The 10 Most Successful Women Leaders to Follow in 2023

O V E R S T O R Y

Eldeen Pozniak

Vidhi Jhaveri

The Architect of Digital Excellence

Setting New Benchmarks in the Event Industry for the Last Three Decades: Peggy Kelley’s Inspirational Journey 16

Changing the World of Catering and Events

An Exemplary Success in Marketing and Communications

A Renowned Scienti c Leader and Innovator Creating a Legacy

An Ardent Leader Setting a New Benchmark in the Biopharmaceutical Industry

O N T E N T S

Editor’s Note

The Top Business Women Narrating Their Own Tale of Success…

Women are climbing the ladder of the workforce and holding leadership roles across the globe like never before. While German Chancellor Angela Merkel continues to lead the European Union and Hilary Clinton nearly became the first female president of the United States, these strong women are quietly-and often not so quietly-creating histories of their own.

For many female leaders, 2023 has been a historic year, impacting changes in business well-being, government economics, foreign policy, and health. As female leaders continue to rise, you may not be familiar with these ten successful women leaders who are leading growing enterprises under their supervision while strengthening the business atmosphere and making waves in the global arena. Many of these women overcame great obstacles to accomplish their goals, serving as role models for other women around the world.

Presenting our latest edition, "The 10 Most Successful Women Leaders to Follow in 2023," to honor, value, and appreciate the contributions of the most powerful women in leadership today. Furthermore, we are here with the edition to reveal the secrets and discover the key to the success of these changemakers.

The ‘read’ brings together several incredible female leaders who have overcome obstacles and barriers to consistently contribute to this wonderful progress. Readers from all around the world will have the opportunity to witness firsthand how these powerful women, featured in this special issue, have achieved success in their chosen fields. If these success stories inspire and push you to pursue your dream idea, we would be overjoyed.

We are thankful for the appreciation and attention we are getting from our readers worldwide. Stay tuned for our upcoming intriguing edition when we come back. Please feel free to share your feedback on how we are doing. Lastly, I would like to sign off with a famous quote by Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook: “True leadership stems from individuality that is honestly and sometimes imperfectly expressed... Leaders should strive for authenticity over perfection."

Let’s Read..!

Eldeen Pozniak

Director / Pozniak Safety Associates Inc

Meet Eldeen E. Pozniak An Amazing and Accomplished Management Consultant

Her extensive work history of more than 25 years includes various structural and cultural components of a Safety Management system. Achieving success in this domain and successfully accomplishing so many things over so many years is not an easy feat. It needs an ideal combination of hard work, dedication, determination, passion, and, of course, extensive knowledge and expertise. She is Eldeen E. Pozniak, an International Management Consultant and the leading lady behind Pozniak Safety Associates, Inc., and Diggins Safety Consulting.

The magnificent woman has over 2.5 decades of expertise and specializes in occupational health and safety, as well as the leadership abilities of emotional intelligence, multicultural intelligence, and influence. She also offers international management consulting in management and leadership.

The Woman of the Hour

"I traveled a path of education, exploring options, earning degrees in physical therapy, psychology, and occupational health and safety (OHS), eventually becoming an international management consultant with a focus on OHS and an MBA in global leadership," stated Eldeen.

She successfully built her businesses from Saskatoon to Dubai to Phoenix with innovation and dedication. She successfully visited 33 different

nations on six of the seven continents, including Morocco, Australia, the UK, and Singapore. Her success is largely attributable to her capacity for critical thought and business planning. Success and self-satisfaction are built on a sense of purpose.

Enhancing Productivity, Profitability, and Engagement

Emotional IQ: According to Eldeen, "Emotional IQ is a better indicator of Personal and Professional success than IQ." EQ has an impact on total performance both on and off the job, at work and at home, as well as on job and life happiness. Employing emotional intelligence in the workplace eventually improves profitability, engagement, and, of course, safety. Eldeen is able to assist people in comprehending and developing their EQ by offering tests and consultation.

Her friends and family have frequently commented on how many people approach her for advice on how to get through a situation, move on in their careers, shift their emphasis, etc. and said she should do it professionally, so she is.

Speaking: Well known for her sense of humor, story-telling, and down-to-earth approach, she uses experiences from her consulting practice and her personal life to deliver a timely, well-researched, and insightful message that resonates.

Eldeen’s Secret Sauce of Success: Inspiring and Empowering Others!

