Constantinides
The CTO is no longer just a . They are a TECHNOLOGIST strategic , BUSINESS LEADER driving digital transformation and .INNOVATION
Editor’s Note
H“Strategy is about shaping the future.”
- Max McKeown
avingaplanisaboutcreatingthefuture.This importantideacapturesthecoreofthinking aheadandmakingplansintoday'sever-growing world.Inaworldthatisalwayschangingandcanbe confusing,beingabletoimagineandshapewhat'stocome iswhatsetssuccessfulcompaniesandleadersapart.
Beingastrategistandleadersinthefield,CIOshavequietly ledthesectoroftechnology,ensuringsmoothoperations behindthescenes.However,inthisera,theirroleshave transcendedmeremaintenance.Asorganizations increasinglyrelyontechnologytodriveinnovationand gaincompetitiveadvantage,CIOshaveemergedaspivotal figuresinshapingthefuturetrajectoryoftheircompanies.
CIOsarenolongerentirelyresponsibleforITinfrastructure managementandtechnicalproblem-solving.Today,theyare strategicdecision-makerswhoinfluencebusinessstrategies anddrivedigitaltransformationprograms.CIOs,witha
distinctiveblendoftechnicalexpertiseandcommercial competence,havethevisiontoseehowemerging technologiesmaybeusedtomeetcorporategoals.
InourlatesteditionofTheCIOWorld,wepresentSouth Africa's10MostInfluentialCIOstoWatch,highlighting theCIOswhoserveanintegralpartinestablishingthepath towardresilienceandlong-termviabilitybydirecting initiativestofortifydigitaldefenses,leveragedataanalytics foractionableinsights,andpromoteaninnovativeculture thatpropelstheorganizationforward.
Haveagreatreadahead!
-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
Carter
Circulation Manager Chidiebere Moses
Phoebe Jacob
Aisha, Olivia
David Walker
Mia Rodricks
Helena
Eric
Richard
Andriij Beer CIO
Anton Eser CIO
Helen Constan nides
Chief Informa on Officer
Ivan Zaltsman CIO
Mahomed Shaik CTIO
Nomazwi Mhloma
Deputy Chief Informa on Officer (CIO)
Renier Lewis CIO
Shalin Naidoo
Chief Informa on Officer
Ocean Basket Holdings ww.oceanbasket.com Company
Shoaib Nathie CIO
World Sports Be ng www.worldsportsbe ng.co.za
Blue Label Telecoms www.bluelabeltelecoms.co.za
Tebalo Tsoaeli CIO
eThekwini Municipality www.durban.gov.za TTS - Top Talent Solu ons www. s-talent.com DRDGOLD Limited www.drdgold.com CIB www.cib.co.za The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) www.jse.co.za
Descrip on
Andriij Beer is the Chief Informa on Officer at Ocean Basket Holdings, bringing strategic IT leadership to drive innova on and digital transforma on in the dynamic world of seafood dining.
Anton Eser, the Chief Investment Officer at 10X Investments since 2021, leads strategic growth in investment capabili es and client outreach. Specializing in long-term mul -asset inves ng, we offer systema c exposure to global markets through low-cost ETFs and Uts.
Helen, a skilled technologist, possesses the ability to conceptualize, create, and implement solu ons with the poten al to transform the way people live, work, and connect.
Ivan Zaltsman, a seasoned professional, serves as the Chief Informa on Officer at World Sports Be ng, leveraging exper se in technology to drive innova on and excellence in the sports be ng industry
With over two decades of experience, including a decade as a management consultant in diverse sectors and other leading industry ini a ves, Mahomed brings a wealth of exper se to the table.
Mhloma's journey began with her tenure as an ICT Service Delivery Manager at Transnet, where she honed her skills in IT service management. Her subsequent role as an ICT Campus Manager at the University of Johannesburg.
Renier Lewis serves as the Chief Informa on Officer at TTSTop Talent Solu ons, driving innova on and technology strategies to enhance organiza onal success and efficiency.
Appointed as the CIO of DRDGold in November 2020, Shalin brings a wealth of experience, including a decade as an IT consultant and notable posi ons at companies like Anglo Pla num and Arysta LifeScience.
A highly skilled and experienced IT Execu ve with 24 years of industry exper se, adept at op mizing IT departments in manufacturing, engineering, distribu on, financial services, and mobile telecommunica ons sectors.
Tebalo, hailing from Maseru, Lesotho, embarked on an educa onal journey that led to a BSc in Computer Science, an MBA from Rhodes University, and a fervent love for technology.
Helen Constantinides
From Childhood Dreams to Technology Leadership
Cultivating the Resilience Essential for Business Triumphs
NOMAZWI MHLOMA
Empowering Communities Through Digital Innovation
SHALIN NAIDOO
Driving Operational Excellence and Building Strategic IT Functions
TEBALO TSOAELI
Crafting Technology Strategies Aligned with Strategic Ambitions
Structuring Business and Technology Teams for a Seamless Flow of Work
HelenConstantinides
FROM CHILDHOOD DREAMS TO TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP
Our boundless ideas, unrelenting energy, and resolute dedication have the potential to usher in groundbreaking innovations and catalyze transformative shifts. It is our duty to seize these opportunities, to act boldly, and to leave an indelible mark imbued with a sense of respect.
Embracing Change, Leading Innovation, and Shaping the Future of Business!
Weliveinaworldwheretechnological
advancementsoccuratbreakneckspeed.From artificialintelligencetoblockchain,from biotechnologytospaceexploration,thedigitalrevolution hastouchedeveryfacetofourlives.Withinthisversatile environment,it'stheleaderswhoharnesstheseinnovations andsteerthemtowardmeaningfulimpactthattrulystand out.
MeetHelenConstantinides,theChiefInformation OfficeratAVBOBMutualAssuranceSocietySouth Africa,whosejourneyembodiestheessenceof adaptability,perseverance,andarelentlesspursuitof excellence.
Asachild,Helen'sdreamsrevolvedaroundbecominga doctororalawyer,noblepursuitsthatpromisetomakea differenceinpeople'slives.Littledidsheknowthather pathwouldtakeadifferentdirection,leadingherintothe dynamicworldoftechnology.Buttheseedsofherearly aspirationslaidthefoundationforherfutureendeavors. "Our childhood aspirations," shereflects, "Shape our values and ambitions, guiding us even when our path diverges."
Helen'scareerintechnologywasn'tjustachoice;itwasan embraceofadaptabilityandathirstfornewchallenges. Technology,shebelieves,isthedrivingforcebehind positivetransformationsinourworld.It'sarealmthat demandscontinuouslearning,positioningitspractitioners attheforefrontofinnovation.Helenisnotjustanobserver ofchange;sheisacatalystforit.
Venturingintotherealmoftechnologyhasallowedherto activelyshapethefuture.AsaCIO,herroleisnotconfined tooverseeingITinfrastructure;it'saboutdrivingchange withinbusinessesandenhancingpeople'slivesthrough technologicaladvancements.She'snotcontentwithsimply reactingtochange;she'sdeterminedtobeitsarchitect.
ThejourneyofaCIOintoday'sbusinesslandscape demandsmorethanjusttechnicalexpertise.Itcallsfor qualitieslikestrength,persistence,courage,andunrelenting focus.HelenConstantinidesembodiesthesetraitsand more.Hercommitmenttocontinuallearningensuresthat shestaysaheadinafieldwherestandingstillmeansfalling behind.
South
Helenbelievesinbreakingthroughbarriersandadoptinga solution-orientedmindset.Sheisapioneerofinnovative problem-solvingapproachesthatnotonlysolveimmediate challengesbutalsosetnewstandardsfortheindustry
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Visionary: Technological Impact and Achievements
Helen,askilledtechnologist,possessestheabilityto conceptualize,create,andimplementsolutionswiththe potentialtotransformthewaypeoplelive,work,and connect.Herendeavorsinthetechnologysector,whether theyinvolvepioneeringsoftwaredevelopment,designing user-friendlyinterfaces,orcontributingtocutting-edge research,holdthepromiseofdisruptingestablishednorms andmakingalastingimpactonvariousbusinesses, industries,andsocietyasawhole.
Inhercurrentrole,sheholdstheesteemedpositionofChief InformationOfficerandExecutiveMemberfortheAVBOB MutualAssuranceSocietyandtheGroup.Helenisproudto havereceivedprestigioushonors,includingbeing recognizedasoneofthe'10BestCIOsof2022'andasa finalistforthe'VisionaryCIO'inboth2019and2020.In additiontotheseachievements,shehashadtheprivilegeof servingasamemberoftheDASADevOpsJuryPanelin both2022and2023,aswellascontributingherexpertiseas aboardmemberforWired4women.
VisionforDigitalTransformation
AstheChiefInformationOfficer(CIO),Helenconsiders herroletobethatofavisionaryandcatalystforthefuture. Sheisdeeplycommittedtounlockingnewachievements andopportunitiesforAVBOB.Hermissionistoinspireand influenceherpeersintheeffectiveutilizationof InformationTechnology(IT)tocreatecustomervalue, fostergrowth,improveprofitmargins,andenhance shareholderwealth.Currently,AVBOB'smostextensive andstrategicallyvitalprojectisthecomprehensiveend-toendapplicationtransformationandmodernizationinitiative. Thisprogramrepresentstheconvergenceofcustomerand employeeengagementandexperience—digital transformation.TheITandbusinessunitsacrossthe AVBOBGrouparecollaborativelyworkingtorevampand automateprocessesandintroducemodernizedapplications andtechnologies,allwhilemanagingchangesand equippingtheworkforcewithmodernskills.
