The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023- Vol -03

Issue :07|2023 www.ciobusinessworld.com

The 10 Most Dynamic

Making Waves In The Business World, 2023

Leadership in the Digital Age Leading Through Change and Adaptation

CEO Amis Consulting SA

Augusto Mitidieri

Editor in chief Robert Patrick

Contents Managing Editor : Smith Collins

Design Visualizer : Jack Thomas Arts & Design Director : Adam Jones Associate Designer : Erick Williams

Sales Senior Sales Manager : Scott M Marketing Manager : Andrew T Sales Executive : Mark Davis

Technical Victor Anderson

SME- SMO Research Analyst : Henry Martinez SEO Executive : Daniel Lee

Circulation Manager Alexander Nelson

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Editorial Note Pioneers of Business Evolution

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he way we communicate determine the way we act and how others act with us.

Thus communication is pivotal in the realm of business and leaders are shaping the entire landscape of industry because of it. The intricate challenges of 2023, is imperative to turn our attention to the unsung heroes. These architects are sculpting the future with their innovative strategies and transformative visions.

Navigating Territories: The business landscape is full of uncertainties, and these dynamic CEOs are not just navigating but thriving in uncharted territories.

Their ability to adapt to change, anticipate, challenges, turn obstacles into opportunities that sets them apart as true leaders.

Fostering a Culture of Innovation: At the heart of leadership lies a commitment of innovation. These leaders understand that in a changing world, stagnation is the enemy. They inspire creativity, technological advancements, and push the boundaries of what's possible.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges: A true leader is not just success in times of prosperity but resilience in the face of challenges. These CEOs have weathered storms, faced upheavals, and emerged stronger. It is this resilience that cements their position as influencers in the business world.

Beyond Corporate Milestones: The influence extends far beyond the corporate milestones of companies. These dynamic CEOs are contributing to the broader narrative of progress, industry trends, and setting new benchmarks for success Catalysts for Change: With a conscious impact, these leaders are not focused on profit margins. They are catalysts for positive change, emphasizing ethical practices, CSR, and sustainability.

Inspiring the Next Generation: The journey of these CEOs is not only their own, it is an inspiration for the next generation of leaders. Their stories of seizing opportunities, navigating challenges, and leaving an indelible mark, serve as a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs and executives.

Shaping the Future As we celebrate the pioneers of business evolution, it is important to recognize that they are not only shaping companies, but they are the future itself. Their dynamic leadership is a testament to the fact that in an ever-changing world, the ability to evoke is key to sustained success.

Through this editorial, The 10 Dynamic CEOs Making Waves in the Business World 2023, these CEOs are known for their commitment, innovative spirit, and serve as an architects of change. Overall the business world is a canvas and these leaders are painting a future that is dynamic, resilient, and filled with endless possibilities.

Contents COVER STORY

10 Augusto Mitidieri

ARTICLE

20 CEO Succession Planning 28

Leading Through Change and Adaptation

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Daniel Fincham

Ingrid Reyes

30 34 Marc Lubner

Lisa Engle Ireland

38 Rob Whit eld

CEO Amis Consulting SA

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COVER STORY

Augusto Mitidieri

Trailblazing Human-centred Career And A Visionary Consulting Venture

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hey say the way a man plays chess demonstrates his nature, maturity, and standard. The human centered world we live in today is also based on responsibility and merit. Thus, it is also based on nature and not the classical hierarchical model. Given the support of digital tools companies today allow employees to develop novel skills, and grow on the basis of merit. Thanks to Augusto Mitidieri who is preparing people for continuous improvement in the digital age. Augusto always love to overcome such challenges by being a CEO at Amis Consulting SA. Visionary Stewardship In the grand tapestry of pharmaceutical leadership, Augusto Mitidieri emerges not merely as an executive but as a visionary architect of industry transformation. His academic journey, fortified by degrees from prestigious institutions such as Politecnico di Milano and University of Lausanne, laid the groundwork for a career marked by distinction.

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From the meticulous domain of project management to the intricate orchestration of pharmaceutical logistics, Augusto's ascent within Bigmar Group exemplified a trajectory of continual growth.

The zenith of his career unfolded at Sintetica SA, where he orchestrated a narrative of unparalleled success. As the Corporate CEO, Augusto's strategic vision propelled Sintetica into international prominence, fostering an environment where individual empowerment became the cornerstone of corporate decisions. His innovative "HumanCentred Organization" model represented not just a shift in structure but a cultural metamorphosis, championing responsibility, meritocracy, and a departure from hierarchical rigidity.

The narrative extends beyond corporate realms, with Augusto assuming pivotal roles at Amis Consulting SA and Switzerland Innovation Park Ticino. These endeavors not only reflect his unyielding commitment to innovation but

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 also his role as a catalyst in shaping the future of global business landscapes.

Resources, became integral to this purpose, emphasizing that sustainability pertains to people first.

Augusto's story is one of accolades, earned not through mere corporate achievements but through a commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and a profound respect for individuals within and outside organizational boundaries. His leadership transcends the boardroom, making him a beacon for those who see in innovation not just a corporate strategy but a cultural imperative. As he embarks on a new chapter, Augusto Mitidieri's narrative remains a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership in the ever-evolving pharmaceutical landscape.

This visionary strategy aimed at diffusing Human-Centric leadership and peripheral decisional autonomy throughout the organization. Managers and talents underwent continuous high-level training, fostering a culture of perpetual improvement in the digital age. The HumanCentred Organization, rooted in responsibility and merit, defied classical hierarchical norms, offering a dynamic and supportive platform for employees to grow based on their skills and potential.

Human-Centric Leadership Augusto Mitidieri's transformative leadership at Sintetica, a Swiss pharmaceutical powerhouse, narrates a saga of innovation, culture shift, and a profound commitment to the human element. As the Corporate CEO, Augusto wielded not just executive authority but a visionary zeal that reshaped the very DNA of the organization.

