David Leal: The 10 Most Innovative Tech Leaders Shaping the Future, 2024 | CIO Views Magazine

Editor’s Views Pioneers of Tomorrow

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, a select group of leaders is

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pioneering advancements that are set to redefine the future. These innovative visionaries are at the forefront of developing groundbreaking technologies, from artificial intelligence and blockchain to sustainable energy solutions. Their forward-thinking approaches are not only transforming industries but also addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. By fostering environments that encourage creativity and risk-taking, they are driving unprecedented levels of innovation. Their leadership styles emphasize collaboration, diversity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, setting new standards in the tech industry As mentors and advocates, they are also nurturing the next generation of tech talent, ensuring a continuous pipeline of fresh ideas and perspectives. Through their work, they are demonstrating the profound impact that visionary leadership can have on society. Their contributions are not only shaping the future of technology but also improving lives and creating a more connected, efficient, and equitable world.

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At CIO Views, we honor these empowering leaders by dedicating this issue titled, “The 10 Most Innovative Tech Leaders Shaping the Future, 2024,” to them. Featuring as the cover story we have covered the successful journey of David Leal, CTO / Head of Innovation at L&G Technologies. We have also included the inspiring stories of Rehan Syed, CTO of Island Consulting; Steliana Moraru, COO of OTP Leasing Romania; Laetitia Cailleteau, Managing Director, DATA&AI Europe Lead, and the Global Lead for ConversationalAI atAccenture; Amanda Brock, Chief Executive Officer of OpenUK; Sarah Neill, Chief Executive Officer of Mys Tyler;Antonio Batistini, Chief Technology Innovation Officer of NextChem / Maire Tecnimont;Alicia Asin, Chief Executive Officer of Libelium; Brent Kruel, Chief Executive Officer of BioFunctional Health Solutions; and Manit Chander, Chief Executive Officer of HiLo Maritime Risk Management.

CIO Views is a business magazine that mainly focuses on business leaders, their journey, views on current economic states and all other relevant subjects that refer to the business world. Our goal is to be a leading source of information dedicated to providing our readers detailed perspectives and views of successful business leaders that are transforming the business outlook and redefining their goals. With exclusive editions on various industries like software, education, healthcare, technology, real estate and many more, CIO views is driven to promote excellence in the world of business.

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10. David Leal

22. Rehan Syed

Steliana Moraru 26.

Laetitia Cailleteau 32.

Amanda Brock 36.

Sarah Neill 42.

Antonio Batistini 46.

Alicia Asin 52.

Brent Kruel 58.

Manit Chander 62.

COVER STORY

DAVID LEAL

Pioneering Innovation and Sustainable Solutions in Technology Leadership

CTO / Head of Innovation, L&G technologies

IForging a Path Through Technical Excellence and Inspiration

Before his journey with L&G Technologies, David Leal's career as a software engineer spanned nearly a decade, working with industry giants likeAirbus, Intel, and Orange. These experiences ignited his passion for technical challenges, irrespective of the sector. "Each of us builds ourselves over time through the people we interact with every day," he reflects, acknowledging the individuals who inspired him along the way

David believes that his immersion in various technical environments has provided him with a unique perspective on conducting activities across different sectors. "Whether it's a project or managing a company, it

In the dynamic landscape of technology and innovation, leaders like David Leal, CTO / Head of Innovation, L&G Technologies, are not just shaping the future—they're redefining it.

With a passion for creating impactful solutions and a vision for leveraging AI to address pressing environmental challenges, David exemplifies the spirit of modern entrepreneurship. His journey at L&G Technologies is not just about developing products; it's about fostering a culture of innovation, resilience, and balance.

Through his experiences and insights, David offers a glimpse into the mindset of a forward-thinking leader, highlighting the importance of purposedriven work and strategic collaboration in achieving long-term success.

operates on the same fundamental principles," he notes, emphasizing the universal nature of his experiences.

One pivotal moment in David's career was a one-year project at Intel, which he describes as complex but instrumental in realizing his capabilities. "It demonstrated that I could work for large companies, propose coherent solutions, and modestly do my job well," he recalls. This experience also exposed him to the US business culture, instilling in him the belief that anything is possible with effort.

Through his journey, David has embraced technical excellence and drawn inspiration from those around him, shaping his approach to challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

Crafting Success:APerspective on Achievement

David defines success through various lenses, each offering a unique insight into his philosophy. "Success for me is about achieving things that I find important and useful," he reflects, emphasizing the significance of personal fulfillment. This sentiment is echoed in his approach to challenges, where success is derived from setting and accomplishing daily goals.

In his professional domain, David finds success in the joy of dedicating himself to projects and the anticipation of each workday "There's never a dull moment, always something new to experiment with," he enthuses, highlighting his passion for innovation. For David, a key aspect of professional success lies in

orchestrating and leveraging individual talents toward common goals, fostering enthusiasm and collective satisfaction.

From a business standpoint, David emphasizes the importance of considering multiple global factors, such as market dynamics, competitor actions, and internal/external production capacities, in the pursuit of success. He acknowledges the challenges of excelling in this dynamic environment, where success is often reliant on fortuitous opportunities and the ability to create new pathways.

Through David's perspective, success emerges as a multifaceted concept, blending personal fulfillment, professional passion, and astute

business acumen. His journey underscores the value of setting meaningful goals, embracing innovation, and seizing opportunities to chart a course toward success.

Navigating Life's Challenges:A Journey of Growth and Adaptability

David reflects on the nature of challenges, distinguishing between those self-imposed and those imposed by life. "Self-imposed challenges allow for continuous improvement," he notes, highlighting their role in experience capitalization and selfdevelopment. However, he emphasizes the importance of setting achievable challenges to maintain motivation and minimize the risk of failure.

Remaining realistic about one's capabilities and limits is crucial, according to David. He believes that before undertaking challenges, individuals must understand their capabilities, and motivations, and remain humble. On the other hand, challenges imposed by life, though not sought out, often bring the most satisfaction. "These are the kinds of challenges that bring the most satisfaction," he explains, noting that they are the ones we often smile about years later

David illustrates this with a vivid scenario of arriving at the office in chaos but ultimately organizing the resolution of the day's challenges, breaking routines, and interacting with new people. He describes how such challenges can lead to

unexpected outcomes and personal growth.

Sharing a personal testimony of facing challenges during the coronavirus crisis, David recounts how his company adapted its software to offer a social distancing solution, turning a potential catastrophe into an opportunity. This experience taught him the importance of discerning opportunities in every negative situation and possessing the adaptability to succeed.

Through David's perspective, challenges become not just obstacles but opportunities for growth, adaptation, and ultimately, success. His journey underscores the value of resilience, humility, and the ability to find opportunities in adversity

Innovating Security Solutions: The Story of L&G Technologies

L&G Technologies, founded in 2019 by David Leal and Mr. Loïc Gorlier, took a significant step forward in 2022 with the investment of the US capital fund, LT Capital Group. Their flagship product, Securoom, revolutionizes security by offering advanced solutions without the need for expensive hardware.

"Our concept is simple," David explains. "We offer a SaaS solution that acts as a security network, connecting humans and machines to trigger real-time alerts in case of a risk." This innovative approach positions Securoom as a multisector crisis management tool, applicable across various industries including military, construction, personal services, and civil security

One of the key features of Securoom is its advanced detection capabilities. "Thanks to advancements inAI, our clients can configure and define their own risk detection without the need forAI specialists," David notes. This flexibility allows the software to be tailored to specific needs, whether it's monitoring stock levels in a kitchen or distinguishing between civilians and military personnel in a military setting.

At the core of L&G Technologies' expertise is computer vision, encompassing personalized recognition, object detection, expression and emotion detection, and biometric facial identification. These technologies form the backbone of their crisis management solution, which offers customizable audio alert instructions, communication shutdown in case of emergencies, walkie-talkie functionality, and seamless communication with emergency services.

The company's commitment to understanding its clients' needs is reflected in its diverse clientele and personalized approach. "We have chosen to be committed to our clients, to understand each issue, and to provide the best possible support and personalized solution," David emphasizes.

Collaborations with organizations like the French Red Cross have further validated their position as a trusted security solution provider Through innovation and dedication, L&G Technologies continues to redefine security solutions, offering cutting-edge technology that adapts to the evolving needs of its clients across various sectors.

Driving Collective Success Through Expertise and Innovation

David reflects on the role of an individual within an organization, noting that success is not about playing a part but contributing to a collective goal. "I see it more as each person bringing their expertise towards a common goal," he explains, emphasizing the importance of achieving the mission and fulfilling objectives together.

As a product designer and innovation manager, David's role revolves around developing products and tackling technically complex topics. "My area of expertise lies in product development and, to a lesser extent, assisting with marketing efforts," he shares. His contribution to the company, he believes, lies in identifying unexpressed needs and surprising customers with innovative products. He finds satisfaction in seeing customers amazed during product demonstrations, likening it to a child with a new toy

Drawing from his experience working with technology leaders on major projects for almost a decade, David feels wellequipped to solve technical challenges. He believes that staying vigilant, monitoring competitors, listening to customer feedback, sharing information with the team, and finding enjoyment in the process are key aspects of successful product management.