Helen Constan nides Chief Informa on Officer AVBOB Mutual Assurance Society South Africa
ThedigitaltransformationjourneyatAVBOBrevolves aroundadvancingadigitalagendaofchangethatadds substantialvalue.TheoverarchinggoaloftheIT departmentistoestablishasustainable,inclusive,and service-orienteddigitalworkplaceforbothcustomersand employees.Thepurposeistodriveinnovativedigital solutionsthatunlockvalueandfortifybusinessresilience. Theintegrationofdigitaltechnologyacrossalloperationsis revolutionizingcustomerengagement,ensuringaconsistent andaccessibleexperienceanytime,anywhere.
TheICTstrategyservesasastrategicroadmapguiding AVBOBtowardsachievingitsoverarchingobjectives. Currently,theAVBOBGroupisactivelypursuingvarious digitalinitiativesaimedatenhancingcustomer-centricity throughself-service,automation,andintuitivedata solutions.Intoday'shighlycompetitivelandscape, deliveringimmediacy,personalization,andaccessibilityto customersisofutmostimportance.
Helenfirmlybelievesthateachleaderencountersunique challengesandopportunitieswhilenavigatingtheirroles. Astheyconstructtechnologicalbridgeswithinthe organization,itisessentialtoembraceauthenticityand personalaccountabilitywhileremainingsteadfastinthe visionforprogressalongthedigitaltransformationjourney. Thebridgesforgedmustberobustenoughtofacilitate candiddiscussionsthatdrivemeaningfulchangeand transformationintherealmsoftechnologyandbusiness.
ShapingTomorrowbyEmbracingChange
Thedigitaltransformationprogramisviewedashighly significant.IthascapturedtheattentionofAVBOB'sboard andholdsaprominentplaceintheirstrategicinitiatives. Thisprogramrepresentsashiftfromtheoldtothenew, wherewhatwasoncenever-endingnowbecomesafresh start.Itsobjectiveistoreplaceoutdatedsystemswith modernsolutions,ultimatelyshapingAVBOBintoa companythatmeetspresentdemandsandpreparesforthe future.TheprogressmadeinAVBOB'sdigital transformationjourneyhasbeentrulytransformative.They havetakenaleadingroleinthisjourney,fostering connectionsanddeeplyingrainingdigitaltransformation principlesintotheirorganizationalculture.This comprehensiveapproachincludesautomation, modernization,seamlessintegrationofdataand applications,optimizationofexistingsystems,and maintainingahighlevelofcompetitivenessintheeverevolvingdigitallandscape.
ElevatingSecurityandEfficiency
Maintainingadelicateequilibriumbetweenrobust cybersecuritymeasuresandtheseamlessoperationofIT processesisapivotalresponsibilityforAVBOB'sChief InformationOfficer(CIO).Inresponsetotheescalating cyberthreats,AVBOBconsistentlyevaluatesandenhances theGroup'scybersecuritydefenses,reinforcingsafeguards againstpotentialbreachesandcyberattacks.
Theinsuranceindustryoperateswithinahighlyregulated framework.AVBOB'ssteadfastcommitmenttocontinuous actionensuresthecompany'scompliancewithallrelevant lawsandindustrystandardsgoverninginformation technologyanddatamanagement.
Intherelentlesspursuitofexcellence,AVBOBremains vigilantintrackingthelatesttechnologicaltrendsand identifyinginnovativesolutionsthatenhancetheefficiency ofoperationsandelevatetheexperiencesofvalued customers.Thisdedicationisadailyimperative.
Byembracingaproactiveandcomprehensiveapproachto cybersecurity,onethatencompassesthetriadofpeople, processes,andtechnology,theCIOcaneffectivelyshield datawhilepreservingtheefficiencyandresponsivenessof IToperationstomeettheever-evolvingneedsofthe business.Themeticulousbalancingactrequiredto prioritizethesefacetsdemandsperpetualvigilanceanda steadfastcommitmenttostayingonestepaheadof emergingthreats.
CollaborativeDigitalTransformation
Fosteringcollaborationisanimperativethatguides AVBOB'sdailyendeavors.Theevolvinglandscapeoftheir businesscontinuallyunderscorestheneedforenhanced technologicalcapabilities.Technologyservesasthe cornerstoneofAVBOB'sfuture,empoweringthemto embarkonanongoingdigitaljourneythatsignificantly impactstheirservicedeliverytoindividualsacrossSouth Africa.
Atitscore,thedigitaltransformationprogramspanningthe entiretyoftheAVBOBGroupis,fundamentally,an inclusioninitiative.Itaspirestoseamlesslyintegratedigital technologyintoeveryfacetofitsoperations,thereby reshapingoperationalparadigmsandenrichingthevalue providedtomembers,consumers,anddedicatedemployees.
AVBOB'smissionistoempowertechnologytoalign withthestrategicimperativesoftheirbusiness, bridgingthegapbetweenITandoverarchingbusiness objectives.Thevelocityofthistransformationis intricatelytiedtotheirbusinessstrategy,foremost priorities,anddesignatedtimelines.Whiletheyremain acutelyattunedtoexternalinfluencessuchascustomer trends,localmarketdynamics,andcompetitiveforces, thesefactorsservetoinformand,attimes,challenge theirtimelines.Nevertheless,theirunwavering commitmenttosafeguardingtheirreputationdictates thattheyprioritizedoingthingstherightwayfortheir customers,evenifitnecessitatesadditionaltimeand diligence.
Data-drivenApproach
AVBOB'suseofdataanalyticsandinsightstoenhance itsservicesandprovidemorevaluetoitscustomersis drivenbyacommitmenttodata-drivendecisionmaking.Intoday'stechnology-drivenworld,dataplays acrucialroleintransformingindustriesandimproving businessperformance.Itrecognizestheimportanceof harnessingthepowerofdatatomakeinformed decisions,optimizebusinessoperations,and personalizecustomerinteractionsandservices.By leveragingdata,itempowersitscustomersand membersbyprovidingthemwithvaluableinsightsinto itsservicesandproducts.
TechnologicalinnovationisakeyfocusforAVBOB,as itstrivestoequipitscustomerswiththenecessarytools tonavigatethedigitallandscape.Thisincludesoffering self-serviceoptionsandintroducingcustomer-facing digitalchannels.Theseadvancementsareaimedat enhancingpersonalization,integratingdataseamlessly, anddeliveringhigh-qualitycustomerapplication services.
AVBOB'scommitmenttoitscustomersgoesbeyond justprovidingservices.Thecompanytakesaholistic approachtocustomerlifetimevalue,ensuringenduring satisfactionandsuccess.Thiscommitmentisevidentin itsongoinginvestmentsindataanalyticstogaindeeper insightsintocustomerpreferences,behaviors,and needs.Bydoingso,itcantailoritsservicesand effectivelysupportitsmembers.
Overall,AVBOB'suseofdataanalyticsandinsights underscoresitsdedicationtoenhancingcustomer
experiencesandcreatingvaluethroughpersonalized services.
EnhancingCustomerExperienceinFuneralServices
AVBOBhasembraceddigitaltransformationtoenhancethe customerexperienceinthefuneralservicesindustry.By integratingtechnologythoughtfully,itaimstooffergreater convenience,support,andpersonalizationduringwhatcan beasensitiveandchallengingtimeforfamilies.Toachieve this,AVBOBhasdevelopedawebandmobileappthat provideseasyaccesstoessentialinformation,FAQs,grief supportresources,andimmediateassistancetoanswer commonquestions,available24/7.
Additionally,ithascreateddigitaltoolsthatempower customerstomakeinformeddecisions,expediteclaim payments,andreducestressduringdifficulttimes.They haveimplementedsecureonlinedocumentstoragefor importantend-of-lifedocumentsandconvenientdigital paymentoptionstostreamlinefinancialtransactionsfor grievingfamilies.
Recognizingtheimportanceoftheiremployees'rolein providingexceptionalcustomerservice,AVBOBhas investedintechnologyinitiativestoequiptheirstaffwith digitaltools.Theyhavealsodevelopedinternalsupport systemstoassistemployeesinmanagingtheemotional challengesthatarisewhendealingwithgrievingfamilies.
Intheinterestofsecurityandprivacy,AVBOButilizes digitalsolutionstoprotectcustomerdata,particularly consideringthesensitivenatureofthefuneralservices industry.Theycomplywithdataprotectionregulations, buildingtrustwithcustomersregardingthesafetyoftheir personalinformation.
Tocontinuouslyenhancethecustomerexperience,it activelyseeksfeedbackfrombothcustomersand employees.Thisfeedbackhelpsthemidentifyareasfor improvementandinnovationintheirservices.
EthicalApproachtoIntegratingEmergingTechnologies
AVBOB'sapproachtointegratingemergingtechnologies whilemaintainingethicalpracticesandcustomertrustis centeredarounda"Zerocompromise"and"Zerotolerance" stance.Thiscommitmenttoethicalbehaviorisdeeply ingrainedinitsvaluesandreflectstheorganization'sculture ofintegrityandtrust.Itrecognizestheincreasing importanceofethicalconsiderationsastechnology
CENTRAL TO OUR ETHOS ARE CONSIDERATIONS AND RESPECT FOR OTHERS, SELFRESPECT, AND AN UNRELENTING COMMITMENT TO DELIVER AND EXCEL.
continuestoadvanceandbecomemorepervasiveinour lives.Thecompanyisdedicatedtosafeguardingtheuse, storage,andsharingofdata,withanemphasisonobtaining consentfortheuseofpersonalinformationfromits members.Protectingdatafrombreachesandunauthorized accessisseenasanethicalduty,andAVBOBtakes measurestoensurethisisupheld.