In recognizing that innovation transcends product development, Augusto pioneered the "Human-Centred Organization," a paradigm shift from hierarchical structures to a model based on responsibility and meritocracy. This profound cultural change redefined the managerial philosophy, with managers evolving from controllers to coaches, fostering a culture of responsibility, autonomy, and accountability for results.

The pillars of this groundbreaking model are built on passion, engagement, trust, and autonomy. Passion, the driving force defining the real mission, was coupled with transparent communication to engage individuals in the organizational values. Trust and autonomy became the linchpins, fostering delegation and agility in decisionmaking, culminating in a virtuous dynamic for team success. Respect, a core element, permeated internal and external interactions, valuing differences and creating a harmonious environment.

Smiling, seemingly simple but profoundly relevant, became the hallmark of the corporate culture, epitomizing the company's identity as a "great place to work." The organizational purpose transcended mere profit maximization; it aimed for the maximization of success, defined by equal priority to profit and happiness. The Corporate Sustainability function, encompassing Human

Augusto Mitidieri's narrative of leadership at Sintetica isn't just a corporate tale; it's a testament to the transformative power of placing the human element at the core of innovation and success.

Transforming Organizations from Within Augusto Mitidieri's passion for driving change and making it happen has been the cornerstone of his illustrious career as a CEO. Recognizing the need for organizations to be proactive and embrace continuous improvement, Augusto dedicated a significant part of his career to innovation—a task that posed a formidable challenge.

As the CEO of a company with a mission of leadership through innovation, Augusto faced the complex task of creating an organizational culture that could consistently generate innovation as a routine. The strategy he crafted rested on two pillars: uncompromising quality achieved through continuous improvement and the global diffusion of innovations.

The linchpin for successful execution was the humancentred organization—a model that champions diffused leadership and peripheral decisional autonomy. This approach, grounded in values like respect, trust, skills, knowledge, passion, and a genuine smile, aimed to engage people across all levels of the company. With a clear focus on strategic objectives and meticulous execution, engaged individuals became the driving force behind the continuous generation of innovations throughout the organization.

Now, Augusto is distilling this successful management experience into a forthcoming book. His narrative revolves around the belief that innovation is an inside-out process.

He emphasizes two levels of innovation—the first being the creation of direction and strategy, the crucial stage dependent on the organization's vision, values, and purpose.

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The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 Once this internal foundation is solid, the second level involves making innovation happen through an organization that values individuals as human-centred leaders, fostering meaningful and coherent innovation both within and beyond company borders. Augusto's core message is clear: for a company to be truly innovative, it should look not for ideas, but for people who embody a human-centred approach to innovation.

Pioneer Innovators Augusto and Pasquale Mitidieri Today marks the commencement of a new and exciting chapter in Augusto Mitidieri's distinguished international career. Collaborating with Pasquale Mitidieri, a seasoned executive with over two decades of success in IT and Pharma global business and a recognized "game changer," they have founded Amis Consulting SA, a startup consulting company based in Lugano, Switzerland.

Pasquale, a graduate in Business Administration from Cattolica University of Milan, brings a wealth of experience to their venture. Amis Consulting SA specializes in implanting innovative managerial vision into existing business activities and provides support to companies across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas in pursuit of consistent business opportunities.

Their collaboration is built upon a strong executive business relationship, rooted in mutual respect and trust, established over time in more than 100 countries worldwide. The company focuses on pivotal areas such as innovation, organization, global commercial strategies, and the philosophy and execution of go-to-market strategies.

The value proposition of Amis Consulting SA is firmly anchored in total respect as a foundational value, and execution is driven by trust, ensuring the solidity and longevity of relationships built for success. Augusto and Pasquale firmly believe that their own managerial vision, business acumen, positive human influence, and unwavering passion for elevation are the intangible factors

that elevate their collaborations to success on a global scale.

This dynamic duo is poised to bring a fresh perspective to the realms of innovation and global business strategy, leaving an indelible mark on the consulting landscape.

A Career Recognized with Prestigious Awards Distinguished leader Augusto Mitidieri, a luminary in the pharmaceutical industry, has been celebrated with an array of prestigious awards that underscore his outstanding contributions to corporate leadership and innovation.

In 2020, Corporate America Today bestowed upon him the esteemed title of "Global Pharmaceutical CEO of the Year," a testament to his remarkable stewardship of Sintetica SA. This recognition adds to his impressive list of accolades, showcasing his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Business Worldwide Annual Awards recognized Mitidieri as the "Best European Pharmaceutical CEO" in 2017 and honored him as the "Most Innovative Pharmaceutical CEO in Europe" in 2019. Corporate Vision Annual Awards consecutively named him "European CEO of the Year" from 2016 to 2017 and honored him as the "Most Influential CEO of the Year in Europe" in 2019, acknowledging his pioneering role in human-centric driven innovation. He also clinched the title of "Pharmaceutical CEO of the Year" in 2018, 2019, and 2020.

Le Fonti Awards consistently recognized his commitment to sustainability, naming him "CEO of the Year for Sustainability" from 2017 to 2020. The Socrates Committee Oxford acknowledged his stellar management prowess in 2018, declaring him the "Best Manager of the Year."

European CEO Awards singled him out as the "Best CEO in Pain Management Industry Europe" in 2018.

These awards stand as a testament to Augusto Mitidieri's exceptional leadership, visionary strategies, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, making him an indomitable force in the global business arena.

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CEO Recoverlution

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The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023

Daniel Fincham Transforming Personal Struggle into Digital Hope at Recoverlution

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f you have to venture anything, dare to be strong and courageous. For a business leader he has to focus on compassionate and informed leadership. Additionally collaborate with experts, data-driven decision-making, and adaptability to impact the lives of those in recovery.