From David's perspective, success is not just about individual achievements but about how each person contributes their expertise to achieve common goals. His journey underscores the importance of innovation, customer focus, and continuous learning in driving organizational success.

Fostering Innovation and Transparency:ABlueprint for Success

David emphasizes a culture of transparency within teams, believing that early awareness of problems is crucial for success. "We view our employees as responsible adults who are paid to do a job and do it very well by addressing issues promptly," he explains, highlighting the importance of open communication in ensuring smooth operations.

When it comes to innovation, David believes in demonstrating its value to maximize engagement from team members. "They need to be interested, validate the concept, and be involved by the manager," he notes. In his view, showcasing the advantages of innovation is essential

in a sector with multiple possibilities and solutions.

David advocates for shared goals and vision, providing meaning to decisions, and enhancing people's skills to empower them to drive initiatives. He involves the team in strategic product decisions, valuing their opinions and impact on decisionmaking and cohesion.

To maintain interest in innovation, David has implemented "Innovation Fridays," where team members can work on technological topics of interest related to the project. This initiative encourages continuous learning and engagement with new technologies.

Through David's approach, innovation and transparency become

pillars of success, driving engagement, collaboration, and continuous improvement within teams. His strategies underscore the importance of involving employees, valuing their contributions, and fostering a culture of curiosity and learning.

Navigating New Horizons:AVision for Expansion and Innovation

L&G Technologies specializes in innovative concepts, with a short-term plan to expand into new markets and popularize Securoom. "Our one-year plan aligns our system with the North American market and its requirements," David explains, highlighting the company's strategic focus.

Led by their partner in the USA, LT

Capital Group, L&G Technologies has been diligently preparing to enter the US market. "The US market has specific characteristics, and we must modify our product accordingly, adapt our communication, change the product name, etc.," David notes. Based on initial tests, the company plans to focus on biometric protection, specifically facial recognition, to meet the demand for direct connections to local criminal databases in public spaces.

In the medium term, L&G Technologies plans to shift away from directly commercializing this product, outsourcing marketing and customer support to industry professionals. This strategic move will allow the company to refocus on its core

expertise: innovation. While inquiries have been received, a suitable partner for international promotion has not yet been found.

Looking ahead, L&G Technologies aims to embark on a second project focusing on societal issues whereAI can provide significant advantages. "We aim to be useful by offering solutions to environmental problems," David explains. The company has identified emerging markets in pollution control, whereAI and automation could revolutionize the sector

Through strategic planning and a commitment to innovation, L&G Technologies is poised to navigate new horizons, expanding its reach and

impact in the field of technology and beyond.

Navigating Complexity: The Multifaceted Role of an Innovative Product Manager

As the CTO/Head of Innovation at L&G Technologies, David wears many hats, but he sees himself fundamentally as a product manager "I manage the product roadmap based on customer feedback, market competition, and current trends," he explains, highlighting his role in driving product development and strategy

Collaboration is key for David, who works closely with marketing and sales teams, particularly in responding to requests for proposals or quotes. He also manages relationships with international suppliers and oversees product development, ensuring a coordinated effort across all facets of production.Additionally, he takes charge of sensitive developments, particularly in proof-of-concept projects involving high-value or innovative features.

David's workday is far from typical, with varied activities that keep him engaged and challenged. From creating quotes to demonstrating products to prospects and addressing customer challenges, he finds the diversity of tasks fascinating. "I never get bored," he notes, emphasizing the dynamic nature of his role.

When asked to define himself in one word, David chooses "resilient," highlighting his ability to thrive in challenging situations and find motivation in complex contexts. Through his role, David exemplifies the essence of an innovative product manager, driving forward-thinking

solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers and markets.

Empowering Future Innovators

with Technology Education and Mentorship

David believes that fostering a love for technology begins with learning and understanding its potential dangers. "Technology can be dangerous if used incorrectly," he notes, emphasizing the importance of teaching respect for technology's capabilities from an early age.

In his view, making a meaningful impact in technology goes beyond occupying media space. "Simple actions, such as supporting young entrepreneurs, giving them advice, guiding them, and helping them develop their skills, are very beneficial," David explains. He personally mentors several entrepreneurs at different stages of their businesses, aiming to help them

avoid challenges he has faced and to reinvigorate their pursuits.

One of David's most significant recognitions came during the coronavirus pandemic when his team collaborated with a renowned physician to develop a social distancing device using a smartwatch. Their system was presented to the President of the Republic, and they were recommended by administrative circulars as one of the solutions to combat the virus. This experience highlighted the impact of their innovation and solidified David's reputation as a leader in his field.

Striking a Balance: The Evolution of Work-Life Harmony

David reflects on the challenge of balancing personal and professional life at L&G Technologies, especially during the early days of Securoom. "During the first two years of Securoom, this was not the

case—let's call it the enthusiasm of the beginnings. There were times during this period when I worked over 70 days straight without a day off," he admits, attributing this to the enthusiasm of the early days and highlighting the challenges of finding equilibrium in the early stages of a business.

However, as the product became commercialized, a more sustainable pace emerged, allowing him to find a work-life balance. David reflects on the factors that contributed to this shift, questioning whether it was the release of pressure as the product became market-ready, his body's tolerance to the pace, or the desire to spend more time with loved ones.

Despite the uncertainty, he found a natural rhythm and balance between personal and professional life. David attributes his motivation to having a job he is passionate about, where he thrives and enjoys working fully

Additionally, being a shareholder in the company fuels his motivation, as he is deeply invested in its success.

L&G Technologies embraces a horizontal hierarchy, involving teams in decisions within their areas of expertise. This approach strengthens their sense of belonging and ownership of the project, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Working remotely has been a successful model for L&G Technologies, allowing them to tap into skills beyond their borders, enhance work-life balance for employees, save on office space rental, and reinvest these savings to ensure employee well-being. Through these strategies, David and his team have found a harmonious balance between personal life and professional pursuits.

For David, motivation stems from having a job he is passionate about and being a shareholder in his company. "Being a shareholder provides natural motivation," he explains, highlighting the intrinsic drive that comes from being deeply invested in the company's success.

To maintain team motivation, L&G Technologies has implemented an unlimited vacation system, similar to practices in the USA. This system allows team members to take time off when needed, ensuring they remain motivated and refreshed throughout the year.Additionally, the company embraces remote work, tapping into skills beyond their borders and fostering a satisfied and healthy team.

Through these strategies, David and his team have found a way to achieve work-life harmony, ensuring that both

personal and professional lives are fulfilling and sustainable.

Vision for the Future: Innovating withAI and Creating Positive Impact

David's personal goals are grounded in creating solutions that address realworld problems and have a positive impact on the environment. "I see work as self-fulfillment," he notes, emphasizing the importance of feeling useful in his endeavors.

Looking ahead, David believes that the future of their company lies in new concepts based onAI. "It's a true 'Eldorado' where everything is to be done," he enthuses, highlighting the vast potential for innovation in this field. He sees their visual recognition technology as a valuable tool for addressing environmental issues, envisioning numerous applications for this technology.

For future industry leaders, David stresses the importance of not neglecting the business aspect of their ventures. "No matter what innovation you propose, make sure to surround yourself with trustworthy individuals," he advises, underscoring the significance of a strong support network.

In closing, David shares a valuable piece of advice from their partner in the US: "To build a successful business, you need an idea, talent, but above all, a good accountant and a good lawyer." This advice underscores the importance of having a solid foundation in business operations to support and drive forward innovative concepts.

Conclusion

As David looks ahead to the future, his commitment to innovation and sustainability remains unwavering. WithAI as their guiding beacon, L&G Technologies is poised to embark on a new chapter of groundbreaking solutions and meaningful impact.

David's advice resonates not only with aspiring entrepreneurs but also with established leaders, reminding us that success is not just about the idea—it's about the team, the strategy, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of innovation.

As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, David Leal’s story serves as a testament to the endless possibilities that lie ahead when we dare to dream and act boldly.

Rehan Syed

An Experienced Tech Executive Helping Organizations with the Best Tech Decisions

The CTO role in a business has altered as a result of the advancement of technology. Until recently, a CTO served as a service provider for the majority of industries (with the exception of tech firms themselves). But in today's world, the majority of sectors now operate differently as a result of digital transformation.As the ultimate resource for a company's transformation, the position of a CTO is quickly evolving. They must develop fresh business strategies, digitize their offerings, and use technology to address case-specific issues in HR, finance, and sales.As a "bridge-builder" between people, processes, and technology within a company, a CTO's profile has evolved into that of a Chief Business Enabler.

At Island Consulting, Rehan Syed serves as the chief technology officer It is a global IT company that specializes in tailor-made solutions. His role is to help the organization's management make the best decisions

moving forward, to help create a road map, and to support daily target achievement. Rehan Syed spent four years as the CEO of Techs Holding prior to joining Island Consulting. He started several companies during this time and assisted in managing activities involving over 300 workers. He also contributed to the creation of strong and supportive workplace policies. He says, "I am not sure if I can define in one word, but the closest to what I can relate is "Coach"."

