Uplifting Leaders

Smart Compensation: What Works in Emerging Markets?How can companies design compensation strategies that truly work in emerging markets, and how should candidates assess offers in these fast-growing economies?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Smart Compensation: What Works in Emerging Markets?,” we sit down with Arif Ender, Director of Compensation (EMEA & LATAM) at Palo Alto Networks, to unpack the realities, opportunities, and misconceptions of building competitive rewards packages in dynamic regions.Hosted by Serap Zel, Founder & CEO of Uplift, this episode explores:The most common misconceptions companies have when entering or scaling in emerging marketsHow base pay, bonuses, equity, and benefits expectations differ between emerging and developed marketsKey levers for attracting top talent when budgets are limitedThe role of transparency and communication in shaping successful compensation strategiesWhat mid-senior professionals should look for beyond salary when evaluating offersThe biggest pitfalls candidates face when moving into or across emerging markets—and how to avoid themActionable advice for both founders entering a new market and candidates making career moves in emerging economies🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Arif Ender, Director of Compensation (EMEA & LATAM) – Palo Alto Networks👉 Tune in for clear, practical insights on designing—and securing—compensation packages that work in diverse, fast-growing regions.#upliftingleaders #compensationstrategy #emergingmarkets #talentattraction #futureofwork #upliftpeople

How can HR leadership evolve across industries, and what’s next for healthcare in the Middle East?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “HR Leadership Across Industries & Insights for Healthcare in the Middle East,” we sit down with Mohamed Abdulwahab, an accomplished HR executive with a diverse background spanning retail, logistics, FMCG, and now healthcare.Hosted by Serap Zel, Founder & CEO of Uplift, this episode unpacks:How leadership, operations, and talent dynamics shift across industriesSurprising lessons learned when moving between sectorsWhat makes performance management in healthcare uniquely complex, and how to keep it humanKey trends shaping the future of healthcare in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle EastHow HR leaders can successfully adapt across industry borders🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Mohamed Abdulwahab, Group Chief People Officer -Saudi German Health👉 Tune in for practical, thought-provoking insights at the intersection of industry transformation and people leadership.#upliftingleaders #hrleadership #healthcareHR #middleeasttalent #futureofwork #industryinsights #upliftpeople

How can HR leaders adapt across cultures while creating meaningful employee experiences?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Beyond Borders: Insights from a Global HR Leader in Japan,” we’re joined by Başak Başar Beleli, an experienced international HR executive, for a powerful conversation on cross-cultural leadership and talent strategy.Hosted by Serap Zel, Founder & CEO of Uplift, this episode explores:Key cultural lessons from working across Europe and AsiaThe unique dynamics of Japan’s talent marketHow loyalty, harmony, and hierarchy shape HR in JapanTips for foreign companies entering JapanWhat defines a great employee experience across cultures🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Başak Başar Beleli, VP, People & Culture Japan Korea - The Coca-Cola Company👉 Tune in for practical insights on leading people across borders and cultures.#upliftingleaders #globalHR #japanworkculture #employeeexperience #peopleandculture #hrstrategy #upliftpeople

What does it take to lead with exponential thinking in a world defined by disruption, decentralization, and accelerating technologies?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Exponential Organizations: The New Playbook for 10X Growth & Impact,” we’re joined by Salim Ismail, bestselling author, futurist, and founding executive director of Singularity University. A global thought leader on exponential innovation, Salim shares how organizations—from startups to Fortune 500s—can unlock unprecedented growth by shifting mindsets, structures, and leadership styles.From why most companies are built for predictability in an unpredictable world to how the ExO model has helped transform businesses across industries, Salim offers powerful, real-life insights that challenge the traditional playbook.He also explores how leaders can build cultures of continuous transformation, why AI and decentralization are reshaping talent strategy, and what skills will truly matter in the age of exponential change.🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Salim Ismail, Author – Exponential Organizations, Co-founder – OpenExO👉 Join Salim'sWorkshop to build your ExO: https://openexo.com/10x-shift?video=UpliftTune in for a bold and future-focused conversation on growth, leadership, and thriving in times of radical change.#upliftingleaders #exponentialorganizations #futureofwork #leadershipstrategy #10xgrowth #executivethinking #disruption #ai #exoleadership #salimismail #globalleaders

What does it take to speak with power, clarity, and confidence across cultures, in high-stakes moments, and as a global leader?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Voice: The Hidden Superpower of Great Leaders”, we’re joined by David Pope, Executive Voice Coach at All Voice Talent, with 30+ years of experience, including a career that began at the BBC and now spans coaching senior leaders across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.From decoding the difference between a ‘loud’ voice and a powerful one to helping leaders navigate communication challenges in multicultural teams, David shares fascinating insights drawn from his global coaching work—and thousands of recorded voice sessions.He also dives into how CEOs and founders can use their voice intentionally in moments of pressure or inspiration, what to focus on before a big pitch or town hall, and how leaders can protect and strengthen their voice to show up more powerfully every day.🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: David Pope, Executive Voice Coach – All Voice TalentTune in for a fresh perspective on voice, leadership, and the often overlooked art of speaking with intention in today’s global business world.#upliftingleaders #executivepresence #voicecoaching #leadershipcommunication #globalleaders #publicspeaking