Today we uncover the story of one such leader, Daniel Fincham, with a remarkable journey from personal struggle to purpose-driven success. His career in the technology industry was driven by an early fascination with the transformative power of technology. As the CEO of Recoverlution, he has leveraged his unique blend of tech expertise and personal experience to pioneer a groundbreaking platform that offers hope, support, and digital innovation to individuals on the path to recovery.

Thus we at CIO Business Leaders interviewed to Daniel to know more about the impact he has to transform lives.

Below are the highlights of the interview: What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and how did you rise to your current position as CEO? At a young age, I'd always marvelled at technology. Its seemingly never-ending ability to surprise people, to do things unthinkable just years before and its endless possibility to innovate. I soon realised that technology can do a lot of the hard work for you when used effectively.

From simply improving a process to revolutionising or disrupting an industry, technology is power and can help and serve people at scale.

At 36 I was a VP at a software company that I'd grown up with. To most, I would have been viewed as successful. I excelled in education, sport, have great friends and come from a loving family. After travelling the world I landed in Copenhagen; found my career and a place to be at my happiest. In reflection, that this was a foreign residence seems more likely hiding than a happy place. Having met my wife on holiday, I moved back to the UK and in the following 10 years we married, had 3 wonderful children and built a dream house.

I'd never felt comfortable in my own skin and had been drinking to negate worry, anxiety or focus on where I was going or where I belong. I couldn't connect with a purpose, or what life was about so I just let it take me where it would. When I reached the finished line there was no celebration. The goalposts just moved. I was exhausted and took off the mask. Before I had a chance to even breathe, I was hit by the tirade of bullets I'd missed from the comfort of my hiding place. But as I took cover, the airstrike would this time ensure I had no safety and I would be ripped apart to a point of submission. Almost.

Rehab, redundancy, divorce and multiple times of sanctuary in hospital and jail all haunted me for the next 9 months. In June 2020, At 37, I made it to recovery and 6 weeks later, I started Recoverlution.

I'd struggled to find a place to start, a place to understand why I was who I was. Whether that was sat at my desk and Googling for help, listening to others stigmatised opinions or talking to medical professionals – I couldn't find a digital www.ciobusinessworld.com 17

and grow together. Ironically, you'll not find a more sober or spiritually well community anywhere in the world, and this community is 100M+ worldwide. So I used my background to start Recoverlution and bring together educational content, a community platform and a dedicated to addiction wellness hub – free to join anonymously and available anytime anywhere. You can find the information you need, you can connect or build your recovery tribe and continue to build your recovery capital all in one safe space.

Can you highlight a significant achievement or turning point that played a pivotal role in your career trajectory?

We launched Recoverlution in July 2022 and our community started to grow. But what we soon noticed, was that it wasn't just the member we needed on the platform, it was the people who support people in recovery. The service providers, the charities, the rehabs, health services and peer support groups. The more we talked with these people, the more we understood their universal digital challenges. They cant use WhatsApp (as an example) for legal reasons, so they were immediately disconnected from their people who create groups regardless. I've been through rehabs, and had to tell them that people had died before they were aware, just from peer communication.

home to start getting well. So I researched everything – nutrition, exercise, meditation, sleep, spiritual principles, philosophy, music, you name it, I wanted to know about it.

And the more I applied to my life, the better I felt. As I started to engage with the recovery community, I noticed it cobbled together with differing technologies. The first thing I was asked on an AA Zoom meeting was for my name and phone number so I could be added to a WhatsApp group and it just felt bonkers. But it was the people I feel in love with, you cannot define a person with addition, but what was synonymous was our drive to help the still suffering

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Soon after, I dropped off their mailing list so they don't know how I'm doing, how their services perform or if im even alive. So this year we are launching Recoverlution Spaces to connect the eco-system with its community. An easy-to-use technology that enables any supporting organization to showcase their services and reach the right people. I only knew about 1% of the support available to me at any given time and yet there are so many ways to recovery out there. We then embower the organization to not only grow their support systems but to they onboard their people, to maintain lifelong and safe communication and to learn from their alumni's, cohorts, and peer groups.

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your company?

As a platform built for people in recovery, by people in recovery. We very much live and breath what we stand for.

Recoverlution isn't just a technology but a philosophy that strives to shine a light on the transformational power that recovery has to change lives. As the sum of all our parts, we learn from our members, partners, medical professionals and organisations to understand what it is they do and how they long to deliver it online and then creatively bring that together in a way that is intuitive, universal and ready for anyone to use. The journey of people in recovery is very much unkown and by having all the people in one place, we can learn as to what actually works at every stage of the recovery cycle to enable the amazing supporting ecosystem to better their own offerings.

We know that there is no magic wand to recovery and that its very unique to the individual. Over time, Recoverlution proposes a pioneering approach to addiction recovery - an 'AI Journey For Recovery'. This innovation seeks to revolutionise the path to recovery by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our existing platform to create personalised recovery routes. Rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, this unique tool uses AI algorithms to map out individualised recovery plans grounded on each user's unique persona and behavioural patterns derived from their interaction with the Recoverlution system. You don't have to hit rock bottom or spend thousands on short term rehabilitation if you can bring people into lifelong recovery sooner.

Can you share an example of a difficult decision you had to make and the factors you considered before making it?

I was very early into my own recovery journey when I started Recoverlution and I was high on the pink fluffy

cloud we elegantly talk about in recovery. And with that wave, I wanted to help people immediately. Whether that was employing everyone I could, or getting the technology to people as quickly as we could. As a result, we probably launched to soon, without a lot of the research and functionality I speak of here. So we had to slow up a bit, build relationships with the eco-system and hire more effectively. I soon learnt that start-ups are tough work, especially in this economic market. A huge challenge has therefore been cash flow. We are building a huge platform, and we want to lower as many barriers to entry as we can.

