The CTO is no longer just a . They are a TECHNOLOGIST strategic , BUSINESS LEADER driving digital transformation and .INNOVATION
Editor’s Note
Technologicalinnovationisthelifebloodthatkeeps businessesgrowinginthecurrentprogressive digitalage.Andwhenitcomestodrivingthat innovationforward,there'snorolemorecrucialthanthe ChiefTechnologyOfficer Thesearethevisionaryleaders chartingthecourse,creatingculturesofcreativity,and reimaginingwhat'spossible.
Impac ul Tech
Innovators
CTOsarethearchitectsoftechnologicalstrategy,ensuring theirorganizationsstayaheadofthecurvebyembracing cutting-edgesolutions.Theypossessauniqueblendof technicalexpertise,businessacumen,andforward-thinking mindsetsthatenablethemtoidentifyemergingtrendsand seizeopportunitiesthatothersoverlook.
Beyondmereimplementation,CTOsfosterenvironments conducivetoinnovation.Theyempowerteamstothink outsidethebox,encouragingcalculatedrisk-takingand experimentation.Bybreakingdownsilosandfostering cross-functionalcollaboration,theyunlockthecollective ingenuityoftheirorganizations,catalyzingbreakthroughs thatredefineindustries.
ThisissueofTheCIOWorldshinesaspotlightonthe innovatorsdirectingthefutureoftechnologyinIreland. Fromrevolutionizingindustrieswithfuturisticsolutionsto promotingacultureofinnovationwithintheir
organizations,theseCTOsareleavinganeverlastingmark onthenation'stechscene.
Asyouflipthroughthesepages,you'llgetaninsidelookat theminds,methods,andmindsetsthatmakeIreland'stop CTOssosuccessful.Theirstoriesareequalpartsfascinating andmotivating–proofpositivethatwiththerightmixture ofvision,talent,andtenacity,there'snolimittowhatcanbe achieved.
Inanerawheretechnologyisthedrivingforcebehind progress,Ireland'smostinnovativeCTOsarepavingthe way,ensuringthatthecountryremainsattheforefrontof digitaltransformation.Theirdedicationtoexcellenceand theirabilitytoanticipateandadapttoemergingtrendshave earnedthemwell-deservedrecognitionontheglobalstage.
Wehopethisedition,titled 'Ireland's Most Innovative CTOs to Watch' willinspirethenextgenerationoftech leadersandentrepreneurs.Preparetobeamazedbythe ingenuityandforward-thinkingofIreland'smostinnovative CTOsasyouexplorethiscompellingedition.
Haveanenlighteningreadahead!
-AlayaBrown Managing Editor
Editor-in-Chief
Deputy Editor
Managing Editor
Assistant Editor
Visualizer
Art & Design Head
Art & Design Assitant
Business Development Manager
Business Development Executives
Technical Head
Assitant Technical Head
Digital Marketing Manager
Research Analyst
Circulation Manager
David
Richard
Descrip on Featuring
Mohammed Ghassan Zekrallah Co-Founder and CTO
Mohammed Ghassan Zekrallah, Co-Founder and CTO at Cura, defied societal norms to pursue financial freedom and entrepreneurship, breaking free from the constraints of a salaried life.
Renan Diniz Chief TechnologyData Officer Rodrigo Abt CTO
XP Inc. xpinc.com
Richard Baird Senior Vice President and CTO (Core Enterprise, and zCloud)
Shiras Ahamed CTO
Kyndryl www.kyndryl.com
Mercado Libre mercadolibre.com
Enext Informa on Technology LLC. www.enex echnology.com
With a remarkable 16-year tenure in IT, Shiras elevates Enext to unprecedented levels, blending visionary tech passion with He orchestrates tech strategies in alignment with business goals, fostering an innova ve culture. Cura www.cura.healthcare.com Company
Renan is responsible for developing and execu ng the organiza on's data strategy, ensuring the effec ve management, analysis, and u liza on of data assets.
Richard Baird, Senior VP and CTO at Kyndryl, leads with exper se and vision, driving innova on in IT infrastructure globally, ensuring transforma ve solu ons for clients and society.
Rodrigo specializes in designing and implemen ng machine learning algorithms and models to solve complex business problems.
Richa rd Baird
An Eminent Personality Shaping the Future of Technology
C StorCover y 08.
16.
Mohammed Ghassan Zekrallah
The Rebel's Quest for Financial Independence
20. 24. 28. 32.
Shiras Ahamed
Who's Looking Over Your Shoulder?
Protecting from the Dangers of Friendly Fraud
- By Kyle Rutherford
C X O A R T I C L E S
CTO Challenge Checklist! Are You Prepared for the Evolving Tech Landscape?
Integrating Emotional Intelligence! A Leadership Journey De ned by Innovation
The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Building a High-Performing Tech Team
Ireland's Most Innova ve CTOs to Watch
Intoday'stechnology-drivenbusinessenvironment, beingaCTOrequiresablendoftechnicalexpertise, strategicthinking,leadershipskills,andbusiness acumentodriveinnovationandsuccess.MeetRichard Bairdwhobringsawealthofexperiencetohisroleas SeniorVicePresidentandCTO,CoreEnterprise& zCloudforKyndryl.Inthiscapacity,heoverseesthe strategy,development,integration,andtestingof mainframeservices,capabilitiesandofferingsprovidedby Kyndryl.
Astheworld’slargestITinfrastructureservicesprovider, Kyndryldesigns,builds,managesandmodernizesthe mission-criticalinformationsystemsthatorganizations dependoneveryday.Kyndrylservesthousandsof customersinmorethan60countriesaroundtheworld. Kyndryl’sCoreEnterprise&zCloudglobalpracticehelps organizationsmanageandmodernizetheircomplex mainframesystems,whichareoftenpartofhybridcloud environments,andRichardisatthehelmofthepractice fromatechnologyperspective.
PriortohiscurrentpositioninKyndryl,Richardheld severalmanagementandtechnicalpositionswithinIBM throughouthisdistinguishedcareerspanningover25years. HismostrecentrolewasVPofIBMGlobalTechnology ServicesClientTechnologyEnablement.Inthiscapacity,he wasresponsibleforclientsolutioningandproduction reviewsgloballyacrossallinfrastructuretechnologies, demonstratinghisbreadthofexpertiseandtechnical leadership.
Inrecognitionofhiscontributionsandexpertise,Richardis honoredasaFellowoftheBritishComputerSociety, highlightinghissignificantimpactandinfluencewithinthe field.