She strives to empower herself, inspire and empower others, and make a difference. She does this through:

admirable, but it cannot be accomplished without strategy and critical thought, as well as the ability to act. She seeks opportunities to be bold and fearless in pursuing her goals, faces her worries head-on, and stands up for what she believes in.

her best self while also finding a way to uplift other people. She can only be successful if the community, person, or organization in which she is active is also successful. She was inspired to do more for others because of their connection.

Due to her empathetic approach and cultural understanding, she can connect with people easily. She really cares about others. The wonderful woman strives to comprehend other people and

their experiences. She strives to understand people for who they truly are. This is connected to her insatiable curiosity, her efforts to pay close attention to what is said and done, to reply correctly, and her wish that dialogues would continue.

"We are stronger together", says Eldeen. She collaborates and advances her own causes as well as those of others by forming

which adds strength and knowledge, she can access incredible chances that she or they may not have had in the past. She is frequently referred to as a bridge builder, both inside and between professions. She has the capacity to interact with and connect with people on a local, national, and global basis. Collective power is critical to making positive change happen more quickly.

experiences. Learning eventually takes place on the field of mistakes and stumbles. Eldeen accepts variety, struggle, and change as opportunities to test, reinvent, and reaffirm her own identity and course of action. She has put effort into taking care of herself and working to mend her wounds. She strives to overcome her obstacles in life and at work and transforms them into a message that can assist others in doing the same. She keeps learning despite the fact that she is an expert and reputable person in her industry. She believes that it's critical to give others their due, to spend time understanding their

generous. With her time, resources, knowledge, and appreciation. Love and acceptance are really the basis of what she does.

and her desire to change the world "I am truly enthusiastic about my work, my life, my family, and this epic grand adventure I am on. I hope that my positive vibes and energy are contagious. I have worked to positively impact people's lives through being a mentor in the profession, through working with universities to impact their program curriculums, and through working as a management consultant", the leader further apprised.

Take on The Definition of Success

Success entails making a difference, performing my

best each day, embodying the characteristics I admire, and accomplishing my goals. Success for me means discovering and pursuing my life's purpose. It also means that by my attitude and actions, I can be a great source of inspiration for others to work to make a difference in their lives and leave the world a better place.

Co-founder | Toposel

The Architect of Digital Excellence

Born into a family of entrepreneurs, Vidhi Jhaveri knew the inherent possibilities of building and nurturing her own business empire. In 2019, she took a plunge into entrepreneurship by starting her e-commerce store. However, it soon became difficult for her to look at every aspect of the business. So, she made a strategic move and joined a multinational company to learn the intricacies of business. This helped her gather invaluable experience in terms of operational and leadership skills.

Armed with this experience, Vidhi went ahead to manifest her entrepreneurial vision. This led to the inception of Toposel, a Mumbai-based premium digital marketing agency specializing in performance marketing solutions, growth marketing, SEO, and website development.

“From early on, I understood the importance of marketing and communication. However, the “hook” I was looking for that tied me to my career path was missing. I was fortunate enough to be exposed to one of the best universities in the world and get my degree in International Marketing. I was on a journey to explore the world of marketing. Witnessing the rapid evolution of the online sphere, I recognized the immense potential it held for businesses. The ability to connect with a global audience, drive targeted engagement, and deliver measurable results motivated my entry into the digital marketing industry,”- she states.

Overcoming Challenges

One of the things that plague not just Vidhi but most other entrepreneurs is the fear of failing, the uncertainty with which the first step is taken.

However, Vidhi believes keeping the head down and working towards the goal is the way to go.

Being a Co-founder of a Digital Marketing firm, Vidhi knows that navigating the maze of a complex digital market landscape also has its share of challenges. Adapting to the ever-changing algorithms, staying ahead of trends, and ensuring complete client satisfaction requires continuous learning and development. So, Vidhi and her team at Toposel took on those challenges by forging strategic alliances, demonstrating an unwavering dedication to staying abreast of industry trends and cultivating an innovative organizational culture.

Nurturing Talent Development and Leadership

Vidhi always prioritizes fostering leadership and talent development at Toposel. She staunchly adheres to the belief in empowering team members through a multifaceted approach. This includes ongoing training, mentorship programs, a collaborative work environment, recognizing and rewarding achievements, providing growth opportunities, and encouraging a culture of open communication to contribute to the professional development of Toposel’s team.

A Paradigm Shift

Vidhi believes the convergence of AI, data analytics, and immersive technologies will redefine the business landscape. However, Toposel is strategically positioned to assist businesses in adopting new technologies. Toposel’s data-driven approach, emphasis on AI-driven insights, and proficiency in immersive technologies equip its

clients with the tools needed to thrive in the evolving digital ecosystem.