For that reason, unlike your marketing platforms like Facebook, we don't productise our members and have a freemium model that enables anyone to get started and they can pay for things they would ordinarily pay for like Wellness Apps or Zoom licenses. This is a costly way to build software and so the challenge that we've now accepted is to focus on a B2B2C route, whereby we build the technology for the ecosystem, that there is inherent value to pay for, and then they bring the communities – it's a self-sustaining ecosystem.

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Succession Planning Y

ou can hate more, but you can never love less. The same rule applies everywhere you go, be it professional or personal. In the ever-evolving landscape of business, a CEO succession planning has become more than success, it is all about critical planning.

The process is all about identifying, developing, and transitioning a new CEO that safeguards long-term success.

leaders, assess their readiness, and ensure a responsibilities.

These qualities are not confined to the departure of a CEO but its forward-thinking strategy that aligns its leadership development within the organization's long-term goals.

Strategic Values 

The Essence of CEO Succession Planning A CEO succession planning goes from anticipating and preparing for the inevitable transition of their leadership role. It is a structured approach to recognize the potential

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Risk Mitigation: A CEO succession planning goes through risks associated with unexpected departures, whether due to retirements, health issues, or unsaid issues. By having a well-prepared structure of potential leaders, companies can navigate uncertainties with greater resilience.

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 

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Adaptation: In a dynamic business world, adaptability is the key. Succession planning ensures that the leadership remains in alignment to the industry trends, innovations, and global shifts. Thus an agile leadership pipeline can respond effectively to change and transform through innovation.

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Development Programs: Implement target leadership programs to nurture high-potential individuals. These programs should focus on technical skills and soft skills for effective leadership.

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Talent development: Planning is not just about identifying the next CEO, it is a holistic approach to talent development. By investing in mentoring and skillbuilding initiatives, cultivate a pool of high-potential individuals who can step into critical roles at any level.

Mentorship and Coaching: Establishing mentorship and coaching programs with seasoned executives. This facilitates knowledge transfer, skill enhancement, and a deeper understanding of the organization values and vision.

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Stakeholder confidence: Stakeholders, investors, and customers, gain confidence, when they see a wellthought plan in place. It reflects stability and a commitment to sustained success, and reinforcing trust in the company's leadership.

Transparent Communication: Communicate the succession plan transparently to key stakeholders, employees, and shareholders. Open communication helps here to manage expectations and foster a culture of accountability.

Success Stories in CEO Succession

Key components of Succession Planning: 

Leadership Assessment: Evaluate leadership competencies within the organization, identify the right mix of skills, experience, and cultural alignment.

Many companies implement the success of succession planning like Apple Inc's transition from Steve Jobs to Tim Cook often cited as a textbook example of seamless leadership. In the same way, Microsoft's transition from Bill Gates to Steve Ballmer to showcase strategic succession planning at its best.

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Ingrid Reyes Navigating the Creative Currents of Advertising

CEO M&A Creative Agency USA

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The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 randing is an art, and if combined both, it can truly become a success story. Today, advertising agencies are responsible for creating and implementing marketing and advertising campaigns for clients. A true business leader encourages creativity and fosters an environment where innovative ideas can flourish to stay competitive in the marketing industry.

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Champagne during my late teens ignited a profound passion that has traversed continents and cultures. This passion has found a vibrant outlet on Instagram, where I engage with fellow enthusiasts and wineries under the moniker @Delicious_Journey_. This platform not only fuels my wine knowledge but also forms connections that enrich my understanding of the art.

Beyond the boardrooms and creative pitches lies the story of one such creative woman, Ingrid Reyes, who has fueled her business knowledge at M&A Creative Agency USA. With a legacy extending to diverse sectors, including, the alcoholic beverage industry, food, technology, finance, telecommunications, and entertainment, Ingrid now oversees the agency's operations, fostering client relationships, and charting growth strategies.

A pivotal chapter began when I met my business partner, Luis Marques, Founder and Global CEO of M&A Creative Agency based in Europe, an exceptional award-winning European ad agency and we decided to join forces to launch a US division. M&A Creative USA specializes in the beverage industry, our collaboration was a perfect fusion of my passion for wine and my advertising prowess.

Below are the highlights of the interview: What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and how did you rise to your current position as CEO?

We opened offices in the U.S., spanning Napa Valley, New York, Los Angeles. The agency is headquartered in Portugal, in Lisbon and Aveiro, and we have offices in France as well, in Bordeaux, from each corner we're revolutionizing wine marketing on a global scale. At M&A Creative Agency, I lead operations, overseeing all clients, and mapping growth strategies.

Greetings, readers! I'm Ingrid Reyes, I'm thrilled to share my journey with you – the winding path that led me to the exhilarating world of advertising and ultimately to the pinnacle of my career as Partner and CEO, Americas of M&A Creative Agency USA. As I reflect on my story, I'm reminded of the remarkable experiences that have shaped me into advertising executive I am today.

As I reflect on my journey, I'm immensely grateful for the experiences that have molded me into the advertising leader I am today. My story is one of passion, growth, and an unrelenting commitment to excellence. It's an honor to share this narrative with you, and I'm excited to continue pushing boundaries and shaping the future of advertising and wine marketing.

With over two decades in the advertising industry, my dedication to excellence has become synonymous with my name. I take immense pride in not one, but two Golden Effie awards and a prestigious Silver Cannes Lion award, standing as a testament to my commitment to crafting campaigns that resonate and endure.

As a female CEO, what strategies have you used to overcome gender-related challenges in your career journey?

This influence brought CIO Business World to interview Ingrid, to know about her journey.

Yet, I've never allowed success to breed complacency.

Embracing the spirit of continuous growth, I recently embarked on a transformative journey at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. The Entrepreneurship Leadership Initiative Program empowered me with innovation and entrepreneurial skills, vital in navigating the dynamic landscape of advertising.