Hisleadership,strategicvisionandextensiveexperience makehimavaluableassettoKyndrylandthebroader technologycommunity
Richard'sjourneyinthetechnologysectorbeganafter graduatingfromBradfordUniversity,UK,withaBSc (Hons)inComputingandDataProcessing.Hisacademic backgroundlaidthefoundationforasuccessfulcareer, complementedbyhiscontinuousdedicationtostayingat theforefrontoftechnologicaladvancements.
EarlyAspirations
Asakidgrowingup,Richardinitiallydreamedof becomingahistoryteacher.However,hispathtookaturn whenhediscoveredhispassionforcomputerscience aroundtheageof13.Hefoundhimselfdrawnto technologyandmadethedecisiontoswitchtotheIT industryatarelativelyyoungage.
Richard'sjourneyintotheworldoftechnologybeganwith hisexplorationofcomputingmagazinesandhisown computerathome,whichfueledhisexcitementandledhim towritehisfirstcommercialapplication—anaccounting application—atjust15yearsoldwhilestillinschool.His lovefortechnologyandcontinuouslearningpropelledhim forward,shapinghiscareerinITfromayoungage.
FocusonPeople
RichardexplainsthatKyndrylemergedasaspin-outfrom IBMinNovember2021,branchingofffromtheGlobal TechnologyServicesunittobecomean
entirelyseparateentity WithMartinSchroeteratthehelm asCEO,Kyndrylembarkedonanewjourney,freefromits formerparentcompany'sinfluenceandwiththeautonomy tochartitsowncourse.Despitebeingrelativelyyoung, Kyndrylquicklyestablisheditselfasadesirableworkplace, earningrecognitionasoneofthetop100companiespeople wanttoworkforandsecuringposition#225amongthe Fortune500companies.Kyndrylisoftencitedasoneofthe world’slargeststartups.
Kyndryl'ssuccessisbuiltoncoreprinciplescentered aroundits‘3As’strategicinitiatives:Alliances,Advanced Delivery,andAccounts.Throughitsstrategicallianceswith theleadinghyperscalers Microsoft,AWSandGoogle,and itsbroadecosystemoftechnologypartners,Kyndryl leveragesitsadvanceddeliverymethodsincludingtheAIinfusedKyndrylBridgeopenintegrationplatform,to providecutting-edgemanagedandmodernizationservices. WithafocusonservingFortune100andFortune50clients, Kyndrylplaysacrucialroleindrivingdigital transformationforitscustomers.
AttheheartofKyndryl'soperationsareitspeople,who bringthenecessaryskillsandcapabilitiestodeliveronthe company'sgoals.Despitebeingtechnologydriven,Kyndryl recognizestheimportanceofitsworkforceindrivingits success.Asitcontinuestogrowandevolve,Kyndryl remainscommittedtoitspeople-centricapproachandits missiontoleadintherapidlychanginglandscapeofIT services.
ModernizingMainframeEnvironments
AstheglobalCTOofKyndryl’sCoreEnterpriseand zCloudpractice,Richardoverseesallservicesrelatedto ® mainframeplatforms(IBMZ andIBMi)includingthe relationshipswiththealliancesandtechnologypartners.
Hemanagespartnershipswithvarioussuppliersandworks closelywithcustomersundergoingdigitaltransformations ontheseplatforms.Kyndryl'sstrategyfocusesonhelping customerstomodernizetheirmainframeenvironmentsand definetherightplatformfortherightworkload,whether theywanttomodernizeworkloadsonthemainframe, integratethemwithcloudordistributedenvironments,or moveworkloadsoffthemainframetothecloud.Richard andhisteamprovidetechnicalguidancetocustomers, assistingtheminmakinginformeddecisionsaboutplatform andtechnologychoicesandworkloadplacement.
Richard'sresponsibilitiesalsoincludenurturingtechnical skillsgrowthwithinKyndryl,particularlyconcerningthese platforms.Thisinvolvesinitiativessuchasarobustcollege hiringprogramandongoingskilldevelopmentfor employeesatallcareerstages.Additionally,Richardis deeplyinvolvedinshapingthefuturestrategyofKyndryl anditscustomers.Thisentailsidentifyingemergingtrends andtechnologies,suchasartificialintelligence(AI),and determininghowtheycanbeappliedtohelpcustomers addresstheirdigitaltransformationinitiativeswherethe IBMZandIBMiplatformsareinvolved.Richardensures thatKyndrylprovidesinsightstocustomersaboutfuture trendsandhelpsthemmakestrategicdecisionsabout workloadplacementandplatformutilizationinhybrid cloudenvironments.
EmbracingNewTechnologies
Richard'sexperiencewitholderprogramminglanguages suchasCOBOLandRPGandapplicationruntime environmentslikeCICSandtheevolutionofJava, aswell astheadoptionofinternettechnologiesfromthe'90sinto the2000s,taughthimvaluablelessonsaboutembracing newtechnologies.Heemphasizestheimportanceofnot beingafraidtotryoutnewtechnologies,eventhoughsome
maynotstandthetestoftime.Intheearlydaysofthe internetandJava,technologieswereconstantlychanging, anditwasessentialtobeopentoinnovation.
Richardadvocatesforaleadershipstylethatencourages innovation,curiosity,andthoughtfulexplorationofnew technologies.Hebelievesinprovidingteamswiththe freedomtoexperimentwhileensuringtheyoperatewithina safetynettomitigaterisks.Ratherthanimposingstrict limitations,leadersshouldempowertheirteamstoexplore newapproachesandtechnologieswhileprovidingguidance andsupportalongtheway.
Byfosteringanenvironmentwhereteamsfeelencouraged toinnovateandtakecalculatedrisks,leaderscanultimately drivesuccessfortheirorganizations.Richardbelievesthat bysupportingandenablingtheirteams'effortstoembrace newtechnologiesandapproaches,leaderscanpavetheway forbothindividualandorganizationalsuccess.
ContributingtoStrategicDiscussions
Richardhasalwaysbeenpassionateaboutplayingaround withtechnology,startingfromhisteenageyears.Even today,hemakesitapointtodedicatetimetoexploringand understandingnewtechnologies,albeitnotasfrequentlyas he'dlike.Hebelievesit'sessentialtohaveenough knowledgetoengageinmeaningfulconversationswithhis teamandoffervaluableinsights.Bystayinginformedabout emergingtrendsandindustrydevelopments,Richard ensureshecanguidehisteameffectivelyandcontributeto strategicdiscussions.
Inhisrole,Richarddoesn'tjustfocusonthetechnology itselfbutalsoconsidershowitintersectswithvarious industriesandmarkettrends.Herecognizesthatdifferent sectorsmoveatdifferentpaceswhenitcomestoadopting ITinnovations.
Therefore,hespendstimeanalyzinghowtechnologyis transformingindustrieslikeretailbankingortraveland transportation,allowinghimtoanticipatefuturetrendsand adaptKyndryl'sstrategiesaccordingly.
