieve organizational success by embracing diversity and inclusion as essential values.

The Pandemic Impact: Positive and Negative

Onyx worked directly with its clients to comprehend their changing demands during the pandemic. This included creating and providing vital medical-grade computing solutions for telemedicine and remote patient monitoring. In order to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare sector, they intensified research and development activities, developing tools to assist COVID-19 testing and treatment. The entire team remained dedicated to the goal of advancing healthcare technology and assisting healthcare professionals throughout the pandemic. They even teamed up with Intel to fight the pandemic in Vietnam by providing peripherals and core telemedicine hardware for remote counselling that is encrypted.

The Vital Characteristics of a Leader: Empathy

John considers empathy to be a crucial quality in a leader. Empathy, which is the capacity to comprehend and share the sentiments of others, is essential for forging enduring bonds with people, promoting a healthy workplace environment, and arriving at wise decisions. A leader who has empathy may relate to team members more deeply, comprehend their viewpoints, and demonstrate sympathy and understanding for their needs and concerns. Leadership is facilitated through empathy, which encourages trust, inspires motivation, and facilitates communication. Additionally, it supports decision-making that takes into account the various viewpoints of team members and other stakeholders in a fair and inclusive manner. In general, empathy fosters teamwork, develops trust, and provides a constructive, inclusive leadership style that supports everyone’s success and well-being.

John’s Take on the Actual Definition of Success

My definition of success is doing what I set out to do, having an impact, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and keeping my sanity in the face of obstacles and failures in the quick-paced world of healthcare technology.

Moving Towards a Bright Future

After a successful voyage thus far, Onyx Healthcare has tremendous expansion initiatives to boost market share and bring in more than 50 Fortune 100 companies as medical device clients in the next two years. With a focus on innovation, market expansion, customer success, diversity and inclusion, talent development, and social responsibility, it further plans to grow on its commitment to enhancing healthcare technology and providing value to customers and stakeholders.

John loves to encourage his team to think outside the box with this quote: “Don’t just treat the symptoms; cure the disease.” Francis Bacon

Leonardo DE MURO: The Maverick Man, Successfully Spearheading the Globally Renowned Brand for Ceramics Lifestyle Solutions – RAK Ceramics

What distinguishes a successful business leader from an ordinary business owner? A short and simple response is to find creativity and profitability in the mundane. However, it’s much more than that when you look at it critically. Trailblazers have a unique perspective on the world. They effectively transformed novel concepts, things, and discoveries into something more valuable and alluring because they could see their potential.

Introducing Leonardo DE MURO, an inspiring business leader and Vice President of RAK Ceramics, who is an astounding entrepreneur scaling a niche in the industry. His venture, RAK Ceramics, is one of the largest ceramics brands in the world and has established itself as a leader in the manufacture of ceramics for bathroom fixtures, flooring, and wall coverings.

Leonardo DE MURO, a seasoned professional with excellent organizational abilities, has extensive expertise in managing the sales network and collaborators, launching new markets, and expanding existing markets. Although he has accomplished intense and immersive stints in sales, he was working for a leading company in the production of catering equipment. Returning from a business trip, he had the pleasure of meeting the sales director of Pastorelli Ceramiche, and in a few months, Leonardo found himself in an entirely different sector, which he has never left.

RAK Ceramics – In a Glance

RAK Ceramics has become a world reference in the production of ceramics for floor and wall coverings and bathroom furnishings because it never stops seeking innovation in products and systems. Unglazed porcelain, ceramics, sanitary ware, furnishings, and accessories under one great concept Imagine your space offering all clients ongoing lifestyle solutions.

The RAK Ceramics brand is gaining increasing strength and recognition in European and world markets, especially for the company’s strong ability to experiment, produce, and distribute hi-tech innovations for contract, residential, and commercial projects.

They include the most recent ceramic technologies developed in R&D labs, such as ORBIT 3Rs, Klima, and Absolute Matt, as well as the creation of big slabs in an enormous format.

“During the pandemic, we were the first to suggest antibacterial solutions, and we just unveiled the RAK Ceramics Smart Factory, which combines automation and IoT technology to modernize the production of tiles and satisfy our clients’ changing needs. Our factory, which is outfitted with the newest equipment and technology, optimizes production, lowers waste, and improves product quality, said the forward-thinking executive.