Beyond the boardrooms and creative pitches, my heart beats for the world of wine. A serendipitous encounter with

Embracing the role of a female CEO has been both a privilege and a challenge, and the strategies I've employed to surmount gender-related obstacles have been instrumental in shaping my career journey. Through perseverance, innovation, and unwavering self-belief, I've navigated these challenges with determination.

One key strategy has been to cultivate a strong sense of self-confidence. In a landscape where gender biases sometimes linger, I've learned to trust my abilities and insights. By consistently showcasing my expertise and asserting my viewpoints, I've demonstrated that gender does not determine competence.

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Connecting with like-minded individuals who champion diversity and equality has provided me with invaluable support and perspective. Engaging with mentors who have encountered similar challenges has armed me with strategies for navigating through complex situations.

Furthermore, I've embraced adaptability as a core strength.

The business world is ever-evolving, and my willingness to embrace change has allowed me to stay agile in the face of adversity. Flexibility has not only enabled me to overcome gender-related hurdles but has also positioned me as a force for innovation within my organization.

Lastly, celebrating my successes and milestones has been a personal strategy to combat imposter syndrome. As a female CEO, it's crucial to recognize and internalize achievements, reinforcing the fact that I belong in the leadership position I hold.

In essence, my journey as a female CEO has been about defying limitations, breaking stereotypes, and carving a path that future generations can follow without the same barriers. Through self-assuredness, strategic networking, adaptability, open dialogue, a commitment to diversity, and self-celebration, I've risen above gender-related challenges, embracing my role with pride, and forging ahead toward new horizons.

Can you highlight a significant achievement or turning point that played a pivotal role in your career trajectory?

I recount a pivotal juncture that carved a new path in my advertising career—a moment that stands as a testament to the fusion of determination, innovation, and seizing opportunities when they arise.

The scene was set at a high-stakes new business pitch presentation, I've done a dozens of them, this day the air buzzed with a blend of excitement and tension as I stood before a room filled with global auto industry veterans and decision-makers from Fiat who had just bought Daimler Chrysler. As I stood in the boardroom in the highrise of the Chysler building in Detroit, in a room full of automotive male executives, the tension was palpable.

The pitch was for a groundbreaking campaign that we had meticulously crafted, we had worked on it for weeks—a campaign that embodied the spirit of our agency and promised to redefine the way Chrysler engaged with their

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audience in the middle of a great recession in 2007.

As I stepped up to the podium, I felt a surge of confidence.

The months of tireless research, brainstorming, and refining the concept were about to culminate in this pivotal presentation. With every slide that I clicked through, I could see the spark of interest in the eyes of the clients, including Fiat's CEO. The narrative flowed seamlessly, capturing their attention and painting a vivid picture of the campaign's potential impact.

But it wasn't just the content that spoke volumes; it was the synergy among our team members that resonated. We had united our diverse strengths, perspectives, and skills to create something truly remarkable. The energy in the room was electric, and it was clear that our passion for the project was contagious.

The Q&A session that followed was a revelation. The clients' inquiries delved beyond the surface, probing into the heart of our strategy, our creative choices, and our commitment to pushing boundaries. It was during this exchange that I realized the immense power of our collective effort. The campaign wasn't merely a proposal; it was a testament to our ability to innovate and transform ideas into impactful solutions.

As the meeting concluded, the applause and accolades that echoed in the room were a validation of our hard work.

That moment marked a turning point, a profound realization that our campaign had not only resonated but had ignited a spark of excitement that set it apart.

Reflecting back, I understand that the turning point wasn't just about a single pitch—it was the culmination of years of dedication, lessons learned, and an unyielding belief in the power of creativity. It was a testament to the magic that happens when talented individuals collaborate seamlessly, pushing each other to achieve greatness.

As I navigate my advertising career that pivotal moment remains etched in my memory. It serves as a constant reminder that embracing challenges, believing in the strength of a united team, and harnessing the force of innovative ideas can shape not only campaigns but also entire trajectories. It's a story of perseverance, creativity, and the realization that seizing a pivotal moment can lead to a legacy of transformation and success.

How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your company?

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement isn't just a strategy—it's a way of life. At M&A Creative, we've woven these principles into the very fabric of our operations, igniting a creative spark that fuels our every endeavor.

It all starts with a mindset—a shared belief that complacency has no place in an industry as dynamic as advertising. We encourage our team to embrace change, to challenge conventions, and to see every project as an opportunity for growth. It's about cultivating a hunger for progress that propels us forward.

Transparency plays a pivotal role. We've dismantled the traditional hierarchy, creating an environment where ideas flow freely, regardless of one's title. From interns to senior executives, everyone's voice matters. This inclusivity not only fosters creativity but also empowers our team to take ownership of their contributions.

Innovation isn't confined to brainstorming sessions; it's woven into our daily operations. We allocate time for dedicated exploration—moments when team members can pursue passion projects or delve into emerging trends.

These initiatives are the seeds of innovation, often sprouting into groundbreaking campaigns that push the boundaries of creativity.

Learning is a cornerstone of our culture. We're committed to staying ahead of the curve, whether it's adopting cuttingedge technologies or understanding the pulse of consumer behavior. Regular workshops, training sessions, and industry conferences are part of our routine. By staying informed, we arm ourselves with the tools needed to create campaigns that resonate.

Our agency isn't just a workplace—it's a dynamic ecosystem where innovation thrives. The culture of continuous improvement isn't imposed from above; it's embraced collectively.

As I reflect on our journey, I realize that fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement isn't a destination; it's an ongoing expedition. It's about empowering our team to think beyond boundaries, to challenge norms, and to embrace every project as an opportunity to innovate. It's a commitment to staying agile, staying curious, and always pushing the envelope of creativity.

Can you share an example of a difficult decision you had to make and the factors you considered before making it?

