TThe business world is constantly changing; business leaders are adapting to new challenges and opportunities. They are flexible and open to new ideas and are willing to pivot their strategy when necessary. In the dynamic business arena, an inspiring CEO is true to themselves and their values. They are honest and transparent with their team and are able to build trust through their authenticity. A CEO who is empathetic and understands the needs of their team can create a positive and supportive work environment.
A successful business leader is often the driving force behind a company's growth and success. A CEO possesses various traits that create a difference from the rest and can motivate and inspire their team to reach new heights. An inspiring CEO has a clear and compelling vision for their company's future. They are able to articulate this vision in a way that motivates their team and creates a sense of purpose.
A leader who is passionate about their work can inspire others to share that passion. They are enthusiastic about their company's mission and are willing to go above and beyond to achieve their goals. An excellent CEO is able to make tough decisions quickly and confidently. They weigh the pros and cons of each option and make a choice based on what is best for the company.
They listen to their employees and are able to address their concerns in a thoughtful and compassionate way. Building a successful company is not without its challenges, and an inspiring CEO is able to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward. They are tenacious and persistent in the face of adversity. A CEO possesses a combination of vision, passion, decisiveness, adaptability, authenticity, empathy, and resilience. These traits enable them to lead their team to success and create a positive impact on the world.
Spotlighting these charismas and their odyssey of excellence, the latest edition CIOLook, “ Revolutionary CEOs To Watch in 2023 ,” features the CEOs who are making a positive difference in their respective industries in 2023.
These CEOs are not only successful in their businesses but also lead with purpose and have a significant impact on their communities and the world.
Flip through the pages and indulge in this saga of brilliance.
Have a delightful read!
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With Amit's leadership, the organization aims to serve its clientele with excellence, honestly and ethically provide highquality professional real estate services, keeping the customer's best interests in mind.
EasyRain easyrain.it
Tim Hortons timhortonsgcc.com
Giovanni Blandina is developing the world’s first active safety system capable of combating the aquaplaning phenomenon and providing optimum driver safety.
Hesham Almekkawi is an International Business Consultant and Food and Beverage industry expert with more than 27 years’ experience in managing global and international chains of restaurants in the USA and the Middle East.
Twin Sisters twinsisters.com
Standing out as inspiring business leaders and enabling a plethora of educational and inspirational products, Kim Mitzo Thompson and Karen Mitzo Hilderbrand are creating benchmarks in the dynamic business arena.
Under Luca's coherent leadership the company's vision and mission statements summarize the essence of the business Griven griven.com
Progressive Techniques, Inc. progressivetechniquesinc.com
Nancy is a transformational management and leadership development trainer and strategist who helps organizations leverage generations, talent, people and processes to positively impact the bottom line.
Father to Father, Inc. fathertofatherinc.org
Helping fathers to maintain a consistently Positive presence in their children’s lives, Tom Swanciger thrives on providing community-based programs and support groups for fathers, free of charge.
Hesham Almekkawi CEO Nancy J. Lewis CEO Giovanni Blandina Founder and CEO Dr Amit Lath CEO Sharda Group of Companies shardagroup.pl Kim Mitzo Thompson Founder and Karen Mitzo Hilderbrand CEO Luca Meinardi CEO Featured Person Tom Swanciger CEOHesham has had a fulfilling 28-year career in various countries, during which he has had the opportunity to meet fantastic people and mentor many individuals who have gone on to achieve immense success.
Leaders who are visionaries have a distinctive set
of qualities and abilities that allow them to establish a clear and compelling vision for their company and motivate their team to work towards it. They have a talent for recognizing emerging trends and opportunities in the market and possess the foresight to anticipate their potential impact on the business in the long term.
Hesham Almekkawi, a seasoned international business consultant and an accomplished food and beverage industry stalwart, has amassed a wealth of over 28 years of expertise in orchestrating and managing the operations of illustrious global and international restaurant chains across the USA and the Middle East.
He is the mastermind behind AHRAMIZ FZ LLC , a pioneering leadership development and management consulting enterprise situated in Dubai, and the founder of A-TO-KEY, a distinguished consulting agency for restaurants in the United States. As the CEO of Tim Hortons Middle East , Hesham is leading the charge on the brand's bold growth and expansion strategy throughout the region.
Hesham embarked on his journey 28 years ago in the US. In 1995, he started working at Pizza Hut in New York as a restaurant manager. He worked his way up the ladder until he was eventually promoted to Regional Director of the Mid-Atlantic Region. During his time at Pizza Hut, he worked with both the corporate and franchisee sides of the business and was introduced to KFC and Taco Bell.
Hesham was present on the founding day of Tricon, which later became known as YUM! Brands, the parent company of Pizza Hut, KFC, and Taco Bell. While working full-time, Hesham also pursued an MBA at the Zicklin School of Business in New York, graduating in 2003. After graduation, he served as an adjunct professor, teaching courses on operations management and service strategy.
In 2008, Hesham received an offer to relocate to the UAE and oversee operations for the Americana Group, the biggest YUM franchisee! Brands in the Middle East, encompassing KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell.
For Hesham, this presented a unique opportunity to return to the region where he was born and raised and to expand his knowledge of the F&B industry beyond the US by learning about the dynamics of a growth market and the major differences between mature markets like the US.
Although the transition was not without its challenges, particularly in terms of adapting to the business culture in the Middle East, Hesham was eager to move across countries and continents to grow, learn, and explore. He has long been known for his mantra, "go where you grow."
Following his seven-year tenure with the Americana Group, Hesham pursued various leadership positions with different organizations. In 2021, he was selected to lead the ambitious growth plan for Tim Hortons in the Middle East. Under his leadership, the company has opened over 100 new restaurants in the last 16 months, bringing the total number of Tim Hortons locations in the Middle East to 270, with plans to reach 500 by 2025.