Furthermore,AVBOBismindfuloftheethicalimplications surroundingtheproductionanddisposalofITassets.The companyalsoprioritizestheuseof"greenenergy"inits datacenters,demonstratingacommitmenttoenvironmental responsibility
Inthedesignofitsapplicationsandemployeeandmember engagementplatforms,aswellassocialmediaplatforms andwebsites,itplacesimportanceoninclusivityand bridgingthedigitaldivideinSouthAfrica.Thisensuresthat allusershaveequalaccessandopportunitiestoengagewith itsservicesandofferings.AVBOB'sapproachextendsto adheringtoregulationandlegislativegovernance,ensuring thatethicalpracticesarenotonlyupheldwithinthe organizationbutalsoinlinewithexternalrequirements.
Overall,itsintegrationofemergingtechnologiesisguided byasteadfastcommitmenttoethicalpracticesandthetrust ofitscustomers.
CommitmenttoInnovation
AttractingandretainingskilledITprofessionalsiscrucial forAVBOB'scommitmenttotechnologicalinnovation.Its strategicpositioningasaforward-lookingcompanyfocused oncreatingsharedvaluehasbeeninstrumentalindriving growthandfosteringinnovation,resultingintangible economicbenefitsformembersandcommunities.Toadapt tothechangingworklandscape,AVBOBprioritizes enhancingitsworkforcebyofferingupskillingopportunities andequippingstaffwithnewcapabilitiestoenrichservice offerings.ItisproudtohavereceivedtheprestigiousTop
EmployerawardinSouthAfricaforsixconsecutiveyears, highlightingitsdedicationtoadvancingtheemployeevalue propositionthroughprogressivehumanresourcepractices. ThesuccessofAVBOBreliesnotonlyonhaving individualswiththenecessaryskillstodelivertop-tier servicestocustomersbutalsoonthecollectiveknowledge, diverseexpertise,andunwaveringcommitmentofits employeestodrivesustainablevaluecreation.Itis determinedtoattractandretaintoptalentintheITfield, recognizingitscrucialroleindrivinginnovationand maintainingahighlyskilledworkforce.Thisinvolvesa focusontalentdevelopment,fosteringapositiveworkplace culture,offeringcompetitivecompensation,engaging employeesinchallengingprojects,andvaluingdiversity Collaborationishighlyvalued,andittakespridein recognizingandrewardingexceptionaltalentsthat contributetoitsongoingsuccess.
QualitiesandAdviceforAspiringProfessionals
AsaprominentCIO,thepersonalqualitiesthatdrive passionforITleadershipareessentialinshapingthefuture oftheinsuranceandfinancialindustries.Byofferingafresh perspectiveanddeliveringinvaluablecontributions,they havethepotentialtousheringroundbreakinginnovations andcatalyzetransformativeshifts.Itistheirdutytoseize opportunities,actboldly,andleaveanindeliblemark imbuedwithrespect.Inthisdynamicarena,aspiringIT professionalsshouldembracetheprospectofthrivingas futureleaders.Engaginginaprofessionthatisrewarding andinherentlyimpactfulrequiresconsiderationandrespect forothers,self-respect,andanunwaveringcommitmentto deliverandexcel.ApersonaltenetofsuccessfulIT professionalsrevolvesaroundtheperpetualquestfor learninginlife.Bydrawinglessonsfromdiverse experiences,theycanpropelthemselvesforwardand maintainanenduringsenseofmomentum.
Mahomed Shaik
Cul va ng the Resilience Essen al for Business Triumphs
Intoday'srapidlyevolvingworld,technologyservesas thecatalystforpositivechange,shapingnotonly organizationsbutalsothelivesandcommunitiesthey touch.Beyondmerelystreamliningprocessesand automatingtasks,technologyhasthepowertorevolutionize thewaywelive,work,andinteractwithoneanother.When harnessedeffectivelyandalignedwithoverarchingbusiness goals,technologicalinitiativesbecometransformative forces,empoweringemployees,customers,andour businessestoworksmarter,makeinformeddecisions,and achieveunprecedentedlevelsofefficiency.Byembracing innovationandleveragingtechnologyasatoolforprogress, weunlockboundlesspotentialtoupliftindividuals,enhance communities,anddrivepositiveglobalimpact.
MahomedShaik,theCTIOofBlueLabelTelecoms,is keenondrivingmeaningfulchangesattheintersectionof technology,businessanddigitalinnovation.Withovertwo decadesofexperience,includingadecadeasamanagement consultantindiversesectorsandotherleadingindustry initiatives,Mahomedbringsawealthofexpertisetothe table.
Inourdiscussionwithhim,hetalkedabouthisprimary responsibilitiesatBlueLabelTelecoms.
Below are the highlights of our conversation!
Pleasebriefusaboutyourselfandwhatinspiredyouto embarkonthissector.
IamMahomedShaik,passionatelyimmersedinthe intersectionoftechnology,business,anddigitalinnovation. Myjourneybeganasanentrepreneurinfashionretail, cultivatingtheresilienceessentialforbusinesstriumphs. Shiftinggearstofinancialmanagement,Imasteredtheart ofinterpretingandapplyingnumericalinsights,layingthe foundationformyevolutionintoatechnology-focusedrole. Ihavealwaysbeencaptivatedbytheintersectionoffinance andtechnology,andthisfascinationultimatelyledmefirst todiveintothedynamicworldofretailandnowfintech.
Fromanearlyage,Ifoundmyselfcaptivatedbytherapid advancementsintechnology,fromtheriseofpersonal
computingtothedawnoftheinternetage.Istartedcoding attheageof12,althoughIwon'tsaywhichlanguage,asit willgivemyageaway ThisfascinationonlydeepenedasI witnessedthetransformativepoweroftechnologyto revolutionizeindustries,connectcommunities,andshape thewaywelive,work,andinteract.
Whatbeganasafascinationwithgadgetsandgizmossoon evolvedintoadeeperappreciationfortheunderlying principlesofcomputing,coding,transformation,anddigital innovation.AsIdelveddeeperintotheworldoftechnology, Ibecameincreasinglydrawntoitspotentialtotacklesome oftheworld'smostpressingchallenges.Whetherit's harnessingthepoweroftechnologyapplicationstoimprove anddriveefficiencyandproductivity,leveragingblockchain technologytorevolutionizefinanceandsupplychain management,orexploringtheboundlesspossibilitiesof artificialintelligence,data,oraugmentedandvirtualreality, Isawtechnologynotjustasatoolbutasacatalystfor positivechange.
Myjourneyinthetechnologysectorisdrivenbyapassion forexploringthefrontiersofinnovation,unravelingthe mysteriesofemergingtechnologies,andharnessingtheir potentialtocreateabetter,moreconnectedworld.It'sa journeymarkedbyrelentlesscuriosity,continuouslearning, andasteadfastcommitmenttopushingtheboundariesof what'spossible.Myjourneyintothefintechindustryisa blendofadeep-rootedinterestinfinanceandakeen awarenessofthetransformativepoweroftechnology
WithaMaster'sinBusinessAdministration(MBA)from theGordonInstituteofBusinessScience(GIBS),Ilaidthe foundationforacareerthatseamlesslymergesmy academicknowledgewithhands-onexperience.Overthe years,IhaveaccumulatedexpertiseinRetail,Financial Services,ManagementConsultingandFintech.
CouldyougiveourreadersaninsightintoBlueLabel Telecomsanditsinceptionstory?
BlueLabelTelecomsisamobiletechnologycompanythat specializesinprepaidproductsandtheelectronic distributionofvirtualmerchandiseandvalue-added
South Africa's 10 Most Influen al CIOs to Watch
Mahomed Shaik
Group Chief Technology and Informa on
Officer (CTIO)
Blue Label Telecoms
services,includingthefullandseamlessreconciliationof billionsofnanotransactions.
"Anythingthathasalphanumericcharacters,abarcode,ora QRcodecanbevended.Aslongasitcanbedigitized,it canbesold.Theimaginationbecomesthelimitation." ThesearethewordsofBlueLabelTelecomsCo-CEOs MarkLevyandBrettLevy.Intheearly2000s,prepaid airtimeforcellphonescouldonlybeaccessedviaa physicalcard,whichwasveryimpractical.Themaninthe middle(thedistributor)mayhaveonlyneededtostockup onacertaindenominationofprepaidcard(e.g.,ZAR55) andwouldrequireastockquantityoften.Distributing10 cardswaslogisticallyproblematic,asitwouldmeanthe distributoronlyreceivedthemintwotothreeweeks'time.
Thetwobrothersrealizedintheearly2000sthatprepaid cellularproductscouldbesimplifiedforthecustomer (user),thedistributor,andthesupplier.Thiswasthestartof digitizingprepaidairtimethroughanelectronictop-uppin. Andastheysay,therestishistory.BlueLabelTelecoms nowhasanextendedproductrangesuchasprepaid electricity,vouchers,gamingvouchers,ticketing(events andtransport),anddatasolutions.Furthermore,BlueLabel Telecomshasbroaddistributionchannels(retail,financial services,etc.)andcontinuestogrowitsecosystem.
BlueLabelTelecom'sphilosophyistorelentlesslydrive financialinclusionforthemassmarket.Thisisachieved throughourentrepreneurialflairandourproprietary technologyplatforms.
AsaCIO,whatdoyouconsideryourprimary responsibilityindrivingtheorganization'sdigital strategyandtechnologyinitiatives?
AstheGroupChiefTechnologyandInformationOfficer (CTIO),myprimaryresponsibilityindrivingthe organization'sdigitalstrategyandtechnologyinitiatives revolvesaroundaligningtechnologywiththeoverall businessobjectivesandensuringthattechnology investmentsdelivertangiblevalueandcompetitive advantages.Herearesomekeyaspectsofmyrole:
Ÿ StrategicPlanning:Iworkcloselywiththeexecutive teamtounderstandtheorganization'sstrategicgoalsand identifyhowtechnologycansupportandenablethose objectives.Thisinvolvesdevelopingacomprehensive digitalstrategythatoutlinestheroadmapfortechnology adoption,innovation,andtransformation.