Byimmersinghimselfinboththetechnicalandstrategic aspectsoftechnology,Richardmaintainsabalanced perspectiveandcaneffectivelyleadhisteam.Hefindsthat thisapproachnotonlykeepshimup-to-datewiththelatest advancementsbutalsoenableshimtoconnectwithhis teammembersonbothatechnicalandleadershiplevel.
ContinuousSkillGrowth
Richardunderscorestheimportanceofcontinuousskill growthandexperienceaccumulationinthetechindustry Hisownbackground,amixofcomputing,accounting,and economics,exemplifiesthevalueofadiverseskillset.He advocatesforongoingeducationandcareerdevelopment, citingprogramsliketheBritishComputerSociety's continuouseducationinitiativeasvitalforkeeping professionalsup-to-dateandpreventingstagnation.He likensprofessionals'careerjourneystocarryinga"virtual backpack,"filledwithbothformalskillsacquiredthrough educationandexperientiallearninggainedthroughwork. Periodically,individualsshouldexaminetheirbackpacksto identifyareasforgrowthandseekguidancefrommentors orcoaches.Richard'sinvolvementwithuniversityreview boardsandasavisitingprofessorhighlightshis commitmenttobridgingthegapbetweenacademiaand industry,ensuringthateducationalprogramsalignwiththe needsofthetechsector
Addressingthemisconceptionthathe'ssolelyfocusedon mainframetechnologieslikeCOBOL,Richardacknowledges thebroaderskillschallengesfacingtheITindustry.He emphasizestheimportanceofnurturingskillsacrossvarious technologies,includingthoseperceivedaslegacy.Kyndryl's effortstocultivateCOBOLskillsdemonstrateitscommitment toaddressingthesechallenges.
Richardbelievesinfosteringacollaborativerelationship betweenindustryandacademiatoshapethefutureoftech educationandensureprofessionalsareequippedwiththe skillsneededtosucceedintheevolvinglandscape.
InformedTechnologyDecisions
RichardsharesKyndryl'sambitiontomaintainitspositionas thetopITinfrastructureservicesproviderworldwide.The company'sgoalistohelpcustomersachievetheirstrategic objectivesbyleveragingtechnologyeffectively.Kyndrylaims tobethepartnerofchoiceforcustomersseekingtoharness technologytomeettheirgoals.
OneofthesignificantchallengesRichardfacesinhisroleis ensuringthatcustomersmakeinformedtechnologydecisions alignedwiththeirstrategicvision.Thisinvolvesproviding guidanceandinsighttohelpshapethesedecisionsand ensuringthattechnologies,particularlyemergingoneslike AI,aredeployedsafelyandinaccordancewithbestpractices.
Richardalsohighlightstheimportanceofproblem-solving withinhisteam.Thisincludesstayingabreastofnew technologies,acquiringskills,andgainingprojectexperience. Whethercustomersrequirerevolutionarychangesor evolutionaryadaptations,Richard'steamadoptsapragmatic andinformedapproach,challengingnormsandproviding inputtodecision-makingprocesses.
Also,Richardemphasizestheimportanceoffosteringafree andopenenvironmentwhereconversationscanoccur,ideas canbeexchanged,anddecisionscanbemadecollaboratively. Bydoingso,Kyndrylcancontinuetoexcelinhelping customersnavigatetheevolvinglandscapeoftechnologyand achievetheirbusinessobjectives.
IndustryLeadership
Richardbelievesthatastheworld'sleadingITInfrastructure servicesprovider,Kyndrylhasaresponsibilitytocontribute toshapingthefutureoftheindustry Withitsextensiveskills, background,andexperience,Kyndryliswell-equippedto
fulfillthisrole.Thecompany'srolewill involveservingasanadvisor, implementer,andproviderofongoing managedandmodernizationservicesto customersastheynavigatetheirchosen paths.
Kyndrylaimstopowerthedirectionof boththebroaderindustryandthespecific industriesofitscustomers,helpingthem achievetheirbusinessobjectives. Eventually,Kyndryl'ssuccessis intertwinedwiththesuccessofits customers.Byactingasatrustedadvisor andpartner,Kyndrylensuresthatits customersthrive,therebysolidifyingits ownsuccess.
SharingtheExcitementoftheFuture
Richardfindsthefutureincredibly excitingbecauseit'slikeanundiscovered country,fullofpossibilitiesand opportunities.Whilewecanuseour crystalballstomakepredictions,the outcomewillalwaysbedifferentfrom whatweanticipate.WhatexcitesRichard mostistheideathatwehavethepower toshapethefuture,buthealso emphasizestheimportanceoflearning fromthepast.
Reflectingonhisowncareeraspirations inhistory,Richardrecognizesthevalue oflookingbackatthehistoryoftheIT industry.Byunderstandingwhatworked wellandwhatdidn't,wecanmakemore informeddecisionsaboutwheretogo next.
Escaping the Matrix, Defying the System, and Redefining Success!
Thetraditional9-5jobcanbefulfilling.Youspend longhoursworking,meetingdeadlines,stayingupto-datewithcertifications,andattendingendless meetings.Althoughthisroutinemayseemsatisfactory,have youconsideredsomething?Inthemidstofdedicating yourselftotheselonghours,youmayfindthatyouhave stoppedlivingforyourowndreams.Youbecomeso accustomedtoyourroleasanemployeethatyouneglect yourownambitions.Now,thereisnothingwrongwith beinganemployee;youhaveundoubtedlyworkedhardto getthere.However,settlingintocomfortandneglecting personalgrowthbeyondyour9-to-5jobisnotthepatha rebelliousspiritwouldchoose.
Inaworldwhereconformityoftenseemstobethenorm, therearethosewhorefusetostaywithinthelines,those whopursuealifeoutsidethebox.Meettherebel, MohammedGhassanZekrallah,Co-founderandCTOat Cura,whoseinsatiablehungerforfreedomandfinancial independenceignitedatransformationaljourney.Thisisthe storyofanindividualwhodaredtobreakfreefromthe constraintsofasalariedlifeandrewritethescriptoftheir owndestiny
Life,formany,canoftenfeellikeapuzzlewherewe're expectedtofitintopredeterminedspaces.Butforhim, existencewassynonymouswithresistingthestatusquo.A naggingfeelingofbeingenslavedtoalifethatlacked fulfillmentservedasaconstantreminderthatadifferent pathmustbecarved.Compoundedbytheweightof financialstressandtheresponsibilityofcaringforbeloved parentsasthesoleprovider,hisheartlongedtooffera betterqualityoflife,especiallyduringtheirgoldenyears. Aroundthefourthyearoftheircareerassuccessful softwareengineers,hisdesireto"escapethematrix"began toconsumehisthoughts.Theyearningforfinancial freedomandthepursuitofassetsoutsidetheconfinesofa salariedemployee'sexistencegrewstrongerwitheach passingday Astheideatookroot,itevolvedinto somethingakintotheinceptionofapowerfulconcept—an
ideathatcoulddefineordestroyone'slife.Zekrallahsaw thevirusofthisideaspreadwithin,creatingadefining moment.