From the Founder’s Desk

I enjoy working with curious people, and when I connect with someone, I give them the freedom to make suggestions, come up with new ideas, make mistakes, and learn from them. Although I have worked in my field for a long time, I am constantly learning new things because of the benefits that a trustworthy relationship provides me.

I am lucky enough to work for a multinational group with more than 12,000 employees of 40 different nationalities, where gender or social background matters less than personal skills and merit.

Impact of the Pandemic on RAK Ceramics

Indeed, the epidemic has had an impact on the entire industry, but it has also given businesses the chance to experiment with new products and business models. Less than a month after the lockdown, RAK Ceramics was the first company in the world to introduce a virtual showroom. Instead of cutting back on meetings with its global branches, they have made use of remote work to boost them. Surprisingly, they have performed better during times of crisis management by being more active and effective. They have also introduced total novelties like Rak-Sanit, a line of 99.9% effective antibacterial tiles, slabs, and bathroom accessories. Of course, the pandemic provided a chance to reconsider how they tackle global issues and how to catch the primary adversaries off guard with fresh, more potent strategies.

The Hurdles Along the Way

At RAK, innovation and design are equally valued, and the marriage of these two components ensures the production of modern, high-quality pieces. The company debuted an innovative on-demand 3D printing production system last month at the ISH exhibition in Frankfurt. It is a development of digital technology used in washbasins and was developed in the group’s labs. shorter delivery times, the ability to produce even one piece to the architects’ specifications, and a reduction in material waste due to the addictive nature of the process.

Definition of Success

To be aware of one’s success is to look back. Leonardo likes to think that he has never reached it and that he continues to look ahead, looking for personal success every day in what he does.

Characteristics of a Successful Leader

Nothing is more powerful than setting a positive example for others to emulate. People in positions of leadership must constantly take the initiative and engage in first-person narratives. In an effort to direct all the energies in the proper directions—which only experience allows you to trace—young talents contribute fresh ideas, and managers bring their stories and make them available to their teams.

“We must always be consistent in the choices we make. Apologizing for something you are convinced of is a sign of weakness.” Leonardo DE MURO

The Future Outlook

The company opened its first Design Hub last year, measuring 700 square meters, in Clerkenwell, a design hub in London, with the intention of providing architects and interior designers with a showroom with global specifications.

“As happened for 2022, I would like to end 2023 with financial results that set a new record.” “The urge to tackle fresh subjects, like taps and dinnerware, on which the group is giving me the chance to prove myself, is one of the objectives I’ve set for myself,” shared Leonardo.

“There are numerous practical projects for architecture and settings that demonstrably highlight the enormous potential of RAK Ceramics products. We will launch in Dubai very soon, and after that, we’ll consider establishing a physical presence in another major city for architecture and design”, he further added.

John Miniotis: An Inspiring Emblem of Excellence, Dedication, and Dynamic Leadership in the Mining Industry

Here is the inspiring journey of John Miniotis, the President and CEO of AbraSilver Resource Corp. With his extensive experience of over 18 years in the mining industry, he is now spearheading AbraSilver into an industry-leading exploration company and aiming to continue to take the company to new heights. Mr. Miniotis’ background has primarily focused on mergers & acquisitions, equity capital markets, investor relations and corporate finance, and he has worked in a wide variety of companies in the mining industry including Lundin Mining, AuRico Metals, Aethon Minerals and Barrick Gold. Mr. Miniotis holds the title of Certified Financial Analyst and graduated with honours from the University of Toronto with a degree in business administration.

Achievements & Accomplishments Along the Way

With his extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, Mr. Miniotis became CEO of AbraSilver in December 2019 through the merger of Aethon Minerals. The merger was an excellent opportunity to create a company focused on a world-class silver and gold project with excellent exploration upside potential. Since the merger, AbraSilver has established a proven track record of consistently delivering drill results that are among the best in the industry, which has allowed the company to experience rapid growth.

Prior to Aethon Minerals, he was the vice president of corporate development at AuRico Metals where Mr. Miniotis was instrumental in the company’s acquisition by Centerra Gold which purchased AuRico in January 2018 for $310 million in cash.

Mr. Miniotis also played a crucial part in Lundin Mining’s execution of many acquisitions totalling more than $2 billion, which helped the business grow in an accretive manner. The driven leader is constantly searching for fresh possibilities to generate value and increase shareholder value.