Ÿ TechnologyInnovation:MyteamandIcontinuously assessemergingtechnologiesandindustrytrendsto
My journey in the technology sector is driven by a passion for exploring the fron ers of innova on, unraveling the mysteries of emerging technologies, and harnessing their poten al to create a be er, more connected world.
identifyopportunitiesforinnovationthatcandrive efficiency,enhancecustomerexperiences,andcreate newrevenuestreams.Thisinvolvesevaluatingthe potentialrisksandbenefitsofadoptingnew technologiesandchampioninginnovationinitiatives withintheorganization.Currently,wearemodernizing ourlegacytechnologyplatformsfromthegroundupso theyapplythelatestarchitectureapproaches (microservices,composable,etc.),areAPI-first,and havesecuritybuiltinasafoundation.
Ÿ InfrastructureandOperations:Ioverseethe managementoftheorganization'sITinfrastructure, ensuringthatsystems,networks,andapplicationsare secure,reliable,andscalabletosupportbusiness operations.Thisincludesimplementingrobust cybersecuritymeasurestoprotectagainstthreatsand ensurecompliancewithregulatoryrequirements.
TogetherwiththerestoftheBlueLabelbusiness,Ileadthe organization'sdigitaltransformationefforts,guidingthe adoptionofdigitaltechnologiesandprocessestostreamline operations,improveefficiency,andenhanceagility This includesdigitizingmanualprocesses,leveragingcloud computing,andimplementingenterprise-widedigital platforms.AtBlueLabel,notonlydoweinvestin technologytodriveourdigitaltransformation,butwealso #leavenohumanbehind.Ourworkforceiskeytoour success,andasaresult,wealsoinvestinprogramsand trainingthattransformourmindsets,ourinsights,andour competenciestosucceedinthisnewdigitalworld.
StakeholderEngagement:Icollaboratewithkey stakeholdersacrosstheorganization,includingbusiness leaders,departmentheads,andexternalpartners,toensure thattechnologyinitiativesarealignedwiththeirneedsand priorities.Thisinvolvesfosteringstrongrelationships, communicatingeffectively,andmanagingexpectations throughouttheprojectlifecycle.
TalentDevelopment:Iensurethattheorganizationhasthe skillsandexpertiseneededtosupportitstechnology initiatives.Thisincludespromotingacultureofcontinuous learningandprovidingopportunitiesforprofessional growthandadvancement.Wehaverecentlyintroduceda technologygraduateprogram,whichisresultingin tremendousvaluefortechnologyandbuildingatalent pipeline.
Inyourrole,howdoyouprioritizeandbalance innovationwithmaintainingthestabilityandsecurityof theorganization'sITinfrastructure?
BlueLabel,bynature,isveryentrepreneurial.Infact, entrepreneurshipandbeinginnovativearerootedinour organizationalvalues.Anchoredinthisentrepreneurial spiritthatdrivesbothourorganizationandmyself,myteam andIrecognizetheimportanceofstrikingthisdelicate equilibrium.It'sadynamicjourneywhereourshared ambitionsometimespropelsusaheadofourown expectations.Byseamlesslyintegratingcutting-edge advancementswithrobustriskmanagementpractices,we fortifyoursystemsagainstpotentialthreatswhilefostering acultureofforward-thinkingsolutions.Thisjourneyis underpinnedbyacommitmenttocontinuouslearningand proactivevigilance,empoweringourteamtosafeguardour digitalassets.Throughthisapproach,wenotonlydrive sustainedgrowthbutalsocultivateunwaveringtrustand confidenceamongourstakeholders.
Continuousimprovementiskeyintechnology.Canyou shareanexampleofhowyou'veimplementedprocess improvementsorinnovationstoenhanceITefficiency?
Uponjoiningourorganization,Iimmediatelyrecognizeda criticalbottleneckhinderingourabilitytodelivernew products,features,andupdatestoproductioninatimely manner.Theexistingsoftwaredeploymentprocessrelied heavilyonmanualstepsforcodereview,testing,and deployment,leadingtoinconsistencies,errors,and prolongedleadtimes.
Itookthereinsinmodernizingandstreamliningour developmentprocesstotacklethischallengehead-onand driveITefficiencytonewheights.Thisendeavor commencedwithathoroughassessmentandanalysisofour existingprocesses,pinpointingbottlenecks,evaluatingteam structureandskills,andidentifyingareasripefor improvement.
Armedwithinsightsfromourassessment,weswiftly implementedaseriesoftransformativemeasures.We prioritizedprojectsbasedonstrategicimportance,
reorganizedourdeliveryanddevelopmentteamsinto focusedbusinessandapplicationsquads,andappointed scrummastersandproductownerstospearheadday-to-day deliveryandmanagementtasks.
Thepiècederésistanceofouroverhaulwasdesigningand implementingacutting-edgeContinuous Integration/ContinuousDeployment(CI/CD)pipeline.This revolutionizedourapproachtosoftwaredeployment, automatingkeyprocessesanddrasticallyreducinglead times.
Theresultsspeakvolumes.Complexprojectsandsolutions thatmighthavetakenoverayeartodelivernowtakeless thanhalfthattime.Thismonumentalimprovementhas enhancedourefficiencyandempoweredourorganizationto tacklecomplexstrategicprojectswithunparalleledagility andprecision.
Asaleader,howdoyouencourageapositiveand innovativeculturewithinyourITteam,fostering creativityandprofessionalgrowthamongyourteam members?
InmyroleasCTIO,Iprioritizetheestablishmentoftrust byconsistentlydeliveringoncommitmentsand empoweringmyteammembers.Infact,it'satoppriority forus.Myentireteamnowusesatrustequationwithin technologysothatwecanbuildtrustwithstakeholders, customers,andcolleagues,whichlaysthefoundationfor productivecollaborationandgrowth.
Ibelieveingrantingautonomyandownershiptoourteam members,fosteringasenseofaccountabilityand motivation.Besides,withtheteamIamblessedwith,not onlydoInotneedtomicromanage,theywon'tletme! Embracingdiverseperspectivesandembracingboth successesandfailuresaslearningopportunitiesiskeyto ourcontinuousimprovementjourney Weprovideavenues forlearninganddevelopment,coupledwithregular feedback,toensurethateachteammemberhasthetools theyneedtoexcel.Whileweworkhard,wealsoplayhard. TheBlueLabeltechnologyteamcertainlylovesagood partywhichallowsustoletourhairdowneverynowand again.
Bycreatinganenvironmentwherecreativityisencouraged andachievementsarecelebrated,wecultivateaculture whereinnovationthrivesandourcollectivepotentialis unleashed.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Intelligent Digital Workforces
Tokeepupwiththecompetitivemarket,businesses areconstantlyseekingwaystooptimizetheir operations,improveefficiency,andstayaheadof thecompetition.Onestrategythathasgainedsignificant tractioninrecentyearsishyperautomation.
Hyperautomationrepresentsthenextevolutionof automation,leveragingadvancedtechnologieslikeartificial intelligence(AI),machinelearning(ML),roboticprocess automation(RPA),andotherintelligentautomationtoolsto streamlineprocessesandenhanceproductivityacrossthe organization.
In this article, we'll explore the power of hyperautomation and provide a step-by-step guide to help businesses build intelligent digital workforces.
UnderstandingHyperautomation
Hyperautomationisnotjustaboutautomatingrepetitive tasks;it'saboutorchestratingend-to-endprocesses, integratingsystems,andleveragingdata-driveninsightsto driveintelligentdecision-making.BycombiningRPAwith AIandMLcapabilities,organizationscanautomate complexworkflows,handleunstructureddata,andadaptto changingbusinessrequirementsinreal-time.
Thekeycomponentsofhyperautomationinclude:
RoboticProcessAutomation(RPA):RPAinvolvestheuse ofsoftwarerobots,or"bots,"toautomaterepetitivetasks traditionallyperformedbyhumans.Thesebotscanmimic humanactions,interactwithmultiplesystems,andexecute taskswithspeedandaccuracy
ArtificialIntelligence(AI):AItechnologiessuchasnatural languageprocessing(NLP),machinelearning,and computervisionenablesystemstounderstand,interpret, andlearnfromdata.AI-poweredalgorithmscananalyze vastamountsofinformation,makepredictions,and automatedecision-makingprocesses.
MachineLearning(ML):MLalgorithmsallowsystemsto improveperformanceovertimebylearningfromdata patternsandfeedback.MLmodelscanrecognizepatterns, detectanomalies,andoptimizeprocesseswithoutexplicit programming.
ProcessMining:Processmininginvolvesanalyzingevent logsandtransactiondatatovisualize,monitor,andoptimize businessprocesses.Byidentifyinginefficienciesand bottlenecks,organizationscanstreamlineworkflowsand improveoperationalperformance.
BuildinganIntelligentDigitalWorkforce:AStep-byStepGuide
Nowlet'sdelveintothestep-by-stepprocessofbuildingan intelligentdigitalworkforcethroughhyperautomation:
Step1:IdentifyOpportunities
Beginbyidentifyingtheprocessesandtaskswithinyour organizationthatareripeforautomation.Lookfor repetitive,rule-basedactivitiesthatconsumesignificant timeandresources.Conductprocessassessmentsand engagestakeholderstoprioritizeautomationopportunities basedonimpactandfeasibility
Step2:DesignWorkflows
Onceyou'veidentifiedautomationopportunities,mapout theend-to-endworkflowsandprocesses.Definetheinputs, outputs,decisionpoints,andintegrationpointsinvolvedin eachprocess.Collaboratewithcross-functionalteamsto designefficientandscalableworkflowsthatalignwith businessobjectives.
Step3:SelectAutomationTools
Evaluateandselecttheappropriateautomationtoolsbased ontherequirementsofeachprocess.ChooseRPAplatforms thatsupportAIandMLcapabilities,aswellasintegration withexistingsystemsandtechnologies.Considerfactors suchaseaseofuse,scalability,security,andvendor support.