As a leader, Rehan Syed's personal goals are to help build a better future. It is through a combined effort; everyone can live in harmony and make this world a cleaner and healthier place for future generations. He advises aspiring entrepreneurs to never give up on their dreams. He asserts, "Along the way, multiple obstacles or hinderances may come, but once you face a closed opportunity, another will come along the way, which will help you achieve your aims."

Years of Progress

Rehan Syed remembers how his mother Dr. Fatima and his late father Engr.Afzal purchased the first 386 computer and set it up with a Tom & Jerry game for him and his sister. What kind of sorcery is this, thought Rehan Syed. He recalls, "You can control characters by a clicker and move them around by pressing some keys. Ever since that day, I had great interest on how things work and how things are made." At a very young age, he constructed his first remotecontrol airplane, and through selftaught programming, he created the first website. Since then, Rehan Syed has been able to complete a doctorate in information technology and contribute to the creation of numerous start-ups in various industries thanks to the support of his family and very understanding elders.

Rehan Syed has held jobs along the way, including Chief Operating Officer for a well-known restaurant

chain, Chief Executive Officer for a ridesharing and food delivery company for a new start-up in the Middle East, and now he is guiding Island Consulting to a new level of success. The best recognition Rehan Syed received was back in 2015, in Sultanate of Oman, for "World Leader Business Person" from the World Confederation of Businesses.

Island Consulting

Several outstanding young men and women founded Island Consulting a few years ago. It began as a modest business operating out of a conference room, but it eventually expanded to have a presence in other nations. Currently, it works to become a onestop shop for its customers and works

with vendors from all across the continent. Island Consulting assists its clients by researching their needs and supplying a tailored solution that enables them to offer the community better services and goods.

Every Minute is a Teaching New Things

Rehan Syed asserts that hours, minutes, and seconds make up one's time and are a great teacher while discussing his thoughts on the difficulties he has in life and at work. Some lessons cannot be learned without going through the experience and moving forward. He has been working in the field for more than 20 years, and this teacher assisted him in developing competence in

information technology, hospitality, and tourism. Rehan Syed asserts, "I learned to work with tight deadlines, across countries, making the impossible possible, look for out-ofthe-box solutions, train colleagues, and above all, help people achieve their dreams." He thinks the most valuable lesson he learned is that everyone has a unique talent, and if one is willing to believe in them, nurture them, and guide them, they can surprise with the results.

OnAttaining Balance

Rehan Syed makes an effort to separate his personal and work lives. He breaks down all milestones into smaller tasks and plans his tasks. In order for everyone to enjoy their own

time, he works with individuals, solicits their input on the company's actions, and fosters teamwork. Rehan Syed welcomes everyone. He shares, "If someone has an idea, they can always come in and I will discuss with them how to make it happen." He always prefers quality over quantity and believes the team is here to make the company's employees, its stakeholders, and its customers' lives happier

On Path ofAchieving Dreams

Rehan Syed thinks he is still halfway through achieving all that he dreamed of. He says, "Some tasks are still to be materialized, some plans are still in the primary stage and need more

research before I can start those projects." He firmly believes that everyone can realize any aspirations they have for themselves with persistence, perseverance, and hard work.

For Rehan Syed, success consists of a collection of outcomes that demonstrate the accomplishment of a goal. Working with several people and combining efforts to achieve a goal may be necessary. Everybody has meetings with various experts throughout the day, and he makes an effort to assist them in achieving their objectives and improving their quality of life. When he realizes he has an impact on someone's life, he feels successful.

Building Best IT Development Solution Provider

Rehan Syed intends to transform Island Consulting into one of the top providers of IT development solutions in the future. He sees a future where Island Consulting will be the go-to company for clients seeking specifically tailored solutions and where Island Consulting will be able to give them access to greater business resources and services.

Steliana Moraru A Seasoned Business Professional & An Enthusiastic Technology Guru

Steliana Moraru has a diverse background that spans business management, digital transformation, marketing, and corporate social responsibility. She holds a Ph.D. degree, obtained with a thesis rooted in two of her main fields of interest - Big Data in Communication & Public Relations. She has also completed a business management program at Maastricht School of Management, along with leadership training, customer care, marcomm, and operations.

Over the years Steliana worked for local and international organizations and her focus has been on developing innovative projects that harness the power of technology for social good and software product development. She has been part of teams that developed innovative tech projects, egovernment, and social welfare technology projects. The primary markets she's worked in during her tenure include Central and Eastern Europe.

Steliana is Board member at Global Women TechLeaders and Board Member of UniHub – Bucharest University's Entrepreneurial Students Organization. She occasionally serves as a mentor and speaker. She is a guest lecturer at local universities, covering topics like leadership, marketing, lean startup, and digital marketing. Currently, she's a lecturer at Skillab, an international learning platform, where she teaches the “Women in Leadership” class.

In her current role as Chief Operating Officer at OTP Leasing, part of OTP Group, Steliana is responsible for contributing to the company's vision implementation, changing the status quo, process improvement, and acting as a liaison with all departments and their customers, ensuring they provide best-in-class services. She manages the company's back-office operations: marketing, IT, strategic projects, customer care, quality control, insurance and logistics with the purpose of raising the bar in their services.

Steliana's inspiring journey to the top as a woman in leadership

Steliana comes from a modest background, being raised by a single mother in a small Romanian town. Her first aspirations were rather linked to her fears – not to be mediocre, not to level up from that particular situation, or not to be good or smart enough. She turned those fears into courage, which led her to become a high-achieving student, with plenty of diverse projects under her belt. These experiences inspired Steliana to want to become a lawyer, a politician, or a diplomat.

Her journey as a woman in leadership has been both challenging and rewarding. The challenges she has faced have not deterred her; in fact, she claims that they have made her realize the strength of her resilience and the depth of her determination. “They've also taught me the importance of empathy and collaboration in leadership roles,” she further states.

As a woman leader, Steliana's aim is to influence the next generation in a way that encourages both men and women to question and break down gender biases in leadership. She aspires to lead by example, showcasing that leadership qualities aren't gender-specific and that women can lead just as effectively as men.

To make an influential impact on the next generation, Steliana focuses on mentoring and coaching, sharing her experiences, and volunteering. She believes in fostering an environment that empowers individuals to take on challenges, learn, grow, and ultimately, take on leadership roles themselves.

Success can mean different things to different people

“Defining what success means for each of us might be correlated with a lighthouse, either guiding us towards the shore or through the storm, or it might be our foe if it is established on shallow pillars,” Steliana says.

Currently, her definition of success is rooted in the belief of keeping her curiosity and love for continuous learning fueled. It is still a fulfilled ambition, a bid for lasting change brought to life, yet it is comprised of consistently good enough work, not only peaks of excellence.

Setbacks and challenges are a part of growth

“I have often found myself as the only woman in a room, and the youngest. I have learned how to transform my challenges into ways to differentiate myself. Being a young woman in a board full of men, I bring a different perspective, challenge assumptions, and provide a unique positioning. Being a businesswoman in a room, I bring cultural diversity, openness, and new opportunities for growth,” states Steliana.

Steliana has countless stories of lessons learned along the way:

• Having a great organizational culture is not enough if you don't also have a great product.

• one single person can negatively impact an entire team.

• lack of discipline is an important contributor to our development.

• learn to set the system right from the start; success is a lousy teacher

• learn to give and accept feedback in a constructive way

• hire the right person for the job and link it to the company's vision – be ready to make tough calls when these shifts.

• don't let unresolved important conflicts fester.

• make uncomfortable choices.

Being a supportive hands-on leader

In terms of keeping the team at OTP Leasing motivated, Steliana approaches it from a position of an enabler. Firstly, she focuses on her behavior towards every member of her team, which is based on curiosity, respect, trust, and continuous learning. Secondly, she believes that motivation comes from team empowerment.

Steliana encourages her team members to take ownership of their roles, ensures they have the necessary resources, tools, and information to perform at their best, removes performance, foster collaboration, and provides mentoring and coaching. She wants to provide them with the best conditions to perform and achieve their goals.

Maintaining a work-life balance

Steliana believes more in a dichotomy that relies on the balance between achievement and enjoyment. There are periods when the professional side takes the reins, and there are moments when she prioritizes her personal life.

“I strongly believe in discipline and time management to use my time as efficiently as possible,” she states.

As an early riser, Steliana always has a well-planned day ahead. Her morning routine revolves around selfcare, including activities like exercise, reading, and planning the day. The day itself is dedicated to daily business, like meetings, strategic work, reading, and hands-on work with her team. In the evening, Steliana usually focus on her personal life, spending time with her loved ones, or working on personal projects. She says that her favorite leisure activities are related to art and creativity, such as visiting exhibitions or theater performances to discover new creative places.

Ago-getter, fostering a culture of innovation.

