In this episode of CIO Leadership Live Middle East, we sit down with Filip Nekvinda, Chief Information and Digital Officer (CIDO) at Abdul Latif Jameel Enterprises, to explore how he is driving digital transformation and innovation in one of the region’s leading enterprises. With a strong focus on leveraging technology to enhance business agility and customer experiences, Nekvinda shares insights on emerging tech trends, digital strategy, and the evolving role of CIOs in today’s fast-paced business landscape. Tune in as we discuss the challenges and opportunities of leading IT and digital initiatives in a dynamic and competitive market.
Welcome to CIO Leadership Live Middle East, where today we are thrilled to have an insightful conversation with one of the region's most prominent leaders in the world of technology. Joining us is Syed F. Albeez, the Head of Information Technology at Emaar, overseeing technology innovations within the prestigious Economic City. With years of experience at the forefront of IT leadership, Syed plays a crucial role in driving the digital transformation that is reshaping the future of smart cities and urban development. In this interview, we’ll explore his journey, leadership approach, and the pivotal role of technology in shaping the future of the Middle East. Let’s dive into this exciting conversation!
Welcome to a new episode of CIO Leadership Live Middle East! In this episode, we’re joined by a true visionary in the world of technology and leadership—Tanveer, the Group Chief Information Officer at BGC Holding Ltd. With years of experience steering the digital transformation and IT strategies at one of the region's leading conglomerates, Tanveer will share insights into the evolving role of a CIO, key challenges in today's fast-paced tech landscape, and the innovative approaches he's spearheading to drive business growth and efficiency. Stay tuned for an engaging conversation filled with leadership wisdom, cutting-edge tech trends, and inspiring stories from the frontlines of corporate transformation!
Welcome back to another insightful episode of CIO Leadership Live Middle East. In today’s episode, we had the privilege of hearing from Abdullah Al Bahkali, the Head of Cybersecurity at Giesecke+Devrient KSA. Abdullah shared his fascinating 18-year journey into the world of cybersecurity, revealing how his early experiences in IT gradually led him to discover the critical role cybersecurity plays in enabling business continuity and growth. He discussed the evolving landscape of security, where it’s no longer just about defense but about aligning security strategy with overall business objectives. His approach ensures that cybersecurity isn't just a protective measure, but a strategic enabler for organizations to thrive, all while managing risks and safeguarding valuable assets. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the strategic importance of cybersecurity with industry leaders like Abdullah and gain deeper insights into the ever-changing landscape of technology and leadership.
In this episode, we speak with Paul Potgieter, Director of Technology, Product, and Platforms at NEOM, who brings a wealth of experience as both a technologist and a leader in the Middle East's business and tech sectors. With over a decade of shaping the region’s technology and business landscape, Paul shares what drew him to Saudi Arabia's ambitious GIGA Projects, particularly NEOM. He delves into his personal philosophy, Vision 2023, and the crucial role technology plays in NEOM’s development, as well as the benefits of sustainability and innovation for the region’s future.
In this episode, we sit down with Shumon Zaman, the Chief Information and Digital Officer at Ali&Sons, to explore the most significant technological advancements and trends shaping 2025. Zaman shares his insights on the evolving landscape of AI, machine learning, 5G, and cloud computing, particularly within the Middle East. As industries in the region continue to embrace digital transformation, he highlights standout applications and opportunities while discussing the challenges businesses may face in the coming years.
Women hold only 32% of leadership positions globally. How can more women rise to leadership and decision-making roles in an organization, and what can companies do to create an environment for that movement?
While many think privacy issues are primarily related to email, documents are also a concern. CIO Middle East talks with Betania Allo about other key areas of privacy concerns.
Playing a vital role in the global economy, the oil and gas industry is a prime cyber threat target. Why cybersecurity is so important for oil and gas industry and what role plays cybersecurity in this industry?
What initiatives were taken by Ajman Bank to be a top bank in digitalisation and innovation? And how the cybersecurity department is supporting this?
One of the projects Anas Mosa and his teams implemented was a Security Operations Center (SOC) that presents several business needs and challenges. The Director of IT explains more about the SOC.
The mining industry is particularly vulnerable to cyber threats and attacks, due to the high degree of digitisation, interconnection and automation in the supply security risks in the cyberspace are more apparent and ever-increasing. Cybersecurity is a critical priority for businesses in all sectors. How did the industry adapt to this rapid growth in technologies such as AI or Gen AI?
Saqib worked before in Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, first as CISO, then as head of digital innovation, how was the change to a CIO, and what are the advantages of having a background in cybersecurity for your new role?
How tech has changed the education landscape? How do we encourage more university leaders to see technology’s potential?
John Mankarios is responsible for planning the information technology future for the organization, as well as for the implementation and maintenance of current systems. Where is the company going to invest? How technologies such as GenAI have changed Q Invest operations?
Event preparedness is crucial for media companies, especially before an important event such as the Eurocup. As a security leader, Kenan needs to think about proactive risk mitigation and operational best practices. For example, last World Cup 50% of all of the malicious activity we saw occurred during the first week. How does beIN Media Group prepares from a cybersecurity perspective?
Before CISO, Aus was IT Director at MBC Group, part of his job before was leading the operationalization of Generative AI (GenAI) use cases, utilizing Large Language Models (LLMs) and chatbots, how are these technologies being used within MBC? How was the process of changing from IT Director to CISO?
Ali Saif shares with CIO Middle East facts and figures about Tanmiah’s digital transformation process since he joined last year.
The mining industry is particularly vulnerable to cyber threats and attacks, due to the high degree of digitisation, interconnection and automation in the supply chain. Alaa Khalid, SOC Manager at Maaden, discusses the top attacks in this industry.