AbraSilver in a Glance

AbraSilver is an advanced-stage exploration company focused on rapidly advancing its 100%-owned Diablillos silver-gold project in the mining-friendly Salta province of Argentina. The business is run by a seasoned management team, and Mr. Eric Sprott is one of its long-standing, devoted stockholders. The silver-gold project hosts Measured and Indicated resources of 109 million ounces of silver and 1.3 million ounces of gold, with significant further upside potential based on recent exploration success. The company also holds a portfolio of copper-gold properties, including the La Coipita copper-gold project, which is an earlier-stage exploration company. The company is publicly traded, under the ticker “ABRA” on the TSX-Venture and “ABBRF” in the United States.

John’s Unique Definition of Success

Mr. Miniotis recognizes that success can mean many different things to different people, but for him, success can be defined as the act of turning a vision into reality, by means of perseverance and in spite of failure.

A Piece of Advice by John Miniotis to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

“Never give up! If you are passionate about realizing your dream or entrepreneurial vision, then it’s just a matter of time, hard work, and —most importantly—resiliency before that vision becomes reality.”

The Future Outlook

AbraSilver’s objective is to see the Diablillos project develop into a top-tier producing silver-gold mine over the course of the next five years. The stockholders, the local communities, and the provincial and federal governments of Argentina will all greatly gain from this. The company will also keep looking for new opportunities to expand its business in nations with favourable mining laws.

Before signing off, Mr. Miniotis reflected on the lessons learned from his experiences in the business world:

“Life has taught me that success is not always linear, therefore learn from your failures and re-calibrate your approach. It also does not occur in a vacuum – surround yourself with the right people and most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the journey!”

Ray Singh: Remarkable Journey with Russell Finex

Our mission is “Customer Trust. A Russell Must” We want our customers to trust us in everything that we do and know that we are there to support them, asserted Mr. Ray Singh.

Ray Singh is a successful business leader who has been described as a pertinacious visionary leader, inspirational persona, innovative entrepreneur, and many other terms. He is a prominent and renowned leader with an extensive 43-year career and substantial expertise in the industry. In 2011, he was appointed as the Managing Director of Russell Finex, and since then he has proven his extraordinary competencies in enhancing the business’s performance, where revenue generation and market expansion come effortlessly. Under his direction, the group’s revenue has virtually tripled, and its profits have increased sixfold. The company has recently launched subsidiaries in China and India, and it is planning to do the same in Brazil.

In academics, Ray Singh has a Mechanical Engineering degree (B.Sc. ), and after his studies, he began working in an engineering capacity. After working for the company where he was employed for approximately a year, he started to become bored and started looking for other technical jobs. Later, he found a desk-based sales clerk position with Russell Finex, which he accepted with the idea that it would be a stopgap until he could find another “real” engineering position. He entered a commercial setting thanks to the sales clerk position. At that time, a US company producing high-speed mixers and bead mills had just sold Russell Finex the rights for Europe and Africa. He was a qualified candidate to manage this product line for the firm, given that these were technological products and he had engineering training. He was rapidly promoted to a technical sales position on the front lines.

Further explaining his professional journey, the remarkable man explained, “Growing up, I always wanted a job that allowed me to travel abroad. This was ideal for me because I got to travel, put my engineering expertise to use, and have an enjoyable commercial engagement. Before being promoted to various sales management jobs, I served the company in a variety of capacities over the years. I was appointed to the Board of Directors in 1997 as Group Sales and Marketing Director to oversee our global sales and marketing activities as well as our subsidiaries in the USA and Belgium.”

Russell Finex Ltd., Delivering Custom-built Solutions

Russell Finex, a leader in the production of sieving and filtration technologies, was founded in 1934. It was envisioned to be the preferred supplier of choice for sieving and filtration equipment in all of the markets that they serve. They have a global presence, with headquarters in the United Kingdom and subsidiaries in the United States, Belgium, India, and China. More than 140 nations across the world receive the equipment. In addition to having the broadest selection of sieving and filtering equipment in the business, Russell Finex takes pleasure in delivering the client custom-built solutions that are tailored to their specific needs. They guarantee and enhance the reputation of businesses in nearly every process industry around the world, from food and beverages to pharmaceuticals and metal powders, and have supplied household names like Nestlé, Heinz, and Unilever.