ThejourneyofZekrallah,fromtheconfinesofacorporate cubicletotheworldofentrepreneurship,representsa testamenttotheresilienceofthehumanspirit.Itisastory ofbreakingfreefromthemold,refusingtobedefinedby societalexpectations,andembarkingonajourneyto financialindependence.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Couldyoupleasetellaboutyourselfandwhatmotivated youtoembarkonthissector?
Convincedbythesebeliefs,Istartedtalkingalotaboutmy interestinlaunchingastartupwithfriendsand acquaintances,andIindulgedinstartupbuildingculture, whichIthinkattractedtherightpeoplethatcameintomy lifelater,buttherighttimehasn'tyetcome.
Nothinghappenedforanother2years.I'mnowinthe7th yearofmyverysuccessfulbutboringsoftwareengineering career.Istartedtogetreallyfrustratedworkingoncorporate governmentprojects,mostlyimplementationprojects,and asa“builder”,Ialwayswantedto‘build’asoftwareproduct ofmyownvision.Sinceworkingonproductsiscompletely differentfromworkingonprojects,Idefinitelywantedto createatechnicallychallengingproductthatIcouldbe proudtohavebuiltmyself.
Onedayattheendof2014,Igotacallfrommyfriend WaelKabli,whowasaSharePointconsultantatMicrosoft SaudiArabia(nowco-founderandCEOofCura).Hesaid, Youknow,sinceyou'reobsessedwiththisstartupthing,I haveanideatocreateamedicalappwherepatientsand doctorsinteractanddodiagnosesonline.Letmeexplainit toyou.Threemonthslater,IquitmyjobandjoinedCuraas co-founder,CTO,andemployee#1.Iworkedfrommyvery small1-bedroomapartmentfor1.5years,leftmyapartment forFridayprayersonly,andgained40kilosofweight,but eventually,IbuiltandlaunchedallCuraproductsmyself
Ghassan Zekrallah
Co-founder
and CTO Cura
Mohammed
(iOS,Android,Backend,AWS).Aftergaininginitial traction,wegotaseedinvestmentroundfor$1millionin 2016.Waelwasabletojoinfull-timeasCEOthen,and Curawasofficiallybornasacompany
Fastforwardyearslater,andCuraistheleaderintelehealth inSaudiArabia,poweringover3milliontelemedicine consultationstodate.BackedbySaudiAramcoandELM VCasleadinvestorsinour$4millionSeries-Around. Cura’smissionistoenhancethehealthcaredeliverymodel andbridgethegapbetweenin-personandonlinehealthcare services.Curaprovidesreliable24/7accesstothebest licensedandcertifieddoctorsinstantly,soyougetyour medicationsandproperadviceasfastaspossible.For example,ifyouhavethefluandfeelsick,opentheCura appandrequestaninstantconsultation.Youwillbe matchedwithafamilyconsultantandgetaguaranteed responseinlessthan5minutes.Youwillgetdiagnosedand getane-prescriptionacceptedinallSaudipharmacies. Betteryet,wegetthee-prescriptiondeliveredtoyourhome thesameday Allwithoutyouhavingtoleaveyourhome. Youaresickalready;whyshouldyoubother?That’show wewanthealthcaretobe,andthat’swhatwearealready doingtoday
Wealsoprovidepsychiatryandpsychologycounseling onlinewithdoctorsandtherapiststotreatdifferentmental healthdisordersandconcernsusingreal-timemessaging andvideocalls.Wealsoprovidewellnessprogramsthatare 5to8weeklyscheduledsessionswiththerapiststohelpyou achievecertainhealthgoalslikecopingwithdepression, dealingwithyouranxiety,andchangingyournegative thinkingpatterns,whichinvolvestructuredworkand assignmentsyouhavetodelivertoyourtherapisttofurther progressonyourprogram.
Wehaveextendedourofferingtoincludecorporate wellnesstoachievehealthandwellnessgoalsatthe organizationallevelforallourmployeesaswell.
Whatstrategiesdoyouemploytodriveinnovationand technologicaladvancementwithinyourorganization, andhowdoyouprioritizetechnologyprojectsand initiativestoalignwiththecompany'sgoalsand objectives?
Ihaveaclearsetofprincipleswhenitcomestotechnology advancementwithintheorganization.I’mnotabelieverin the‘hype’andIdon’tjumpimmediatelyonadaptingtrendy technologies,asIknowthesearepromotedforyoubythe vendor’ssalesandmarketingteamstomakeyoufeellike youarelackingsomething.Ialwaysassessverycarefully whattheactualvalueisandwhattheactualbenefitsare beingdeliveredfromacertainnewtechnologyincontrast towhatwehavealready.Ifyoufollowthis,youwillfind yourselfinvestinginworthystuffonlyandsavingyour organizationtimeandmoney
Canyoushareanexampleofasuccessfultechnology implementationthatyouhaveoverseenanditsimpact ontheorganization?
OneprojectIrememberisrevampingourentirewebsite architectureandtechnologytouseReact.jswithNext.js.It wasahugeprojectfilledwithmanychallenges,especially aroundserver-siderenderingandSEOoptimizations,but wereapedalltheinvestmentswemadeinitandhadagreat websitelaunch.
Whatstepsdoyoutaketostayup-to-datewiththelatest trendsandadvancementsintechnology?
Ialwaysgoogle‘thefutureofxxx’tounderstandwherea certaintechnologyisheadedandinwhatwaysit'sreplacing oldones.Ithenfollowthemostinfluentialsubjectmatter expertsonthosetechnologiesonLinkedIn,andIfollowall YouTubechannelsaroundthesetopics.Thisway,Ifind informationaboutthelatesttrendsalwaysbeingpushedto meinsteadofhavingtopullthem.WhenInoticetheriseof acertaintechnologyandlotsoftalkaboutit,Iincreasemy prioritytolearnandreadaboutittounderstanditfurther.
Howdoyoufosteracollaborativeandproductive relationshipbetweenthetechnologyteamandother departmentswithintheorganization?