“The digital marketing industry is witnessing a paradigm shift towards personalized, interactive, and socially conscious experiences. Influencer marketing, voice search optimization, and sustainability-focused campaigns are emerging as major trends. Staying attuned to these shifts allows Toposel to offer innovative solutions that resonate with evolving consumer expectations,”- Vidhi states.

Leadership is all about Learning

Vidhi knows that leadership is all about the commitment to continuous learning. She invests in professional and personal growth through industry conferences, networking events, and ongoing education. Staying connected with thought leaders, exploring diverse perspectives, and embracing new challenges contribute to her development as a leader in the digital marketing space.

Suggestions for Younger Self

Vidhi suggests young entrepreneurs embrace change, stay curious, and prioritize learning. She feels the digital marketing landscape evolves very quickly. Thus, success lies in adaptability and a proactive mindset.

Vidhi also underscores the importance of collaboration and networking. She encourages young entrepreneurs to surround themselves with like-minded professionals to create an ecosystem conducive to growth and development.

Future Roadmap

As we set our sights on 2024 and beyond, Vidhi plans to solidify Toposel’s position as a leading digital marketing agency further. She plans to expand the firm’s service offerings, strengthen global partnerships, and pioneer innovative solutions. Building Toposel’s foundation of excellence, Vidhi, and her team aspires to be at the forefront of driving transformative digital experience for their clients.

“As we continue to shape the future of digital marketing at Toposel, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and are dedicated to driving measurable success for our clients through innovative strategies and a relentless pursuit of digital excellence,”- concludes Vidhi.

Nicole Zimmermann Founder & CEO | ZELOCIN & Partners LLC

Nicole Zimmermann

An Exemplary Success in Marketing and Communications

Adynamic and versatile professional with over 20 years of experience in business excellence and leadership, Nicole Zimmermann, founder and CEO of ZELOCIN & Partners LLC USA and non-executive director at Financial House Ltd. UK, is one such inspiring woman leader who has been developing a remarkable knack to recognize opportunities. A proficient executive in the fields of marketing, communications, and change leadership. She creates effective go-to-market plans that emphasize customer experience journeys, digital marketing, needs-based segmentation, and value-based propositions. She is an ardent supporter of equity, diversity, and inclusion and serves as a global coach and mentor to exceptional individuals.

Overcoming Obstacles Along the Path

Her endeavor ZELOCIN & Partners LLC is a strategic marketing consulting organization that assists individuals and businesses in realizing their unmet growth potential. The Financial Times and Statista named her second venture, Financial House UK, one of Europe's 1000 fastest-growing companies in 2022. It includes creating a clear business plan, addressing your motivation factors, building your personal entrepreneurial brand, and figuring out how your enterprise will benefit society, communities, individuals, and other businesses.

The Significance of Mentorship

Nicole's leadership style revolves around coaching and mentoring. She has dedicated her professional life to providing this support to her teams and talents at the companies she has worked for. Now that she is an entrepreneur, this is a service she offers. She considers herself fortunate to have had some great mentors throughout her career and feels that every entrepreneur can greatly benefit from having or serving as a mentor, since it allows you to grow as a person, learn from others, and acquire new skills.

Gender-related biases or stereotypes

Not so much in Nicole's coaching or consulting career, but joining a company board has presented its share of difficulties. Gender equality is a significant issue in boardrooms worldwide, with only 29% of roles held by women in firms in North America and Europe. Therefore, it needs influential allies in your network who recognize the value and abilities you can offer a company to facilitate these kinds of introductions. Her first board position with Financial House Ltd. UK emerged as a result of what she refers to as a "hand forward, hand back" mentality. She was able to connect with Financial House's owner, Alisher Abdukadyrov, through a former, dear colleague she had supported through some difficult times in his marketing team during his onboarding at the company they worked for. They both recognized the skills and experience she

could provide the business, which would grow rapidly and become one of the 1,000 fastest-growing firms in Europe by Statista and Financial Times in 2022.

Nicole’s Gender Equality in Entrepreneurship

We definitely have more opportunities, and fortunately, more women have more confidence in their ability to become business owners. In the US, 42% of companies are owned by women, compared to barely 1 in 3 globally. However, only 1.9% of total VC capital really flows to female business owners when it comes to investment funding. To level the playing field and enable women to sustainably expand their businesses globally, this must change.

Tech Evolutions Over the Years

There have been new technologies like machine learning, robotics, and now generative AI accessible to marketing to deliver excellence in customer experience, digitization, communication, loyalty, and retention. Marketing should continue to embrace these technologies as a customer-facing function in any business to enhance customer journeys, value propositions, and servicing across channels while streamlining processes and lowering costs. Such a move will aid in the transformation of their companies and result in even stronger market positioning and distinctiveness.