Overcoming the Hurdles Along the Way

Within this competitive business, the past several years have unavoidably brought their share of difficulties. Over the years, they have faced various challenges, including the unpredictable effects of COVID-19, Brexit, and a wide range of other challenges. But they have persevered through adversity that defies success. Despite the difficulties that the future may bring, they have been able to maintain exceptional levels of growth throughout these periods, and they hope to keep doing so.

Healthy Work Culture at Russell Finex

The company’s operations put teamwork and a positive workplace culture first; after all, without those two things, they would not be where they are now. They are adamant that teamwork is essential for achieving their goals and objectives because it not only enhances productivity but also innovation and creativity. This enables the sharing of fresh concepts and motivation within the company. Similarly, a healthy work environment and growth mentality are fostered by a positive work culture, which is vital for team morale. At Russell Finex, they uphold this by offering chances to learn and develop in a supportive environment that encourages a can-do mentality.

Diversity and Inclusion at Russell

Ray Singh and his team pride themselves on the diversity and inclusion that is evident throughout the workplace. Having a work environment filled with exceptional people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skills brings forward a unique set of creative and innovative ideas that wouldn’t have been able to be achieved otherwise. The range of skills present at the company allows a wide variety of different perspectives and viewpoints to be brought together, whether it’s for the purpose of brainstorming, problem-solving, or developing new ideas for a common goal.

“What makes us so successful in this profession today is our emphasis on togetherness despite our numerous variances”, quoted Ray Singh.

Road Map to Moving in the Future

“Our plans include increasing our global footprint as well as continuing to bring the most innovative products in our field to the marketplace. I would expect us to be fully established in Brazil and have our own entity in Southeast Asia. Since my personal and professional lives are so intertwined, this would also be a personal victory for me”, shared the inspiring leader when being asked about his future plans.

The Pearls of Wisdom by the Visionary Leader

I would say, that you should have a vision and a goal. Back that up with a plan for how your goal is going to be achieved, and then make sure it is implemented with a clear action plan. Make sure you are in an upward cycle of investment for growth, and keep an eye out for regulated sustainable growth. Do not be discouraged by the knocks and bumps you may encounter along the way. Review your strategy on a regular basis; if it is sound, as well as your action plan, rewards will follow.

If times get tough, the tendency is to cut sales and marketing budgets first. This happens all the time and it’s the last thing you should do. You reduce your opportunities, and your business suffers if you do not invest in these areas. This will result in a downward spiral because if sales fall, you will need to make more cuts, and your business will suffer as a result.

Many younger people who have joined our organisation throughout the years have questioned me about what their future is in the organisation. I constantly assure them that they can have any future they want. It is in their own hands, not mine. Never turn down an opportunity, as it may not come again. It is a way to learn and become a more rounded person. Work hard and smart, and the opportunities will come!

Chiara Longhi: Leading with Grace, Grit, and Purpose

Chiara Longhi is the Innovation Principal Lead at Amazon Web Services (AWS) and has significant expertise in assisting enterprises in their innovation and transformation journeys. In her role, Chiara helps executive leaders across Asia, the Pacific, and Japan develop and launch innovative solutions that prioritize customer-centricity. Chiara also serves as an Amazon Bar Raiser and has evaluated almost 400 candidates during her time in the company.

Chiara’s passion for technology and international markets led her to live and work across the United States, Asia, and Oceania for the past 12 years. Before joining the AWS Innovation team, she was part of the team that helped launch Amazon in Australia in 2017 and Singapore in 2019. Previous to that, she worked for LinkedIn, based out of Hong Kong, supporting the business’ expansion across Japan and Korea. Chiara began her career in tech at AOL after earning her Economics Bachelor’s degree from Bocconi University, and her Master’s degree from New York University.

Chiara’s passion for innovation has also led her to establish the Moonshot Company, a tailored program that aims to enable people with the knowledge and tools they need to unleash their potential and reach their goals: from helping individuals land their dream job through 1-1 coaching, interviewing tips and resume reviews, to advising professionals and businesses on topics such as emotional intelligence for leadership and success, product strategy and customer-centricity innovation.

Recently we got an opportunity to sit down with Chiara to learn how she and her team are changing the world for the better.

Below are the highlights of the interview.

Q) How do you motivate creativity and innovation while maintaining a healthy work environment?