According to Hesham, the food and beverage industry requires passionate entrepreneurs who possess knowledge, education, and business acumen related to food and beverage.
Recently, Hesham was recognized as one of the 200 Global Inspiring Leaders by White Page International.
Throughout his career, Hesham has found great enjoyment in the challenges, opportunities, and personal and business growth the restaurant industry offers. His passion for serving and adding value to others has been the driving force behind his love for restaurants. His proudest moments have always been when he sees others grow and develop. For Hesham, this journey has been incredibly fulfilling, and he would happily repeat it again.
The rise of AI is transforming the world in many ways, including the food and beverage industry. Technology in this sector is no longer limited to digital menu boards or ordering apps; it now encompasses the ability to understand consumer behaviour, purchasing habits, and food preferences, allowing Tim Hortons to tailor its offerings to meet these needs.
In the past, it was challenging to tailor a brand offering to millions of customers with different preferences, just like their fingerprints. However, with AI and technology, this is now possible. Hesham was particularly impressed by Tim Hortons Canada, where he witnessed new AI technology in action for drive-thru menu boards.
The system customizes the menu offering for each customer based on their past purchasing habits and favourites, which are identified through their personal QR codes from the Tim Hortons app. This type of technology is the future, helping us understand our customers better, speed up ordering times, and maximize sales.
Hesham says, "Customers in 2023 are not the same as those in the 1990s. AI in digital media advertising is defining the odds for who, when, what, and how. We should be a step ahead, or we will fall behind."
Hesham aims to educate investors that opening a restaurant is not a part-time hobby for everyone. Many investors believe that restaurants are an easy way to invest and make money quickly, but Hesham has seen many people lose everything because they did not understand the restaurant business. These "noise makers" create chaos, affect established businesses, and exit after causing fragmentation that affects everyone.
Just like hospitals need doctors and nurses and auto shops need mechanics, restaurants need people who understand the business. Hesham believes that passion for food alone is insufficient to run a successful restaurant.
When someone tells him they have a passion for restaurants and want to open one, he asks them if they like to travel and therefore, if they should build a hotel. Opening a restaurant requires a significant amount of time, preparation, research, product development, site selection, training, and more.
For this reason, Hesham wrote his book, "The 9 Traits of Hero Brands." He wanted to share his views on how to minimize the risk when investing in or creating a new brand. After researching "hero brands" for two years, he concluded that the nine traits are necessary for any brand to succeed.
According to Hesham, the food and beverage industry requires passionate entrepreneurs who possess knowledge, education, and business acumen related to food and beverage. He advises conducting thorough research before investing, and instead of looking for a gap in the market, entrepreneurs should search for a market in the gap.
Successful entrepreneurs create disruption by finding a market in the gap. This is the first trait mentioned in Hesham's book, which outlines nine traits of hero brands. Hesham recommends that emerging entrepreneurs create a realistic business plan and seek expert advice. They should not be swayed by others' success, as it is their money on the line.
Careful consideration should be given to the first location as it will determine the success of the venture. Using technology and data to evaluate the potential success rate of the location is essential. Investing money upfront is better than losing a lot later.
Entrepreneurs should ask potential customers about their offerings and the likelihood of success. They should always be present and focused on their investment, as no one else will do it for them.
At Tim Hortons, the vision is "To Be The Café Of Choice." Unlike some other chains that prioritize having the most outlets or the largest market share, it focuses on creating a special and memorable experience for customers. The team strives to be the go-to destination for people seeking moments of enjoyment and relaxation.
For the Tim Hortons team, providing high-quality coffee is just the start. It wants to offer its customers an immersive and enjoyable experience, whether they're together in one of its cafes or enjoying a cup of Tims coffee from afar. The mission is to provide experiential Tims moments to its customers always.
Hesham has had a fulfilling 28-year career in various countries, during which he has had the opportunity to meet fantastic people and mentor many individuals who have gone on to achieve immense success.
One of his proudest accomplishments is his involvement with Tim Hortons Middle East, which has a remarkable 60-year heritage in Canada and around the world. Hesham considers it a great privilege to be associated with this brand. He asserts, "We are the largest international company for Tim Hortons outside Canada, and we are on a mission to achieve the vision to become "The Café Of Choice"."
Our Company's vision and values are not only for the senior leaders but for all the employees.Dr Amit Lath CEO
Atransformational leader drives innovation and
inspires new ways of thinking, harnessing a team's creativity to respond to change. The more you know about transformational leadership, the better prepared you'll be to lead in today's dynamic business environment.
Transformational leaders find motivation from within and use that as the driving force to manage the direction of the company effectively. The best natural form of motivation is to love what you do and ensure that your values are aligned with the organization you work with.
Being a visionary is about setting a realistic and concise company mission, vision, and values that fit the culture of your organization. Transformational leaders have the ability not only to effectively communicate the vision but also to get every person to buy in and work toward that vision by communicating with passion and clearly emphasizing the direction they want the company to pursue. These traits spotlighted the CEO of the Sharda Group of Companies , Dr Amit Lath
Under his proficient leadership, the organization aims to serve its clientele with excellence, honestly and ethically provide high-quality professional real estate services, keeping the customer's best interests in mind.
In an interview with CIOLook, Dr Lath shares valuable facts highlighting his professional tenure and his journey in the dynamic business arena.
Brief our audience about your journey as a business leader until your current position at Sharda Group of Companies. What challenges have you had to overcome to reach where you are today?
My journey started when I took the first risk into this industry, and today Sharda group has grown to great
heights in recent years only in the European markets but also in other international markets.
There are many challenges that I have overcome to achieve success; however, again, my major challenge even today is the risk I take.
Tell us something more about your company and its mission and vision. What are the qualities and aspects that make it stand out as a leading company in providing reliable construction and development solutions?
The Mission of Sharda Group, Inc. is very simple, "Our goal is to serve our clientele with excellence, honestly and ethically provide high-quality professional real estate services, keeping in mind our customer's best interest in mind.
