Digital First Magazine – January 2024 – Most Innovative Company in 2024 by Connecta Innovation

www.digitalfirstmagazine.com

GLOBAL EDITION

Digital, Technology and Business Insights

MUST-WATCH

TECH COMPANY

FEATURING INSIDE

Yondu, Inc

Dan Lohrmann Field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

IN 2024

MUST-WATCH

for Public Sector, Presidio

TO FOLLOW IN 2024

Ivana Nikolik Europe 40Under40 Top Business Leader, Forbes Councils Official Member

INNOVATOR

Stephan M. Branch President and CEO, World Trade Resource (WTR) LEADING

CLEAN TECH COMPANY TO WATCH 2024

APG-Neuros MOST INNOVATIVE

PAYMENT SOLUTION PROVIDER TO WATCH IN 2024

Kevin O’Donovan Technology Evangelist & Founder, A Bit of This and That, Ricardo Minari Director of Global Partnerships, Ateme Dr. Sina Wulfmeyer Chief Data Officer & Head Financial Services, Unique

Zūm Rails

ROBERT GROSVENOR MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR PRIVACY & DATA COMPLIANCE SERVICES, ALVAREZ & MARSAL

SPEARHEADING GLOBAL PRIVACY & DATA COMPLIANCE SERVICES

Digital First Magazine January 2024

JANUARY 2024

Digital First Magazine January 2024

www.digitalfirstmagazine.com

January 2024

Managing Editor Sarath Shyam Consultant Editors Dr. John Andrews Naomi Wilson Emma James Stanly Lui Andrew Scott Steve Hope Sabrina Samson Keith Alexander Creative Consultants Charlie Jameson Louis Bernard Shirley David Branding & Marketing Partnerships Jennifer Anderson Monica Davis Jessica Edword Rachel Roy Anna Elza Stephen Donnell Cathy Chen Enquiry admin@digitalfirstmagazine.com

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Digital First Magazine January 2024

Vol - 5 Issue - 1

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Asia-Pacific Ramanashree Arcade, 18 MG Road, Bangalore, India Digital First Magazine is a digital magazine published by Connecta Innovation Private Limited. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed in the content are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Connecta Innovation Private Limited or any of its members or associates. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the advertisements and all representation of warranties made in such advertisements are those of the advertisers and not of the publisher. Digital First trademark is owned by DFG Digital First Infotech Pvt Ltd. and Connecta Innovation Pvt Ltd. has permission to use Digital First brand name. Digital First Magazine is a Free Subscription digital magazine strictly not for sale and has to be strictly for internal private use only. Publisher does not assume any responsibility arising out of anyone printing copy of this digital magazine in any format and in any country and all matters related to that.

MANAGING EDITOR’S NOTE

Embracing the Digital Wave: Charting Technological Frontiers in 2024

s we stand at the crossroads of progress, disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and augmented reality are no longer mere buzzwords but powerful catalysts propelling us into the future. From the rise of decentralized finance to the omnipresence of smart cities, Digital First Magazine always captures the zeitgeist of a world in constant metamorphosis. Welcome to the latest issue of Digital First Magazine, where we explore the latest technological innovations that are shaping the

year 2024. In this rapidly advancing era, our magazine serves as a guide to help readers stay up-to-date with cutting-edge trends and groundbreaking developments that are redefining the landscape of business and technology. Effective leadership is critical to success in this ever-evolving digital ecosystem. As technology becomes the driving force behind progress, leaders must adapt and inspire innovation and resilience in their teams. This edition is especially significant because we present insights into the Must-Watch Innovators and Tech Companies of 2024, highlighting the pioneers who are shaping the future. Our cover story features Robert Grosvenor, the Managing Director for Privacy & Data Compliance Services at Alvarez & Marsal. With over two decades of experience in advising on global privacy, data governance, and related regulations, his journey is both an inspiration and a valuable lesson in the importance of expertise and leadership in a data-driven world. Digital First Magazine aims to be your trusted companion in the exciting and transformative journey ahead. In “Embracing the Digital Wave,” we invite you to immerse yourself in the narratives of innovation, leadership, and the convergence of technology and business. Welcome to a future shaped by the pioneers and visionaries who dare to redefine what’s possible. Enjoy Reading.

Sarath Shyam Digital First Magazine January 2024

COVER

STORY

ROBERT GROSVENOR MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR PRIVACY & DATA COMPLIANCE SERVICES, ALVAREZ & MARSAL

SPEARHEADING GLOBAL PRIVACY & DATA COMPLIANCE SERVICES 6

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Yondu, Inc

Joan Penaflorida, President and CEO, Yondu, Inc Transformative Technologies for Tomorrow’s Triumphs

Dr. Stephan M. Branch Author of Cultural Intelligence in the 21st Century and Founder and CEO of World Trade Resource (WTR)

Cultural Competency Optimizes Business Performance

APG-Neuros

LEADING

CLEAN

TECH COMPANY TO WAT C H

2024

Zūm Rails Marc Milewski, CEO and CO-Founder Pioneering the Future of Payments

Omar Hammoud, President & CEO Providing Sustainable Wastewater Solutions Worldwide

MOST INNOVATIVE

PAY M E N T SOLUTION PROVIDER TO WATCH IN

2024 Digital First Magazine January 2024

IN MY VIEW

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Driving Positive Change in the Digital Health Industry

Creating a Positive Impact through Innovation, Collaboration, & Hard Work in the Tech World

Howard Rosen, CEO & Founder, Nova Insights

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Myrtle Anne Ramos, Founder & CEO, Block Tides

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Helping Companies Build their Data & AI Capabilities to Make Smarter and More Informed Decisions Koo Ping Shung, Co-Founder/Practicum Director, Data Science Rex Pte. Ltd.