Future Visualized

Nicole is actively looking forward to continuing her growth and expanding her business, specifically the board services portion of it, where she can provide advice and guidance to rapidly expanding scale-ups like Financial House UK or established corporations in their goals to expand as well as grow internationally and digitally transform their businesses to remain competitive.

The Key Takeaways from her Entrepreneurial Journey

Nicole believes using these five takeaways allows you to articulate your company’s vision, a clearer “the why”, to acquire new clients faster, and positioning your value propositions in a unique way while differentiating your content online in social channels.”.

Who is who in your Network -

Understanding the composition of and roles people play in your network (mentors, coaches, connectors, supporters, referrers,

Listening is learning

Setting an example and serving as a role model as an entrepreneur

Personal branding and executive presence are critical for female business owners

Honesty, openness, and authenticity are fundamental principles to uphold at all times

Visionary’s Message to the Readers

You need to invest time to build a support system and network around you; find a mentor and/or a coach who can provide that outside perspective that will guide you through the rough patches of becoming an entrepreneur and business owner while enabling and empowering you to give your best and ultimately celebrates successes with you.

Christina Rahm

A Renowned Scientific Leader and Innovator

Creating a Legacy

Dr. Christina Rahm, an eminent scientific leader, innovator, and spokeswoman in the health and wellness landscape, is a fine example of strong leadership. Dr. Rahm plans to explore the tech industry in an effort to lead by example and encourage other women to pursue their passions. Additionally, it has been scientifically demonstrated that having women in leadership roles increases productivity.

Rahm's achievements in the fields of medicine, clinical research, and science speak for themselves. She travels the world to present lectures and educate both the public and business communities about the innovative new world of nutraceuticals, wellness tactics, and environmental solutions. She has worked for prestigious companies throughout her years of experience, including Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Jansen, DCZ Healthcare, Biogen, Idec, Alexion, and Root Wellness, in leadership roles including Chief Scientific Officer and Chairman of the Board of Medical Sciences and Clinical Sciences.

Dr. Rahm has always adopted an adventurous yet pragmatic stance when it comes to possibilities, innovation, or leadership. She has five authorized patents and 10 patents pending on her inventions. Nanotech Skin Coating, Filtration System, Lectin Detoxification, Cold Press Nano-Emulsion, Water

Soluble Electrolyzed Silicon Dioxide, Biochemical Composition and Method Support for Cognitive Function, Extractives of Silicate Production, and Compositions for Tryptophan Metabolic Syndrome. She has won numerous awards for developing cutting-edge technological solutions for various business sectors.

In academics, Dr. Rahm is highly qualified, holding master's and doctoral degrees in strategic science, psychology, and rehabilitation counseling. She completed her postdoctoral work in bioscience engineering and nanobiotechnology at Harvard University, and she holds credentials from Cornell University in nutrition and pharmaceutical management.

For our captivating edition, we recently had an interesting talk with Dr. Christina Rahm. We found a lot to think about as she moved up the success ladder in her numerous roles as a mother, wife, artist, international scientific leader, formulator, innovator, and patent writer. Thanks to her intriguing background and strategic innovations in the pharmaceutical field, she became a sought-after leader in the ecosystem of technological breakthroughs, including nutraceutical, biotechnology, and environmental sciences. Although her journey has been an overwhelming experience, she continues to move higher.

A Glance at the Company

Aspiring to be a leader in both the scientific and consumer goods industries, while also fostering change and enhancing the lives of people everywhere, DRC strives to create products that not only meet the needs of customers but also contribute to the greater good through innovation, transparency, and sustainability.

DRC operates to develop products that not only satisfy customer needs but also advance society through innovation, transparency, and sustainability. The company aspires to be a leader in both the scientific and consumer goods industries, fostering change and enhancing the lives of people everywhere.

DRC Ventures was started to foster an environment of collaboration and innovation that crosses borders and cultures through well-established philanthropic foundations, beauty and fashion brands, platforms with inspirational voices, societies spreading new ideas, and renowned organizations providing medical, supplemental, and environmental services on a large scale. DRC Ventures is a leader in building bridges between businesses and communities.