Steliana's personal goals revolve around continuous growth, both as an individual and as a leader. One of her primary short-term aspirations is to work towards enriching her experience in the international market and contributing to building more value by connecting and enabling people at a higher, more complex level.

In the long term, she aims to achieve even more breadth and depth in her managerial journey by taking up new challenges as a top manager.As part of her growth plan, Steliana also aims

to cultivate a strong entrepreneurial mindset.

“In the changing times we live in, I want to be able to identify new opportunities quickly and foster a culture of innovation within the teams and companies I work with,” she says.

Advice toAspiring Women in Leadership

Steliana encourages all aspiring female leaders to maintain a keen sense of curiosity and embrace a continuous learning mindset as you strive to make a meaningful impact in your field of expertise. She further advises to be courageous, seek out opportunities, and trust in your unique perspective and strengths. Steliana also motivates women to be surrounded with mentors and allies who support and uplift you, and don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and your ideas.

Conclusion

Steliana Moraru is extremely passionate about how technology can change communities, data in all its forms, and working with people who want to drive positive change. She is dedicated to advancing the topics of #womeninSTEM and #entrepreneurship for students

Laetitia Cailleteau

A Progressive Leader Delivering Robust And Innovative Technology Solutions

All of us are constantly driven by the desire to succeed. However, success is a relative term, because what you may consider 'successful', may not fit someone else's definition. Laetitia Cailleteau, states that success for her is about making the world a better place, working as one with clients, communities, and her teams. Creating impact and being a change agent are essential elements of her definition of success. Staying balanced and grounded across all her roles - mother of three, wife, and daughter is an important aspect of her successful journey.

Laetitia is the Managing Director, DATA&AI Europe Lead, and the Global Lead for ConversationalAI for Accenture. She believes that the toughest part these days for many of us is to be in the now, to ride that crest and enjoy it. “I work hard at being present in the moment. But I've always got my eye on the future. I'm always thinking of ways to lead my teams to have that greater impact, to master the transformations required to better serve our clients,” she says.

LeadingACompany To Success With CourageAndALeap Of Faith

The consulting industry, by default, always pushes you to the edge of a world of possibilities driving transformation and change. “The depth and breadth of the impact are exciting, especially in a company like Accenture that covers all industries and facets of transformation,” she states.

She strongly believes in the factwhat doesn't kill you makes you stronger. “The biggest roadblocks are the ones we learn from most, forcing deep reflection, causing us to question things, reassess and change course. It's hard to pinpoint specific roadblocks,” she explains. Laetitia's job is all about pushing the boundaries of what's possible so perseverance, rethinking, and evolution are key.

There are precious few templates around how to be a woman and mother in such a demanding leadership role in tech. It requires vast stores of energy.And it requires

constant awareness of the cultural stereotypes that must be resisted. “I can see meaningful progress in the industry but it's not happening quickly enough. The key is to grow your support networks with people who believe in you, who give you energy.And you must never stop believing in yourself,” she states.

The Services OfAccenture

Accenture is a global professional services company with cutting-edge capabilities in digital, cloud, and security. Their mix of specialist skills and experience is, truly, unparalleled. They've got 674,000 people working across more than 40 industries. They offer services in Strategy and Consulting, Technology and Operations, and Interactive, all powered by the world's largest network ofAdvanced Technology and Intelligent Operations centers.

“Without hesitation, I can say our people deliver on the promise of technology and human ingenuity every day, giving their best to clients in more than 120 countries. We

embrace the power of change to create value and shared success for our clients, our people, our shareholders, partners, and communities,” exclaims Laetitia.

Vision ForABright Future

Laetitia believes that we have entered the 4th industrial revolution and that significant and accelerated change will power the world. She wants to be at the forefront of this movement - a shaper of a better future rather than a passive actor. She loves this quote by Churchill: If you don't take change by the hand, it will take you by the throat.

She strongly claims thatAccenture is the best place to work and that's not only her biased opinion, the market agrees. It has an inspirational ethos and mantra: 'Let there be change'. Change is the only constant and it is what unites them all to be the best at what they do.

Julie Sweet, their CEO, is spearheading their transformation, and Laetitia exclaims that being on this journey with her is very exciting. The organization is about living a purpose. “How we infuse the crossroads of technology and human capability to deliver differentiated value to our clients is made possible only through the individuals here,” she says.

She believes that their talented people are what will carry them forward to even greater success. She also believes they must keep investing in a diverse employee base, as the diversity of thought and experience is what will allowAccenture to thrive in an evolving society. She is committed to creating a vibrant and engaging community to help shape the paths of people, allowing them to see how

important they are for the company's future.

Women Empowerment & Representation

Women represent more than half of the global population. They tend to be superstars at emotional intelligence, mastering versatility, and balancing various demands and needs.Asociety without the right level of women empowerment is a society that tends to be more divisive, power-hungry, and reactive, always firefighting. “We are essential in bringing more balance, openness, and harmony to our roles and we do it proactively –fact surveys and statistics tend to overlook,” says Laetitia.

Laetitia surrounds herself with a very diverse team in terms of gender, religion, social background, disabilities, age, and sexual orientation. She states that she knows her teammates well. “I know what they can bring at work but also what motivates them outside of the office. I also make time to see how junior staffers and new hires are getting on in my division. I recently created what I call #nofilter sessions for the 3,500 people aligned to Data &AI,” she adds. She invites all of them to book 20 minutes with her to discuss anything they like.

Authenticity is key in these sessions and Laetitia openly shares her struggles and her coping strategies. She creates a safe space for people to open up, to show her their true selves, and let her help them navigate the workplace.Arecurring topic for working mothers is how to manage the guilt . She helps them find their ways and power in what others may see as quirks or vulnerabilities. The ultimate recognition for Laetitia is the feedback she receives from

members of her team and their clients. “It's often unexpected, coming out of the blue, and it's always appreciated. Knowing you're making a positive difference is such a great reward,” she exclaims.

ResponsibilitiesAs Managing Director

Laetitia, who defines herself as a visionary, is the lead forAccenture's Data &AI business for Europe, which means she's responsible for ensuring its strategic growth. Data is a key enabler for business growth and having the opportunity to lead the charge in this space is a phenomenal opportunity

“I would say my days are far from regular That's why I enjoy my work. Oscillating between client requests and the business the piece of work we're doing, means wearing multiple hats and constant multitasking. Every day is exciting,” she states. Laetitia thrives on the challenge of staying on top of market trends, innovating, and delivering leading-edge value to their clients is always on top of her mind.

Balance In Personal And Professional Life

Laetitia claims to be a very driven person and she is passionate about what she does. When she sets a goal for herself, she achieves it. That said, she states that she can't do it on her own. She has a fabulous support system. Her family understands the demands she places on herself and gives her the space to operate. Similarly, she recognizes that getting the balance right for herself and them requires the right dynamic. They create a good space to thrive as a whole.

Secondly, she surrounds herself with very smart, capable individuals. They are people she trusts, people who challenge her, people who are better than her, people who complement her and each other. Laetitia tries to create an environment for them to flourish. They create a north star and vision of what they would like to achieve as a business and consistently celebrate their successes. Giving teams autonomy and recognition sparks productivity and collaboration. It fosters growth and helps achieve shared objectives.

“It's also not always about work; we have great programs encouraging wellbeing. People are not just a set of professional skills. We consider the whole person,” she says. In addition,Accenture provides a world of possibilities for reinvention. It's a great place for someone to

define their space and their interest and drive their ambitions for growth. Laetitia states that when her team grows and is successful, so does the business. They strive to thrive together and that's how they keep raising the bar

Pearls Of Wisdom For HerYounger Self &Aspiring Businesswomen

“I would give my younger self the gift of having more hope. Nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it. We are all humans, even the people at the very top of the career ladder They are there because of their choices, their focus, their sacrifices, their hard work,” says Laetitia, “Where you come from may give you an advantage but it is not defining who you are. I'm proof of that, the proud daughter of a single teen mum,” she further adds.

She now has a fantastic mix of international experience, she's made a wonderful family, and she's achieved things that amaze her every day. Laetitia believes in herself, in her abilities, and took opportunities that she created or that presented themselves.

Her message for aspiring businesswomen is - don't compromise on your values and interests. These become your framework and guide to reaching your level of success. “In the end, what matters is to be passionate about what you're doing. Stop proving yourself and keep improving yourself; do it because it matters to you. The rewards and recognition will follow,” she adds.

Amanda Brock

A Tech Expert in Open Technology

Amanda Brock worked as a lawyer for 25 years, 20 of them in-house in corporations, until 2018, when she decided to make a career change and went on to join OpenUK as CEO at the end of 2019.Amanda also serves on a variety of advisory boards in the private, governmental, and non-profit sectors. She says, "That breadth is something that I really enjoy."