Bridging the Gap Between Technology, Society, & Business Somi Arian, Founder & CEO, InPeak, Filmmaker, & Author

Helping Companies Harness the Power of their Data to Unlock New Revenue Opportunities Ken Elliott, Co-founder & Chief Data & Analytics Officer, Provision Analytics

Digital First Magazine January 2024

C OVE R STO RY

ROBERT GROSVENOR MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR PRIVACY & DATA COMPLIANCE SERVICES, ALVAREZ & MARSAL

SPEARHEADING GLOBAL PRIVACY & DATA COMPLIANCE SERVICES Robert Grosvenor is a Managing Director with Alvarez & Marsal in London. He leads global privacy and data compliance services and brings more than 20 years of experience advising on global and cross-border privacy, data governance, records management and related data regulation requirements. Mr. Grosvenor has significant experience designing, delivering and maintaining global privacy programs involving strategy, governance, risk management, operational compliance and project management. He has supported clients with the compliant management of data as part of their digital transformation and data strategy initiatives including AI governance and data ethics and compliance across the global digital supply chain. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Mr. Grosvenor shared his professional trajectory, insights on why data privacy is more important than ever in today’s AI-driven age, the two key skills required to be a successful data privacy leader, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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Digital First Magazine January 2024

Mr. Grosvenor, could you please tell us about your background, your career path, and how you got to your position today? I studied English and European laws at university but early on in the course I knew that I did not want to be a typical corporate lawyer. I did enjoy learning about intellectual property and competition law where there were strong overlaps with technology, economics and business strategy. I also really enjoyed the opportunity to study abroad under the Erasmus scheme, spending a year at the University of Nijmegen in The Netherlands where I was able to focus on European and international comparative laws. After graduating I was fortunate to be selected for an internship at the European Commission in Brussels in the Directorate General for Competition where I worked on

some major infringement actions involving abuse of dominant positions in the automotive sector. Whilst I was in Brussels, Deloitte Belgium was creating a new legal department focused on Technology, Media and Telecommunications. I was always interested in computing and technology, so I thought this might be something interesting to do for six months before deciding what to do with the rest of my life. In reality, this was the start of a 13-year career with Deloitte, spending seven years in Brussels initially working with companies during the dot com boom of the early 2000s including working on some of the first pan-European internet-based trading and banking platforms and ecommerce initiatives. I really enjoyed working in an area where there was no clear rule book and often involving a complicated web of different European, national and sectorial laws and regulations based on bricks

IT FEELS LIKE MY WHOLE CAREER HAS BEEN A JOURNEY IN THE EVOLUTION OF DATA PROTECTION AND PRIVACY, FROM A MINOR ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLIANCE FUNCTION CENTERED AROUND ASPIRATIONAL GENERAL PRINCIPLES, TO A CRITICAL PART OF CORPORATE DECISION MAKING AND ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT

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and mortar business models and new emerging ecommerce rules. Working with business leads, developers and lawyers in real-time was exciting and I got to learn a lot about not only the technology platforms being developed but also the business models supporting them. The bursting of the dot com bubble coincided with the rise of data protection laws in Europe and, in particular, implementation of the EU Data Protection Directive. I subsequently moved into Deloitte’s enterprise risk area, where I learnt a lot more about risk management, auditing and information security. Combining legal, compliance, and risk management, I was again fortunate to be in the right place to find myself involved with some of the first European and global privacy programs for major companies in the life sciences and financial services sectors. In 2006, I moved back to the UK and helped build out privacy and data protection services at Deloitte in London within their financial services audit and advisory practice. Again, I had opportunities to work on a range of projects across industries and also in the public sector. In 2011 the opportunity arose to join Promontory Financial Group (now part of IBM), where I had the chance to continue working with a small number of colleagues who also moved over from Deloitte. I helped to support building out this team, focusing on global and multinational privacy and data related regulatory challenges for organizations across financial services, life sciences, technology and media. At Promontory we were able to build a team of experts dedicated to privacy and data protection where we could serve the real-world challenges of corporations seeking to deploy global technology and business strategies across, in some cases, hundreds of jurisdictions. Whilst

many of the team had legal backgrounds, I think the key value we developed was the ability to engage a range of key stakeholders across the organization including business, technology, cyber risk and the internal control functions. Often, we were able to help the General Counsel and their team align their needs and concerns with the business challenges, allowing senior management to understand their options and make informed risk-based decisions that also allowed them to explain to regulators and investors how they were addressing their key corporate values, regulatory obligations and risk management priorities. 2020 brought an opportunity to move to Alvarez & Marsal, and with it the chance to work for Phil Beckett, a friend that I have known since we were about eight years old. Phil leads A&M’s Disputes and Investigations practice in EMEA, and had established a highly regarded digital forensics, e-Discovery and cyber risk department. This expertise and experience align well with our privacy and data compliance consulting services – particularly as clients look to address holistic data governance and enterprise-wide data strategies. Companies are facing challenges around increasing global pressures regarding data governance and risk management, and our services provide them with a single team that offers a combined skill set across privacy, data compliance, cyber risk and data management. What is your favorite part of working at Alvarez & Marsal, specifically covering privacy & data compliance services? Every day is different, and I really enjoy working with other parts of the A&M firm. For example, we may be pulled in to support a major insolvency

Digital First Magazine January 2024

matter where we assist the administrators in managing GDPR compliance obligations or challenges around the management of large or sensitive customer data sets. Another day we may work with a Private Equity firm to assess the privacy and data compliance risk of a target acquisition or investment. I enjoy the variety of work, ranging from working with the advisory board and senior management looking at corporate governance for data, building a target operating model for a new privacy or AI governance function, or getting our hands dirty designing and deploying privacy compliancerelated controls into specific business processes. I also really enjoy learning and adapting to changes in global data laws and regulations, through the adoption of new data strategies and technology innovation by our clients. Do you observe fundamental changes and evolutions in the domain of personal data protection and its perception? It feels like my whole career has been a journey in the evolution of data protection and privacy, from a minor administrative compliance function centered around aspirational general principles, to a critical part of corporate decision making and enterprise risk management. In particular it has been fascinating to see how data laws have developed globally and how cultural and social differences have impacted their interpretation and adoption. Why is data privacy more important than ever in today’s AI-driven age? It feels like we are at a critical inflection point as a society with the widespread adoption of AI-based technologies and with it greater

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reliance on responsible data management. This is both in the sense of respect for individual and societal rights and interests, but also the significance of data quality, security and fair practices when it comes to building and using data driven tools to unlock commercial opportunities. Like the challenges I saw early in my career with the development of online services, corporations face similar challenges in mapping a path through complex and emerging competition rules, online safety and consumer rights laws, digital assets and intellectual property, corporate social responsibility and the emergence of digital ethics and AI governance that extend well beyond traditional privacy and data protection rules. What would you describe as a robust data security strategy? Data governance needs to address and balance often competing obligations, issues, risks and opportunities. Specifically, organizations need to move from paper-based policies that set out general intents and aspirations, to build organizational frameworks and models that are capable of defining and tracking key risk and compliance priorities that can be translated into actionable and measurable objectives and controls. This involves collaboration across the company in terms of alignment between policy objectives, control requirements and adoption and ongoing assurance monitoring across business lines and corporate functions. It is about bringing together the right policies with the right skill sets and experience, that can then leverage appropriate technology and tooling – rather than selecting a technology solution that is then expected to address all of these risks effectively.