Step4:DevelopAutomationSolutions
Workwithyourautomationteamorvendorpartnersto developanddeployautomationsolutionstailoredtoyour organization'sneeds.LeverageRPAbotstoautomate repetitivetasks,AImodelstohandleunstructureddata,and MLalgorithmstooptimizeprocesses.Testthesolutions rigorouslytoensurereliability,accuracy,andcompliance.
Step5:MonitorandOptimize
Continuouslymonitortheperformanceofyourautomation solutionsandgatherinsightsfromoperationaldata.Use processminingtoolstovisualizeworkflows,identify bottlenecks,andmeasurekeyperformanceindicators (KPIs).Iterateonyourautomationsolutionsbasedon feedbackandanalyticstodrivecontinuousimprovement.
Step6:ScaleandExpand
Asyougainconfidenceandexperiencewith hyperautomation,scaleyourdigitalworkforceby automatingadditionalprocessesandexpandingautomation capabilitiesacrosstheorganization.Fosteracultureof innovationandcollaborationtodriveadoptionand maximizethevalueofautomationinvestments.
TheBenefitsofHyperautomation
Byembracinghyperautomation,organizationscanunlocka widerangeofbenefits,including:
ImprovedEfficiency:Hyperautomationstreamlines processes,reducesmanualeffort,andacceleratestask completiontimes.
EnhancedAccuracy:Automationeliminateshumanerrors andensuresconsistent,error-freeexecutionoftasks.
CostSavings:Byautomatingrepetitivetasks,organizations canloweroperationalcosts,increaseproductivity,and achieveahigherreturnoninvestment(ROI).
Scalability:Hyperautomationenablesorganizationstoscale theirdigitalworkforcequicklyandefficientlytomeet growingbusinessdemands.
BetterDecision-Making:AI-driveninsightsandanalytics empowerorganizationstomakedata-drivendecisionsand optimizebusinessoutcomes.
EnhancedCustomerExperience:Byautomatingcustomerfacingprocesses,organizationscandeliverfasterresponse times,personalizedexperiences,andimprovedsatisfaction levels.
Inconclusion,hyperautomationrepresentsaparadigmshift inhoworganizationsapproachprocessautomationand digitaltransformation.BycombiningRPA,AI,ML,and processminingtechnologies,businessescanbuild intelligentdigitalworkforcesthatdriveefficiency,agility, andinnovation.Byfollowingthestep-by-stepguide outlinedinthisblog,organizationscanharnessthepowerof hyperautomationtounlocknewlevelsofproductivity, competitiveness,andgrowthintoday'sdigitaleconomy.
- Alaya Brown
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.
- Robert Frost
www thecioworld.com
Nomazwi Mhloma
Leveraging Transformation for Enhanced Efficiency and Service Delivery in the Public Sector!
Inatimeofswifttechnologicalprogress,thetopicof whethertechnologycantransformpublicsectorservice deliveryisasignificantone.Therisingrelianceof societiesondigitalsolutionsforroutinechoreshasraised expectationsforgovernmentservicestobemore streamlinedandeffectivethanbefore.Cantechnologyin thepublicsector,however,reallymeettheseexpectations?
ThisquestionhasbeenaguidinglightforNomazwi Mhloma,theDeputyChiefInformationOfficer(CIO)at eThekwiniMunicipality Witharelentlesspassionfor leveraginginnovationinITservicemanagement,her journeythroughthetechnologysectorhasbeennothing shortoftransformative.
InhercurrentroleateThekwiniMunicipality'sInformation ManagementUnit,MhlomafocusesonICTcustomer services,spanningCustomerRelationshipManagement, ServiceManagement,andEndUserSupportmanagement. Hercareertrajectoryreflectsadeep-seatedfascinationwith thepotentialoftechnologytosolvecomplexchallengesand enhanceefficiencyinthepublicsector.
Mhloma'sjourneybeganwithhertenureasanICTService DeliveryManageratTransnet,whereshehonedherskillsin ITservicemanagement.HersubsequentroleasanICT CampusManagerattheUniversityofJohannesburgfurther solidifiedherbeliefinthetransformativepowerof technology.Now,astheDeputyCIOateThekwini Municipality,Mhlomaisattheforefrontofdrivingdigital transformationinoneofSouthAfrica'smostdynamic municipalities.
ForMhloma,theopportunitytocontributetothedigital transformationofeThekwiniMunicipalityrepresentsmore thanjustacareerpath;it'sachancetomakeatangible differenceinservicedelivery.Recognizingthepivotalrole oftechnologyasabasicinstrumentingovernmentservice delivery,Mhlomaisdedicatedtoharnessinginnovationto improvethelivesofcitizens.
Below are the interview highlights:
Couldyougiveourreadersaninsightintoyour companyanditsinceptionstory?
EThekwinimunicipalityisthethird-largestmunicipalityin SouthAfrica.Ithas3.9millionresidents,accordingtothe latestcensus,andcontributes34.7%totheprovince's
population.eThekwiniholdsapivotaleconomicrole, boastingaGDPcontributionof59.88%.Thecityhas diversifiedstrengthsfrommanufacturingtotourismandhas identifiedcatalyticprojectsworthR276billion.Notably, eThekwinireceivedrecognitionforitsCOVID-19response. ThevisionforthecityistobecomeAfrica’smostcaring andliveablecity,whereallcitizensliveinharmony,guided bycorevaluessuchassustainability,economicsuccess, compassion,smartdevelopment,andpovertyreduction.
AsaCIO,whatdoyouconsideryourprimary responsibilityindrivingtheorganization'sdigital strategyandtechnologyinitiatives?
AstheDeputyCIO,myprimaryresponsibilityistoalign technologyinitiativeswiththeoverallstrategicobjectives ofeThekwiniMunicipality,ensuringtheycontribute directlytoorganizationalgoals.Thisinvolvesleadingthe developmentandexecutionofthedigitalstrategyand ensuringthatITprojectscontributetothemunicipality's goalsofimprovedservicedelivery,enhancedefficiency, andcitizenengagement.Iworkcloselywithotherleadersto identifyopportunitieswheretechnologycanbeacatalyst forpositivechangeandgrowth.Imustchampion innovation,managetechnologyinvestmentstoensureROI andfosteracultureofdigitaltransformation.Thisinvolves assessingemergingtechnologies,mitigatingrisks,and ensuringcollaborationacrossdepartments.Ultimately,my roleistoleveragetechnologytoenhanceoperational efficiency,drivebusinessgrowth,andmaintaina competitiveedgeintherapidlyevolvingdigitallandscape.
CanyoushareaspecificexampleofachallengingIT projectyousuccessfullyled,highlightingyourproblemsolvingandleadershipskills?
LedthechallengingMicrosoft365EnterpriseAgreement project,navigatingcomplexitiesinnegotiationand implementation.Facedissueslikevaryingdepartmental needsandbudgetconstraints.Employedstrategicproblemsolvingbyconductingthoroughstakeholderconsultations tounderstandspecificrequirements.Leveragedeffective negotiationskillstoreachafavorableagreementwith Microsoft,aligninglicensingwithdepartmentalneeds. Demonstratedleadershipbycoordinatingseamlessly betweenIT,finance,anddepartmentheads.Successfully implementedtheagreement,optimizinglicensingcosts whileensuringalldepartmentshadaccesstonecessary M365features.Theprojectshowcasedmyabilitytolead complexITinitiatives,negotiateeffectively,andensure alignmentwithorganizationalgoals.
Inyourrole,howdoyouprioritizeandbalance innovationwithmaintainingthestabilityandsecurityof theorganization'sITinfrastructure?
Iprioritizeinnovationbyassessingitspotentialtoalign withbusinessgoalsandenhanceefficiency.Simultaneously, Imaintainstabilityandsecuritybyimplementingrobust cybersecuritymeasures,regularsystemaudits,and compliancechecks.Strikingabalanceinvolvescarefulrisk assessment,phasedimplementations,andaresponsive incidentmanagementframework.Thisensuresthat,while drivinginnovation,theorganization'sITinfrastructure remainsresilient,secure,andcapableofadaptingto emergingchallenges.
Howdoyoustayupdatedonemergingtechnologiesand trends,andhowdoyouensureyourITteamremains well-informedandadaptable?
Icontinuouslyanalyzeonlinepublications,attendwebinars, andmonitorindustryreportstostayabreastofemerging technologies.FormyITteam,Ifosteracultureof continuouslearningthroughregulartrainingsessions, encourageparticipationinconferences,andprovideaccess torelevantonlinecourses.Additionally,weengagein knowledge-sharingforumstoexchangeinsightsandensure collectiveadaptability
Collaborationiscrucialintechnologyleadership.Can youprovideaninstancewhereyoufosteredeffective collaborationbetweenITandotherdepartmentsto achieveacommongoal?
InAugust2023,Iledandcoordinatedatransformative LearningExchangeWorkshopincollaborationwithour MunicipalLearningAcademy,demonstratingmy commitmenttoeffectivecollaborationintechnology leadership.ByinvitinginternaleThekwinidepartments, provincialandnationalgovernmentstakeholders,aswellas privatesectorrepresentatives,wecreatedaplatformfor diverseperspectivesandinsights.Theworkshopfacilitated opendiscussionsonsharedchallengesandopportunitiesin technologyadoption.Throughinteractivesessionsand collaborativeactivities,participantsgainedadeeper understandingofeachother'sneedsandcapabilities.This eventnotonlyfosteredcross-departmentalcollaborationbut alsostrengthenedpartnershipswithexternalstakeholders andencouragedworkingtogetherasspheresofgovernment andtheprivatesector.Asaresult,theworkshoplaidthe foundationforongoingcollaboration,leadingtoshared goalsandenhancedtechnologicalinitiatives.