In 2008,Amanda started working at Canonical, which is probably Europe's top open-source based business. She was the first lawyer at both the ISP Freeserve where sho worked from 1999 and then in Canonical. She believes that experience was a fantastic way to immerse herself in the company and learn. The experience as GC at Canonical for 5 years, and with Dixons/ Freeserve in the setup and build of an early-stage ISP, then in the digital transformation team, internationalizing the electrical retail business, are really what embedded Amanda into technology as a lawyer, and allowed her to develop her strategy skills. She asserts, "Legal is one of the most interesting areas you can be in within a company as you

touch on all aspects of the business."

The Hunger for Learning

Amanda attempted to learn programing in high school. It was the 1980's, and code was taught in binary Her code never ran, and she was recommended to stay away from computers which she did until the mid-1990s when she joined a law firm, to become an IP lawyer However, the firm needed an IT lawyer, soAmanda took a Masters in IP and IT law at Queen Mary University, which she completed parttime between 1996 and 1998. She recalls, "Professor Ian Walden taught me internet law on the first internet law course in the UK. That led to my joining the ISP, Freeserve, owned by the Dixons retail group, which went on to be the first big IPO in Europe in 2000. After the IPO, in 2000, I moved into what was effectively a digital transformation team co-led by Accenture "

AProfession that is itself a Challenge

Being a lead lawyer in an organisation inevitably involves being

in a position of conflict, andAmanda realized quite late that this wasn't something she really enjoyed. She asserts, "I like to build and create new things, which I got to be part of by being a lawyer, but ultimately I am happier in a strategic commercial role."

Amanda comments, "Going into law in 1993 was tough. Sexism was endemic in the legal profession and, despite a high volume of women at entry-level, few stayed the course. That was largely because the profession, in the UK at least, was one of the last to evolve away from endemic sexism. "

OpenUK and its Services

OpenUK is an industry organization representing the business of Open Technology, which is open-source software, open hardware, and open data. It brings together all those working in these areas, whether they are in pureplay open or IT companies, whether they are in IT or business companies, whether they are UK companies or international, and is a place for the voice of those collective communities to be heard, through

community, legal and policy, and education. That means the team at OpenUK does a lot of advocacy work and research.Amanda shares, "We will share the third part of our State of Open: The UK in 2021 Report, in October at openuk.uk/stateofopen." It has been groundbreaking and shown the UK's position as a centre of excellence in open-source software.

According toAmanda, OpenUK not only brought UK specific data and research together, but in the spirit of its purpose, "Develop UK Leadership and global collaboration in Open Technology", it is also organizing quarterly workshops bringing together others across the globe who are also working on reports and research in

this area enabling them to share their learning and where possible, to look at how OpenUK can support standardising research and collaboration.

OpenUK is working on educational tools, including a second Kids Camp and a digital glove giveaway to take place in September. The course is based on the open-source definition and teaches at the Key Stage 3 curriculum level. It also hopes to launch a Knowledge Module for apprenticeship schemes in the Spring, openuk.uk/open kids camp, and is talking to a number of universities about their curriculum, including more open in technology, legal and business courses.

In January, the company will be running a training program, mentorship scheme, etc. to support Future Founders in Open Technologies.Amanda opines, "This is really exciting as it's led by our Entrepreneur in Residence, Matt Barker of JetStack and Founders Forum."

ABroad Range of Work Responsibility

Amanda's work responsibilities at the company are very dynamic. She is versatile in many facets of her job at OpenUK, allowing her to handle everything from editing children's magazines to assisting with strategic reports, planning events, and

presenting to its Board of Directors or international conferences. She enjoys the role's diversity. Thanks to the generous support of Federated Hermes and Red Hat, the team will be organizing a Sustainability in Open Technology Day in the Hermes Skypark Fringe during the United Nations; COP26 event in Glasgow this autumn.

"We will see a big push in Security All businesses and Governments are acutely aware of the importance of security in all software, whether open or proprietary. There has never been a time when this has been more important as a consequence of digital transformation and the rise of bad actors on an international basis," saysAmanda. She believes that open and collaborative responses from open technology are actually the best way to ensure security.Amanda wants to influence a generation by catching them young, which is why the

company has put a huge amount of energy and finance behind the Kids Course and Camp.

The Struggle to Maintaining WorkLife Balance

Amanda admits that during the pandemic she has struggled to strike a balance between her professional and personal lives. She makes an effort to take proper vacations and participates in both emotional and spiritual work during such times. She feels that this isn't always incorporated into people's lives, but that this personal growth work is just as necessary as physical activity and education in order to develop and to be at peace with oneself and life.

Amanda returns to work in September with some firm promises to herself in terms of personal time and making time for yoga, Pilates, and continuous personal growth.

Amanda is a big fan of the arts and spends a lot of time at concerts, the theatre, and the movies. "It's been so great to be able to attend this summer here in the UK," she says.

Amanda's Definition of

Success

Amanda tells us that defining success is something that can be quite difficult. On a personal level, she has never measured success through economics or financial gain, but through achievement, being part of interesting activities, and, increasingly, through presence. That last one is something that for her takes work. She says, "The more present one is, the more one feels one's purpose as part of the collective and the more one can contribute."

On a business metrics level, for OpenUK, firstly within the UK, success will be measured by the UK government's policies on Open Technology, an increase in its homegrown businesses in this space scaling in the UK, and in the country's education system teaching Open Technology. She opines, " if I have my way, every child in the UK will be able to explain what open-source software is."

According toAmanda, globally, OpenUK's success will be measured by its international collaboration. That will start to be more measurable later this year when the company builds a program of international Ambassadors, and currently can be seen through its memberships, partnerships, and participation in international Open Technology organizations.

Sarah Neill

At the intersection of fashion and technology

Sarah Neill, the CEO and Founder of Mys Tyler talks about personal and professional success. For her, personal success is happiness - being healthy and feeling optimistic about the future, feeling connected with her friends and family members, and contributing to the world in a positive way. Business success on the other hand is about creating opportunities for others, solving a real problem, and providing a return on investment to stakeholders.

The path to entrepreneurship:

Sarah describes her journey to entrepreneurship starting with her career in marketing and advertising where she would dive into insights of the target audience to understand how the thought, what they felt and what problems they were looking to solve. Back then, this allowed her to best communicate to this audience the relevancy of the product or service. As the years shifted, and she better understood problems out there, she describes shifting into more intrapreneurial roles, and eventually encountered an opportunity to create her own business, Doodad while living in New York. This dates back to 2012 and after 12 months of building a business, she was forced to

shut down the business with 2 weeks' notice. She moved back into corporate life but, and joined the fastest growing private company in America, but during this time developed the concept for Mys Tyler, and spent the next few years developing the idea until 12 months ago when she packed her bags, leaving her corporate role, salary and America to return toAustralia to build Mys Tyler.

Constraints bread creativity:

Sarah mentions that majority of the companies she worked with were “Challenger” brands, the companies have relatively smaller teams, smaller budgets and less awareness to work with.As a result, they have to punch above their weight to get traction. In these environments, you can't throw money at a problem, you have to get creative and work smarter. “They say constraints bread creativity, and I completely agree. Some of the best ideas have come from not having the conventional (or any) resources!”

Says Sarah. Take Mys Tyler for example, the app which helps women see clothing on similar looking women (height, size & shape), requires a diversity of fashion influencers, Mys Tyler calls them “Contributors” to be successful.

Without resources to “buy” this side of the market, they got scrappy and scrapped the body data of nearly 400 fashionable celebrities so they could launch a product faster, get traction, and then have something to pitch to stylish women to bring them on board organically

Iterate and improve over perfection:

With the strong belief that “done is better than perfect” the common question the Mys Tyler team asks themselves when making decisions is “Is it better than it was yesterday?” Sarah describes herself as the furthest thing from a perfectionist. Having said that, she and the team have ambitious goals and are committed to constantly work at getting closer to those. Her vision for Mys Tyler is to create a space where all women feel represented, and can be inspired with fashion content relevant to their body, budget, and style. Sarah believes that the clothes we wear can make us feel confident, they can be the difference between trying to blend in and feeling able to step up and say yes to opportunities. We want fashion to be more accessible and enjoyable for all women, at the core of Mys Tyler is body-positivity and community And if women find better fitting clothes

through Mys Tyler, than they can also significantly contributor to reducing return rates and reducing the huge cost to the industry and more importantly the environmental.

The hero's journey:

The startup journey is not easy, doing things that are new requires storytelling and education. There are constant hiccups and distractions, so it's a clear vision and unwavering resolve required to forge through to bring a startup to life. If you look back, you can easily find dozens of

failures that each entrepreneur encounters. The successful entrepreneurs can trade in these failures into learnings and find a positive way to move forward.As quoted by an anonymous philosopher, “Life won't always go my way, but I will always find a way,” similarly Sarah understands the hard journey ahead - “it's hard work, it's terrible pay, it's a high risk, high stress, and highly personal - but I wouldn't want to be doing anything else”. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs “Just start. If you have an idea, start building, start collecting data, just move it

forward, and you'll learn things, or opportunities will open up as you go that will guide you for the next step”. Women have a tendency to think “I know I can doABC, and I think I can do XYZ, so I'll stay doingABC as I don't want to over-promise and underdeliver - I'm telling you, you can do XYZ better than anyone, so get out there and do it”

Antonio Batistini A Transformational Business Leader with Extensive Work Experience

Employees are encouraged, inspired and motivated by the transformational leadership approach to innovate and bring about the change required to determine the company's future success. To do this, leaders need to lead by example, demonstrating authenticity, a strong sense of corporate culture, employee ownership and independence at work. Innovative and evolving technological trends can be recognized by transformational leaders, who can then assist their organizations in embracing the change.