FOR EFFECTIVE PRIVACY MANAGEMENT, THERE NEEDS TO BE A COMBINATION OF LEGAL AND TECHNICAL SKILLS THAT ARE SUPPORTED BY EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL COMPLIANCE AND MONITORING.

What do you believe will be the key trends likely to emerge in data privacy over the next 5 years? Currently we often see privacy “owned” by legal or in some cases information security. For effective privacy management, there needs to be a combination of legal and technical skills that are supported by effective operational compliance and monitoring. I see the evolution of certain groups within a privacy function that bring capabilities to the organization across different domains. This could include government affairs inputting around regulatory policy and industry standards, privacy counsel whose role is in interpreting rules and addressing claims and enforcement challenges, privacy engineers who can assist in implementing privacy enhancing technologies and embedding privacy design directly into new products and services and privacy assessment teams who can monitor compliance and recommend ongoing operational improvements. We will also see AI itself being used to greater effect in facilitating privacy compliance and risk monitoring. One key trend is going to be increased oversight and visibility to senior management who see the impact that data breaches, enforcement and a breakdown in consumer trust can have on the business. We’ll also see business strategies that leverage the commercialization of customer profiles and the use of related data sets for the training of AI models or advanced analytics which may see significant improvements in productivity or sales. Providing relevant and accurate management information on privacy and data protection risk and compliance is going to be key to maintaining confidence with senior management and in shaping future data strategies.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

PRIVACY PROFESSIONALS SHOULD SEEK TO POSITION THEMSELVES AS ENABLERS RATHER THAN BEING PERCEIVED AS A ROADBLOCK TO INNOVATION OR BUSINESS OBJECTIVES

What advice do you have for other privacy professionals in terms of gaining experience, knowledge, and being able to find and implement solutions for companies? Privacy professionals should seek to position themselves as enablers rather than being perceived as a roadblock to innovation or business objectives. I think privacy professionals can play a pivotal role in terms of building key relationships across

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the organization. You should be there to advise the business and support appropriate risk-based decision-making, as opposed to being seen as the owner of privacy risk. I think there are also opportunities to build your own external network with fellow privacy professionals that can assist in both understanding and validating trends and developments, and also being able to build your own reputation as a subject matter expert.

What are the 2 must-have skills a Data Privacy leader should have? Subject matter expertise and keeping abreast of regulatory and industry developments. One of the key skills is the ability to understand the devil in the detail but also the ability to step back and identify the key objective or driver. This is essential to help define options and approaches which take into account legal complexities but also appreciate risk and impact so that global and regional strategies and requirements can be defined and implemented by the business in an effective – and efficient – way. Communication skills are key. Developing soft skills such as spoken and written communication styles for different audiences, as well as building confidence in presenting – particularly to a senior audience – are valuable for data privacy professionals. How do you stay up to date with industry news and updates regarding data privacy? I have a great team that is constantly monitoring regulatory and industry developments through a range of news channels and subscriptions. Attending industry events, joining webinars and talking to organizations, regulators and peers is also a useful way to level set on issues and priorities. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? A&M has provided me with a great platform to do the work I love with a wonderful mix of clients. I hope that in the next five years I

will continue to develop our privacy and data compliance expertise with A&M globally. As we get to grips with the impact of AI and the implications for our clients, I also expect the scope of the AI governance services I have established will continue to expand as we see the proliferation in AI specific laws and industry standards emerge. What is the advice you would like to share that will help small businesses protect their data? It is essential to understand your organization when it comes to what type of data you are collecting, how it is being used across the organization and what specific challenges and issues you face in terms of meeting the expectations of customers, regulators and business partners. This way you can focus your resources and budget on the things that really matter. It is also important to consider your current and future data and business plans so that you can build in the capabilities that allow you to legally use the data for future business purposes. Increasingly we see a lot of data processing activities outsourced to a myriad of technology and business solutions providers. It is important that you consider privacy vendor risk management both in terms of your responsibilities and liability for providers under the relevant data protection laws, but also in terms of defining key issues such as data ownership and the extent to which you wish any third party to be able to use data for their own business purposes and how this aligns with the legitimate expectations of your own customers.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Yondu, Inc

Transformative Technologies for Tomorrow ’s Triumphs

ondu, Inc. is a prominent IT solutions provider based in the Philippines. The powerhouse is dedicated to empowering businesses with secure, scalable, and innovative technology solutions, aligning with its vision of spearheading digital transformation and uplifting Filipino lives. In its early days, Yondu was a modest tech-based firm specializing in mobile content and digital applications. However, in 2014, a pivotal moment occurred. Joan Penaflorida, the insightful President and CEO of Yondu,

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reflects, “We redefined our business model and strategies, responding to the dynamic shifts in customer behaviors, preferences, and the overall business landscape. This adaptability has been key to staying relevant in the ever-evolving needs of organizations and their customers.” Beyond mere expansion, Yondu has not only kept pace with the evolving macroenvironmental factors in the IT industry but has also redefined its image. The company takes pride in offering transformative business solutions, ranging from Custom Software Development, eCommerce

Joan Penaflorida, President and CEO, Yondu, Inc

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Yondu takes pride in offering transformative business solutions, ranging from Custom Software Development, eCommerce Solutions, Cloud Services, and Managed IT Services to a state-ofthe-art Managed Security Operations Center and Ready-to-Use Platforms

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Solutions, Cloud Services, and Managed IT Services to a state-of-the-art Managed Security Operations Center and Ready-to-Use Platforms. What sets Yondu apart is its commitment to leveraging a highly skilled workforce and over two decades of industry experience. This synergy not only fortifies its partnership with Globe but also plays a pivotal role in driving success for enterprises across diverse industries. Offering a Unique Approach to Business Solutions Digital transformation is a dynamic force, weaving its way through various industries with unique needs and challenges. Yondu, with its unwavering commitment, ensures a tailored approach by delving deep into the specific pain points and priorities of its clients.

Joan Penaflorida emphasizes, “We don’t offer generic technological solutions. Our focus is on understanding our clients’ distinct challenges and transforming the seemingly overwhelming into relevant and valuable solutions.” Going beyond mere technological expertise, Yondu positions itself as a true partner in its clients’ success. Penaflorida notes, “We support them at every juncture of their transformation journey, propelling their success forward.” With a strong foothold in manufacturing, BFSI, and retail, Yondu has crafted a remarkable track record in these core industries, a testament to its dedication. Penaflorida elaborates on the strategic partnerships, stating, “Our alliances in these sectors have enabled us to forge a well-rounded portfolio, enhancing our resilience amid the ever-evolving market dynamics.”