The team, spearheaded by Christina Rahm, has brought together 12 independent ventures-each with a unique area of expertise-into a unified platform. Like jigsaw pieces fitting together, the individuality of each component gradually transformed into the strength of the whole. Together, these disparate endeavors have not only generated fresh concepts and a mutually beneficial dynamic, but they have also produced a vibrant and inventive atmosphere that fosters innovation and advancement. In today's fast-paced and connected world, when the capacity to collaborate well with others is highly prized, this kind of cooperation has grown in popularity. They realized that by leveraging each partner's strengths, they could succeed more and have a stronger influence across a wider range of businesses as well as society as a whole.

A Global Catalyst Dedicated to Building a Healthier World

When it comes to promoting causes that benefit people, animals, and the environment, the leading lady is a supporter of fostering change. Politicians, lobbyists, social service providers, hospitals, and even non-profit organizations are just a few of the many organizations and people who frequently

claim to be striving to improve the world and foster positive change. Fantastic idea. An intricate idea. An idea that is difficult.

She has always had a strong desire to bring about positive change so that people can solidify their foundation, strengthen their position, and soar to the top of the game rapidly. However, what exactly qualifies as change? By definition, change is the

replacement of one "thing" with another that is better, healthier, cleaner, more sustainable, and possibly more appropriate for everyone. Dr. Rahm uses DRC Ventures as a platform to foster this kind of "change." The objective of this new "business" is to serve as a worldwide hub for conservation initiatives that will improve the environment and leave future generations with a healthier planet.

Mary Tagliaferri Chief Medical Officer | Nektar Therapeutics

An Ardent Leader Setting a New Benchmark in the Biopharmaceutical Industry Mary Tagliaferri

Dr. Mary Tagliaferri, a breast cancer survivor, mother, and amazing business leader, heads Nektar Therapeutics, a global biopharmaceutical company, in pursuit of clinical excellence. She boasts over two decades of professional expertise in pharmaceutical medication development, including substantial regulatory skills in the fields of oncology and women's health.

In the key position of Chief Medical Officer at Nektar, Dr. Tagliaferri directs clinical strategy, clinical operations, biometrics, pharmacovigilance and oversees the company's medical affairs, significant clinical investigator contacts, medical writing and publication tasks. She has provided strategic development leadership for the company's immuno-oncology and immunology portfolio since joining Nektar in January 2015.

Nektar Therapeutics: At a Glance

Nektar Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical firm with a strong, entirely owned R&D pipeline of experimental drugs in oncology and immunology, as well as a portfolio of authorized partnering medicines.

They plan to start a global Phase 2b clinical trial this year for people with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AtD) whose condition cannot be effectively controlled by topical anti-inflammatory

drugs. AtD can have a substantial negative influence on patients' and their families' quality of life because it is a chronic skin condition. Due to the obvious eczematous patches on their skin, patients may experience social shame. Additionally, the severe itching and constant scratching can severely disrupt sleep. With ongoing symptoms and numerous restless nights, AtD can negatively affect emotional health and result in depression.

Rezpegaldesleukin (Rezpeg), a novel chemical from Nektar, is the company's main immunology medication that is currently undergoing clinical testing. It targets the underlying immunological dysregulation by restoring T regulatory cells in both quantity and function to tame the excessive effector T cell response. We think this therapy has the potential to improve the lives of patients since it has a completely different mechanism of action from the atopic dermatitis medications that are now approved.

Rezpeg in AtD recently exhibited early efficacy results that showed greater efficacy than presently approved biological medicines and provided a long-lasting impact for up to 9 months without treatment. Because of these encouraging new data showing remarkable efficacy, safety, and persistence, the company is enthusiastic to move Rezpeg into a Phase 2b trial in patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

Dr. Tagliaferri highlights both her work in immunology and the significant clinical advancements in oncology. The primary objective for enhancing the effectiveness of cellular treatments has been to improve the function or fitness of CAR T cells. We think their treatment, NKTR-255, could have a wide range of applications to boost cellular therapies, including CAR T cells, TILs, engineered T cell receptor therapies, and NK cell products.

Dr.Tagliaferri’s Roller-coaster Ride

"Much of my inspiration and commitment to finding new and improved therapies for patients is fueled by my own journey with cancer", said Mary Tagliaferri.

Dr. Tagliaferri’s story truly began when, at the young age of 30, she was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. She faced major precancerous breast disease in her 40s, which necessitated a bilateral mastectomy. In her 50s, Dr. Tagliaferri was diagnosed with a new type of cancer. She and numerous other patients were forced to come around to new clinical procedures during the COVID pandemic, which made obtaining care more challenging and impersonal.

Having endured long periods of treatment, side effects, and recovery, the heroic physician was reminded over and over of the importance of discovering new cancer medicines, especially ones with low toxicities, so patients can have the highest chances of a cure and the fewest life-disrupting side effects.