Antonio Batistini is an international business and technical executive leader with 32+ year history of success in visioning, ideating and leading global transformation of international companies into ones that sustainably maximize revenue and profitable growth across multiple geographies and markets.

He has extensive experience in a unique combination of areas, including concept shaping and

leading of start-ups, new business development, global development and growth of industrial and consumer businesses, creation and implementation of disruptive technology platforms, solutions and business models, leadership of large multi-functional and multi-regional organizations and the definition and implementation of M&Aand integration strategies.

Boosting the Progress

NextChem was born in 2018 under the umbrella of Maire Tecnimont, a very large engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) group. Today, the company is the global leader in the production of fertilizers such as urea, as well as in the oil, gas and petrochemical industries, mainly in the areas of polyolefin production and gas production and purification processes.

Antonio's responsibilities at NextChem are to realize the vision to make this company a global

technology leader in the decarbonization of the energy transition and foster a new culture of innovation that will be transferred to lots of young people to further grow its differentiation and market presence while significantly increasing the overall profitability of the group.

Antonio's contribution to the growth of NextChem under this umbrella during this first year of work has been to accelerate the definition of the initial strategy. He worked to stimulate the decision to separate the historical EPC business from a clearly distinctive technology-focused entity and to start redesigning the organization in a way that all resources and innovation processes focused on the development and implementation of the defined strategy. He says, "I contributed where cross functional and cross regional teamwork is at the basis of all our ways of progressing ideas, from the simple shaping to the final industrial implementation."

Stepping into Leadership Roles

After having earned a master's degree in industrial chemistry from the University of Pisa (I) and a Ph.D. in material and polymer science from the ETH in Zurich,Antonio started at Dow Chemical. Where he covered lots of different roles, first in R&D and then in global business management, strategic marketing and new venture groups across multiple markets, applications, solutions and materials.After 23 years, he moved first to Stora Enso as Executive VP of their new biorefinery business, creating a new successful business to valorize all their waste from chemical pulping as well as forestry integration by expanding the extraction and separation of sugars and lignin to new chemicals and materials. "Lots of fun and very inspiring to see that the strategy and work done are still progressing according to the vision created today, even after 3,5 years of globetrotting," he says.

Antonio founded his own company (B&B Innovation) to advise small and large businesses on all aspects of innovation. He says, "Sooner than later, we ended up developing with P&G a very interesting technology to recycle hygiene adsorbing products and to upgrade all recovered fractions of plastics, cellulose, and super absorbing polymers."

In the meantime, he joined ELeather (UK) as Chief Technology Officer, a company where a new process of recycling waste from natural leather processing was developed, resulting in a sort of "cow on a roll" composite textile fabric that the team developed to become today's largest leather material used in the interior design

and seating of planes and buses, as well as new upper materials for shoes, which are now being trademarked by Nike as FlyLeather in various colors.

The creation of CrocsTM and the associated footwear business from the ground up markedAntonio's true recognition as a Dow innovation leader The most prestigious award Antonio received as a technical and then business leader in innovation was the R&D 100 award for the invention of the Dow XLAfiber.

Internal and External Challenges

Challenges are always the most stimulating element ofAntonio's professional life. Beyond any challenge, in fact, there are not just new opportunities for business success but also for professional and personal growth. Roadblocks are typically of two kinds, inAntonio's opinion: internal and external.

FromAntonio's experience, the most difficult roadblocks to tackle are the internal ones. Often within a company, invisible but hard to defeat barriers exist, originating from the previous history of the company, culturally rooted personal points of view of key stakeholders, short-term vision, personal agendas and so on. All these elements, most of the time, rather than facilitating solutions and options to challenges, create barriers that slow down the possibility of doing something unique and materializing new significant opportunities.

Antonio shares that external roadblocks instead can more easily be overcome by tenacity, flexibility, entrepreneurship, network leverage,

influence, and courage. Personally, the biggest challengeAntonio tackled, overcoming lots of internal and external roadblocks, was the invention and development of an alternative elastic fiber to Lycra (TM of DuPont) based on crosslinked polyolefin materials. He recalls, "When I identified a unique opportunity around the development of a new elastic fibers to overcome limitations of the well-established, well marketed and globally recognized Lycra fibers, everybody with Dow Chemical thought it was kind of a joke telling me that Lycra was best material ever invented, well performing in all fashion and sport segments." He further adds, "These experience in addition made me understand that there is always a better way of doing something even in what so far people consider to be the best way possible."Antonio shares that innovation often comes from just observing how things get used, how people work around the inherent limitations of products to spark new ideas on how the same thing could be done better.

Defining Success

Since many yearsAntonio keeps well visible in his office, a small card he accidentally found on his pillow in the bedroom of one hotel in the USA many years ago during one of his thousands of business trips. The card reports a phrase from a poet and philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson: "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." This phrase summarizesAntonio's personal definition of success. There is nothing more rewarding, intriguing, exciting in the innovation world than taking a challenge, an often thought

"impossible" challenge, and transforming it into a new opportunity by uniquely connecting often disconnected dots and solutions, most of the time for very different things and problems.

Antonio is trying to inspire in the way of working and thinking of all his colleagues, partners on a daily basis. He asserts, "Only with this passion and vision you can do something extraordinary, something to be remembered!!"

Balance Demands Effort

Balancing professional and personal life has always been at the heart of Antonio's life, dating back to his university days, when he prioritized his exams and a good grade. He always forced himself not to study on weekends or at night, preferring instead to spend his summer and winter vacations with friends and family.Antonio believes that worklife balance is also very critical to one's ability to have an impact and be successful. He asserts, "if your balance is too stretched towards work, the natural pressure of not spending enough time on yourself, on your kids and family, on your hobbies, on your friends never regenerate your energies in a way such to be more effective and productive at work." He tries to push this message and efforts across his entire team and people.

Personal and Professional Objective

Antonio's objective is to grow NextChem into the most effective and successful engine of innovation in the energy transition and accelerate the development and

implementation of green chemistry development and implementation. NextChem aims at becoming a leading solution provider in the new transformation of chemistry linked to the energy transition from fossil to alternative resources and the development of green and renewable chemistries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as well as reduce production of and maximize the creation of circular value creation out of any kind of waste.Antonio shares, "My task, out of the decennial experience in this sector, started during my last period of professional experience at Dow; with the first concept shaping and development of technologies to produce synthetic fuels from captured CO2 and green H2." He also adds, "I evolved with my experiences at Stora Enso in the world of biomaterials and biochemicals and at B&B Innovation and Eleather in the recycling of waste materials, to define and implement a disruptive strategy to promote NextChem as the most differentiated and diversified leading technology company in this field."

On a personal basis,Antonio's goals are to lead this transformation, possibly even having the possibility of doing so from a full business perspective since he believes that more and more technical soundness and skills must be paired with an equal ability to speak fluently the business language. Innovation in fact does not consist only of creating new technologies and products but also combining those with the most effective and innovative business models while generating, where possible, a satisfying customer experience in terms of satisfaction, ethical values, ease of use and implementation.

In addition,Antonio's other personal goal is to create an organization where he can be surrounded by young, talented people who are committed and passionate about making a difference and who excel in a teamwork spirit based on constant constructive discussion and challenging themselves independently from job level, title and role. He wishes that they must grow well in order one day to take their place and further excel in making NextChem the leading tech company in the energy transition of the future.

Words for Every Visionary

To aspiring entrepreneurs,Antonio's message is to never give up on their own dreams and vision. He mentions, "Innovation is always a very challenging rollercoaster of experiences and emotions, but it can only happen if you never stop to believe in your dreams and only if you are surrounded by people willing and able to live the same experience." He believes that money is only a measurement and consequence of the ultimate value of one's vision own target should always be to see the solutions he or she imagined well implemented, appreciated and used in the market, as all the rest will come by itself.

Alicia Asin

Inspiring new Trends in IoT Technology

With a diverse interest in every field she grew up as a multitalented kid who enjoyed sports, technical and cultural activities. She was determined to start her own business while she was yet pursuing her university degree in Computer Engineering.Along with her business partner David Gascon she set out on her own venture to make a positive impact through technology. From a risk taker to the CEO of a leading solution provider; Libelium IoT Technology,AliciaAsin has paved the path of success in the last 13 years and continues to lead the way setting a benchmark in its industry and providing services to customers in over 120 countries across the globe. The journey has had its own ups and downs however her determination kept her motivated to keep moving ahead.