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Yondu takes pride in its contributions to the manufacturing sector, where its solutions have boosted operational efficiency, minimized downtime, and elevated product quality. In the BFSI industry, Yondu’s tech solutions have catalyzed compliance, innovation, and security, streamlining processes and fortifying competitive edges. Penaflorida highlights, “Our

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role in enhancing customer-facing technologies has translated to improved satisfaction and brand loyalty for our retail clients.” Yondu remains dedicated to refining its expertise within these industries, steadfast in its pursuit of being a trusted partner in business transformation, transcending the boundaries of manufacturing, BFSI, and retail.

Committed to Continuous Innovation In the dynamic realm of technology, Yondu recognizes the imperative of constant growth and innovation to meet the evolving needs of its clients. Joan Penaflorida articulates, “We don’t just meet expectations; we strive to exceed them. Continuous investment in our workforce is a cornerstone of our commitment.”

Yondu understands the essence of shared responsibility in fostering the development of its employees. The company’s robust upskilling programs, encompassing certification, skills training, and leadership development, reflect a dedication to enhancing capabilities. This, coupled with well-being initiatives such as mental wellness programs and engaging interest

Digital First Magazine January 2024

clubs, creates an environment where employees not only perform their best but also feel their best. Penaflorida proudly shares, “Recently acknowledged as the Best Hybrid Workplace by TalentView and adorned with the Great Place to Work badge; these accolades mirror our unwavering commitment to cultivating an excellent work culture that propels the flourishing careers of our employees.” Collaborating with industry luminaries, Yondu places immense value on trust, mutual growth, and adaptability. The company embraces change, swiftly adjusting to clients’ needs to maintain agility and a competitive edge. Yondu’s commitment extends to continuous investments in industry-standard processes and technology certifications, ensuring alignment with today’s requirements and a perpetual enhancement of product and service quality.

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At the heart of Yondu’s triumphant strategy lies a profound commitment to people empowerment

Penaflorida emphasizes, “Staying current with technology trends is crucial. We adopt a discerning approach, analyzing the impact of the technologies we embrace. This strategic alignment keeps us ahead, steering clear of unnecessary distractions.” Empowering Growth with a PeopleCentric Approach At the heart of Yondu’s triumphant strategy lies a profound commitment to people empowerment. The organization propels every team member towards optimal performance through a vibrant, inclusive, and enjoyable culture fortified by upskilling initiatives and robust well-being programs. Yondu holds a firm belief that its workforce constitutes its greatest asset. Consequently, the organization provides unwavering support,

Digital First Magazine January 2024

recognizing that empowered employees are the driving force behind the company’s growth and success. A distinctive core value at Yondu is disrupting the status quo. Joan Penaflorida articulates, “In today’s ever-evolving world, genuine progress and growth emerge when we actively challenge

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existing paradigms. Embracing disruption and transformation enhances our resilience to weather challenges and meet the evolving needs of our customers.” This ethos permeates the workplace, where each team member understands the importance of agility and adaptability to change. Yondu invests in its workforce through certifications, skills enhancement, and upskilling programs, ensuring all team members are equipped to execute business directions and contribute groundbreaking ideas essential to the company’s progress and transformation.

An annual highlight is the Business Unit planning, a collaborative effort following the CEO Top Down event, where inputs and ideas from every member are gathered and processed. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone’s insights are heard and considered in crafting action plans and new initiatives. What truly sets Yondu apart is its “open-door” policy. Team members can openly share insights

and suggestions with Mancom and C-level executives, providing upper management with valuable perspectives from those who execute business strategies and collaborate directly with clients. Recognizing that frontline team members possess invaluable insights into day-to-day operations, service/product offerings, client relationships, and customer loyalty, Yondu’s open-door policy fosters educated and experiencedriven decision-making. This approach actively involves the organization in enhancing processes and listening to the front-liners who play a pivotal role in the company’s success.

Inspiring Technological Progress As we embark on an era where technology asserts a more integral role in business, Yondu is poised to be at the forefront of empowering innovation. Joan Penaflorida asserts, “Our commitment remains unwavering to supporting enterprises in their transformation journey, ensuring they are not just prepared but well-equipped to navigate challenges and seize opportunities amid the rapid evolution of technology, whether in the Philippines or beyond.” In a landscape where technology is paramount, businesses must carefully consider their technological investments, especially in these unprecedented times. They require innovative solutions that enhance efficiency for employees, ensure business continuity in the face of external challenges, and provide customers with secure, continuous access to products and services despite unforeseen threats. Yondu stands resolute in its commitment, offering a diverse range of technology solutions. The tagline, “Technology Made Human,” encapsulates the essence of inspiring technology. Penaflorida explains, “We aim to create solutions that not only address common pain points but also inspire, delight, and strengthen human connections. Yondu advocates for innovation that simplifies human experiences and instigates positive transformations where needed.” This tagline not only reflects Yondu’s positive and hopeful perspective but also challenges the dystopian visions often associated with technology in the modern era. Yondu firmly believes that when designed and utilized responsibly, technology becomes a force that addresses challenges, enriches lives, and paves the way for a brighter and better future.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

IN MY VIEW

Driving Positive Change in the Digital Health Industry Howard Rosen, CEO & Founder, Nova Insights

What do you think are the main challenges healthcare companies are facing in terms of digital transformation? And how can they overcome them? According to a study published by McKesson, digital transformation in healthcare is, at best, 11% successful. And these days, I would suspect the number is even lower with many chasing the “AI” route to show shareholders they are leading edge when not really understanding

exactly what today’s AI marketing term really means and what it can really do. More to the point though, the biggest challenge lies in understanding that at the core are people and a myriad of stakeholders who need to be involved in the process. It’s not just a technology play, but an enablement technology for the human side. In other words, in looking at digital transformation, and this is rather obvious, there are two key considerations: 1) technology; and

People are at the heart of every solution, and you need to recognize their needs in order to engage them and address those needs before you even think of technology

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Howard Rosen is CEO/ Founder of Nova Insights. Educated as an MBA, he had his 1st career producing film & television, which in 2005 led (in a circuitous route) to having an idea on what became a cloud-based communication platform and company, being CEO/Founder of LifeWIRE, he took it from a solo-preneur to entrepreneur to a multi-national company operating in US & Canada with clients in both the public and private sectors, miliary and civilian. A frequent keynote speaker on innovation, Howard has been awarded 7 utility patents. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Howard shared his insights on the key challenges faced by healthcare companies when it comes to digital transformation, his career trajectory, mission and purpose of Nova Insights, his favorite quote, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