Throughout her three decades of experience in drug development, the magnificent woman led clinical research in a broad range of fields, including oncology, immunology, pulmonology, infectious disease, and women’s health.

Prior to Nektar, she co-founded Bionovo, a biotech business specializing in the research and development of cancer and women's health medicines. She also co-founded the Mt. Zion Carol Franc Buck Breast Cancer Translational Research Program in Botanical Medicine and the first traditional Chinese medicine

clinic at the cancer center early in her career at the University of California, San Francisco.

What Makes Dr. Mary Tagliaferri a Healthcare Pioneer?—The Key Elements

Curiosity, being a quick learner, being extremely flexible to the shifting biopharmaceutical landscape, and attention to the company's goals and purpose are just a few of the qualities that have benefited Dr. Tagliaferri's career advancement. She also places a high priority on ethical behavior, success being acknowledged, receiving constructive criticism, and rolling up her sleeves to get the job done. These principles help put the visionary approach into practice.

The Significance of Diversity and Inclusion

Dr. Tagliaferri works hard to create an inclusive and equitable atmosphere. As the mother of two black children, she has had a personal and distinct perspective on racial discrimination. She has frequently witnessed inaccurate assumptions being made about her children based on the color of their skin. The entire Nektar team upholds a zero-tolerance policy with regard to prejudice, and Dr. Tagliaferri highlighted that the workplace fosters a culture of respect for one another.

Achievements to be Proud of

Dr. Mary Tagliaferri has tremendous professional success with numerous memorable accomplishments. She garnered two honors from the San Francisco Business Times in 2019, including Women Who Lead in Life Sciences and The Most Influential Women in Business. She received the Woman of the Year award from the State of California's Assembly District 14 in 2012 for her dedication to women's health, particularly breast cancer awareness, and for her mentoring of young women in the biotech industry.

Dr. Tagliaferri’s Take on the Gender Pay Gap

I strongly believe in leading by example and providing a roadmap to success. Regarding pay, I serve on the compensation committees for two

publicly-traded companies, RayzeBio and Enzo Biochem, and there are simple and equitable approaches to evaluating fair compensation that address salary, equity allocation, and benefits by using a third-party consultant specializing in compensation to create an objective process for establishing equitable compensation regardless of gender. Leveraging objective data to support pay equality is my strong advice for bringing about meaningful change.

Planning for a Brighter Future Ahead

It would be incredibly satisfying to see Rezpeg approved for the treatment of atopic dermatitis and other autoimmune indications. A significant life achievement would be NKTR-255, a new polymer-conjugated human IL-15, being approved, which would demonstrate the efficacy of a cytokine for the treatment of cancer.

Serving on the Board of Directors for two companies, including as Chairperson for one, Dr. Tagliaferri is looking forward to new opportunities to serve as a Board member for emerging companies in the next few years.

On a personal level, she wishes to continue to be very physically active. As someone who has reaped numerous personal benefits from years of meditation and community building with a network of like-minded people, she relishes the idea of teaching meditation classes.

Words

Keep a good balance of work, rest, and play; keep strong connections to your community of family and friends; and don’t forget that laughter is some of the best medicine.

GROUP CEO - OLIVER SANDERSON GROUP PLC

After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree from City, University of London and a Master’s from DePaul University in Chicago, I began my recruitment career on the Graduate Scheme at Hays. Fast-tracked into management roles, I achieved four promotions in four years and took a team from billing £10,000 to £80,000 a month.

From Hays I then moved to Michael Page, where I worked on a hybrid desk across permanent and interim senior leadership roles. I was given responsibility for growing Michael Page’s Public Sector division from its offices in London. I soon became the company’s number one biller in HR across the UK, but I always wanted to pursue an entrepreneurial route. Having already set up executive desks at both Hays and Michael Page, I switched my focus to establishing a business of my own, and in 2011, Oliver Sanderson was born. What started as one woman on a laptop has grown into an international business at the cutting edge of executive search, working with big clients, winning awards, and making a difference internationally!

Oliver Sanderson is an executive search firm with a difference, combining experience and expertise with innovation and fresh thinking. Our Values of Honesty, Integrity and Passion are at the heart of everything we do. Our aim is to help clients achieve greatness by attracting, developing and retaining professionals of the highest calibre. We ensure that clients strengthen their organisations by identifying and recruiting the very best individuals, as well as supporting their progression into accomplished leaders.