Whatmethodologiesorframeworksdoyoufindmost effectiveinmanagingITprojects,andwhy?
PRINCE2(PRojectsINControlledEnvironments)is consideredidealforitsstructuredapproach,clearstages, andemphasisonbusinessjustification.Itsfocusondefined roles,effectivecommunication,andflexibilityinadapting toprojectchangesenhancesoverallprojectcontrol. PRINCE2providesacomprehensiveframeworkthat promotesefficiency,riskmanagement,andstakeholder involvement,makingitarobustmethodologyformanaging ITprojectswithdiverserequirementsanddynamic environments.
Giventheincreasingimportanceofcybersecurity,how doyouapproachensuringtheorganization'sdataand systemsareadequatelyprotected?
Ensuringrobustcybersecurityisparamount.Iadopta multi-layeredapproachtosafeguardingtheorganization's dataandsystems.Firstly,IimplementBitLockerfor comprehensiveharddriveanddataencryption,ensuring sensitiveinformationisprotectedfromunauthorizedaccess. Additionally,IleverageTrendMicroastheantivirus solution,providingreal-timethreatintelligenceand proactivedefenseagainstevolvingcyberthreats.Regular securityauditsandvulnerabilityassessmentsareconducted toidentifyandaddresspotentialweaknesses.Employee trainingoncybersecuritybestpracticesisalsoprioritized. Thisintegratedstrategy,combiningencryptionmeasures likeBitLockerwithadvancedantivirussolutions,formsa resilientdefense,safeguardingourdataandsystemsagainst cyberthreats.
Continuousimprovementiskeyintechnology.Canyou shareanexampleofhowyou'veimplementedprocess improvementsorinnovationstoenhanceITefficiency?
IimplementedCAServiceDeskautomationbyintegrating AI-drivenchatbotsforroutineissueresolution,reducing responsetimesby30%.Introducedpredictiveanalyticsto anticipatepotentialITissues,preventingdowntimeand improvingsystemreliability.Utilizedautomationto streamlineticketrouting,leadingtoa20%increaseinissue resolutionefficiency.Establishedaself-serviceportalwith anAI-drivenknowledgebase,empoweringusersto troubleshootcommonproblemsindependently,reducingthe servicedeskworkloadby25%.Theseinnovationsenhanced ITefficiency,allowingtheteamtofocusonmorecomplex tasksandstrategicinitiatives,ultimatelyimprovingoverall ITservicemanagementeffectiveness.
Asaleader,howdoyouencourageapositiveand innovativeculturewithinyourITteam,fostering creativityandprofessionalgrowthamongyourteam members?
Ifosterapositiveandinnovativeculturebypromoting opencommunication,recognizingandrewardingcreative contributions,andencouragingamindsetthatembraces learningfromfailures.Iprovideautonomy,allowing teammemberstoexplorenewideasandallocatetimefor personalprojects.Regularskilldevelopment opportunities,mentorshipprograms,andacollaborative environmentcontributetocontinuousprofessional growth,creatingaculturethatvaluesbothinnovationand individualadvancement.
Structuring Business and Technology Teams for a Seamless Flow
of Work
Collaborationbetweentechnologyandbusiness teamsismoreimportantthaneverintoday's interconnectedworld.Companiesareusing technologymoreandmoretoimproveconsumer experiences,increaseoperationalefficiency,andspur innovation.Still,manyfirmsstruggletogetbusinessand technologydepartmentstoworktogetherseamlessly
In this article, we'll explore the concept of synergy in action and how structuring business and technology teams effectively can lead to a seamless flow of work and improved outcomes.
UnderstandingSynergy:
Synergyistheconceptoftwoormoreentitiesworking togethertoproducearesultthatisgreaterthanthesumof theirindividualefforts.Inthecontextofbusinessand technologyteams,synergyentailsaligninggoals,processes, andcommunicationchannelstoleverageeachother's strengthsandexpertiseeffectively.It'saboutbreakingdown silosandfosteringacollaborativeenvironmentwhere cross-functionalteamscanthrive.
TheImportanceofSynergy:
Effectivesynergybetweenbusinessandtechnologyteamsis criticalforseveralreasons:
Innovation:Collaborationbetweenbusinessandtechnology enablestheidentificationandimplementationofinnovative solutionstoaddressbusinesschallengesandopportunities. Efficiency:Byworkingtogether,teamscanstreamline processes,eliminateredundancies,andoptimizeresources,
leadingtoincreasedefficiencyandproductivity. CustomerSatisfaction:Seamlesscollaborationensuresthat technologysolutionsmeettheneedsandexpectationsof customers,leadingtoimprovedsatisfactionandloyalty Agility:Intoday'srapidlyevolvingbusinesslandscape, organizationsneedtoadaptquicklytochanges.Synergy enablesagilitybyfacilitatingrapiddecision-makingandthe implementationofchanges.
StructuringBusinessandTechnologyTeamsfor Synergy:
Achievingsynergybetweenbusinessandtechnologyteams requiresadeliberateapproachtoteamstructure,processes, andculture.Herearesomekeystrategiestoconsider:
Cross-FunctionalTeams:Insteadofoperatinginsilos, organizationsshouldformcross-functionalteamsthat includemembersfrombothbusinessandtechnology departments.Theseteamsshouldbeempoweredto collaboratecloselyonprojects,withasharedunderstanding ofgoalsandpriorities.
ClearCommunicationChannels:Effectivecommunication isessentialforsynergy.Establishingclearcommunication channels,suchasregularmeetings,collaborationtools,and shareddocumentation,ensuresthatteammembersstay informedandalignedthroughouttheprojectlifecycle.
CommonGoalsandKPIs:Aligninggoalsandkey performanceindicators(KPIs)acrossbusinessand technologyteamsencouragescollaborationandensuresthat everyoneisworkingtowardsthesameobjectives.This sharedsenseofpurposefosterssynergyanddrives collectivesuccess.
MutualUnderstanding:Businessandtechnologyteams oftenhavedifferentperspectivesandpriorities. Encouragingmutualunderstandingandempathybetween teammembershelpsbridgethegapandfostersacultureof collaborationandrespect.
ContinuousLearningandDevelopment:Investinginthe professionaldevelopmentofbothbusinessandtechnology teammembersenhancestheirskillsandknowledge, enablingthemtocontributemoreeffectivelyto collaborativeefforts.Cross-trainingprogramsand workshopscanfacilitateknowledgesharingandskill transferbetweendepartments.
CaseStudy:ThePowerofSynergy
Let'stakeahypotheticalexampleofaretailcompany lookingtoenhanceitsonlineshoppingexperience. Traditionally,thebusinessteammightfocusonmarket research,customerpreferences,andproductselection, whilethetechnologyteamwouldhandlewebsite development,infrastructure,andsecurity.
However,byadoptingasynergy-drivenapproach,the companyformsacross-functionalteamcomprising membersfrombothdepartments.Together,theycollaborate tounderstandcustomerneeds,identifypainpointsinthe existingonlineshoppingexperience,andbrainstorm innovativesolutions.
Thebusinessteambringsinsightsintoconsumerbehavior, markettrends,andcompetitiveanalysis,whilethe technologyteamleveragesitsexpertiseinuserexperience design,webdevelopment,anddataanalytics.Byworking together,theydevelopandimplementapersonalized shoppingplatformthatofferstailoredrecommendations, seamlesscheckout,andreal-timeinventoryupdates.
Theresult?Anonlineshoppingexperiencethatdelights customers,drivessales,andsetsthecompanyapartfrom competitors.Byharnessingthepowerofsynergy,the businessandtechnologyteamshaveachievedmore togetherthantheycouldhaveindividually
Conclusion:
Intoday'sinterconnectedworld,synergybetweenbusiness andtechnologyteamsisessentialfordrivinginnovation, efficiency,andcustomersatisfaction.Bystructuringteams effectively,fosteringclearcommunication,andpromotinga cultureofcollaboration,organizationscanunlockthefull potentialoftheirworkforceandachievegreatersuccess. Embracingsynergyisn'tjustaboutbringingteamstogether; it'saboutharnessingthecollectiveintelligenceand creativityofindividualstoachieveremarkableresults.As businessescontinuetonavigateanincreasinglycomplex andcompetitivelandscape,thosewhoprioritizesynergy willemergeasleadersintheirindustries.
- Alaya Brown
- Roy T. Bennett
Naidoo
Driving Opera onal Excellence and Building Strategic IT Func ons
Shalin Naidoo Chief Informa on and Technology Officer DRDGOLD
Inaworldconstantlyshapedbytechnological advancements,industrieswithdeep-rootedtraditions findthemselvesatacrossroads.Traditionally conservativesectors,suchasmanufacturing,agriculture, andconstruction,areundergoingatransformativejourney fueledbytechnology Theintegrationofsmartsensors, InternetofThings(IoT)devices,andautomationis streamliningprocesses,enhancingefficiency,andreducing manuallabor.Theintersectionoflegacypracticesand cutting-edgetechnologyposesacompellingquestion:Can technologybreathenewlifeintoage-oldindustries?
ThisquestionsparkedthejourneyofShalinNaidoo,Chief InformationandTechnologyOfficeratDRDGOLD, throughtheunchartedrealmsoftheminingsector.Ina worldcaptivatedbyinnovation,hisfascinationwiththe transformativepoweroftechnologyledhimtoanindustry deeplyrootedintradition.AstheCIOofoneofSouth Africa'sleadinggoldproducers,hehasmadeithismission toredefineminingoperations,placingsustainabilityand efficiencyattheforefront.
RecognizedasoneofSouthAfrica'sTop8VisionaryCIOs bytheInstituteofITProfessionalsandnominatedforthe 2019CIOoftheYearbytheInternationalData Corporation,Shalinhasbeenadrivingforceatthe intersectionoftechnologyandmining.Histenureasthe CIOatLenmedforsixyearsshowcasedhisprowessin leveragingtechnologyforhealthcare,settingthestagefor histransformativeroleatDRDGOLD.