Through our Vision, we strive to maintain a global standard for quality and customer satisfaction. Hence, what makes Sharda Group stand out in the Construction and Development Industry is our Quality of service and delivery according to customer satisfaction keeping in mind the Budget and Timeframe.
Enlighten us on how you have been transforming the construction and development niche through your expertise in the market.
There is a lot of competition in the construction and development business. Still, we have made a niche in the market as our staff always keeps a priority on maintaining quality check and control in providing excellent and exceptional architectural structures, which has been our key pillar in delivering the best to our clients, keeping in mind the budget and timeframe.
Our company strictly adheres to honesty and integrity in establishing trust with our clients, leading to a longterm relationship.
Describe in detail the values and the work culture that drives your organization.
At Sharda Group, we focus a lot on work culture ethics as we strongly believe that employees play a major role in the organization's growth, just mentioning a few of our values and work culture.
Trust and Integrity: - Integrity at work is about more than honesty and respect. As our organization has a true culture of integrity, and our employees take their commitments seriously, are proactive when they don't understand their responsibilities, and ultimately, are accountable for their results. As a result, the business succeeds.
Vision Statement: - Our Company's vision and values are not only for the senior leaders but for all the employees. One primary reason some employers struggle with creating a good culture is that they never talk about their vision and values with all the employees.
At Sharda Group, the "vision statement" is positioned on a sign board; however, our vision and values are not just displayed but also spoken and discussed. When our employees start discussing, that's when they start living with the vision and values, and we start seeing our employees bring in the best efforts for the organization.
Innovation : - Innovation and new ideas are completely upheld and encouraged across all verticals in our organization. Employees work on an approach to pursuing resolutions to challenges and finding new projections.
If we observe minutely, organizations flourish by implementing this type of culture and involving all the employees in the innovation process rather than just the R & D departments or board members. Productivity and employee well-being are always enhanced. If your business culture is positive, you should be able to measure a few results, such as:
Reward and recognition can range from praising an employee for resolving an angry customer's query to innovating a solution in the construction field. Often, appreciation is sent to the owner or some other senior leader, but at Sharda Groups, we make it a point to pass
the appreciation on to the workers. This reinforces their efforts and conduct, which make a positive difference with the customers who are paying for our success. Finally, R&R contributes to our organisation's success.
These workforce values and culture also have other indirect benefits on our organization that we might not observe like, Absenteeism and late-arrivals are lower, Customer and employee complaints are lower, Customer and employee retention are higher and majorly profitable, and on-time-completion are higher.
We also have a compiled and comprehensive set of facts, rules, and requirements, making the process of buying a property easier for our ever-growing NRI customer base.
Undeniably, technology is playing a significant role in almost every sector. How are you leveraging technological advancements to make your solutions resourceful?
Indeed, technology is playing a pivotal role in almost every sector, so the construction business is also a part of it. Leveraging technology in businesses saves a lot of time so that SMBs can focus on other essential areas to grow their business. Innovation in the modern-day world is directly or indirectly related to technology, and SMBs can survive in the market with innovation.
AI in construction has the potential to help players realize value throughout project life cycles, including design, bidding, and financing; procurement and construction; operations and asset management; and business model transformation. AI in construction helps the industry, as a whole, overcome some of its toughest challenges, including safety concerns, labor shortages, and cost and schedule overruns.
AI has turned out to be an essential part of our lives in some way or another; mentioning below some points which are a part of the business: -
Ÿ Costing and Budgeting of a Project
Ÿ Project planning
Ÿ Data Source
Ÿ Training
Ÿ Building Information Modeling (BIM) and designing software
Ÿ Productivity and risk reduction
Ÿ Drones and Robots
Ÿ Post-constructive Management
Technology helps increase the efficiency of systems, products, and services. It helps in tracking and streaming the processes, maintaining data flow, and managing contacts and employee records. In fact, this increased efficiency in operation helps reduce costs as well as enables the business to grow rapidly.
What, according to you, could be the next significant change in your sector? How is your company preparing to be a part of that change?
We are already witnessing a hugely significant change in the construction and Development Industry, however in my opinion, below are the pointers which are going to majorly take over the industry: -
Ÿ Digital collaboration software is going to shrink the distance even if it's going to be miles apart, which will permit teams to stay connected despite the remoteness.
Ÿ 3D printing is one of the greatest technological advances and innovations of the 21st century. The use of 3D construction printing has been growing rapidly in the last five years, not only in terms of buildings made but also with respect to the type of building or structure being made. 3D printing has the advantage of faster access to tools and equipment.
Ÿ Robots and machines that can work on repetitive and menial tasks.
Ÿ Droves are mainly used in the construction industry for surveying and inspection purposes. Drones are equipped with downward-facing sensors, such as RGB, multispectral, thermal, or LIDAR, and they can capture a great deal of aerial data in a short time.
Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run, and what are your future goals for Sharda Group of Companies?
My goals for Sharda Group of Companies will always remain the same, present or future; I will always want to ensure that my Clients and Employees are satisfied.
What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into the construction and development sector?
My advice to budding enterprisers who want to venture into the construction and development sector is as follows: -
Ÿ Take Risk: Many aspiring entrepreneurs have put in a lot of time and effort researching their great idea, but they are terrified of going into business. My advice to them is to take the risk and go for the leap towards executing the idea. The idea will just die if the risk is not taken.
Ÿ The aspirants need to prepare a proper Business Plan: This section should contain details of things such as the goals and target audience. Detailed information about the products and services that will be offered to the customers. It is also important to write the SWOT Analysis in the Business Plan as it will help in building the business because it's important to know our Strengths and Weaknesses.