Chiara) They can absolutely co-exist, and I think they actually fuel each other! The healthier your environment is, the greater your abilities to be creative and innovative will be. The first step is to be intentional about prioritizing your well-being rather than working for and backwards from deadlines. I personally need a good dose of energy and a healthy one of stress as well to operate at my best. Multiple studies have actually shown how the sweet spot for an innovative mindset is that middle energy/middle-stress area: too little stress/ energy has a great chance of making you bored, and overly high stress/energy brings you into that wanky phase..both are not ideal when you are trying to encourage creativity. So my tip is to find what gives you energy (for me is spending time outdoors, exercising, and having quality time with loved ones), establish an ambitious but realistic plan, and then..kick it off! Something very important that I have learned at Amazon is the importance of being stubborn on the vision but flexible on the details. Not everything will work out exactly as you imagined it first, and that is not a bad thing. If you believe in your idea, don’t give up on following your north star, but be flexible in how you will get to it.

Q) What are the major challenges of the industry, in your opinion? How are you tackling those?

Chiara) When it comes to corporate innovation, the most common blocker I have noticed is actually not really linked to resources, funding, or technology limitations- it actually comes from the company culture. A company culture that hires talent but then doesn’t develop it, or doesn’t really enable and incentivize employees to experiment and innovate, will most likely struggle to bring any creativity or innovation out there. And company culture goes well beyond the free lunches, playful offices, or benefits businesses might offer their employees. Company culture starts with the type of talent an organization hires, the investment and commitment they show in developing and nurturing that talent, and the ability to create a safe environment where people are not scared to experiment and maybe fail, but are actually expected to do so.

When it comes to individuals trying to achieve their goals, the two common blockers I have noticed are impostor syndrome and fear of failing, and they both bring people to simply..never giving it a try. I always try to remind people that even if you try and don’t succeed, you are not failing, you are learning. There is a quote from Michael Jordan I love- “sometimes you win, sometimes you learn”. I wish more people could turn this into their personal mantra- I am sure we would have so much more innovation around us!

There are plenty of other challenges, but these are surely the top ones from my point of view based on the insights I gathered in years working directly in this field.

Q) What are your mission and vision? And what would be the best roadmap to achieve that?

Chiara) My mission is to enable as many individuals as possible to unleash their potential and get to what makes them fulfilled, but also provide actual tools and mechanisms for them to do so. I am a huge believer that real enablement occurs when after some time, people don’t need you anymore. It is very important to inspire and motivate others, but you need to provide people with actual tools, so they can proceed in their growing journey once you leave the room. A huge part of my mission involves helping corporations as well, as they are ultimately conglomerates of individuals and such key players in people’s life. We spend 70-80% of our time at work ( if not more)- if more individuals and businesses can master their ability to be creative and innovate while also thriving in doing so, it will genuinely be a better place for all of us.

Q) What milestones and achievements are you most proud of?

Chiara) The launch of Amazon.com in Australia has probably been one of the most incredible chapters of my professional experience. I remember when I first was contacted for the role, they couldn’t share many details about it due to its confidential nature. So they flew me to Sydney from Hong Kong to meet with the interview panel, and that is when I signed an NDA and was able to get a better understanding of it all. A couple of weeks later, I was getting ready to move with a one-way ticket to Australia, which was in itself something that had never been in my plans. The first few months on the job were pure adrenaline- it was only a few of us, and we often worked around the clock. That period was so tiring, and yet you could see how much we all were loving it: we were energized, motivated, inspired by each other, and definitely felt we were all in this journey together as a team, all thriving for a much bigger purpose. Being able to then re-live a similar experience couple of years later with the launch of Amazon in Singapore made it even better, as it allowed me to look at that launch with a much more “focused” (and also less stressful) approach.

Q) What would you like to be remembered for by your peers?

Chiara) I hope I will be able to be remembered as somebody that never compromised on their values for the sake of easier or faster success. A courageous leader that was able to show up in the moments that mattered. I hope I will be remembered not just for my achievements but also for the ethic, respect, and humanity I carried throughout their pursuit. And lastly, with themoonshotcompany.co, I hope I’ll be able to broaden my own legacy, having positively influenced the path of thousands of others.

Q) What are you looking to accomplish in the next 5 years from a personal as well as professional point of view?

Chiara) There is some big news coming up on both fronts- I am an extremely superstitious person, so I tend not to speak about anything until I see it live! But you can follow/reach out to me on Linkedin or visit chiaralonghi.com to be up to date!