AppointedastheCIOofDRDGoldinNovember2020, Shalinbringsawealthofexperience,includingadecadeas anITconsultantandnotablepositionsatcompanieslike AngloPlatinumandArystaLifeScience.Hisjourneyalso sawhimatthehelmofITforAfricaandtheMiddleEastat ArystaLifeScienceandastheheadofbusinessapplications SAatTronox.
Hisacademicachievementsmirrorhisprofessionalsuccess, boastinganMBAfromPretoriaUniversityandaMastersin DigitalBusinessfromWitsBusinessSchool.Hisdedication tothefusionofbusinessacumenandtechnological innovationhaspositionedhimasathoughtleaderinthe dynamiclandscapeofCIOs.
Below are the highlights from the interview!
Couldyouelaborateonthehistoricalbackgroundand inceptionstoryofDRDGOLDintheSouthAfrican miningsector?
DRDGOLD,withitsrichhistoryintheSouthAfrican miningsector,hasevolvedthroughinnovativepracticesin goldrecovery.Ourinceptionstoryisoneofresilienceand adaptation,consistentlystrivingtosetbenchmarksin environmentalresponsibilityandeconomicefficiencyin mining.DRDGOLD'sjourneybeganoveracenturyago, embodyingaspiritofinnovationandresilience.We've transitionedfromtraditionalminingtobecomingleadersin goldrecoveryandlandrehabilitation,continuously adaptingtotheevolvingeconomicandenvironmental landscapeandshareholders'needs.Ourinceptionisastory oftransformation,mirroringSouthAfrica'sowngrowthand challengesintheminingsector
Whatarethekeyaspectsofyourprimaryresponsibility asCIOofDRDGOLD?
MyprimaryresponsibilityinvolvessteeringDRDGOLD's digitalstrategy,ensuringthattechnologyinitiativesalign withouroverarchinggoalofoperationalexcellence.This encompassesdigitaltransformation,ITinfrastructure enhancement,andfosteringacultureofinnovationwithin theteam.LeadingDRDGOLD'sdigitalstrategy,myrole extendsbeyondmanagingtechnology.Itinvolvesdriving digitaltransformation,enhancingourITinfrastructure,and embeddingacultureofinnovation.Thisstrategicdirection iscrucialtomaintainingourcompetitiveedgeandensuring sustainablegrowth.
Whatweresomeofthechallengingprojectsyou spearheaded?
Thereareanumberofprojectsalwaysunderway,andeach ofthemhasitsownintricaciesandchallenges.Byfarthe mostchallengingprojectwearecurrentlybusywithisthe reconciliationofcostswithproductionandproduction activity.Itisamultifacetedprojectwithnumerousvariables andtrendsthatcanonlybefoundinthedetailsofthe wealthofbigdatathatwearecurrentlygenerating.This challengerequiresnotjusttechnicalexpertisebutalso leadershipincoordinatingdiverseteamsandaligningthe projectwithstrategicbusinessgoals.
InyourroleasCIO,howdoyoubalanceinnovation withstabilityandsecurity?
InnovationatDRDGOLDdoesn'tcomeattheexpenseof stabilityandsecurity.Weprioritizeabalancedapproach wherecutting-edgesolutionsarerigorouslytestedand evaluatedbeforeintegration,ensuringasecureandrobust ITenvironment.Ourapproachtoinnovationisholistic,
I foster a culture of crea vity and growth by encouraging open dialogue, recognizing individual contribu ons, and providing opportuni es for professional development. This approach not only mo vates the team but also sparks innova ve solu ons.
ensuringthatnewtechnologiesarestableandsecurebefore integration.Werigorouslytestnewsolutions,balancingthe needforinnovationwiththeimperativeofmaintaininga secureandreliableITenvironment.
Whatstrategiesdoyouapplytostayabreastof emergingtechnologies?
Toremainattheforefrontoftechnology,Iactivelyengage inindustryforumsandestablishpartnershipswithtech leaders.Iensuremyteamisequallyinformedandadaptable throughcontinuousprogramsandworkshops.Theystriveto continuouslytrainandareencouragedtoexplorenew technologies,ensuringDRDGOLDstaysaheadofthe curve.
AstheCIO,howdoyoufostercollaborationbetween differentdepartments?
Effectivecollaborationwasexemplifiedinourcrossdepartmentaleffortstostreamlinedatamanagement.By bridgingITandoperationalteams,wedevelopedaunified systemthatenhancedbothdataintegrityandaccessibility, fosteringbetterdecision-makingprocesses.Collaborationis keytoourITstrategy Anexampleisourprojecttounify datamanagementacrossdepartments,whichimproveddata integrityandaccessibility.Thisinitiativeexemplifiedthe powerofcross-departmentalcollaborationinenhancing operationalefficiency.
WhataresomeoftheeffectiveITProjectManagement methodologiesyouincorporateatyourworkplace?
Agilemethodologieshaveprovenmosteffective,allowing forflexibilityanditerativeimprovementinourprojects. Thisapproachalignswellwiththedynamicnatureofthe miningindustry,whereadaptabilityiskeyandallowsusto respondquicklytonewchallengesandopportunities, ensuringcontinuousimprovementinourprojects.
Whatmeasuresdoyoutaketoensurecybersecurity?
Cybersecurityisatoppriority.Ourcybersecuritystrategyis robustandmulti-layered,encompassingregularauditsanda strongcultureofsecurityawarenessamongallstaff.We continuouslyevolveourdefensestostayaheadofemerging cyberthreats,ensuringtheintegrityandsecurityofour systems.
HowdoyouimplementcontinuousimprovementinIT?
ContinuousimprovementisintegraltoourITstrategy A recentfocushasbeenoptimizingourcloudinfrastructure, whichhasenhancedourscalabilityandperformancewhile alsoreducingcosts.Thisongoingimprovementiscrucialto maintainingourcompetitiveadvantage.
Whatstrategiesdoyouapplytoencourageapositive andinnovativeteamculture?
Wefosteracultureofcreativityandgrowthbyencouraging opendialogue,recognizingindividualcontributions,and providingopportunitiesforprofessionaldevelopment.We firmlybelieveinnurturingateamenvironmentthat encouragescreativity,encouragesopendialogue,and recognizesindividualcontributions.Thisculturenotonly motivatesourteambutalsofostersinnovativethinking, essentialforoursuccessinthetechnology-drivenmining sector.
Whatclienttestimonialsandrecognitionshas DRDGOLDreceived?
DRDGOLD'scommitmenttoexcellenceisreflectedin positiveclientfeedbackandindustryawards.These accoladesareatestamenttoourinnovativepracticesand theimpactfulcontributionsofourITdepartmenttothe miningsector.
HerebyendingtheinterviewthankingShalinNaidooforhis invaluableinsights.
Global Subscription
TebaloTsoaeli ChiefInformationOfficer(CIO) TheJohannesburgStockExchange(JSE)
South Africa's 10 Most Influen al CIOs to Watch
To encourage innova on, I encourage team members to experiment with new technologies and methodologies.
Cra ing Technology Strategies Aligned with Strategic Ambi ons
Whatsparksalifelongpassion?ForTebalo
Tsoaeli,itallbeganwithasinglelineofcode.
BorninthepicturesquetownofMaseru, SouthernLesotho,hisjourneyfromayoungdreamerto ChiefInformationOfficeratTheJohannesburgStock Exchange(JSE)isnothingshortofremarkable.
Raisedinanurturingenvironment,Tebalo'sthirstfor knowledgeledhimtoMachabengCollege,theInternational SchoolofLesotho,wherehelaidthefoundationforhis futureendeavors.Itwasherethathefirstdelvedintothe worldofprogramming,ignitingasparkthatwouldshape hiscareertrajectory
Fueledbyhisnewfoundpassionfortechnology,he embarkedonajourneyofacademicexcellence.Hepursued aBScinComputerScienceattheUniversityofNatal, followedbyanhonorsdegreeattheUniversityoftheFree State.Buthisthirstforknowledgedidn'tendthere.In2012, Tebaloachievedasignificantmilestonebyobtaininghis MBAfromRhodesUniversity,solidifyinghisexpertisein bothtechnologyandbusinessmanagement.
Armedwithadiverseskillsetandarelentlessdrivefor success,Tebalo'sprofessionaljourneyledhimtothe pinnacleofthefinancialworld—theJohannesburgStock Exchange.AstheCIO,heplaysapivotalroleinsteering oneofAfrica'slargestandmostinfluentialfinancial institutionstowardstechnologicalinnovationanddigital transformation.
Duringourconversationwithhim,wehadtheopportunity todiscusshisvisionforcraftingtechnologystrategiesin linewiththeJSE’sstrategicambitions.
Below are excerpts from the interview!
Pleasebriefusaboutyourselfandwhatinspiredyouto embarkonthissector.
MyjourneybeganinthepicturesquetownofMaseru,in southernLesotho,whereIspentmychildhoodyears.As educationplayedacrucialroleinshapingmylifepath,I obtainedmyhighschoolqualificationsfromMachabeng College—InternationalSchoolofLesotho.There,my interestinITblossomedwhen,duringmysecondyear,I wasexposedtoprogrammingandultimatelywrotemyfirst pieceofcode.Furtherfuelingmypassionforknowledge andtechnology,IsubsequentlypursuedaBScinComputer ScienceattheUniversityofNatal,followedbyanhonors degreeattheUniversityoftheFreeState.Thenlater,in 2012,IsuccessfullyattainedmyMBAfromRhodes University.
Couldyougiveourreadersaninsightintoyourcompanyanditsinceptionstory?
TheJSEwasestablishedbyBenjaminWoollanonNovember8,1887.Hisgoalwastoprovideaplatformforgold miningcompaniestoraisecapitaltomakethemostof SouthAfrica'sfirstgoldrush.