Ÿ Need to fixate on a good cash flow: As the business starts scaling, it will be very important to focus on your gross margin for each individual project. The success of the projects will depend on it. The most important way to measure the cash flow is by understanding a work-in-progress (WIP) report. It is vital that the bookkeeper maintains this report. A WIP report depicts the active projects executing the funds that have been debited versus the funds that have been credited, which will result in the gross profit margin. This will indicate the health of any company's cash flow.
Ÿ Be Resourceful: - In every Industry it is stated that, Time is Money. In Our industry, time is money. Hence, young entrepreneurs must learn how to use all available resources and enhance their cash flow.
Ÿ Always be ready to accept changes: - When people get into a comfort zone in their personal life or any business, they don't like change. However, this is not the right mindset, and it impedes accepting changes, as accepting changes can open the horizon of opportunity.
Giovanni Blandina
Founder & CEO
Challenging conventional wisdom is always a tough choice. You either fall flat on your face dramatically or achieve more than you have ever dreamt of. It’s a high-risk, high-reward situation, and for Giovanni Blandina , Founder & CEO of EasyRain , the rewards couldn’t have been better.
The automotive industry is in the grips of the technological wave and is experiencing a shift of focus from hardware to software. Autonomous driving, software-defined vehicles and terms as such occupy industry chatter and hardware technology is considered a saturated market. Going against such mainstream accepted ideas, Giovanni founded a startup that has been focused on using hardware technology to reduce car accidents and save lives.
EasyRain is a company that makes car safety systems that uses low-grip technology to make for a better and safer driving experience on wet roads, snow, or sleet conditions. Its whole and sole mission is to save lives.
Let us dive into Giovanni’s narration of his journey of finding EasyRain and the impact that he hopes to create.
“At EasyRain, we’ve approached an issue (reducing accidents on wet roads and aquaplaning conditions) that has been around since the cars came out,” begins Giovanni. “The idea that we could succeed where the big names have failed was hard to believe. Over time we have managed to overcome skepticism, and today, car makers are starting to collaborate with us.”
Giovanni started his career in 2001 as Testing Methodology and Process Designer for Urmet, a Turinbased company that designs and manufactures integrated building communication and security
systems. In January 2008, he became Team Coordinator for MotoGP team FB Corse. In January 2009, he moved to Marelli as SkyTechnology’s Senior Consultant, designing new testing strategies for automotive products in the telematics area. In September 2013, he became Testing Methodology Designer for Marelli. He founded EasyRain in March 2013. It started as a part-time job, but it became a fulltime job in July 2018.
Despite a 50% decrease in road fatalities across the EU since 2000, aquaplaning and wet roads remain one of the most dangerous driving conditions. This is the reason that led Giovanni to establish EasyRain. Its mission is, in fact, to save lives and reduce the number of accidents in driving conditions on low-grip surfaces –first on wet roads, but soon also on snow and ice.
The challenge was to launch a startup with the mission of developing active safety systems, thus requiring a huge amount of money. Finding the funds to do R&D, staying in Italy, and having no helping channels was certainly one of the most important challenges
At EasyRain, we’ve approached an issue, reducing accidents on wet roads and aquaplaning condi ons, that has been around since the cars came out. The idea that we could succeed where the big names have failed was hard to believe. Over me we have managed to overcome skep cism, and today, car makers are star ng to collaborate with us.
Giovanni had to face. Another hazardous but very rewarding choice was to follow the opposite direction of where the automotive industry had been allocating investments. In an era of digitalization, software, and autonomous driving, EasyRain had chosen to develop hardware systems.
“As part of this journey, we have reinvented safety for cars and autonomous vehicles by introducing the first active safety system capable of changing road conditions: the Aquaplaning Intelligent Solution. We then introduced virtual sensors, starting with Digital Aquaplaning Information (DAI), as a set of features that allow car manufacturers to activate a long series of new vehicle safety features based on the grip detected,” says Giovanni.
At EasyRain, employees are encouraged to express their views and ideas because the need is to think faster and more efficiently to overcome problems quickly. Since there will not be any second chances, the team considers its responsibility to ensure they innovate on a daily basis. Furthermore, every team member knows that they are essential for the success of the entire project and in the development of the products.
“The choice is dictated by the desire to be part of a challenge. Skills can be bought and enhanced by paying for master classes, but the willingness to face challenges, the desire to participate in something great, and the attitude to sacrifice cannot be bought. This is why these aspects are a priority in the selection of people both as employees and partners,” explains Giovanni.
The automotive industry is changing on the back of autonomous driving and electric vehicles, and change is often frightening. However, on the contrary, EasyRain is living the moment with incredible enthusiasm because Giovanni and the team believe that change is the synonym for opportunity.
In an era of digitalization, software, and autonomous driving, EasyRain has chosen to develop a hardware system. “It feels like we’re swimming against the tide,” says Giovanni, “but our strategy turned out to be
successful as carmakers have started to strongly consider our products. That being said, we firmly believe that AIS, DAI, and ERC will be closely related to technological advancements in the automotive industry as they will become a key safety feature for autonomous driving vehicles.”
Over the years, EasyRain has become a leader in the research and development of innovative safety systems, and being close to the series introduction represents an incredible success, especially considering that the most positive feedback EasyRain got at the beginning was “Nice, but you’ll never make it. The automotive world is inviolable.” Strongly believing in themselves and in the possibility of succeeding has allowed Giovanni and the team to make great strides.
They also believe that their technologies will represent a key feature for autonomous vehicles, as they showed in January 2023 at Consumer Electronics Show. Italdesign ClimbE driverless car featured EasyRain’s solutions to enhance road safety.
“My biggest dream is for EasyRain to become a key player in EU strategy for 2050 aimed at zero road fatalities. I’m sure we have the potential to fulfill our mission and become a benchmark player in the field of automotive safety on lowgrip surfaces,” aspires Giovanni.
Beyond his dream, he also relies on the feedback that comes out after the November test on Applus+ IDIADA Spanish proving ground talk– test drives with OEMs showed the effectiveness of the systems on various car types, including sedans, station wagons, and SUVs. “Participants gave enthusiastic responses, and the AIS test was compared to the introduction of braking and stability control systems,” concludes Giovanni.