Abalancebetweenbeingalittlebitprotectiveofthe engineeringteamandnotwastingtheirtimeincountless meetingswithbusinessdepartmentsisneededwhilealso notfullyabstractingthemsotheyunderstandthebusiness end-userandthechallengestheyface.Thisisimportantto changeengineers’perspectivesandmindsetsabouthow theyapproachsolvingcustomers’problems.Ifyoudon’t hearitfromthesource,youwillnotreallyunderstandthe frustrationbehindit,andthereforeyouwon’tsolveit correctly Thiscan’thappenwithouthavingclear,open,and consistentcommunicationchannelsbetweendepartments, whichneedstobepartoftheorganization'sculture.
Canyoudiscussanychallengesyouhavefacedasa CTOandhowyouhaveovercomethem?
IthinkbeingaCTOinatechnologycompanydelivering softwareproductsisdifferentfrombeingaCTOinanontechcompany.IhavetodobothjobsofCTOandCIOina technologycompany,soIneedtotakecareofourproduct's softwarearchitectureandsourcecodeimplementation, whichisourcorebusiness,inadditiontoensuring customers’dataandinformationprivacy,security,anddata redundancy.Mixingbothmindsetsischallenging sometimes,asyoumaylikedoingonejobmorethanthe other.Thistaughtmetheimportanceofbalanceandhowto trainmymindsettoadaptquickertothesesituationsand leavepersonalpreferencesaside.
Howdoyoupromoteacultureofcontinuouslearning andprofessionaldevelopmentwithinyourtechnology team?
Tobehonest,Idon’tinvestmuchinthisbecauseIdon’t haveto.Thebestsolutiontoaproblemistoneverhavethe probleminthefirstplace.Whenyouinvestinyourhiring processandhiregreatsoftwareengineersthatare analytical,smartandhavethis‘curiositymindset’builtinto
them,theytendtoalwaysbeincontinuouslearningand professionaldevelopmentmodethemselveswithoutyou havingtoenforcethisattheorganizationlevel.I’mluckyto havehadgreathiresinmycareerandonlyafewbadones.I knowthismaynotapplyatalargerorganizationallevel,but that’smyexperiencesofar
Whatareyourthoughtsonemergingtechnologiessuch asartificialintelligence,blockchain,andtheInternetof Things,andhowdoyouseethemimpactingyour industry?
TheamazingrecentadvancementinArtificialIntelligence isdefinitelyintroducingahugeshiftinthewaytechnology leadersshouldthinkwhenapproachingtheimplementation oftheirsoftware,products,andservices.IseeAIimpacting thehealthcareindustryinabigway.Itcangreatlyhelpin scalingprimarycareservices,earlydiseasedetectionand preventionbyanalyzinglargegenomedatasets,pattern recognitiontodetectgeneticdisorders,cancerdetection, andmutation.Theusecasesareendless.
Pleasegiveusafewtestimonialsfromyourclientsand awardsorrecognitionthataccuratelyhighlightyour achievementsinthecorporateniche.
Awards:
• Cura–SaudiArabia’sleadingtelehealthstartup, announcesaSAR15millionSeries-Ainvestmentfrom ELMand Waed.https://company.cura.healthcare/en/series-a/
• EntrepreneurshipWorldCupSaudiFinals1stPlace Winners:
• https://innovation.kaust.edu.sa/ewc-cura
• SheikhSalemAlAliAlSabahInformaticsAward2017 Winners:https://company.cura.healthcare/ar/alsabahawa rd2017/
• StepConference20171stplacewinners
• ArabnetRiyad2016-3rdplacewinner: https://www.arabnet.me/english/editorials/business/ind ustry/meet-all-the-winners-from-arabnet-riyadh-2016-
Website:
https://cura.healthcare/ar/
https://company.cura.healthcare/en/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/waelkablli/recentactivity/shares/
https://twitter.com/AppCura
https://www.linkedin.com/company/13197258/
Are You Prepared for the Evolving Tech Landscape?
AreYouPreparedforthe EvolvingTechLandscape? CTOChallengeChecklist!
TheroleofaChiefTechnologyOfficer (CTO)isnolongerconfinedto managinginternalsystems.Today's CTOsarestrategicpartners,driving innovationandensuringtheir organizationsstayaheadoftheeverevolvingtechnologicalcurve.Butwith constantchangecomesauniquesetof challenges.Thischecklistprovidesa roadmapforCTOstonavigatethe dynamictechlandscapeandensure theirorganizationsarewell-equipped forthefuture.
Security:BuildingaFortress
Today's cyber threats are a constant concern. Here's how CTOs can fortify their organization's defenses:
• RobustIncidentResponsePlan: Establishaclearprocedurefor identifying,containing,and recoveringfromsecuritybreaches. Thisplanshouldoutlineroles, responsibilities,and communicationprotocolsfor minimizingdamageandrestoring operationsswiftly
• PatchingisParamount:Regularly updatesoftwareandsystemswith
thelatestsecuritypatches.These patchesaddressvulnerabilities identifiedbydevelopersandcan significantlyreducetheriskof cyberattacks.
• SecuringRemoteAccess:Withthe riseofremotework,securing accesstocompanydataand resourcesiscrucial.Implement secureVirtualPrivateNetworks (VPNs)thatencryptdata transmissions.Additionally,utilize end-to-endencryptionfordatain transitandensureremotework policiesupholdstrictsecurity standards.
BuildingaCultureofCollaboration andCommunication
Effective communication and collaboration are essential for a successful tech team. Here are some strategies CTOs can employ:
• RegularCheck-ins:Schedule frequentmeetingswithkey stakeholdersandteamleads. Thesemeetingskeepeveryone alignedongoals,expectations,and projectprogress.
• ClearCommunicationChannels: Establishdesignatedchannelsfor differenttypesofcommunication. Urgentissuesmightrequireinstant messagingplatforms,while detaileddiscussionsmightbe bettersuitedforemails.This streamlinesinformationflowand reducesconfusion.
• OpenDoorPolicy:Encourage teammemberstovoiceconcerns, askquestions,andshareideas. Thisfosterstrust,prevents misunderstandings,andleverages thecollectiveknowledgeofthe team.
StayingAheadoftheCurve: EmbracingEmergingTechnologies
The tech landscape is constantly evolving. Here's how CTOs can stay informed and embrace new technologies:
• ContinuousLearning:Encouragea cultureofcontinuouslearning withintheteam.Provide opportunitiesforprofessional developmentthroughconferences,
• EmbraceTechforCollaboration: Utilizeprojectmanagement softwarelikeAsanaorTrelloto keeptrackoftasks,deadlines,and communication.Implement communicationplatformslike SlackorMicrosoftTeamstofoster real-timecollaborationand informationsharing.
workshops,andonlinecourseson emergingtechnologieslike ArtificialIntelligence(AI), MachineLearning(ML),and CloudComputing.