Setting foot

It was the age of social network and smartphone apps startup whenAlicia and David decided to set out. Hardware was not an easy option however they wanted to create value through their solutions. Being the pioneers of “WSN” (wireless sensors

networks), they knew that they were at the brink of creating a revolution in technology Their plan was to create a platform (a product called Waspmote) that integrates more than 120 sensors. It is capable of transmitting information through any communication protocol to any cloud platform on the Internet. But they also realized that there are many potential IoT application in every sector of the industry hence picking the right one was a challenge. They decided to go horizontal offering technological solutions for applications as diverse as smart management of water supply, improvement of agricultural production, environmental control of air and noise in cities, intelligent parking systems, etcetera and Waspmote was created in 2009. They also faced bureaucratic and financial barriers, but they overcame it as they realized that their objective was to invoice and not live on subsidies or external investors. Their glorious journey had begun.

Products and Services

Libelium Iot Technology is a leading solution provider through technology with a view to help improve the

quality of people's lives and companies' competitiveness. Libelium offers solutions for different spheres such as agriculture, parking systems, urban monitoring, waste management, environment or security & emergencies. It is an international company that provides IoT products for all the markets worldwide with no specific focus by region or country Libelium's technological platform is committed to the interoperability of different sensors that allow the measurement of any parameter through any wireless communication protocol and send the recorded data to multiple cloud platforms. With an aim to keep up with the growing technological era, Libelium has a varied range of IoT products that is developed from advanced and new ideas of technology.

The Key Factor

Libelium has evolved over the years, from a startup to leading company. The growth was driven by their will to adapt to the changing world and create a new strategy to sustain. They have emerged from being a hardware manufacturer to a solutions consultant for complete IoT projects. The

interoperability of Libelium's wireless sensor platform is the key to their success that has given them the opportunity to create a partner ecosystem with more than 100 companies that help them to extend their business globally

Libelium has been a pathbreaker in the world of IoT has continued to transform the digital world envisioning the future of technology. The most striking quality about Libelium's Smart Sensor platforms is that they can be utilized for a variety of purposes, from monitoring cities to precision crops.Additionally, Libelium it has focused on organizing its relationship with the ecosystem and has launched more partnership programs than ever. In 13 years, Libelium has moved from being a

start-up to an SME of 5 million invoicing, more than 50 employees and customers in 120 countries exporting 90% of turnover They are dedicated to offer high value-added products and services for the entire IoT value chain.

The Master Mind

Being inspired by sports that forms a major part of her life,Alicia has learnt some essential principles like sacrifice and daily constancy from it that influence her professional life too. She loves sports and practices rowing in high competition. She was an avid sportsperson before starting her entrepreneurial journey

Operating as the CEO of Libelium she defines her role that has two

versions; internal and external. Externally, she is an ambassador of Libelium in the world. “We have a great brand image, and, in that sense, my presence is in great demand to offer conferences and talks about IoT technology and my experience as an entrepreneur”, saysAlicia.choosing the best people to develop that strategy and making sure they have the necessary resources. “Certainly, as CEO, I feel the pressure of responsibility to be the last link in the chain. I don't have anyone to elevate certain issues to and I am aware that decisions end in my figure, for better or for worse”, she adds.

The Motivating Element

One of the major motivating factors for the employees of Libelium is their

will to impact lives with their technology. They work tirelessly to improve their technological solutions in view to solve the main challenges that people face today They are consistently striving to make cities more sustainable, preserve natural resources, avoid climatic changes, generate enough food for a growing population, and offer universal access to health services. With the absence of women in the field of technology, Alicia is determined to be a role model for all the women who aspire to influence the world of technology

The Futuristic Eye

Talking about the global expansion of Libelium, they are geared up to take over every sector with two major objectives; to grow and to make the

IoT market grow. They are all set to spread into the vast education sector to transmit technological knowledge about the use of IoT; through applications to make the industry more competitive and reduce its costs; to the market for daily solutions. Every development in Libelium is to provide customers with ready-to-use technology that combines hardware, software and final application data analysis. Citing this as the only way to achieve the predictions of large investments and innovative results around the technological disruption, Libelium is moving ahead with a definite goal to grow.

As a young engineer and entrepreneur,AliciaAsin is driven to make a significant presence in the field of technology that will be a

source of motivation for every woman. She refers to herself as a “rara avis” in the world that is more and more technological and in which greater equality is demanded. She believes that if women expect an equal pay, they need to take up greater responsibilities in leading positions. With a steadfast goal of creating a legacy of IoT that will eventually lead to greater democracy and greater economy,AliciaAsin and her team are prepared for a glorious journey to innovate, influence and inspire.

Brent Kruel

Revolutionizing Occupational Health Through Technology-Enabled Solutions

The modern healthcare sector must widely adopt information technology to survive in the current digital era. To prove their mettle, outshine others, and lay a solid foundation for the adoption of contemporary, effective and customized digital technology in the rapidly expanding healthcare sector, leaders must step outside of their comfort zones and grasp the rapidly changing environment.

Brent, the founder, and CEO of BioFunctional Health Solutions, has a passion for technology. His extensive experience over the past three decades has given him a keen understanding of how to operationalize solutions into the lives of just about anyone.Although he performs these roles, he spends most of his time developing and implementing, tech-enabled, health and wellness solutions. Brent openly admits that both his formal training and work in healthcare administration have given him a passion and special aptitude for finding the best health and wellness goods and services.

“Legacy is only secured in people that are nurtured by an empathetic

leader All other success is meaningless and temporary.”- Brent Kruel

Atypical day in Brent's office includes discussions with other executives of big businesses about how to attract and keep the best talent by looking out for all workers. He also devotes a lot of time to looking into the health and wellness sector for new goods and services that can considered and including in the service offerings of his own business. He has discovered that although there are a staggering number of softwarebased options available, getting people to use them effectively necessitates a hands-on approach. This is something his company accomplishes by utilizing registered nurses as coaches to increase compliance and help close the gaps that may come from a lack of knowledge and understanding.

In a word, Brent defines himself as loving. He says, "I am empathetic, love people, and am passionate about healing and the possibility of making people the best versions of themselves."

Years of Transformation

Though Brent was a standout wrestler and track athlete in high school, he declined college scholarships to join theAir Force. He served in the military as a combat communications specialist and finished his first combat deployment during Operation Uphold Freedom in Haiti. Thanks to his exposure of the most cutting-edge computer and communications technology while serving in the military, he developed and mastered a foundation for success in leveraging technology to improve health and wellness.

Brent was selected to attend the United StatesAir ForceAcademy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs and quickly distinguished himself as a four-time, WesternAthletic Conference (WAC), student athlete of the year. While at the academy, he suffered a fractured spine during jump qualification training, which was a formative experience for him and led him to develop a passion for health and wellness. His injury threatened not only his performance on the track, but also his career in the Air Force.

Brent graduated from the United StatesAir ForceAcademy (USAFA), in May 2000. He held the title, Distinguished Graduate, the highest honor bestowed by theAcademy Soon after graduation, Brent began his career as a healthcare administrator.As a young lieutenant in theAir Force, he was privileged to be given a lot of responsibility. He was immediately given the role of managing a $30 million construction project, along with supply and logistics. This was a huge accomplishment and honor for him as he was the youngest chief information officer in theAir Force.

Brent was commissioned in theAir Force as a medical officer. He further distinguished himself by being honored with anAir Force-level award as #1 of 23,000 officers named the Information Systems Officer of the Year. He also was selected as the Air Force's lowest-ranking and youngest Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the largest VA/DoD hospital in Las Vegas, NV. During his second combat tour, Operation Iraqi Freedom, he was chosen to oversee the largest hospital in Iraq. He left the Air Force in 2007 and started working as a corporate executive in a range of healthcare and technology settings to pursue a career in commercial health and wellness.

As a second lieutenant competing against officers with over 20 years of experience, Brent was named theAir Force's top information systems officer of the year for 2001, making him the youngest and most junior officer to ever receive the honor

Making Every Step towards the Success

There were many small steps leading

up to Brent's personal leap into being an entrepreneur. In 2007, when he retired from theAir Force, as a medical service corps officer, he joined the upper management of the nation's largest healthcare payer technology company. He was promoted quickly and as he adjusted to the commercial sector; he became more comfortable with the increasing responsibility of the roles he was entrusted with. He recalls, "Within four years of separating from the Air Force, I had my first 8-figure P&L that I was responsible for." This grew rapidly, and Brent learned how to grow companies by investing in and trusting quality people. He was always drawn to physical and mental health and made this a passion in every role he was in.

Brent's perspective on success is centered on leaving a lasting legacy, which can only be realized by people. He focuses his energy on helping people become the best versions of themselves through physical and mental well-being. His hope is that the BHS will help others do the same.

BioFunctional Health Solutions, Inc.

BHS is comprised of seasoned health professionals who are innovators, inventors and personally devoted to their own physical health and mental wellbeing. They are passionate about helping EVERYONE feel and look as good as they do.