R evolutionary CEOs are the driving force behind some of the most successful companies in the world. These leaders have a unique vision for their companies and the ability to execute on that vision.
They are often disruptors in their industry, challenging the status quo and pushing their companies to new heights. In this article, we will explore some of the key traits of revolutionary CEOs and how they build successful companies.
They have a clear vision
Revolutionary CEOs have a clear vision for their company's future. They know where they want to take the company and what it will take to get there. They are not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and take risks to achieve their vision.
They focus on innovation
Revolutionary CEOs are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to solve problems and improve their business. They are not content with the status quo and are always pushing for change. They encourage their employees to think creatively and embrace new ideas.
Competitive Advantage : Innovation can give businesses a competitive advantage by allowing them to offer new products or services that meet changing customer needs or preferences. This can help businesses stay ahead of their competitors, attract new customers, and retain existing ones.
Increased Efficiency : Innovation can help businesses increase efficiency by automating tasks, reducing waste, and streamlining processes. This can lead to cost savings, improved productivity, and higher profits.
Brand Reputation : Companies that are known for innovation can build a strong brand reputation that attracts customers and investors. This can help businesses build long-term relationships with customers and increase their market share.
Growth: Innovation can drive business growth by creating new revenue streams or expanding into new markets. This can help businesses increase their profits and expand their reach.
They lead by example
Revolutionary CEOs lead by example. They set the tone for the company and demonstrate the values and behaviors they expect from their employees. They are not afraid to get their hands dirty and work alongside their team to achieve their goals.
They are adaptable
Revolutionary CEOs are adaptable and able to navigate change. They understand that markets and industries are constantly evolving, and they are prepared to adjust their strategies to stay ahead of the curve. They are not afraid to pivot when necessary and are always looking for new opportunities.
They prioritize their people
Revolutionary CEOs understand that their employees are the backbone of their company. They prioritize creating a positive work culture that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation. They invest in their employees' development and wellbeing and reward their contributions to the company's success.
They are data-driven
Revolutionary CEOs use data to make informed decisions about their business. They track key metrics
and use analytics to gain insights into their operations. They are not afraid to make tough decisions based on data and are always looking for ways to optimize their business.
They have a strong sense of purpose
Revolutionary CEOs have a strong sense of purpose and are driven by a desire to make a difference. They are not motivated solely by profits but by a desire to create something meaningful and impactful. They understand the importance of their company's role in society and strive to make a positive impact.
Increased Resilience : Innovation can help businesses become more resilient by developing new products or processes that can withstand market fluctuations or other challenges. This can help businesses weather economic downturns or other disruptions and emerge stronger on the other side.
Conclusion
Revolutionary CEOs are the driving force behind some of the most successful companies in the world. They have a clear vision for their company's future and the ability to execute on that vision.
They prioritize innovation, lead by example, are adaptable, prioritize their people, are data-driven, and have a strong sense of purpose. By embodying these traits, they create a culture of excellence that attracts top talent and drives success.
Leadership traits are essential qualities that make
effective leaders in the workplace. Whether you are managing a team, a department, or an entire company, these traits allow you to guide people and projects to success.
The best leaders rarely follow established pathways or copy the routes others have taken. Instead, they embrace new ways of thinking and strategies that others have yet to try. Standing out as inspiring business leaders and enabling a plethora of educational and inspirational products, Kim Mitzo Thompson and Karen Mitzo Hilderbrand are creating benchmarks in the dynamic business arena.
For over 36 years, Kim Mitzo Thompson and Karen Mitzo Hilderbrand, known as The Twin Sisters® , have been writing and producing educational and inspirational products through an establishment renowned as Twin Sisters® Digital Media that utilizes music to teach children basic skills.
Starting with just one album, "Rap with the Facts—Multiplication," written for Kim's third-grade students to help them memorize their facts, the twins formed a record label in 1987. Together they have led their company through dynamic changes in the music and publishing industries.
With over 75 million albums sold and over 180 national awards, including nine Record Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified gold albums and one Platinum album for educational excellence, creativity, and overall
classroom and family fun, Twin Sisters® positions itself as the leader in children's educational music.
In an interview with CIOLook, Kim and Karen share valuable facts highlighting The Twin Sister Digital Media's significance in the modern industry.
Below are the excerpts from the interview:
Brief our audience about your journey as a business leader until your current position at Twin Sisters. What challenges have you had to overcome to reach where you are today?
During our 36 years in business, we have been faced with many challenges. When the entire music industry was taken by surprise when Napster made music free, it was in chaos for a long time. We pivoted at the time from being a children's record label to a children's educational publisher.
We started making workbooks, flashcards, learning games, and all sorts of new products. We also started ensuring we were set up to sign up with all of the online streaming services, such as Apple, Amazon, Spotify, etc., as they all emerged.
Then years later, when the same thing happened in children's books, we turned our company into a totally digital products company. We focus on eBooks, audiobooks, apps, teacher resources, videos, sheet music, and music.
Tell us something more about your company and its mission and vision. What are the qualities and aspects that make it stand out as a leading company in providing educational and inspirational products?
Twin Sisters® Digital Media is the #1 award-winning provider of digital resources for teaching children through music, eBooks, audiobooks, videos, instructional materials, and more! Our core values are Faith & Family, Kindness & Service, Perseverance & Hard Work, and Creativity & Fun! Our vision is to be known as a wholesome brand that encourages children to love learning.
At Twin Sisters, we are dedicated to our Christian Faith, volunteering, and helping children learn. Our many partners are all dedicated to children as well.”
Enlighten us on how you have been transforming the digital media niche through your expertise in the market.
Our focus continues to be on music and education, as well as inspirational materials to help children learn. We have just launched our first business-to-consumer website and plan to continue growing our brand through this website, a subscription app we are developing, and an NFT launch that allows access to a VIP section of our site.