Oliver Sanderson has built up a strong track record of senior and C-suite appointments at FTSE 100, FTSE 250, and Fortune 500 companies. We offer end-to-end recruitment and consultancy solutions and our team of highly experienced consultants offer a bespoke service designed to satisfy all recruitment and consultancy requirements. Unlike other recruiters, we offer a genuinely consultative service that ensures we listen to the client’s needs and tailor the search process accordingly. This ensures that we can comprehensively search for candidates that are the best possible fit for the company and role.

Our pioneering digital solutions set us apart from the competition. With our innovative suite of digital apps, including Snapp – the world’s first voice-technology enabled mobile jobs platform with exclusive Amazon Alexa integration – we are leading the way in discovering the next generation of business leaders.

How the recruitment industry is changing

The recruitment industry has already undergone a process of transformation triggered by the pandemic. We are now seeing a candidate-led market – talented candidates are in demand, and they are now setting their own terms, especially with regard to flexible working arrangements. There is no longer any obligation to commute, or spend the whole working week in the office, and companies are building diverse, multi-talented teams operating across different countries and different time zones. There is now a bigger global talent pool to choose from, but the competition for talent is also increased. I expect this trend to continue, with recruiter workloads increasing rapidly. The widening gap between supply and demand is forcing recruiters to work harder to find talent and fill roles. This is where technology and automation can help massively to reduce recruiter workloads and help relieve pressure. New tools and evolving technologies are entering the recruitment space all the time. Of course, there’s no substitute for a talented recruitment team, but HR tech stacks can include solutions for chatbots, candidate screening, AI skills matching, video interviewing and much more! This can all help to streamline the recruitment process and help the recruiter focus on what they do best.

Flexibility is becoming a priority for candidates. Flexible working doesn’t just mean a combination of working from home and in the office – it can mean employees making use of job-sharing, flexitime, and working compressed, annualised, or staggered hours. Businesses are set to benefit from higher productivity

and staff retention as a result. LinkedIn Sales Director Cara O’Leary recently revealed that flexibility has become the number one priority for candidates searching for a new job on the platform. It’s clear, then, that employers will need to be offering flexibility in location, hours or other areas to attract talented candidates in the competitive market. We are also likely to see more businesses opting to move to a 4-day working week given the positive results from the recent UK trial.

Successful Leadership

I think it is vital to be aware of the needs of the sector, the job market, and the requirements of one’s company and people. I firmly believe that a leader should have passion, drive, energy, honesty, integrity, and humor, to name a few! A leader has to be open-minded and find solutions through difficult times. They must be challenged, actively listen, constantly know that they are always learning, and be open to others guiding them. As a business grows, a leader should be apt at identifying and cultivating talent - proper succession planning is vital to longevity. Never be afraid to speak up in the boardroom and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other leaders, but at the same time be open to listening and change. Nobody knows everything and there is always room to learn from others in industry.

Our team has driven our growth from day one, and I work hard every day to keep my team motivated and engaged with our vision and our journey. As a leader, it is vital that I am always challenging, supporting, and inspiring them. We set monthly and annual targets to hit for our team across a number of areas, from sales to social media engagement. But we also support each other, understanding that growth isn’t always linear, and we sometimes learn more from failure than from success.

NAIROUZ BADER

CEO - ENVISION PARTNERSHIP

With a vibrant and successful brand name, Dr. Nairouz Bader, CEO of Envision Partnership,has meticulously structured and scaled leaders and has made a meaningful impact in the business world.

With over 25 years of expertise in executive search, board development, and international growth, the visionary woman leads Envision Partnership, a certified woman-owned business enterprise, serving clients across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

A Pharmacist by trade, Nairouz Bader kicked off her career in the pharmaceutical business and fell in love with leadership while pursuing her postgraduate studies. She started her executive search and leadership practice in New York a couple of decades ago, then moved to Canada and Europe, and then moved to Dubai, heading Envision Partnership.

In the key position of CEO, her responsibilities include creating the company's strategic direction, guiding the team, managing client relationships, controlling financials and operations, and staying up-to-date on industry trends.

"The happiest part of my daily routine is seeing the positive impact we make on clients and candidates, impacting society one placement at a time, and working with a talented team to achieve collective milestones", Dr. Nairouz further added.

Dr. Bader's Innovative Leadership Approach and Business Ethics

Nairouz's utmost drive to achieve excellence and make a meaningful impact in the business world lies in building a positive and inclusive workplace where every team member feels respected and empowered. Collaboration and teamwork are important to her. She always encourages open communication and new thinking among her coworkers. The magnificent woman holds herself and others to high standards, constantly pushing for advancement and success.