What does it take to lead with impact across industries,regions, and cultural borders, while staying ahead in one of the world’s most rapidly evolving sectors?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “An Inspiring Leadership Journey in the Renewables Industry,” we’re joined by Dr. Frank P. Possmeier, Chief Business Development Officer, Generation at TAQA Group. With an impressive global track record across Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, Frank brings a unique perspective on leading through complexity, transformation, and innovation in the energy sector. From shifting leadership styles across cultures to future-proofing organizations in the age of AI and automation, Frank shares powerful lessons learned through decades of executive experience in renewables, utilities, and international business development.He also explores what truly matters when selecting top leadership talent—and the key qualities that define effective, adaptable leaders in today’s uncertain world.🎙 Host: Serap Zel,Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Dr. Frank P. Possmeier, Chief Business Development Officer – Generation at TAQA Group Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on globalleadership, energy transition, and the skills that will shape the future of work.#upliftingleaders #renewables #leadershipacrossborders #globalbusiness #energytransition #taqagroup

How does Emiratisation drive national talent development while fostering diverse, inclusive workplaces?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, "Bridging Talent and Opportunity: The Future of Emiratisation," we’re joined by Fatima Alloghani, a trailblazer in Emiratisation and national talent development. With over 20 years of experience across industries including Energy, Aviation, Banking, and Mega Events, Fatima has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives, from leading the hiring of 3,000 Emiratis at Majid Al Futtaim Group to shaping transformative workforce programs at Expo 2020 Dubai.Fatima shares key insights on balancing Emiratisation with diversity, the challenges and opportunities of national talent strategies, and the innovative approaches that drive meaningful workforce integration. As the Founder of Born2Localize and a LinkedIn Top Voice, she brings a wealth of expertise on creating sustainable employment ecosystems that benefit both businesses and local professionals.🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Fatima Alloghani, Founder/CEO – Born2LocalizeTune in for a dynamic discussion on the evolving landscape of Emiratisation, leadership lessons for executives, and how organizations can align nationalization efforts with long-term business success. #upliftingleaders

How is healthcare leadership evolving in a world driven by innovation and technology? In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, "Leading Healthcare Innovation: Lessons from Global Experience," we’re joined by Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gül, CEO of The View Hospital and a visionary healthcare leader with a track record of pioneering transformative projects across Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the Middle East. Dr. Gül shares invaluable insights on the power of connected care, the role of technology in patient engagement, and what it takes to lead large-scale healthcare initiatives, including launching NEOM’s first hospital and Saudi Arabia’s first civilian helicopter ambulance service. From managing under pressure during pivotal moments like the COVID-19 pandemic to navigating the complexities of healthcare across diverse regions, his leadership journey offers key lessons for executives striving to shape the future of healthcare. Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift Guest: Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gül, CEO – The View Hospital Tune in for a compelling conversation on the intersection of leadership, innovation, and global healthcare transformation. 🎙

What role does storytelling play in shaping great leaders? How can leaders craft authentic narratives that inspire action and drive impact? In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, "The Power of Storytelling in Leadership," we’re joined by Mimi Kalinda, Group CEO and Co-Founder of Africa Communications Media Group. As a multi-award-winning storyteller and strategic communications expert with over 26 years of experience, Mimi shares her profound insights on how leaders can leverage storytelling to build trust, foster connection, and lead with purpose. From understanding the key elements of impactful storytelling to addressing the evolving "African narrative" and navigating leadership challenges, Mimi’s wisdom highlights the transformative power of stories in today’s complex, digitized world. Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – UpliftGuest: Mimi Kalinda, Group CEO and Co-Founder – Africa Communications Media Group Tune in for an inspiring conversation that explores how storytelling can shape not just leaders but also the world around them.

How can leaders thrive in the rapidly evolving tech industry? What strategies are essential for navigating the challenges of digital transformation and driving sustainable growth? In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, Navigating Tech Leadership: Strategies for Success, we collaborate with Gozde Akar Cevikel, Business Unit General Manager at a leading global tech company. With over 16 years of leadership experience at P&G and a transformative journey in the tech industry, Gozde offers invaluable insights into tech leadership, innovation, and strategic growth in a competitive landscape. From adapting to emerging trends like AI and IoT to building high-performing teams and balancing speed with sustainability, Gözde shares her expertise and practical advice for leaders looking to scale their businesses while embracing digital innovation. Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift Guest: Gözde Akar Cevikel, Business Unit General Manager – A global tech company Join us for an engaging discussion filled with actionable strategies and inspiring perspectives to navigate the future of tech leadership.