Describe in detail the values and the work culture that drives your organization.
At Twin Sisters, we are dedicated to our Christian Faith, volunteering, and helping children learn. Our many partners are all dedicated to children as well. As a company, we have supported Royal Family Kids Camp with their auction, birthday parties at camp and other meaningful activities our employees have participated in. We continually align ourselves with like-minded charities and projects that benefit children.
Undeniably, technology is playing a significant role in almost every sector. How are you leveraging technological advancements to make your solutions resourceful?
We are continually developing and using new technologies in our products, content delivery, and e-commerce website. We spent years making all of our products available digitally, which is now the focus of our B2C website.
In addition, we have published many AR books and have many apps as well. The newest QR code technology allows users of our physical products to use their cameras to stream videos, audio, and/or download products. We are also exploring how AI technology can be used in future products.
What, according to you, could be the next significant change in your sector?
How is your company preparing to be a part of that change? I believe the next significant change will first be around AI and how it can be incorporated into products. Eventually, also the AR experience will also be enhanced with holographic learning, such as the
artificial heart the Cleveland Clinic is pioneering for physicians.
Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run, and what are your future goals for Twin Sisters?
I envision ourselves being a household brand recognizable by everyone and dedicated to helping children learn through music, art, video and other experiences. Our B2C website is just launching this month and we hope to be able to reach millions more parents, homeschoolers, teachers, and children.
Though we have sold over 75 million albums and millions of other products, we want to be easily accessible for every new generation. At the same time, we keep up with new technologies and trends in learning.
What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into the digital media sector?
I think the key to success is finding something you are passionate about, being persistent and not giving up, but being open to change along the way so you can adapt to new ideas and ways to learn. Whatever the business you learn, it is ok to fail and keep refining until you get it right!
Effective leadership is one of the single most important drivers behind the performance. Successful companies employ skilled leaders in every key position. CEOs know this and are in constant search of people who embody great leadership qualities and character.
Good leaders develop a vision. Great leaders, on the other hand, take this vision, bring it to life, and follow through on it - leading to real results and outcomes. It's one thing to be visionary; it's another thing to turn vision into results.
Staying focused on outcomes, taking time to engage in priority setting, and getting to the roots of efficiency are all qualities of a revolutionary leader. Standing out with proficiency and attribute that exhibit sheer determination and brilliance is Luca Meinardi , Chief Executive Officer of Griven .
Under the coherent leadership, the company's vision and mission statements summarize the essence of the business: to steadily grow within both domestic and international architectural outdoor lighting markets as a genuine, reliable partner for all its customers with a consistent attitude towards innovation.
Moreover, Griven's respect for the environment, its tireless commitment to sustainability, steady focus on quality, and unlimited customization capabilities drive the organization towards the development of innovative solutions that stand out for their distinctiveness and efficiency in an increasingly competitive market.
In an interview with CIOLook, Mr Meinardi shares valuable facts that highlight his professional tenure and his journey in the dynamic architecture niche.
Brief our audience about your journey as a business leader until your current position at Griven.
What challenges have you had to overcome to reach where you are today?
During the last 25 years, I have been working in different market fields mainly in the commercial, PR, marketing, general consultancy, and top management areas. Since 2004, I have focused my expertise on the lighting industry, where I had the opportunity of working side by side with world-leading designers and architects, at first within top lighting companies, and later as an independent consultant.
My journey with Griven began in November 2019 when I decided to face this challenge. Looking back, I am now very proud of what I and my team have achieved in this relatively short period, a thorough company renovation that will take us very far.
Tell us something more about your company and its mission and vision; how does your company thrive towards enabling advancements in the dynamic business arena?
In our company's vision and mission statements we have summarized the essence of our business: to steadily grow within both domestic and international architectural outdoor lighting markets as a genuine, reliable partner for all our customers.
We are determined to bring our passion for ideas and innovation to combine with our history of quality and values to reach excellence through our continuous R&D achievements, consistent quality standards, and sustainable and eco-friendly attitude while showing commitment towards truthful human relationships and respect for people. I think that behaving with consistency in every situation is a win-win decision.
Enlighten us on how you have been impacting the architectural lighting niche through your expertise in the market.
Our
Research & Development department is always at work to study the latest industry evolutions in order to ensure maximum performance levels for our complete collection of architectural lighting solutions.
Luca Meinardi Chief Executive Officer Griven
My personal experience in different fields of the international lighting industry brought me to successfully translate the style and elegance of indoor illumination into outdoor appliances, creating new ranges of products capable of mixing the advanced technical know-how of the company with a new appealing design to create groundbreaking solutions for new markets.
Our latest landscape and accent lighting fixtures range translate our advanced technical expertise in previously unexplored markets, offering competitive and performing alternatives to expanding demand.
Describe in detail the values and the work culture that drives your organization.
First of all, we firmly believe in our true Made in Italy tradition. We have always been designing, engineering, and assembling all our lighting fixtures here in Italy.
Our consistent attitude towards innovation, our respect for the environment, our tireless commitment to sustainability, our steady focus on quality, and our unlimited customization capabilities drive us towards the development of innovative solutions that stand out for their distinctiveness and efficiency in an increasingly competitive market.
As I strongly believe in our human resources skills and expertise, I fully rely on their capabilities, ideas, and initiative to be always at the forefront in our field.
Undeniably, technology is playing a significant role in almost every sector. How are you leveraging technological advancements to make your solutions resourceful?
The lighting industry has been improving in a quick and dynamic way in recent years, mainly due to the continuous technological developments of LED technology and of related intelligent lighting management systems. Exceeding customary standards, we always purchase high-performing LEDs from strictly selected micro-bins allowing our fixtures to maintain the highest levels of color consistency and uniformity over time.