Before the world of advertising, I had another career—in the realm of Interior Design, a childhood dream. I devoted six years to this realm, weaving together luxury and creativity with clients like The Four Seasons Santa Barbara and St. Regis Princeville, Hawaii, even Hollywood's luminaries.

Yet, amid all the success, a whisper of something unfulfilled lingered, an unfulfillment I couldn't fill. The yearning for the corporate world emerged, and a profound decision loomed. To start anew in advertising, a domain unfamiliar, it would bear its cost—beginning from ground-zero once more, starting a new career. Amidst the scales of career continuity and personal happiness, interior design fell short, and so a leaped into the enigmatic landscape of advertising which had been calling me.

Once I made that decision, I never looked back, a new career unveiled, I went from working in boutique agencies to global giants, each step added layers of knowledge and mastery. A journey from supervisor to director, VP to EVP, culminating in Director of North America and the Caribbean for Mindshare in New York, which is part of the formidable WPP conglomerate of global agencies and at that time #1 worldwide. Leading at the helm of renowned brands such as American Express, Kimberly Clark, and Sprint, and successfully leading diverse teams spanning North America and the Caribbean.

Then, a return to Los Angeles marked a pivotal turn. The birth of my marketing and communications consulting venture, a space that incubated growth.

Yet, destiny had another script in mind. An encounter with Luis Marques, the visionary behind M&A Creative Agency, rewrote the tale.

In our partnership, I found my stride, a home for my expertise as the CEO for North and South America. The trajectory bends in unforeseen ways, and as I reflect, it's evident that the heart always knows its path. From a childhood dream to scaling the summits of design and advertising, the journey continues with new stories to unfold.

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Leading Through

Change and Adaptation

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The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023

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he ability to lead through change and adaptation is not just a skill, it is a fundamental necessity.

There are organizations that thrive amongst the uncertainties and are led by individuals who understand the dynamics of change. Let us see what leading through change and adaption means. 

The Imperative of Change

Change is not just a buzzword, it is an inherent characteristic of the business world. The external forces, technological advancements, market dynamics, and unforeseen global events all contribute to the forces of change. The leaders who recognize change as a constant rather than an occasional disruption navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape. 

Leading with Vision and Clarity

A leader's ability to provide a clear and compelling vision is of paramount importance.

Painting a unique picture of the future state, articulate the reasons behind change, creating a sense of purpose that guides the collective journey. Communicating this vision with transparency and

authenticity, fosters trust and aligns teams toward common goals. Leaders who distill complex changes into a clear narrative empower their teams to understand the 'why' behind the transformations, creating a sense of shared purpose. 

Adaptability as a Value

Adaptability is not just survival strategy but a leadership virtue. The leaders who exhibit flexibility, resilience, and willingness to embrace new ideas inspire a culture of adaptability within organizations. Encouraging a growth mindset, challenges are viewed as learning opportunities, fuels innovation and creativity. Leaders who champion adaptability creates a new approach as a strength rather than a weakness. 

Building a Resilient Culture

Resilience is the bedrock of organizational success, a resilient culture absorb shocks, adapt swiftly, and emerge stronger from challenges. Leaders play an important role in shaping this culture by implementing an environment where employees feel supported, empowered, and encouraged to contribute their best. This involves employee well-being, avenues for continuous learning, and creating a sense of psychological safety. These failures are viewed as stepping stones to success, where individuals are empowered to take risks. 

Strategic Decision-making

Leading through change requires strategic decision-making with long-term goals. They must adept at scenario planning, risk assessment, and prioritizing initiatives that align with the organization's overarching vision. It requires ongoing assessment and leaders who can navigate the delicate balance between decisiveness are better to guide their organizations through complex landscapes.

Conclusion Leading through change and adaption is not just one-time event, it is a continuous journey. Leaders who guide their organizations to success are those who recognize change as an opportunity, inspire a culture of adaptability, and cultivate resilience at every level. This type of leadership thrives, navigate the unknown, inspire others to embrace change, and build organizations, that are not just survivors but champions of transformation.

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Lisa Engle Ireland Navigating a Career in Nonprot and Longevity Science

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ne of the most intriguing aspects of life lies in our capacity to influence our own destinies. While human destiny remains beyond our control, active development of medical technologies is helping us shape the length and the quality of our lives.

With over 25 years committed to community engagement and charitable work, Lisa Engle Ireland leads the Longevity Science Foundation on a mission to extend healthy human longevity.

Lisa has generously devoted a significant part of her life to philanthropy. We had the chance to learn more about her story, her motivation and her role in promoting healthy aging.

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Below are the highlights of the interview: What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and how did you rise to your current position as CEO? I earned my BA in communications and political science, but upon graduating, I felt a strong desire to help people and make a lasting impact through philanthropic work. I was drawn to endeavors aimed at promoting equitable access to resources. This prompted me to explore opportunities within nonprofit organizations, which in turn led to a fulfilling career spanning over 25 years in nonprofit leadership.

My journey began with community development organizations in Orleans County, New York, where I

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023

President & CEO The Longevity Science Foundation www.ciobusinessworld.com 31

worked on initiatives related to community development, fundraising and resource accessibility. I take pride in the impact I was able to make in my home community during this time.

I then moved on to work at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), where I served as the Director of Donor Relations & Stewardship, and the Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC), where I held the position of Vice President for Institutional Advancement. It was during my tenure in these roles that I gained a deep appreciation for the importance of bolstering scientific pursuits and aiding researchers, leading me to explore the possibilities of working with research funding.

A little over a year ago, a recruiter contacted me and introduced me to the work of the Longevity Science Foundation. The organization's mission to enhance accessibility to longevity medicine and care by funding groundbreaking aging research resonated with me: throughout my career, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to ensuring equality of resource access.

However, my motivation extends beyond professional alignment - like many of us, I have family members affected by age-related diseases, and I am acutely aware of the profound challenges these illnesses bring to the lives of individuals and their loved ones. This serves as a fuel for my dedication to our mission of promoting healthier, longer lives for all.