2) people. In the transformation process there are many points of friction and differing needs of data for each stakeholder (such as patient, caregiver, provider, clinician, nurse etc.), so you need to deal with both simultaneously. But first it’s crucial having clarity on what the objective of the transformation is, what are the measurable key performance indicators to determine the success of the transformation, what are the people workflows being affected; and what technology exists (and proven) to enable the human side of the equation. Fundamentally, the data collected should become actionable information. In your opinion, what kind of HealthTech gap needs to be addressed today? Looking at what the HealthTech gap needs to be addressed today, my answer would be tech equity. Not everyone has the same devices, nor access to devices nor communication. So instead of having products for specific devices, solutions should look the other way around to be technology and devices agnostic. For effective use and engagement, instead of telling people/patients how they have to communicate, let them use whatever means is most comfortable to them, and with that, reducing one of the fundamental barriers in digital health. Essentially the mission being providing healthcare to anyone, anywhere, anytime on any device. Howard, can you tell us about your professional background and areas of interest? I am presently the CEO (and Founder) of Nova Insights. As to my career path, I was educated as an MBA, had my 1st career

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producing film & television, which in 2005 led (in a circuitous route) to my investing a cloud based communication platform and company, being CEO/Founder of LifeWIRE, I took it from a solo-preneur to entrepreneur to a multi-national company operating in US & Canada with clients in both the public and private sectors, miliary and civilian and presently holding 7 patents on the technology on which it is based.

It’s great to have a idea, but speak with the users of the service or technology to make sure they see the need as you. You need to discern need from want, and then where is it in their priority of needs, not yours

Tell us about the mission and vision of Nova Insights. What sets it apart from other market competitors? Mission Statement = Humanizing Digital Transformation Description: We practice what we preach by empowering our clients and helping them understand they have customers both outside (patients) and inside their organization (providers, clinicians, nurses, tech etc) so as to help them ensure that the change provides value for everyone in the patient journey. Purpose: The purpose is to help clients, and ultimately patients, get the most value, engagement, empowerment out of the most relevant digital health tools (including emerging tech such as AI and RPA (Robotic Process Automation) managing routine task allowing providers/ nurses to work at the top of their licences, automating process where that is valuable, empowering patients, all to be provided with the information they need, when they need it

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Stay true to your vision and surround yourself with advisors who bring a myriad of experience and insights, you don’t have to agree but you need to incorporate those insights as representing perspective from the industry

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Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life? My favorite “Life Lesson Quote” s rather long but says so much, it is from Theodore Roosevelt which to me says everything about being an entrepreneur in digital health: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” You were recently honoured with the title, ‘2023 Transformational Leader in Healthcare’. Which three-character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? It’s hard to know specifically the determination and basis for the editorial Board, but I suspect that three of the factors would be: 1) Having come from outside the Healthcare industry, specifically as a film producer, I brought a unique perspective to engagement and technology; 2) bone headed tenacity, where I was clear on the vision and continue to take in lots of data to inform, but maintain that vision; 3) curiosity where I am always reading and looking at and for

new insights not just in health tech but across industries, as exemplified by my recent series of articles in Forbes on AI and RPA (Robotic Process Automation). Based on your experience and success, can you please share “Five things you need to know to successfully create technology that can make a positive social impact”? Interesting question and I guess it’s somewhere in this interview, but to try to enumerate, in no particular order: 1.Everybody is an “expert”, but very few who actually know what they are talking about. 2.Technology can’t have social impact unless you understand that technology is an enabler, not a solution. 3.People are at the heart of every solution, and you need to recognize their needs in order to engage them and address those needs before you even think of technology. 4.It’s great to have a idea, but speak with the users of the service or technology to make sure they see the need as you. You need to discern need from want, and then where is it in their priority of needs, not yours. 5.Don’t take “no” for an answer until you have looked at all the above. Sometimes the more vehement the “no” the more you may be onto something. None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Lots of inspiration certainly but specifically who had faith in a film producer that he

(being I) had a perspective and worthy idea in which they spent time in opening their respective networks and insights in those very early days? Absolutely, i.Vince Kuraitis ii.Jay Srini iii.Neal Neuberger Is there a person in the world (past or present) with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? I have always wanted to sit down with the composer George Gershwin and ask him about many of his compositions, but particularly “Rhapsody in Blue”. What’s the one thing that gets you excited about the current healthcare transformation? Though not very public until recently, it has been around for a while, the advent generative AI and related AI tools. We are in very early days with great opportunities and many challenges. But if managed properly, it could be a generational change to patient engagement, support for providers/clinicians, and new insights for precision medicine. What advice would you give to healthcare entrepreneurs / founders / business leaders? Stay true to your vision and surround yourself with advisors who bring a myriad of experience and insights, you don’t have to agree but you need to incorporate those insights as representing perspective from the industry.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Dr. Stephan M. Branch Author of Cultural Intelligence in the 21st Century and Founder and CEO of World Trade Resource (WTR)

Cultural Competency Optimizes Business Performance

r. Stephan M. Branch is a globally renowned business leader of multibillion-dollar publicly traded companies and has lived on five continents and worked in over 50 countries including the UK. He is multilingual and is the author of a new book entitled, “Cultural Intelligence in the 21ST Century: Driving Inclusion, Revenue, and ESG.” He is the visionary founder of World Trade Resource (WTR), a company that specializes in Global Leadership and Intercultural Development and Inclusion. In particular, his organization examines the coalescing of all three of these in the context of a global organization to maximize financial performance and overall company valuation.

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Stephan notes “If a leader or an organization wants to maximize revenue, profits, brand, sales, and overall business performance, they must learn certain cultural competencies for doing business in other countries. People negotiate, communicate, motivate, and lead differently in other countries.” Stephan’s leadership style is a blend of cultural intelligence and sound business acumen coupled with his strong academic background, including a master’s degree from George Washington University and a graduate of Harvard Law School’s International Negotiation Program. Stephan has used his expertise to establish World Trade Resource (WTR), a top 10 global leadership development firm headquartered in New York City with global outposts.