Our Research & Development department is always at work to study the latest industry evolutions in order to
ensure maximum performance levels for our complete collection of architectural lighting solutions.
What, according to you, could be the next significant change in your sector? How is your company preparing to be a part of that change?
Energy-saving solutions are becoming more and more important for the preservation of our environment and its limited resources. We have already moved in this direction upgrading our production and supply processes. As a result, our lighting fixtures are 90% recyclable and 95% of their components come from production sites located within less than a 100 km distance.
We follow strict internal energy-saving and environmentally friendly procedures according to newly obtained certifications. We are also implementing new lighting technologies which are respectful towards the safe development of vegetal and animal environments. All our efforts go in this direction.
Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run, and what are your future goals for Griven?
I firmly want Griven to become one of the most important Italian players in the international outdoor architectural lighting market, offering an always up-todate range of highly innovative fixtures capable of illuminating in a sustainable way from the smallest residential premises to the largest urban infrastructures in every possible shade of both colored and white light. An ambitious goal that makes me proud and eager to do my job every day.
What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into the architectural lighting niche?
It's true, this is a niche market, but it features an impressively large number of competitive high-quality players. Thinking and acting out of the box can really make a difference in this industry. Facing any new challenge with an unconventional approach and innovative methods is what I would recommend to any newcomer.
In today's world, it is more important than ever for companies to embrace sustainable practices in order to protect our planet and ensure a better future for generations to come. This is where CEOs play a crucial role, as they are the ones who can set the tone for their organizations and drive change towards more sustainable practices.
But what does it take to be a revolutionary CEO who empowers sustainability? What are the traits that set them apart from their peers? In this article, we will explore some of the key traits of revolutionary CEOs who are leading the way towards a more sustainable future.
Visionary Leadership : Revolutionary CEOs who empower sustainability are visionaries who can see the bigger picture and understand the impact of their actions on the environment and society. They have a clear vision of where they want to take their companies and the role they can play in creating a sustainable future.
Innovative Thinking : These CEOs are not afraid to think outside the box and explore new ways of doing things. They are open to new ideas and are willing to take risks to drive change. They
understand that sustainability requires innovation and creativity, and they are not afraid to challenge the status quo.
Commitment to Purpose : Revolutionary CEOs who empower sustainability are driven by a sense of purpose beyond profits. They are committed to making a positive impact on the world and understand that sustainability is not just a moral imperative but also a business imperative.
Stakeholder Engagement : These leaders recognize the importance of engaging with all stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, and communities. They understand that sustainability is a collective effort and that everyone has a role to play in creating a more sustainable future.
Resilience : CEOs are resilient and able to weather the challenges that come with driving change. They understand that sustainability is a long-term journey and that progress can be slow at times. They are patient and persistent, and they do not give up easily.
Transparency : Revolutionary CEOs who empower sustainability are transparent about their actions and their impact on the environment and society. They understand that transparency builds trust and credibility, and they are willing to be held accountable for their actions.
Collaboration : These CEOs understand the importance of collaboration and partnerships. They recognize that they cannot solve sustainability challenges alone and that working together with other companies, governments, and organizations is critical to driving change.
Data-Driven Decision-Making : Innovative leaders use data to inform their decisions and measure their impact. They understand the importance of setting targets and tracking progress towards sustainability goals.
Employee Empowerment : CEOs empower their employees to take ownership of sustainability initiatives and create a culture of sustainability within their organizations. They provide the necessary resources and support to help employees drive change.
Holistic Thinking : Organizational leaders take a holistic approach to sustainability, considering the environmental, social, and economic impacts of their actions. They understand that sustainability is not just about reducing carbon emissions but also about creating a more just and equitable world.
Agility : Business and organizational leaders are agile and able to adapt to changing circumstances. They understand that sustainability is a dynamic and evolving field and that they need to be flexible and responsive to new challenges and opportunities.
Courage : Leaders have the courage to take bold action and lead by example. They are not afraid to challenge the status quo and push for change, even if it means taking risks or making unpopular decisions.
Authenticity : Leaders are authentic and genuine in their commitment to sustainability. They understand that sustainability is not just a buzzword but a fundamental value that needs to be embedded in their organizations.
Openness to Feedback : Business leaders are open to feedback and willing to learn from their mistakes. They understand that sustainability is a journey and that there is always room for improvement.
Strategic Thinking : People in leadership positions are strategic thinkers who can identify opportunities for sustainability and integrate them into their business strategies. They understand that sustainability can create value for their organizations and contribute to their long-term success.
Systems Thinking : These leaders take systems thinking approach to sustainability, considering the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic systems. They understand that sustainability requires a holistic perspective and a focus on creating positive outcomes for all stakeholders.
Empathy : CEOs have empathy and compassion for the people and communities impacted by their actions. They understand that sustainability is not just about protecting the environment but also about creating a more equitable and just society.
In conclusion, the traits of revolutionary CEOs who empower sustainability are many and varied, and they require a deep commitment to creating a better future for all. By embracing these traits, CEOs can drive change towards a more sustainable world and inspire others to join them on this important journey.
Helping fathers to maintain a consistently
positive presence in their children’s lives, Tom Swanciger , CEO of Father to Father , thrives to provide community-based programs and support groups for fathers, free of charge.
In order to fulfil their obligations and protect parental rights, fathers can connect with other services; this has been a significant contribution by the Father to Father organization. For the benefit of fathers, their families, and local employers, Father to Father Inc. provides job counseling and linkages to the workforce. The organization is also a resource for regional groups looking to offer services geared toward fathers and families.
Father to Father has helped more than 1,500 men, children, and families since it began. The organization has helped fathers reconnect with their children since its commencement in a closet adjacent to the kitchen at St. Peter’s Church, and it still does so today from its new location on Woodbine Avenue in North Charleston, SC.
The services provided by the program are specially created to assist men in mending damaged family and interpersonal bonds, engaging in healthy parenting, and finding gainful and stable employment.