As a female CEO, what strategies have you used to overcome gender-related challenges in your career journey?

We are making strides in achieving equal opportunities and fostering workplaces free from sexism. Nonetheless, challenges arise, and my experience dictates that embracing open and honest communication is instrumental in overcoming such obstacles.

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Both the nonprofit sector and the field of longevity research boast a wealth of remarkable female leaders, and championing their achievements has consistently been a priority for me. It is essential to highlight the impact that women leaders make, serving as a driving force in dismantling lingering biases. I am happy to have been both supportive of and supported by the female trailblazers in our fields.

Finally, I can't understate the value of being prepared and informed. Some of our peers continue to grapple with misconceptions concerning women in the workplace. In this landscape, readiness becomes an indispensable asset, particularly when subjected to scrutiny.

Can you highlight a significant achievement or turning point that played a pivotal role in your career trajectory?

Assuming my first CEO role at United Way of Orleans County marked a pivotal moment in my professional journey. The opportunity allowed me to amalgamate all my experiences into one position, helping me create meaningful change within my community while engaging with business leaders, donors, elected officials, and others.

The role required a multifaceted skill set, including financial acumen, executive leadership, fundraising, advocacy, and community program awareness, while maintaining a commitment to United Way's mission, vision, and values that underpin our collective work.

How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your company?

At the LSF, we work closely with pioneering early-stage research that pushes the boundaries of both longevity medicine and science at large. The exceptional quality of this research serves as a tremendous source of inspiration. I

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 leverage this opportunity to spotlight the remarkable achievements of these scientists, fuelling our team's motivation.

I lead by example and continually seek opportunities to optimize and enhance our operations. This involves identifying innovative solutions and tools that streamline our workflow, ultimately elevating our global impact and effectiveness.

Can you share an example of a difficult decision you had to make and the factors you considered before making it?

I oversaw a complete restructuring of multiple departments at the RMSC - a process that involved bringing together various teams. I adopted an inclusive approach to ensure the success of the reorganization process: I listened and learned about all the work that was being conducted in each department and understood the leadership styles.

Before implementing a new structure, I took deliberate steps to ensure that every staff member felt heard and that their perspectives were considered.

I made certain that each decision was aligned with the organization's mission, vision, and values, thereby guiding the decision-making process toward a path that resonated with RMSC's overarching principles.

If you have any other additional details which we might have missed out on or that you want to highlight in the profile, please feel free to share them.

Community engagement holds a lot of importance for me.

Over the years, I've dedicated a considerable amount of my time to volunteering within my local community. Currently, I hold the position of Advisory Board Member at Canandaigua National Bank and Trust. I've recently taken on a role as a Board Member with Miss Julie's School of Beauty - an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking.

In the past, I had the pleasure of serving as the President and Trustee of the Brockport Central School District Board of Education. I was also a Member of the NYS Commissioner of Education Roundtable and held the position of Vice President within the Monroe County School Board Association.

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Marc

Lubner Showing how Leaders can drive Impact and Change umanity lives at the core of leaders who play a crucial role in non-profit organizations by providing their expertise, resources, and leadership skills to support the organization's mission. They are aware of the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with their involvement in non-profit activities, including potential conflicts of interest and financial transparency.

H

in children's charities led to a significant turning point 23 years ago when President Nelson Mandela reached out to me to help a child in need of a complex surgery. This encounter marked the beginning of my journey in establishing Smile Foundation.

What strategies have you used to overcome genderrelated challenges in your career journey?

Determined with the same approach Marc Lubner, Executive Chairman and Co-founder at Smile Foundation is dedicated to assisting children and their families through an all-encompassing healthcare framework, integrating psychological assistance and surgical procedures. Moved by his deep compassion for humanity, our team at CIO Business World conducted an interview with Marc to gain insights into the complete operations of his team at Smile.

I assess individuals based on their capabilities rather than their gender. In the realm of philanthropy, I've observed a greater presence of responsible and compassionate skills among women. Women in management demonstrate excellent organizational abilities and a knack for crafting sustainable, long-term solutions.

Can you highlight a significant achievement or turning point that played a pivotal role in your career trajectory?

Below are the highlights of the interview: What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and how did you rise to your current position as CEO? Across three generations, my family has been actively engaged in philanthropic efforts. My personal involvement

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We initiated Smile Foundation activities at a single state hospital in South Africa. However, after recognizing the importance of our comprehensive approach involving psycho- support and surgical interventions for children and their families, we expanded our services to encompass 12 academic hospitals countrywide.

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023

Executive Chairman and Co-founder Smile Foundation smilefoundationsa.org

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How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your company?

We acknowledge that our "clients" experience evolving circumstances, necessitating our flexible approach to fulfil their changing needs. Our fundraising initiatives need to stay innovative and updated, prompting us to seek input from various agencies every few years. We actively engage in feedback sessions with surgeons and nurses to ensure constant quality improvements.

Can you share an example of a difficult decision you had to make and the factors you considered before making it?

I encountered a Senior Executive who excelled in financial and operational aspects but lacked a true sense of compassion for our Smile kids. As responsible caretakers, we believe that true kindness stems from a sincere and innate sense of concern. Compassion lies at the heart of who we are. Consequently, I had to make the difficult decision to part ways with her.

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The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023

Rob

Whitfield

Building a Future of Unprecedented Transformation

I

magine a world where challenges are not obstacles, but stepping stones to greatness. This is where a leader's passion is ignited by the thrill of pushing boundaries, the joy of unraveling complexities, and the belief that every individual and organization carries within them untapped reservoirs of capability. As a certified Master Facilitator and Coach, Rob Whitfield is a symphony of expertise and facilitation that harmonizes with your business priorities, elevating your agenda to unprecedented heights.

With a portfolio adorned with successful transformations we at CIO Business World interviewed Rob to know more about his experiences and the overall journey.