• InvestinInnovation:Allocate budgetandresourcesforexploring andexperimentingwithnew technologies.Thiscouldinvolve settingupadedicatedinnovation laborpartneringwithstartupsto explorepotentialapplicationsfor theorganization.
• Future-proofInfrastructure: Evaluatethescalabilityand flexibilityofcurrentIT infrastructure.Considercloudbasedsolutionsthatoffergreater agilityandscalabilityto accommodatefuturegrowthand technologicaladvancements.
• EmbraceOpenSource:Opensourcesoftwareoffersawealthof cost-effectivesolutionsandfosters collaborationwithinthetech community.Carefullyevaluate open-sourceoptionsalongside traditionalvendorsolutionstofind thebestfitfortheorganization's needs.
TheHumanFactor:Buildinga StrongTechTeam
A strong tech team is the backbone of any successful organization. Here's how CTOs can build and retain top talent:
• HireforSkillsandCultureFit: Technicalskillsareimportant,but don'tunderestimatethevalueof culturalfit.Lookforindividuals whoarepassionate,collaborative, andeagertolearn.
• InvestinUpskillingand Reskilling:Technologyis constantlyevolving,andsoshould yourworkforce'sskillset.Provide trainingprogramstohelp employeesstaycurrentwiththe latesttrendsandtechnologies.
• CreateaCultureofRecognition: Recognizeandrewardemployee achievements.Thisfostersasense ofaccomplishment,motivates employees,andreducesturnover.
• PromoteWork-lifeBalance:Tech jobscanbedemanding.Promotea healthywork-lifebalanceby offeringflexiblework arrangementsandencouraging employeestotakebreaksand disconnect.
Conclusion:
Thetechlandscapewillcontinueto evolveatarapidpace.Byproactively addressingsecuritychallenges, fosteringacollaborativeculture, embracingemergingtechnologies,and buildingastrongtechteam,CTOscan ensuretheirorganizationsarewellequippedtonavigatethedynamic worldoftechnologyandthriveinthe yearstocome.
Remember,thischecklistisastarting point.Eachorganizationhasunique needsandchallenges. AsaCTO,it's crucialtocontinuouslyassessyour techstrategy,identifyareasfor improvement,andadapttotheeverchangingtechnologicallandscape.
- Alaya Brown
Leadership is not about being in charge, Its about taking care of those in your charge.
- Simon Sinek
AhamShirased A Leadership Journey Dened
by Innovation
Empowering Digital Transformation Through Strategic Vision, Diverse Expertise, and Inspirational Leadership!
Leadership,oftencomparedtoajourney,mirrorsthe dynamicinterplaybetweenthenavigatorandthe cartographer.Whilesomeleadersadeptlysteertheir teamsthroughtheknown,itistherarefewwhoembarkon amissiontoredrawthemapsofpossibility.These trailblazersarenotcontentwithsimplyfollowing establishedroutes;theycarvenewpaths,unveiling unexploredvistasofpotential.
MeetShirasAhamed,theChiefTechnologyOfficerof EnextInformationTechnologyLLC.,adrivingforce behindDubai'stechnologicalrenaissance.
Withanimpressive16-yearlegacyintheITindustry,hehas steeredEnexttonewheightsthroughapassionfor technologythatbordersonthevisionary.Atthehelmofthe company'stechnologicalstrategies,heorchestratesa seamlessalignmentwithbusinessobjectives,fosteringa culturewhereinnovationisnotjustencouragedbut embeddedinthecompany'sDNA.
Ahamed'sskillsetisaformidablefusionofexpertise spanningsoftwaredevelopment,digitalgrowthhacking, projectmanagement,andstrategicplanning.Thisdiversity equipshimnotonlytoidentifyindustrytrendsbutalsoto leadEnextthroughtheintricateandever-shiftinglandscape oftheITworld.
Atthecoreofhisleadershipphilosophyliesthecultivation ofaculturemarkedbycontinuouslearningandinnovation. Thisapproachempowershisteamtoconsistentlydeliver exceptionalresults.Hisinspirationalleadershipstyleis recognizedforhisabilitytoconveyintricatetechnical conceptstonon-technicalstakeholders,facilitatingwellinformeddecision-making.
Encourage open communication by establishing regular channels for interaction, such as cross-functional meetings and collaborative project sessions. This promotes transparency and ensures that information lows seamlessly across teams.
AsthedrivingforcebehindEnext'sdigitaltransformation initiatives,heensuresthatthecompanyremainsatthe forefrontoftechnologicalinnovation.Hisstrategicacumen, coupledwithadeepunderstandingofemerging technologies,positionsEnextasatrailblazerintheIT sector
InarapidlychangingITlandscape,Ahamed'sstrategic visionhasproventobeaguidinglightforEnext.Hisability tonotonlyadapttochangebuttoanticipateandcapitalize onemergingtrendssetshimapartasaluminaryinthe industry.Underhisleadership,EnextInformation Technologyhasbecomesynonymouswithagility, innovation,andexcellence.
WhileAhamedisundeniablyatech-savvyleader,heis equallyrecognizedforhisemphasisonthehumanaspectof leadership.Histeam-centricapproachfosterscollaboration, creativity,andasenseofsharedpurpose.Thispeople-first philosophycontributesnotonlytoEnext'ssuccessbutalso totheprofessionalgrowthandsatisfactionofitsemployees. AstheChiefTechnologyOfficer,heexemplifiestheperfect blendoftechnicalprowess,strategicforesight,
andempatheticleadership.Hisjourneyisnotjusta testamenttopersonalsuccessbutalsoabeaconforthe entireITindustry,showcasingthetransformativepowerof technologywhenledbyvisionaries.
Below are the interview highlights:
CouldyoupleasebriefaboutENEXTInformation Technologyanditsinceptionstory?
ENEXTInformationTechnologystandsasaprominent forceintheITandDigitalGrowthHackinglandscape.Our company'sinceptionstoryisrootedinacommitmentto deliveringandupholdingtop-tierITservicesforbusinesses andcorporateentities.
Atourcore,wespecializeinWebandMobileApp Development,DigitalMarketing,e-commerceSolutions, TravelAgencySolutions,WhatsAppAPIsolutions,Cloud andDedicatedHostingSolutions,BusinessEmail Solutions,andmore.Ourcomprehensivesuiteofservicesis designedtocatertothediverseneedsofourclients, ensuringtheirdigitalpresenceisnotonlyestablishedbut alsooptimizedforsuccess.
Withafoundationbuiltonexpertiseandarelentlesspursuit ofexcellence,ENEXTInformationTechnologycontinues tobeatrustedpartnerforthoseseekinghigh-quality solutionsintheever-evolvingrealmsofITandDigital GrowthHacking.