Today,theJSEisthelargeststockexchangeinAfrica, locatedinJohannesburg,SouthAfrica,andisoneofthetop 20exchangesintheworldbymarketcapitalization.The JSEprovidesaplatformforthebuyingandsellingof companyshareslistedontheexchange,aswellasother financialinstrumentssuchasbonds,derivatives,and exchange-tradedfunds.Itplaysacrucialroleinfacilitating investmentandcapitalformationinSouthAfricaandthe broaderAfricancontinent.
AsaCIO,whatdoyouconsideryourprimaryresponsibilityindrivingtheorganization'sdigitalstrategyand technologyinitiatives?
LeadingthewayindevelopingandimplementinginnovativesolutionsandinitiativesfortheJSEtechnology portfolioisatoppriority.Ensuringthatthecurrenttechnologicallandscapeiseffectivelymanagedtosurpassservice levels,enhancecost-effectiveness,anddeliverexceptional qualityandserviceisparamount.Additionally,craftingthe JSEGroup'stechnologystrategyinlinewithitsstrategic ambitionsisakeyfocus.
CanyoushareaspecificexampleofachallengingIT projectyousuccessfullyled,highlightingyourproblemsolvingandleadershipskills?
In2022,wedeployedaninnovativeinformationservice, JSETradeExplorer,leveragingbigxyt’sLiquidityCockpit forsecurityanalytics.UsingtheTradeExplorers’unique peergrouprankings,tradingfirmscanexploretheirmarket share,examinehowtheyinteractwiththeorderbook,and viewtheirtradingperformance.
Whendealingwiththeintricateprocessofimplementing cloudtechnology,Ifirmlybelievethat,asaleader,itismy responsibilitytosetaprecedentbyleadingfromthefront andbyexample.Duringmomentsofuncertainty,itisvital forleaderstodemonstratetheirpresenceandguidetheir teamsthroughthestorm.Thisprinciplehasbeeningrained inmyleadershipapproachthroughoutmyvariousexperiences.
Ultimately,thankstothecollectivehardworkoftheteam, ouradoptionofcloudtechnologyhassetusupingood steadwithregardstoimplementingamodernscalabledata platformthatwillenableourclientseasyandseamless accesstoJSEdatathroughavarietyofmodernchannels (APIs,streamingservices,digitalportals,e.t.c.),introduce flexibilitytoourpushedandstreamingdataservices,and re-imagineourdataplatformthroughflexibilityand modernization.
Inyourrole,howdoyouprioritizeandbalanceinnovationwithmaintainingthestabilityandsecurityofthe organization'sITinfrastructure?
AsCIOattheJSE,Iprioritizeandbalanceinnovationwith maintainingthestabilityandsecurityofourITinfrastructurebyaligningourITinitiativeswiththeJSE'soverall strategicobjectives,ensuringthatanyinnovationssupport andenhanceourcorebusinessoperations.Thisentails constantriskassessmenttoidentifypotentialvulnerabilities andunderstandthepotentialimpactofnewinnovationson theITinfrastructure'sstabilityandsecurity
Furthermore,Icollaboratecloselywithotherbusiness leaders,departmentheads,andoperationalteamsto understandtheirneedsandrequirements.Thisensuresthat anyinnovationintroducedalignswiththeirobjectives, whilealsoincorporatingnecessarysecuritymeasures.
Additionally,attheJSE,weinvestinrobustinfrastructure byallocatingsufficientresourcestomaintainastableand secureITinfrastructure.Thisincludesimplementingthe latestsecuritymeasures,regularlyupdatingandpatching systems,andconductingongoingmonitoringandtesting.
Howdoyoustayupdatedonemergingtechnologiesand trends,andhowdoyouensureyourITteamremains well-informedandadaptable?
AsaCIO,stayingupdatedonemergingtechnologiesand trendsiscrucialformaintainingacompetitiveedge.To achievethis,Iprioritizecontinuouslearningbyattending industryconferences,seminars,andworkshops.These eventsprovideopportunitiestogaininsightsintoemerging technologiesandtrends,aswellastonetworkwithexperts inthefield.Ialsoallocatetimeforresearchandanalysisof emergingtechnologiesandtheirpotentialimpactonthe financialindustry.Thisinvolvesreadingindustrypublications,researchpapers,marketreports,andmonitoring technologynews.
Furthermore,Iregularlyconductresearchonindustry publications,reports,andonlineresources.Thishelpsme stayupdatedonthelatesttechnologicaladvancementsand trendsrelevanttoourorganization'sITneeds.Additionally, Imaintainastrongnetworkofindustryprofessionalsand experts.Byregularlyinteractingwiththem,Igaininsights intocutting-edgetechnologies,bestpractices,andmarket trends.Ialsocollaboratewithtechnologypartners,vendors, andconsultantstoexchangeknowledgeandinsights.
Collaborationiscrucialintechnologyleadership.Can youprovideaninstancewhereyoufosteredeffective collaborationbetweenITandotherdepartmentsto achieveacommongoal?
In2023,theJSElaunchedColo2.0inpartnershipwith BeeksandIPC.Thisadvancedmanagedinfrastructureasa service(IaaS)solutionprovidesJSEclientswithcloudbasedcolocationservices.
Thislaunchrequiredtheinputofseveralkeymarketplayers anddivisionswithintheJSE.FromITandCapitalMarkets toMarketingandCorporateAffairs.Thiswasacrucialstep
intheJSEsITspace,buteveryonemadecrucialcontributionstothesuccessfullaunchandcontinuedoperationsof theplatform.
Whatmethodologiesorframeworksdoyoufindmost effectiveinmanagingITprojects,andwhy?
Ifirmlybelieveincreatingandshowingvalueintheearly stagesofaninitiative.Therefore,anagilemethodologyof deliveringprojectsisoneIfindtobeveryeffective,asnot onlydoesitallowyoutoshowvalueintheearlystagesofa project,butitalsoallowsyoutofailfastandpivotwhen necessary.Inaddition,ithelpsmitigatetheriskoffailingat theendofaprojectandhavingtoendupwritingoff exorbitantimplementationcosts.
Giventheincreasingimportanceofcybersecurity,how doyouapproachensuringtheorganization'sdataand systemsareadequatelyprotected?
EnsuringthesecurityandprotectionoftheJSE’sdataand systemsisofutmostimportancetous;assuch,wefollowa comprehensiveapproachtocybersecurity.Byconducting regularandthoroughriskassessmentstoidentifypotential vulnerabilitiesandthreats,weareabletounderstandthe riskswefaceandprioritizeoureffortsaccordingly.
Wehavearobustsecurityframeworkthatalignswith industrybestpracticesandinternationalstandards.This includesimplementingacombinationoftechnical, administrative,andphysicalcontrolstoprotectoursystems anddata.
Weconductregularassessmentsandauditstoevaluatethe effectivenessofoursecuritymeasures.Thishelpsus identifyanyexistingoremergingvulnerabilitiesandtake appropriateactionstoaddressthempromptly.Finally,we recognizethathumanerrorcanbeasignificantfactorin cybersecurityincidents,assuch,wemandatethecompletionofseveralemployeeawarenessandtrainingmodules.
Continuousimprovementiskeyintechnology.Canyou shareanexampleofhowyou'veimplementedprocess improvementsorinnovationstoenhanceITefficiency?
In2022,wedeployedaninnovativeinformationservice, JSETradeExplorer,leveragingbigxyt’sLiquidityCockpit forsecurityanalytics.UsingtheTradeExplorers’unique peergrouprankings,tradingfirmscanexploretheirmarket share,examinehowtheyinteractwiththeorderbook,and viewtheirtradingperformance.In2023,theJSE,in
collaborationwithBeeksandIPC,deployedanadvanced managedinfrastructure-as-a-service(IaaS)solutionthat wouldprovidecloud-basedcolocationservicestoJSE clients.Thesolutionofferson-demandcomputingand analytics,allowingtheJSEtoprovideitsclientswitha cutting-edgeIaaSsolutioninafullybuilt,pre-installed environment.
Asaleader,howdoyouencourageapositiveand innovativeculturewithinyourITteam,fostering creativityandprofessionalgrowthamongyourteam members?
Iunderstandtheimportanceoffosteringapositiveand innovativeculturewithinourITteam.Toencouragethis,I promoteopencommunication.Ibelieveinfosteringan environmentwhereteammemberscanfreelyexpresstheir ideasandopinions.Regularteammeetingsandone-on-one sessionsprovideopportunitiesforopencommunication. Thisallowsteammemberstosharetheirinnovativeideas andprovideinputonprojects,fosteringacollaborativeand inclusiveculture.
Iencourageacultureofcontinuouslearningbyproviding accesstotraininganddevelopmentresources.Thisincludes encouragingteammemberstoattendrelevantindustry conferences,workshops,andwebinars.Additionally,I supportandsponsorcertificationsandprofessional developmentcoursestoenhancetheirskillsandknowledge.
Furthermore,Iamastrongadvocateofexperimentation.To encourageinnovation,Iencourageteammembersto experimentwithnewtechnologiesandmethodologies.
Pleaseprovideuswithafewclienttestimonialsaswell asanyawardsorrecognitionthataccuratelyreflectyour achievementsinthisindustry.
In2016,IparticipatedinTheFutureCIOProgrammeby theGordonInstituteofBusinessandWIPRO.Iwasalsoa memberoftheInternationalExecutiveDevelopment Programme(IEDP)withBANKSETAandDukeCorporate Education.Thenin2017,Iwasawardedsecondplaceinthe FNBCodeFestHackathon.Myproudestachievement, however,willalwaysbemytwobeautifuldaughters,aged 12and5.
Leadership is not about titles, positions, or owcharts. It is about one life inuencing another.
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