What unique strengths does ADHD bring to leading roles? How can companies foster inclusive environments that empower neurodiverse professionals? In this insightful episode of Uplifting Leaders, Inclusive Leadership: Empowering ADHD Professionals in the Workplace, we collaborate with Leanne Maskell, an ADHD coach, author, and advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace. With experience training teams at Disney, Google, and Bank of America, Leanne shares her journey and expertise on empowering ADHD professionals. We also cover best practices that help unlock the full potential of ADHD individuals in executive roles. Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO - UpliftGuest: Leanne Maskell, ADHD Coach | Author | Speaker Join us for practical strategies and eye-opening perspectives on fostering ADHD inclusivity in the workplace and maximizing leadership potential at the executive level.

What does it take to build a powerful personal brand as an executive? Is charisma something you’re born with, or can it be cultivated? In this exciting new episode of Uplifting Leaders, we unlock the secrets behind executive personal branding—both online and offline. Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO - Uplift Guest: Kelly Lundberg, Personal Brand Strategist | Speaker | Author Tune in for actionable tips and thought-provoking insights on how to elevate your personal and professional presence.

👤 Host: Serap Zel ⤷ CEO & Founder - ⁠Uplift⁠ 👤 Guest: Dave Ulrich ⤷ Co-Founder & Principal - The RBL Group Join us for a captivating discussion that bridges academia and practical HR challenges, providing insights that are both thought-provoking and actionable. (01:31) Dave’s Journey in HR and Leadership (11:29) The Changing Role of HR Professionals (17:36) The Importance of HR Analytics and Data (21:05) Overcoming the Know-Do Gap in HR (26:01) Communicating the Value of HR Efforts (29:54) Last Tips for Global HR Leaders Don't miss out on this uplifting conversation filled with actionable advice for HR leaders and enthusiasts looking to make a global impact. ➜ Connect with Dave Ulrich: 🔗 ⁠[LinkedIn Profile]⁠ ➜ Connect with Serap Zel: 🔗 ⁠[LinkedIn Profile]

👤 Host: Serap Zel ⤷ CEO & Founder - Uplift 👤 Guest: LaTanya Langley ⤷ Chief People & Legal Officer - Edgewell Personal Care Join us as we delve into the realm of managing global and diverse teams with LaTanya Langley. In this episode, we discuss: (01:33) 🚀 Introduction and background (03:10)⚡ Quick warm-up session to get to know LaTanya better on a personal level (11:02) 🤝 Being named as the Top in-house Legal Leader by Financial Times and RSGI and its impact on LaTanya (13:01)💡 Transition from legal practices to HR (15:41) 🌟 The priorities of a global organization like Edgewell Personal Care in 2024 (18:29) 🌐 Managing cultural differences in a global company (21:16) ☝️ Tips for global HR leaders Don't miss out on this uplifting conversation filled with actionable advice for HR leaders and enthusiasts looking to make a global impact. ➜ Connect with LaTanya Langley: 🔗 [LinkedIn Profile] ➜ Connect with Serap Zel: 🔗 [LinkedIn Profile]

What does it take to build a thriving venture capital ecosystem in one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly transforming regions?In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Is MENA the Next Global Venture Capital Hotspot?”, we’re joined by Ivo Detelinov, General Partner at Oryx Fund. With deep experience across global markets and a strategic focus on early-stage investing, Ivo offers an inside look at why the MENA region is drawing increased attention from VCs around the world.From Saudi Arabia’s record-breaking growth in deal flow to the evolving founder landscape and standout sectors like eCommerce and emerging tech, Ivo shares powerful insights on the future of investment in the region.He also explores what makes a startup truly fundable, how founder ambition in MENA compares to other global regions, and what both investors and entrepreneurs should keep top of mind heading into 2025 and beyond.🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Ivo Detelinov, General Partner – Oryx FundTune in for a timely conversation on startup ecosystems, VC trends, and the rising potential of the MENA region on the global venture capital stage.#upliftingleaders #venturecapital #startupecosystem #menaregion #oryxfund #earlystageVC #globalinvesting #founderspotlight

🚀 Empowering Women in Tech: A Special Episode with Mirna Arif 🚀 In our latest episode of Uplifting Global Talent, we have the honor of hosting Mirna Arif, the first female General Manager of Microsoft Egypt. 🌟 With 20 years of experience across multiple continents, Mirna shares her journey, insights, and invaluable advice.