Whatstrategiesdoyouemploytodriveinnovationand technologicaladvancementwithinyourorganization, andhowdoyouprioritizetechnologyprojectsand initiativestoalignwiththecompany'sgoalsand objectives?
• CultivateInnovation:Instillacultureofinnovationby encouragingcreativethinking,experimentingwith emergingtechnologies,andpromotingcontinuous learningamongteammembers.
• StayTech-Savvy:Keepabreastofindustrytrends throughconferences,networks,andpublications. Applythisknowledgetoidentifyopportunitiesfor technology-drivenvaluewithintheorganization.
• EncourageCollaboration:Promotecross-functional collaborationthroughregularmeetingsandworkshops, allowingemployeestoshareideas,proposesolutions, andcollaborateontechnologyinitiatives.
• ForgePartnerships:Establishpartnershipswithtech vendors,startups,andresearchinstitutionsforaccessto cutting-edgetechnologies.Collaborateonprojectsto leverageexternalknowledgeandexpediteinnovation.
• TechAssessments:Regularlyassesstheorganization's techlandscapetoidentifyareasforoptimizationor modernization.Prioritizeprojectsbasedonpotential impactandalignmentwithstrategicobjectives.
• RoadmapDevelopment:Createacomprehensive technologyroadmapalignedwiththecompany's strategicplan.Prioritizeprojectsthathavethehighest impactonkeybusinessobjectives.
• StakeholderEngagement:Collaboratecloselywith stakeholderstounderstandtheirneedsandinvolve themindecision-making.Communicateproject benefitsandexpectedoutcomestoensurealignment withoverallorganizationalgoals.
• OptimizeResourceAllocation:Efficientlyallocate resourcesbasedonbudget,timeline,andpotential returnoninvestment.Consideragilemethodologiesfor effectiveprojectmanagement.
• MeasureandEvaluate:EstablishKPIsandmetricsto measureprojectsuccess.Regularlyevaluatetheimpact onorganizationalgoals,usingfeedbackanddatadriveninsightstorefinetechnologystrategies continuously
Shiras Ahamed Chief Technology Officer ENEXT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY LLC.
Howdoyouensurethesecurityandintegrityofthe organization'stechnologyinfrastructure?
RobustSecurityMeasures:Implementrobustsecurity measures,includingfirewalls,encryption,andantivirus software,tofortifytheorganization'sdefenseagainst potentialthreats.
• RiskAssessments:Conductthoroughriskassessments toidentifyvulnerabilitiesandproactivelyapply mitigationstosafeguardtheintegrityofthetechnology infrastructure.
• AccessControls:Enforcestringentaccesscontrolsby implementingstrongauthenticationmechanismsand regularlyreviewinguserprivilegestolimitpotential securityrisks.
• EmployeeEducation:Conductcomprehensivetraining programstoenhanceemployeeawarenessofsecurity protocols,ensuringtheyactivelycontributeto maintainingasecuretechnologyenvironment.
• IncidentResponse:Establishandconsistentlyupdate protocolsforincidenthandlingtoswiftlyand effectivelyrespondtoanypotentialsecurityincidents, minimizingpotentialdamage.
• DataBackup:Regularlybackupcriticaldataand conductroutinetestsofdatarestorationproceduresto ensuredataintegrityandavailabilityintheeventof unforeseenincidents.
• StayUpdated:Stayabreastofthelatestsecuritybest practicesandframeworks,incorporatingthemintothe organization'ssecuritystrategytoaddressevolving threatseffectively
• ExternalAudits:Engageexternalauditorstoconduct periodicsecurityassessments,providinganobjective evaluationoftheorganization'ssecuritypostureand identifyingareasforimprovement.
• Monitoring:Utilizeadvancedmonitoringsystemsto detectanomaliesandpotentialthreatsinreal-time, enablingproactiveresponsestomitigatesecurityrisks promptly.
Whatstepsdoyoutaketostayup-to-datewiththelatest trendsandadvancementsintechnology?
AstheChiefTechnologyOfficer,maintainingaleadingedgeperspectiveontechnologicaladvancementsis paramount.Toachievethis:
• ContinuousLearning:Engageinongoinglearning throughindustrypublicationsandtechblogs,ensuring acurrentunderstandingofthelatesttrendsand innovations.
• Networking:Activelyparticipateinconferencesand eventstogleanvaluableinsights,establishconnections, andstayattunedtoemergingdevelopmentsinthetech landscape.
• VendorRelationships:Cultivaterobustrelationships withtechvendorstoreceivefirsthandinformation abouttheirlatestofferings,facilitatinginformed decision-making.
• CollaborationwithInstitutions:Collaboratewith organizationsandresearchinstitutionstoexplore innovationopportunitiesandgainexposuretocuttingedgetechnologies.
• IndependentResearch:Conductindependentresearch onemergingtechnologies,leveragingbothinternaland externalexpertisetostayaheadofindustry advancements.
• IndustryAssociations:Participateinindustry associationsandforums,engagingindiscussionsand knowledgesharingtostayinformedaboutindustry trendsandbestpractices.
• TechnologyRoadmap:Developacomprehensive technologyroadmap,incorporatingResearchand Development(R&D)initiatives,toproactively integrateadvancementsintotheorganization'slongtermstrategies.Thisensuresthattheorganization remainsagileandadaptivetotheevolving technologicallandscape.
Howdoyoufosteracollaborativeandproductive relationshipbetweenthetechnologyteamandother departmentswithintheorganization?
• OpenCommunication:Encourageopen communicationbyestablishingregularchannelsfor interaction,suchascross-functionalmeetingsand collaborativeprojectsessions.Thispromotes transparencyandensuresthatinformationflows seamlesslyacrossteams.
• CulturalEmphasisonUnderstanding:Fosteraculture ofmutualunderstandingandrespect.Facilitate knowledge-sharingsessionswhereteammembersfrom differentdepartmentscanlearnabouteachother'sroles andresponsibilities,enhancingoverallcomprehension.
• InclusioninStrategicDiscussions:Involvetechnology teammembersinstrategicdiscussionsanddecisionmakingprocesses.Ensuringtheirperspectivesare valuednotonlyenhancescollaborationbutalso contributestowell-informedandinclusive organizationaldecisions.
• Cross-FunctionalTraining:Provideresourcesand supportforcross-functionaltrainingandskill development.Thisempowersteammembersto broadentheirskillsets,facilitatingamoreversatileand adaptableworkforce.
• RecognitionofContributions:Celebratesuccessesand recognizecontributionsfromboththetechnologyteam andotherdepartments.Acknowledgingachievements fostersasenseofunityandsharedaccomplishment, reinforcingtheimportanceofcollaborativeefforts.