BHS uses a tried-and-true, proprietary process to integrate the top health and wellness solutions which enables an individualized (customized) approach to meet each employee where they are. Highly skilled and motivated registered nurses are BHS' secret weapon. The

company's nurses are specialists in health and wellness and focus on building relationships with every client, leading to successful lifestyle changes that make people healthier and happier.

Below is a summary of the company's offerings:

Brain Function Optimization- In partnership with Millennium Health and Dr. Mark Gordon, a recognized world-leading neuroscientist, the team uses anAI-supported system with lipotropic supplements that cross the blood-brain barrier to improve cognitive brain function. It is also proven effective in resolving long-term COVID symptoms, including brain fog, insomnia, depression, anxiety and many more.

Lifestyle & Wellness Personalized Programs - Optimize lifestyle, learn how to make the best decisions based on individual biology and create easy-to-implement, life-changing, habits.

The world's best and most caring nurses are specially trained in BHS' technology-enabled solutions to customize a program for anyone, regardless of current lifestyle and conditions.

Pain & Musculoskeletal Health

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BHS is the leader in resolving pain and musculoskeletal conditions with the least invasive, least expensive and most effective treatments available anywhere.Acombination of patented technology and the most efficacious hands-on treatments enables the best outcomes for employees/patients.

• Functional Occupational Massage (FOM) - Evidence-

• based and technology-enabled, hands-on treatment system to resolve pain associated with musculoskeletal issues/injuries. Effective for common conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, back pain, migraines, and many more. Considered first-aid by OSHA and nonrecordable.

• Patented 3D Mobility Health Assessment: Patented and clinically validated, digital mobility health assessment to identify and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. "The only lab test for mobility health.”

• Medical Doctor Pain & MSK Specialist Consultations: BHS' medical director is a medical device inventor and recognized world leader in musculoskeletal health and pain resolution. nd Offering expert 2 opinions and accurate diagnosis services; surgery consultations; and acute and chronic pain evaluations.

• Ergonomics and Biomechanics Analysis: Observe individuals in their work environments to identify and mitigate risk factors at the lowest cost possible.

• Customized Mobilization Programs: Stretching can be risky to musculoskeletal health if not designed and performed properly. BHS will develop a program to meet individuals where they are at and enable them to safely perform their jobs. This includes and especially, office/desk workers.

Mental Wellbeing and Psychological Strength Building: BHS will guide clients through a

transformational process that will change their mindset forever with simple tools and life hacks proven to work for everyone.

• Mental Wellbeing & Stress Management RN Consultation

-Apreventative and restorative process for creating a sound foundation for mental health resulting in lower anxiety and tools to manage stress better

• Psychological Strength Building Program:An exclusive online program developed by BHS' partner, bestselling author, Dr. Tony Kern. The team states, "Be able to manage your life and difficult situations through preparedness and proven, simple, error reduction mechanisms."

Leading with Elite Solutions

BHS' innovation is a result of likeminded, passionate leaders in health and wellness coming together and partnering on how to do the most for as many people as possible. The company stays ahead of the competition by partnering with world leaders in the health and wellness space to bring the most elite set of solutions. The team shares, "Our secret ingredient is our team of highly trained registered nurses, world leading medical director, and partnerships with other globally recognized physicians and scientists. Our medical team is able to support anyone in their wellness journey and assure adoption of technology to support ongoing improvements."

At BHS, the team focuses on individual relationships resulting in revolutionary changes in its customers' lives.

Becoming Better to Do Good

Adversity has a lot of positive side effects if one chooses to persevere and grow through it without allowing seeds of resentment or anger to take root. The business world can be challenging to navigate, with many bad players who are willing to compromise their integrity to get their way and/or sell something. Brent reveals that his biggest struggles and obstacles were also crucial in propelling him down an entrepreneurial path where he was driven to build something better, something enduring, and where everyone who interacts with BHS is awestruck by its culture of integrity, respect, and empathy

Pioneer in Wellness Sector

BHS is a pioneer in their approach to wellness and treats everyone as a unique individual requiring a customized health and wellness plan to meet their goals. In March of this year, BHS is launching its TRANSFORMATIVE WELLBEING INNOVATIONS ™ services specifically directed to individual consumers. The goal of this launch is to reach as many individuals as possible who are not privileged to work for companies that employ their services. “The more people we can reach, the faster we can heal the world. This is a big goal, but someone must have it if we are ever going to make a difference in the declining health and wellbeing of the population”.

Manit Chander

Bringing technology into the maritime industry

Manit Chander is a seasoned strategist obsessed with using technology to revolutionize the maritime industry. As the CEO of HiLo Maritime Risk Management, he is sailing the company on a high tide and is all set to take it to the next level.

All his early life, he was surrounded by three things: the ocean, ships, and white uniforms. Stepping into the maritime industry was a foregone conclusion.

An unorthodox style

With experience of both the startup and corporate worlds, Manit shaped the path for HiLo with the best of both styles. With corporations, it is all about setting a course and working on it until it is achieved. Contrary to this approach, in startups, it is important to stay agile. The end goal remains the same, but the steps to get there are tested and changed until the best solution is found.

The HiLo takes advantage of the perks of both styles. The Board consists of seasoned experts of the corporate world who have vast experience in different areas of the

industry. HiLo's in-house team works with a methodology that comes from the startup world. It is all about 'Build, Measure, and Learn.' The team builds a solution, measures the efficacy, learns from the mistakes, and repeats the process to grow further. Unlike the corporate style, which says to keep following a single path and stay committed to it, Manit leads with startup-style which allows for U-turns while progressing forward, staying flexible with the working approach.

Understanding the problem is half the solution

Being a captain in the maritime industry means that Manit has witnessed the problems faced by mariners closely and experienced them first-hand.AsAlbert Einstein quotes, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results."

The maritime industry has approached maritime safety in the same way for decades, but lifethreatening incidents are still occurring. Manit worked with a dedicated group of seafarers across multiple companies to discover a, effective new way to prevent these high impact incidents.

Manit realized that the data in the maritime industry was not shared properly between shipping companies and other industry bodies. Many different systems were created to analyse the root causes of previous incidents and find insights from them. Manit and the team created a tool to look forward and prevent incidents from happening in the first place.

He combined his business and management skills with his experience in the maritime industry and piloted HiLo with a small number of companies. The predictive approach was shown to be effective. Following a balanced approach, he is solving the issues of the maritime industry with a data-based solution. HiLo became independent in 2018 and has increased its reach fivefold.

Conquer the fear to fail

Manit believes that it is vital to grab the hidden opportunities found in challenges. No doubt, challenges test a person's character, but to evolve into a successful leader, a person should never be afraid to fail, because that is the best chance to learn and evolve.Being the victim of the circumstances will only add stress to

the person's shoulders. So, it is necessary to look beyond the fear of the challenge to become stronger and climb the ladder of success.

For his whole life, Manit has seen every challenge as the next steppingstone to something exciting. When he witnessed maritime industry's data gap, he looked at it as an opportunity and grabbed the chance to create something unique that would help everyone in the industry

He states, "It is all about staying strong, believing in yourself, and maintaining a never-give-up attitude. When you hit rock bottom, at that moment, you need to gather all your

strength, rise without losing hope, and you will witness surprisingly good results."

Evolving with changing trends in the maritime industry

The maritime industry is going through a technology revolution. Every entity in the industry is going through a shift towards digitization. However, not every one of them is moving at the same pace. The gap between the most and least technologically advanced is vast, creating a state of imbalance.

Manit is focusing on bridging the gap between these entities with HiLo. The

company is using the power of Big DataAnalytics to meet the needs of shipping companies, while taking into account their varied levels of digitisation. HiLo is flexible, bringing all its customers to the same level of data-driven analysis, no matter where their starting point is.

He wants to remove the fear of sharing data in the industry to create better solutions for everyone. Besides improving the efficiency of safety campaigns to save lives of the mariners, Manit wants to improve the performance of every aspect of the industry through better data sharing.

To achieve all these goals, he framed

two strongholds of HiLo, namely, Trust and Customer-centricity. Both these traits run across the company, both internally and externally. From decision-making to development, the team stays true to these core values. The company maintains a space where nobody has a fear of failing and has the opportunity to create better solutions that revolve around the customers.

Man on a mission

As the CEO of Hilo, HiLo supports his team to succeed. Manit follows a wide and strategic approach while leading the company upfront and takes on the challenges with a

positive mindset. Team members are encouraged to speak their minds and share ideas without fear of being put down. This open communication is at the core of HiLo's innovation. H

He encourages the team to share stories of the impact that HiLo has on seafarers to show the real-life value of their hard. He makes sure that success stories are celebrated among team members as a reminder of what HiLo is achieving in the industry

Doing all these things puts Manit in a challenging situation when it comes to balancing his work and personal life. However, he supports his team members to lead a balanced life, and

he himself, is looking forward to it –one day

Top line vision for the company

Manit aims transform HiLo into the maritime industry's knowledge centre. He expresses, "We should be the goto organization for everyone when it comes to safe sharing of data and getting meaningful results out of it.”

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