In an exclusive interview with CIOLook , Tom Swanciger shares the challenges of running a non-profit organization and the overwhelmingly positive impact of their work.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Brief our audience about your journey as a business leader until your current position at Father to Father. Inc. What challenges have you had to overcome to reach where you are today?
Being in the nonprofit sector for over 25 years, I have found that the biggest challenge is continuously finding different funding sources to keep the organization viable.
Tell us something more about Father to Father. Inc, and its mission and vision.
Our mission is to help fathers in the Low-country of South Carolina be positive and consistent figures in their children’s lives.
is in a child’s life.
We strive to help fathers better themselves, their relationships and their understanding of how important a responsible, active father
Building stronger families creates a better South Carolina for every citizen.Tom Swanciger CEO
How we can help:
Ÿ We provide community-based programs and support groups for fathers, at no cost to them.
Ÿ We help fathers connect to other services they need so they can meet their responsibilities and secure their parental rights.
Ÿ We offer job coaching and employment connections that benefit fathers, their families, and employers in our communities.
Ÿ We’re a resource for local organizations that want to provide family support and father-friendly services.
We know engaged fathers are the best way to get to the root of problems that affect all of us—so that we can make real progress toward ending poverty, reducing crime and improving outcomes for children. When fathers are engaged, children are:
Ÿ More likely to graduate from high school
Ÿ Less likely to go to jail
Ÿ Better positioned to be good parents themselves
We strive to help fathers better themselves, their relationships, and their understanding of how important a responsible, active father is in a child’s life. Building stronger families creates a better South Carolina for every citizen.
We always look for community partners who want to collaborate with us—from local law enforcement and family court judges to health clinics and churches who, like us, want to help fathers succeed.
Enlighten us on how you have impacted the Individual and Family Services industry through your expertise in the market.
What do fathers need to be successful parents and contributing family members?
Father to Father, Inc.A one-stop center for fathers with staff and offices close to where dads work and live.
We take a holistic approach to strengthening fathers and helping them overcome obstacles with a range of education, services and support that includes:
Ÿ A comprehensive fatherhood curriculum to teach the essentials of responsible fatherhood
Ÿ Employment coaching to help dads get jobs or find better paying jobs
Ÿ Help navigating the child support system
Ÿ Guidance on establishing paternity, visitation and other legal issues
Ÿ Peer group sessions that provide fathers with a safe space to talk and support each other
Ÿ Referrals for help with complex problems
Ÿ Mediation with the child’s mother and other family members
Ÿ Access to men’s healthcare education, screenings and referrals
Ÿ Assistance with transportation
Ÿ Ongoing connection with an experienced, supportive program staff
Ÿ Unique programs such as Jobs Not Jail, a way to catch up on child support obligations that is a successful alternative to incarceration
Many fathers face chronic health conditions and untreated problems, because they can’t afford treatment or don’t trust healthcare providers.
What methodologies do you implement that contribute to new growth opportunities?
Having a strong team is what propels us to grow and have great success. The Father to Father team is dedicated to our mission and what we do on a daily basis. They are well-versed and highly educated in all areas of Fatherhood and Youth Development. Their commitment to our organization is evident in the lives they change, which affords us the opportunity to continue to grow.
Our 24-week fatherhood program is one of the most important services we provide. Offered free to every participant, all the program requires is your commitment.
This program takes a holistic approach to helping men become the best fathers they can be and provides oneon-one coaching that helps each participant overcome his unique obstacles.
Core Content areas include:
Ÿ Employability Bootcamp
An intensive session that explores skill sets and career paths and helps fathers expand their networks, prepare resumes, and build interview skills to gain the jobs they want.
Ÿ Economic Mobility
Dads learn about increasing income, managing money, getting credit, navigating child support and addressing arrears.
Ÿ Healthy Relationships
Drawing on their personal histories, men build relationship skills that can improve life for their children and themselves.
Ÿ Parenting/Co-Parenting
Fathers learn how to enhance co-parenting skills and have positive roles in children’s lives—from providing structure and stability to establishing paternity and visitation rights.
Ÿ Men’s Health
Fathers learn how to manage their own physical and mental health, so they can thrive and model healthy behaviors for their children.
Along with taking classes, each father in our program works individually with a staff member to create his own One Man Plan. In this plan, each father sets his goals and creates a road map for reaching them.
Peer groups are a place for fathers to share their frustrations, learn from other fathers and begin building a positive network of support.
We’ve learned from our work that many fathers feel alone in their struggles. Some men lack good role models for parenting, perhaps because they had no contact with their own fathers. We’ve also seen through our peer groups that fathers share many things in common and can be great resources for one another.
Undeniably, technology is playing a significant role in almost every sector. How are you leveraging technological advancements to make your solutions resourceful?
Father to Father is currently using new technology to actively fundraise within the community; we are utilizing social media to educate the community or who we are and what we do. We use a system designed to help fathers find their passion in terms of employment and, in turn, help them get into the careers they are seeking.
What, according to you, could be the next significant change in the Individual and Family Services sector? How is Father to Father. Inc, preparing to be a part of that change?
I believe the next shift in communities will be focusing on youth and the alternatives to detention programs, specifically here in South Carolina. Father to Father is currently working with both the Department of Juvenile Justice and the Charleston County Detention Center to teach youth in a new program called, Building Better Bridges. Building Better Bridges is the youth program targeting young men and women. It is designed to educate and inspire the youth to understand the importance of informed decision making, especially the choices that benefit their mental, physical, and economic health.
Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run, and what are your future goals for Father to Father. Inc?
Father to Father is constantly progressing. In the future, we look forward to establishing offices in Beaufort and Dorchester County. We are constantly increasing the number of people we are serving and getting valuable partnerships throughout the LowCountry of South Carolina.
What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into the Individual and Family Services industry?
Be genuine, honest, and never over promise something you cannot deliver.