Byimplementingthesemeasures,youcreatean environmentthatnotonlypromotescollaborationbutalso enhancesproductivityandinnovationacrossallfacetsof theorganization.
Thetechindustrythriveson innovation,complexproblemsolving,andcutting-edge ideas.Whiletechnicalskillsare undoubtedlycrucial,anewfrontieris emerginginthequestforbuildingtruly exceptionaltechteams:Emotional Intelligence(EI).
Traditionally,IQ(Intelligence Quotient)hasbeenthegoldstandard formeasuringpotential.However, researchbyDanielGolemanandothers hasshownthatEI– theabilityto understand,use,andmanageyourown emotionsinpositivewaystoachieve yourgoals– playsanequally,ifnot moreimportant,roleinsuccess.Thisis especiallytruefortechteams,where collaboration,communication,and navigatingdiversepersonalitiesare essentialforpeakperformance.
Let's delve into why EI is a gamechanger for tech teams, exploring its impact on key aspects of team dynamics:
1.Communication:BuildingBridges, NotWalls
Effectivecommunicationisthe cornerstoneofanysuccessfulteam. Techprojectsofteninvolvecomplex ideas,tightdeadlines,andpressure. Here'swhereEIshines. Team memberswithhighEIcan:
• Activelylisten:Theypayclose attentiontowhatothersaresaying, bothverballyandnonverbally, fosteringasenseofbeingheard andvalued.
• Communicateclearlyand concisely:Theytailortheir messagetotheaudience,ensuring everyoneisonthesamepage.
• Provideconstructivefeedback: Theydelivercriticisminaway that'shelpfulandfocusedon improvement,avoiding defensivenessandfosteringa growthmindset.
• Manageconflictproductively: Theycande-escalatesituations, identifyunderlyingissues,and findsolutionsthatworkfor everyone.
StrongcommunicationnurturedbyEI createsasafespaceforopendialogue,
whereteammembersfeelcomfortable sharingideas,concerns,andfeedback. Thistransparencyfosterstrust,akey ingredientforhigh-performingteams.
2.BuildingStrongRelationships:The PowerofEmpathy
Techteamsareameltingpotofdiverse personalities,backgrounds,and workingstyles. EIempowersteam membersto:
• Practiceempathy:Theycansee thingsfromanotherperson's perspective,fostering understandingandbuilding strongerrelationships.
• Celebrateindividualstrengths: Theyrecognizeandappreciatethe uniqueskillsandperspectives eachmemberbringstothetable.
• Offersupportandencouragement: Theycreateasenseofcamaraderie andpsychologicalsafety,where teammembersfeelcomfortable takingrisksandlearningfrom mistakes.
Byfosteringasenseofbelongingand mutualrespect,EIcreatesastrong supportsystemwithintheteam.This, inturn,leadstoincreasedmotivation, engagement,andawillingnesstogo theextramileforeachother.
3.Innovation:TheSparkofCreativity
Thetechindustrythrivesonconstant innovation. Heretoo,EIplaysavital role:
• Emotionalregulation:Team memberswithhighEIcanmanage stresseffectively,whichiscrucial forcreativethinking.
• Opennesstonewideas:Theyare receptivetodiverseperspectives andwillingtoconsider unconventionalsolutions.
• Embracechallenges:Theyview roadblocksasopportunitiesfor
• learningandgrowth,fosteringa resilientandadaptableteamspirit.
Bycreatingapsychologicallysafe environmentwhereideascanflow freely, EIfuelsthefireofcreativity Teammembersfeelcomfortable brainstorming,experimenting,and takingcalculatedrisks –theperfect recipeforgroundbreaking innovations.
4.Leadership:GuidingtheWaywith EmotionalAgility
Exceptionaltechteamsneed exceptionalleaders. EIisacritical leadershipskill,enablingleadersto:
• Motivateandinspire:They understandandconnectwithteam membersonadeeperlevel, fosteringasharedvisionand commitmenttogoals.
• Delegateeffectively:Theycan assessstrengthsandweaknesses, assigningtasksthatleverage individualskillsandpromote growth.
• Navigatedifficultconversations: Theycanaddressperformance issuesorconflictswithempathy andemotionalintelligence, leadingtopositiveoutcomes.
• Adapttochange:Theycan managetheirownemotionsduring challengingtimesandguidethe teamthroughperiodsof uncertainty
LeaderswithhighEIsetthetonefor theentireteam.Theiremotionalagility createsapositiveworkenvironment whereteammembersfeelvalued, empowered,andmotivatedtoexcel.
BuildinganEmotionallyIntelligent Team
ThegoodnewsisthatEIisnotafixed trait–itcanbelearnedanddeveloped.
HerearesomewaystofosterEIwithin yourtechteam:
• Self-awarenessworkshops: Encourageteammembersto reflectontheirownemotionsand howtheyimpacttheirbehavior.
• Team-buildingexercises: Activitiesthatpromote communication,collaboration,and empathycanstrengthenemotional bondswithintheteam.
• Mentorshipprograms:Pairing experiencedteammemberswith neweronescanprovideguidance andsupportindeveloping emotionalintelligenceskills.
• Feedbackculture:Createasafe spaceforconstructivefeedback, bothpositiveandnegative,to nurturecontinuousimprovement inemotionalintelligence.
TheROIofEmotionalIntelligence
InvestinginEIforyourtechteamis notjustaboutfosteringafeel-good workenvironment;it'sastrategicmove withastrongreturnoninvestment (ROI).Studieshaveshownthatteams withhighEIdemonstrate:
Increasedproductivity:Improved communicationandcollaborationlead tofasterprojectcompletiontimesand fewererrors.
Reducedconflict:Effectiveconflict resolutionminimizeswastedtimeand fostersamorepositivework environment.
Enhancedinnovation:Asafespacefor creativeexpressionleadstoahigher volumeofinnovativeideas.
Improvedemployeeretention: Employeeswhofeelvalued,supported, andpartofateamaremorelikelyto staywiththecompany
Conclusion
Emotionalintelligenceisnolongera softskill;it'savitalcompetencyfor successinthetechindustry.By prioritizingEIdevelopmentwithin yourteam,you'renotjustbuildinga teamofskilledindividuals;you're fosteringahigh-performingunitthat thrivesoncollaboration,innovation, andasharedvisionforsuccess. Ina worlddrivenbyconstantchangeand rapidadvancements, techteamswith strongemotionalintelligencearethe onesbestequippedtonavigate challenges,seizeopportunities,and stayaheadofthecurve.
- Alaya Brown
- Roy T. Bennett
- Franklin D. Roosevelt
- Robert Frost
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