🎙️ Episode Title: Mastering C-Level Executive Transitions 👤 Host: Serap Zel ⤷ CEO & Founder - Uplift 👤 Guest: Navid Nazemian ⤷ Founder & CEO - Navid Nazemian Executive Coaching FZCO & ICF Accredited Executive Coach (PCC) Join us in this episode as we explore: The inspiration behind "Mastering Executive Transitions" Key qualities and skills for successful executives Common pitfalls in executive transitions and how to avoid them Gender bias in supporting executives during transitions Networking and relationship-building advice for new roles Navigating organizational culture and politics Memorable success stories and case studies Tune in for practical insights and expert advice to help you master your executive transitions! 🚀📚

👤 Host: Serap Zel 🟣 CEO & Founder - ⁠⁠Uplift⁠⁠ 👤 Guest: Belgin Ertam 🟣 Vice President HR, MENAT - ⁠⁠GE Dive into the world of Organizational Transformation in HR with accomplished Belgin Ertam, Vice President HR for the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye at General Electric. 🌟 In this captivating episode of Uplifting Global Talent, Belgin and Serap share their wealth of experiences, providing a glimpse into the evolving landscape of HR and leadership. What do we explore in this episode? (01:38) 👩‍💼 Belgin's journey to the leadership (10:34) 🌐 GE's approach to attracting diverse talent across its global business sector ▶ You can watch this part of the conversation with video from ⁠⁠our LinkedIn page⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠YouTube channel⁠⁠ (14:23) ⚙️ Belgin's experiences with various tools, shedding light on their advantages and challenges, and how they contribute to assembling high-performing teams (16:32) 🤖 How to ensure talent retention in an era of remote work and digital transformation (20:22) ☝️ For HR enthusiasts and professionals, Belgin imparts valuable tips and strategies based on her diverse experiences, ensuring you stay ahead in this ever-evolving field Tune in for a conversation that surpasses traditional HR discussions, offering practical insights and a look into the future of HR. 🟣 Connect with Belgin Ertam: 🔗 ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ 🟣 Connect with Serap Zel: 🔗 ⁠⁠LinkedIn

👤 Host: Serap Zel 🟣 CEO & Founder - ⁠Uplift⁠ 👤 Guest: Marie-Louise Ek 🟣 Vice President HR, MEA - ⁠Hilton Uplifting Global Talent is here with another captivating episode featuring Marie-Louise Ek, a global HR leader, coach, and mentor currently serving as the Vice President HR for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey at Hilton. Marie-Louise is a true digital changemaker with a wealth of experience in commercial and transformative HR practices. What do we explore in this episode? (01:30) The person behind the professional (06:35) Marie-Louise's methods to tailor diversity and inclusion efforts within each industry she worked in (09:55) Specific programs to promote diversity in a team (12:15) The impact of digital transformation on global organizations (15:35) Unique perspectives on the essential skills and qualities HR leaders need to cultivate inclusion and diversity in diverse business landscapes (19:53) Advice to accelerate the advancement of women in leadership, contributing to a stronger, and more diverse team ▶ You can watch this part of the conversation with video from our LinkedIn page or YouTube channel (22:22) Practical advice and metrics for HR leaders and professionals to effectively track their diversity and inclusion progress This episode is truly a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of HR leadership and the transformative power of diversity. 🟣 Connect with Marie-Louise Ek: 🔗 ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🟣 Connect with Serap Zel: 🔗 ⁠LinkedIn Join us anywhere you want to uplift your day!

🗣️ Host: Serap Zel ➡️ CEO & Founder - Uplift 🗣️ Guest: David Girardeau ➡️ Chief People and Culture Officer - Ferroglobe In this episode of Uplifting Global Talent, we have the privilege of sitting down with David Girardeau, a distinguished HR leader who has left his mark on organizations and individuals across the world. As the Chief People & Culture Officer at Ferroglobe, David's career journey has been nothing short of inspirational, having lived and worked in Asia, Europe, and the United States for over a decade. We explore in this episode: The simpler sides of David's personality David's extensive global experience has influenced his approach to people engagement and the creation of diverse and inclusive workforces How his different experiences have enriched his perspective and driven his passion for creating opportunities and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds The key areas that are poised to shape the future of talent management and organizational development on a global scale His insights into the evolving landscape of HR are invaluable for professionals in the field The way his personal motto Life is Now, serves as the cornerstone of his leadership philosophy How he aligns his leadership capabilities with the strategic and operational challenges of the mining industry And his valuable advice for HR leaders and professionals looking to make a positive impact on their organizations and people making this a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of HR and industry-specific challenges. His wealth of experience and diverse background is a treasure trove of wisdom for those looking to navigate the complex world of HR leadership. Connect with David Girardeau: 🔗 LinkedIn Connect with Serap Zel: 🔗 LinkedIn Join us for this engaging conversation with David Girardeau as we explore the world of global HR transformation and the power of people-centric leadership.