Dr. Stephan M. Branch Author of Cultural Intelligence in the 21st Century and Founder and CEO of World Trade Resource (WTR)

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Founding of World Trade Resource (WTR) Dr. Branch founded World Trade Resource (WTR) with a clear goal. Throughout his career, he saw a significant gap in the corporate world, even among Fortune 500 giants, where cultural intelligence and competencies were often inadequately understood in the context of their global operations, and most corporations struggled with the complex challenge of achieving performance excellence across various nations. Explaining his vision, Stephan says, “I realized that these corporate giants often faltered in their ability to understand how cultural intelligence impacts every aspect of their operations, from marketing strategies to team dynamics and expanding into new markets including mergers and acquisitions. He comments, “I’ve saved companies 100s of millions in acquisition costs by advising them on how to negotiate with other countries and cultures.” Since its inception, WTR’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The company has consistently achieved a growth rate of over 30 percent year-over-year, even during turbulent economic downturns including the pandemic. Stephan states, “Our sustained growth is a testament to our global expertise. Our extensive international footprint equips us to navigate economic challenges with agility.” He emphasizes the significance of knowing when to “flex” one’s own cultural lens and style when establishing and growing businesses in different countries and cultures. Stephan’s approach to sales, for instance, varies significantly when he’s in the Netherlands or

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Germany compared to his strategy in Asia, Latin America, or Africa. He states, “I work with lots of leaders in Global 2000 companies that don’t recognize how differently sales is driven from culture to culture. I’ve seen global sales increase anywhere from 20 to 30 percent once those leaders learn the cultural competencies needed in today’s business environment.” Elevating Cultural Intelligence for Global Business Success Mastering nine pivotal cultural competencies can be a game-changer whether you’re a CEO, a team leader, or part of a global organizational framework. These competencies can profoundly influence strategic development, leadership effectiveness, business expansion, customer engagement, brand, or even project management. Stephan emphasizes the importance of acquiring these cultural competencies, stating that doing so is akin to unleashing the full potential of your business on the global stage. In recent years, businesses have undergone a transformative shift, increasing focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. This transition is a response to the growing acknowledgment that younger generations, comprising millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha, prioritize investments in companies with elevated ESG ratings. Such enterprises more closely align with the values and principles held dear by these forward-looking generations, who endeavor to leave a meaningful imprint through their investments. Global 2000 corporations are increasingly focusing on the “S” in ESG, which stands for the Social aspect. Stephan addresses this challenge in his upcoming book, “Cultural Intelligence in

Throughout his career, Dr. Branch saw a significant gap in the corporate world, even among Fortune 500 giants, where cultural intelligence and competencies were often inadequately understood in the context of their global operations, and most corporations struggled with the complex challenge of achieving performance excellence across various nations

the 21st Century: Driving Revenue, Inclusion, and ESG.” The hardback edition distributed by Simon and Schuster was released on November 10TH and is available in the UK, Europe, Latin America, Japan, China, Singapore, Australia, and the US in multiple languages and formats, including hardcover, eBook, and audio. It’s also available now on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. The book explores the crucial connection between cultural intelligence, revenue growth, inclusivity, and ESG, providing valuable insights to businesses aiming to thrive in the constantly evolving global landscape. Meeting the Challenges of a Rapidly Growing Global Economy The global economy is expanding at an unprecedented rate, and businesses are embracing globalization, but this fast-paced transformation has left many CEOs and leaders struggling to navigate the diverse cultures around the world. With the rise of global and matrixed teams, this challenge has only become more complex. Stephan notes that today’s world witnesses the emergence of more global teams than ever before across large corporations and smaller enterprises. However, many leaders lack the knowledge and competencies required to lead effectively in this global market. In response, WTR has designed digital solutions to address these challenges. These solutions are scalable, easy to implement, cost-effective, and available in over 50 languages. They cover every aspect of business, including what leaders of sales, strategy, brand, operations, and supply chain management need to know, and where they need to improve their competencies. WTR also offers cultural coaching and consulting to guide leaders through real-world business

Digital First Magazine January 2024

‘Cultural Intelligence in the 21st Century: Driving Revenue, Inclusion, and ESG’ explores the crucial connection between cultural intelligence, revenue growth, inclusivity, and ESG, providing valuable insights to businesses aiming to thrive in the constantly evolving global landscape

challenges. Dr. Branch says, “Our digital solutions act as a 24/7 consultant, providing businesses with invaluable access to a wealth of data and insights when expanding into new territories.” One such tool is the wtrMatrix, which provides extensive data analytics for businesses looking to enter or expand into new markets. It covers important aspects such as a country’s technological infrastructure, healthcare facilities, tax, stability of government, company setup, transportation networks, human capital costs, and salary benchmarks to name just a few. Dr. Branch explains, “We have compiled over 5,000 live data indicators for each of the 20 business categories for all 200 countries. This reduces the cost of research, consultants, and data acquisition and is a game-changer for businesses.” The accessibility of the tools offered by WTR is truly remarkable. They are available at a fixed monthly subscription rate, which helps eliminate the need for expensive legal or consulting fees. Dr. Branch emphasizes that their commitment to cost reduction is firm, and they strive to assist

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both startups and established companies. By providing the ability to compare costs across different countries, projections and investments become less costly and less daunting. WTR has also created a digital cultural solution called GoWorldWise which helps businesses, their leaders, and their teams develop the cultural competencies and intelligence necessary to thrive in today’s global economy. GoWorldWise enables leaders to flex their leadership styles for optimal performance in different countries. Stephan’s vision of simplifying expansion, reducing costs, and fostering international success is at the core of all WTR solutions. Whether you lead a growing startup or a large corporation, WTR’s solutions are expertly designed to simplify your global journey, making it not only smoother but also more profitable and ultimately more successful. As globalization continues to reshape the business world, WTR remains committed to delivering accessible and highly effective solutions that empower organizations and their leaders to succeed in this ever-evolving economy.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Creating a Positive Impact through Innovation, Collaboration, & Hard Work in the Tech World Myrtle Anne Ramos, Founder & CEO, Block Tides

Many startups have started to explore how blockchain technology can change the way the world works. What would be, in your opinion, the most favorable environment for blockchain startups to succeed and thrive? For blockchain startups to thrive, it is essential to empower and promote an environment encompassing regulatory clarity, access to diverse funding, a skilled talent

pool, robust infrastructure, collaborative networks, user-focused solutions, scalability, education, government support, market alignment, sustainability, adaptability, and ethical considerations. When coupled with authenticity, genuine intent, and adherence to the principles of Ikigai, these elements can collectively foster innovation, value creation, and long-term success in the dynamic landscape of blockchain technology.