Below are the highlights of the interview: Brief our audience about your journey as a business leader until your current position at your company.

What challenges have you had to overcome to reach where you are today?

I started in technology coding and testing at a major consulting firm and realized that people's behavior makes or breaks business results – regardless of the technology being deployed. As a consequence, I became certified as a trainer

in Coaching and Neuro Linguistic Programming, and focused on specializing in behavior change and transformation as a management consultant, partnering with organizations like Coca-Cola, General Motors, UK Border Agency, Walmart, Warner Bros., and World Bank Group to deliver a return on investment from behavior change in the workplace.

Along the way, I have helped thousands of teams get the personal and business results they tried hard to achieve on their own, and it's been an absolute privilege. Over the past twelve years, based in Los Angeles and traveling the world to partner with client teams, I have really been able to hone my craft, deepen our research, and put my skills to the test, coaching some of the most senior executives at Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurs, board members, and celebrities to truly unlock their full potential as individuals and in the teams they lead.

The toughest but most rewarding obstacle I regularly overcome is to help teams open their minds to new possibilities. Many organizations, especially those who have a long history, find it incredibly difficult to change their cultures and working styles, still reliant on the now redundant hierarchical model of working. We worked with www.ciobusinessworld.com 39

a Fortune 100 company who had planned to take their call centres remote for 10+ years but never did at the fear of losing market value during the change.

When the pandemic happened, we partnered with them and they made that change in a matter of weeks, saving millions of dollars in the cost of physical buildings and boosted staff availability due to eliminated commuting time. Breaking down the barriers of why companies think they can't do something and helping them move towards something exponentially better is an obstacle, but one that gets me out of bed every day and excited to support clients!

Tell us something more about your company and its mission and vision.

My personal mantra is to ignite a passion for challenge and change so that everyone achieves their full potential. I work with so many teams, executives, and organizations across the world and, unfortunately, see the same patterns of behavior and culture that lead to burn out, executives working long hours, and folks missing precious time with their families. In our applied research with teams, I have refined it into what we call Team Cohesion.

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Teams that pull together in service of their north star, have a safe space for crystal clear candor, have peer-to-peer accountability, and a 'we win as one' mentality, get exponentially better results in a shorter time, and more joyfully. My team and I coach teams to our proven Team Cohesion mindset using thin sliced practices, which are a toolkit of shortcuts and collaborative tools a team can apply.

We constantly see incredible results and I thrive on the opportunity to help as many people as I can. It is exciting to have refined such a winning formula with our coaching; we truly cracked the code to make average teams world class.

For me, holding client satisfaction and business outcomes as priority above all else has helped us build a strong client base. We are so confident in our methodology that we guarantee our work.

Rather than teaching or training, like many companies, we focus on tackling business priorities and coach our clients on how to be successful in targeting what is important to them. We truly advance an organization's agenda through our expert facilitation and team coaching. Our approach has always been to co-create solutions with our clients; we listen, we flex, and we are agile in our approach to ensure maximum impact. Many of our competitors merely try and

The 10 Most Dynamic CEOs Making Waves In The Business World, 2023 force in solutions to problems without really tailoring solutions to the client's needs.

The best way for us to demonstrate early value and gain clients is to offer our free team diagnostic that shows our prospective clients how their team performs against our benchmark data set. You can try the free team diagnostic assessment here.

How do you build and manage a motivated and effective team?

Building a motivated and effective team is easier than you would think with the right support. We have helped so many teams totally transform from dysfunctional to high performing 10X teams. We have also helped teams go from being good to great; there is always room for improvement.

Over the years, we have built and refined the methodology that makes teams world class. We partner with our clients to accelerate and elevate their results, make their work more joyful, and transform the careers of the people we work with.

One of the foundational blocks that we commence with is shifting the team from a group of folks to a team that cares about each person in the team. When people show up as who they truly are, that gives permission for candor, and this is one of the twelve critical pillars in our methodology that will accelerate and elevate results, joy, and careers.

This is the perfect foundation for the team to build on as they work on their own business challenges and we coach to the right behaviors, practices, and tools that will make them world class. I recently gave a keynote for UCLA and talked through these steps – you can watch that section of the keynote here.

never seen before, requiring innovation and new ways of working. Indeed, I wrote an article on how much it enabled exponential change and transformation in organizations. It was scary but also very exciting.

We at Redefine Winning are always evolving and our extensive research always keeps us steps ahead. It's our job to bring those ideas to the market in service of supporting our clients. We want to be able to share best practices and new ways of working with as many individuals, teams, and organizations as we can to help them have better work life balance, greater enjoyment, broader diversity and inclusion in their teams, and ultimately 10X their goals and results!

AI is the next big area and our research project in that space, along with the impact it will have on teams and teaming competencies, is a must read for leaders, managers, and team members alike.

Describe in detail the values and the work culture that drives your organization.

The thing that motivates me and my team is that we know we have a key that can unlock greatness in teams. I've spent 30 years working with teams and have developed a really powerful set of tools and techniques to facilitate them through the rough terrain of change and out the other side to a better way of working. Their work lives are more productive and engaging, their results are exponentially better, and their work-life balance is restored. All of this is very easily achievable using the Team Cohesion mindset.

When a team develops beyond just co-existing you start to feel the strength from The Power of Team. The same effort put into achieving 10 percent improvement becomes 10X the improvement and results.

Our research institute continues to identify, test, iterate, and apply new practices to enable teams to go further, faster, and more jofylly, and our resource center can be located on our website so check out Redefine Winning to find out more.

Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run, and what are your future goals for your company?

The pandemic really just highlighted a lot of the problems that had been unaddressed for years and taken as the norm.

Many companies had plans for the future but never jumped in and started making practical and much needed changes, for fear of falling behind in the market. The pandemic forced everyone out of their comfort zone in a way we've

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