Recognizing the significance of diversity and equal opportunity, the leading lady actively promotes these values within her organization. She hopes to be a role model and source of inspiration for others outside of work. She is dedicated to making a difference in her community and in society as a whole. She is involved in a variety of programs and is an advocate for social concerns that coincide with her personal values.

In her personal life, she considers herself fortunate to be the mother of two amazing young daughters who continually inspire, instruct, motivate, and provide her with a new perspective on the world.

"My ultimate dedication lies in breaking down barriers, shattering glass ceilings, and paving the way for future generations of female leaders. I am firmly committed to building a world where gender equality is the norm and where women are granted equal opportunities to flourish in leadership roles", said Dr. Nairouz.

Envision’s Journey: The Inspiring Tale of a Successful Endurance

Envision Partnership, an esteemed female executive search and leadership advisory firm was founded in Canada in 1997 and then extended to Dubai to serve the EMEA region. They are proud to be the first organization in the MENA region to be certified by WeConnect International, as well as the first to be certified by the Association of Executive Search Consultants (AESC).

Additionally, they are certified by OSEC/Switzerland Global Enterprise. Their commitment to excellence has also been recognized by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce CSR Label, which the company received in the Marketplace and Workplace category. AMCHAM has also named us a finalist for the Sustainability Awards.

Exclusive Services on Offer

Here, the primary service is executive search. The team identifies and recruits top-tier executive talent, including a distinctive female executive search. A thorough screening procedure is used to identify the top candidates who match the criteria of the clients, utilizing industry knowledge and a broad network. They place a high priority on establishing enduring bonds of honesty, confidentiality, and trust. They take the time to comprehend the particular requirements and cultural practices of the clients, guaranteeing that they offer tailored solutions that are in line with their strategic goals.

The company provides comprehensive human resources consulting services in addition to executive search. The evaluation and development of talent, organizational design, and restructuring, analysis of salary and benefits, succession planning, and HR strategy consulting are all included in this. The team partners with the clients to address their HR challenges and help them optimize their talent management strategies.

Edge Over the Peers

Envision focuses on a number of crucial elements to stay ahead of the competition. First and foremost, they make significant investments in creating and maintaining a sizable network of business executives and professionals. This enables them to access excellent applicants who might not be actively looking for jobs and tap into a diversified talent pool.

Secondly, they differentiate themselves through their deep industry knowledge and expertise. They strive to stay abreast of market trends, new technological developments, and shifting business environments so that the team can offer clients insightful advice. This establishes the Envision Partnership as dependable consultants that are aware of the problems unique to their sector and are able to propose specialized solutions.

Another factor that sets the team apart is the commitment to delivering exceptional client service. They prioritize building long-term relationships based on trust, integrity, and confidentiality and take the time to understand the client's unique needs and culture, ensuring that they provide customized solutions that align with their strategic objectives.

Envision also provides value-added services that enhance the client experience overall. Reports on market intelligence, competitive analysis, talent benchmarking, and executive mentoring are a few examples. They strive to provide value, empower clients, and support their long-term success by providing services that go above and beyond the conventional scope of services.

Their vast network, in-depth understanding of the industry, first-rate customer service, and value-added services are what gives them an edge over their competitors.

Envision’s Dedicated Team and the Work Culture

The team is the foundation behind Envision’s success. There is a diverse and talented group of professionals who are passionate about what they do. The leading lady promotes a cooperative and welcoming atmosphere that promotes innovation, education, and development. Because of their team's knowledge, commitment, and shared beliefs, they constantly provide great service and go beyond customer expectations.

Collaboration, integrity, ongoing learning, a client-centric mindset, and innovation are among the most crucial facets of a company's culture. To create a solid culture at the executive search firm, they give priority to these concepts. Further, they promote collaboration, uphold the highest ethical standards, stimulate personal development, pay attention to customer demands, and welcome innovation. Moreover, they create a culture that fosters success by setting an example, being transparent, and fostering an inclusive workplace.

For long-term success, organizations primarily rely on team procedures. Individual bravery is admirable, but good cooperation combines a variety of viewpoints and talents, fosters collaboration, and harnesses collective intelligence for better results and shared accountability.

Advice to Aspiring Business Leaders

For someone stepping into a leadership position for the first time, embrace a growth mindset and continually develop your skills. Build strong relationships based on trust and effective communication. Lead by example, demonstrating integrity and fairness. Invest in the development of your team and give them the authority they need. Accept collaboration, adapt to change, and cultivate an innovative culture. Finally, make self-care a priority and strive for a healthy work-life balance. Remember that leadership is a process of continual learning and progress; therefore, be patient, and sincere, and inspire others to succeed.