Blockchain technology’s widespread adoption depends on a multidimensional approach that resolves concerns, educates the public, and shows its real-world benefit

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Myrtle Anne Ramos is the Founder and CEO of the multi-awarded world-class company Block Tides. She is a Filipina serial entrepreneur and an angel investor who works tirelessly to create success for herself and the communities she touches. She is passionate about creating a positive impact on the world through innovation, collaboration, hard work, and determination. Her professional career has included managing international companies, leading philanthropic projects, serving on nonprofit boards, and volunteering in her local community. In addition to her leadership roles, Myrtle is an Official Member of Forbes Business Council, Official Influencer of CoinMarketCap and an advisor for many Blockchain and Tech companies. Recently in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Myrtle shared her insights on the most favorable environment required for blockchain startups to thrive, her professional journey, challenges faced by her as a woman in blockchain, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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How could we make people trust blockchain technology and adopt it? Blockchain technology’s widespread adoption depends on a multidimensional approach that resolves concerns, educates the public, and shows its real-world benefit. Blockchain

adoption requires both technology and culture. First, accept new concepts. Blockchain applications in finance, supply chain management, healthcare, and more show how the technology increases transparency, security, and efficiency. Practicality can draw attention and inspire acceptance. Regular Clarity The second factor is regulatory clarity. Welldefined and balanced regulations increase trust. Laws should protect consumers, prevent misuse, and promote responsible innovation— blockchain’s skepticism decreases when people see that blockchain functions within genuine and well-governed frameworks, boosting confidence in the technology’s legitimacy and safety. Education and awareness are essential. Educational resources that are accessible, accurate, and understandable simplify blockchain. Workshops, seminars, and online courses enable people to understand the technology and participate in the blockchain ecosystem. User Friendly Interfaces User-friendly interfaces are needed to bridge the gap between technical complexity and mass usage. Simplifying the user experience by reducing technical hurdles and language can increase blockchain adoption. Blockchain is transparent and secure. Blockchain’s immutability, cryptographic encryption, and decentralized consensus procedures increase security and reduce fraud and manipulation. Blockchain advocates can ease security concerns by emphasizing these features.

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Real-world use cases instill trust Showing blockchain has improved supply chains and voting systems lends credibility to its claims. When they see results, people trust and use technology. Partnerships with established businesses, organizations, and governments can speed adoption. Blockchain solutions’ integration into existing systems and credible entities’ credibility boost the technology’s legitimacy and applicability. Trust-building involves community engagement. Forming a blockchain community allows for conversation, learning, and sharing. Open talks and knowledge exchange can clear up misunderstandings and minimize adoption challenges. Misconceptions must be addressed. Blockchain’s involvement with criminal activity and energy waste often raises

doubts. Accurate understanding and debunking falsehoods help ease anxieties and questions. Prototypes are crucial Potential adopters like case studies that prove blockchain technologies work. Real-world examples develop trust and comprehension. Ethical considerations build a solid basis. Blockchain promotes data privacy, inclusivity, and social good, aligning with ethical consumers’ beliefs—practical incremental adoption. People can learn about blockchain by using it in non-critical applications. Gradually adding higher-level use cases helps smooth the transition and reduce opposing viewpoints. This cautious adoption acknowledges the learning curve and balances eagerness and fear. Blockchain adoption is cultural. The

The blockchain and crypto community must promote openness, collaboration, and inclusivity. Eliminating the technology’s stigma of exclusivity and secrecy can make it accessible to everybody

Digital First Magazine January 2024

blockchain and crypto community must promote openness, collaboration, and inclusivity. Eliminating the technology’s stigma of exclusivity and secrecy can make it accessible to everybody. Road to Mass Adoption Obtaining trust and adopting blockchain technology requires resolving concerns, educating the public, and demonstrating its real-world uses. Blockchain may transcend technological complexity and revolutionize numerous sectors by establishing its practical usefulness, setting clear regulations, and fostering an informed community. The technology’s features and communities, governments, and organizations’ efforts to build a trustworthy and inclusive blockchain ecosystem drive trust. What developments are you particularly excited about that could promote the practical applications of blockchain in the coming years? From financial services to health care, supply chain management to digital identity solutions, the effects could be huge. Regulatory Acceptance and Integration As countries worldwide make more precise rules and frameworks for blockchain and cryptocurrencies, the environment for innovation gets better. This gives businesses and startups the confidence to try blockchain apps within the law. It also makes it easier for traditional industries to use blockchain to make their work more efficient and transparent.

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As NFT technology improves, it could be used in many areas, from digital IDs to tracking where goods come from in the supply chain. This would change how we think about ownership and authenticity

Government and Public Services Blockchain could change how services are provided to people because it can improve data security, transparency, and accountability. From vote systems that are more open than ever before to land registries that make sure property records are correct, there are a lot of ways to improve public services. Scalability Solutions and the Development of NFTs Scalability issues have been a problem for blockchain for a long time, making it hard for it to handle a lot of transactions. But as scaling options like sharding and layer 2 protocols keep improving, these barriers are being taken down. This breakthrough in scalability goes along with the rising interest in Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), which have already changed how digital ownership works. As NFT technology improves, it could be used in many areas, from digital IDs to tracking where goods come from in the supply chain. This would change how we think about ownership and authenticity. There is a lot of hope in these use cases because they all point to a future in which blockchain technology will be a natural part of our everyday lives. From safe and transparent government services to tokenizing assets through NFTs, blockchain is on the verge of redefining industries and challenging the status quo. In the coming years, we will see how these ideas develop and help bring blockchain’s potential to life in the real world.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Myrtle, please tell us a little bit about yourself, your career path, and what led you to establish Block Tides. I’m a serial entrepreneur, public speaker, moderator, philanthropist, and angel investor. Before diving into the web3 space, I had a strong background in technology, marketing, and public relations. I worked with companies like Apple, Comcast, and GoDaddy in roles such as an account executive and senior quality analyst. My journey into web3, blockchain, cryptocurrency, and the metaverse began in 2016. Initially, I entered as a trader and investor, later becoming an Investor Relations professional for a Spotify-like project and eventually a Director at Asia Token Fund Group. Motivated by my expertise in technology, advisory, branding, marketing, PR, business development, and growth, along with my passion for innovation, I founded Block Tides. Block Tides is my way of contributing to the web3 revolution. It’s focused on education, innovation, and fostering positive change in the blockchain, crypto, metaverse, and Web 3 technology marketing fields. Through Block Tides, I aim to help others understand and leverage the potential of these transformative technologies. Could you tell us a little bit about the work that Block Tides does? Block Tides is a company that operates at the intersection of blockchain, crypto, metaverse, and Web 3 technology marketing fields. It is dedicated to education, innovation, and community-building within these emerging domains. Block Tides focuses on educating individuals and businesses about the potential

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Women are often underrepresented in technical and leadership jobs, which makes it hard for them to find role models and mentors

of blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and Web 3 technologies through workshops, webinars, and training sessions. Our company also supports startups and entrepreneurs in these fields by providing mentorship, advisory services, and fostering innovation. Block Tides actively builds and nurtures a community of professionals interested in blockchain and crypto, facilitating networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. Pioneering events and conferences since 2017 Block Tides bring together industry experts and enthusiasts for learning and networking opportunities. Additionally, Block Tides is involved in angel investing, supporting innovative projects, and contributes to philanthropic efforts aligned with its mission. Block Tides serves as a central hub for education, innovation, community, and investment in the dynamic realm of blockchain, crypto, and Web 3 technologies.

Let’s talk about breaking the glass ceiling. What were the biggest challenges you faced as a woman in blockchain, and how did you deal with them? Breaking through the glass ceiling in the blockchain business is hard, but people in other tech fields face the same problems. Women are often underrepresented in technical and leadership jobs, which makes it hard for them to find role models and mentors. Gender bias can make it harder to get jobs and move up in the workplace, reinforce stereotypes, and slow down progress. There are problems with networking because women don’t have as much access to links and events as men do. A workplace atmosphere that is dominated by men can make it hard for women to get ahead in their careers. Also, women’s efforts are sometimes overlooked, which hurts their chances of getting noticed and moving up.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

To get around these problems, women in the blockchain field have used a variety of methods. Focusing on skill development, constant learning, and industry knowledge gives women the power to show what they know. Engaging with female teachers and joining blockchain groups for women is a great way to network and get support. Promoting gender diversity and inclusion drives change in the business and creates a more welcoming environment. Building confidence in oneself and showing off one’s skills help fight biases and create a strong professional appearance. Recognition goes up when speaking events, publications, and contributions to open-source projects make you more visible. Advocating for gender equality is strengthened by working with both male and female friends. By sharing their stories and victories, women leaders show others how to be successful and give them hope. What opportunities do women have in crypto and blockchain technology? In the world of cryptography and blockchain technology, there are many different possibilities for women. There are technical roles to be filled, such as building blockchains and smart contracts, as well as doing study to find new consensus mechanisms, scalability solutions, and privacy improvements. Starting companies or projects based on the blockchain is one way to be innovative through entrepreneurship. Educators and activists who are women can help close knowledge gaps by providing tools and training for education. The need for good communication in the industry has

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Women can shape the legal foundations of blockchain and crypto by taking part in policy and regulation talks

led to the creation of jobs in marketing, community management, and content planning. Legal and compliance experts are very important in a regulatory world that is always changing. Women can learn about cryptocurrency asset management and financial research in the investment and finance world. Design professionals create easy-to-use interfaces for crypto platforms and wallets by putting the customer first. Women are encouraged to help with projects in supply chain transparency, social initiatives, and sustainable development because of Blockchain’s potential for social effect and longterm use. Community builders create places where everyone feels welcome, and women leaders drive growth in their industries and more diversity in decision-making. Lastly, women can shape the legal foundations of blockchain and crypto by taking part in policy and regulation talks. Because the field is always changing, women have many ways to participate, come up with new ideas, and make things better. Is the gender imbalance still felt in the same way in 2023 as it was two years ago? Are there enough women in crypto? The gender imbalance in the crypto and blockchain industry was a significant concern. However, the landscape evolved since then. There has been substantial growth in gender diversity since 2017, with increased visibility and excitement around cryptocurrencies in 2021 attracting a more diverse talent pool. However, the focus should remain on providing the right guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to sustain and amplify this growth genuinely. Importantly, the industry’s development should prioritize genuine inclusion and representation rather than using diversity for mere publicity.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that? Several people have helped me get where I am today, and I owe them a lot of thanks. The constant help and sacrifices of my parents have given me the base I need to go after my goals. My daughter’s drive has always given me hope and pushed me to get through hard times. When I had doubts about my skills, my brother’s unwavering faith in me gave me the strength to keep going. Surprisingly, even the people who didn’t believe in me and said I wouldn’t make it have made me more determined to show them they were wrong. This has become a driving force in my journey. The mentors I’ve had the chance to learn from have given me great advice and helped me go in the right way. Unexpected acts of kindness and words of support from strangers have shown me how powerful encouraging words can be. In their own ways, each of these people has added to the fabric of my success story. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to my ancestors, whose resilience and strength have paved the way for me. Their legacy has been a source of inspiration and a reminder of the strength that runs through my veins. I’m thankful for the guidance of my spirit guides, who have provided wisdom and direction during pivotal moments. And last but not the least but the main source is to the vast universe, for its mysterious ways of aligning opportunities and challenges that have shaped my growth. Recognizing these forces reminds me of the interconnectedness of all things and the power of collective support.

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What’s in store for the future of Block Tides? Do you have any cool events or anything exciting coming up? The future of Block Tides holds exciting developments and opportunities. We’re currently working on some innovative projects that will reshape the landscape of the industry. We have a series of engaging events and workshops in the pipeline that will provide valuable insights and connections. Moreover, we’re thrilled to share that we’re venturing into the dynamic world of esports, exploring its potential within the blockchain and crypto space. Education remains a core focus for us, and we’re committed to delivering topnotch resources to empower individuals with knowledge about these transformative technologies. Stay tuned for all the incredible things we’re building and the remarkable journey ahead! If you could give one piece of advice to a woman starting out in the crypto industry, what would it be? If I were to offer a single piece of advice to a woman embarking on her journey in the crypto industry, it would be to “Believe in yourself and your dreams.” Trust your abilities, nurture your aspirations, and have confidence in your unique potential to make a significant impact. While inspiration is valuable, remember that your journey is uniquely yours, and forging your own path is essential. Embrace the journey with the belief that you have the power to achieve your goals and contribute to the industry’s growth. Your confidence and determination can lead to remarkable accomplishments and pave the way for meaningful change.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

LEADING

CLEAN

TECH COMPANY TO WAT C H

2024

APG-Neuros Providing Sustainable Wastewater Solutions Worldwide

n 2005, APG-Neuros embarked on a transformative journey with a clear mission — to revolutionize the wastewater treatment sector. Founded by Omar Hammoud, whose 25 years of experience in aerospace laid the foundation for groundbreaking endeavors, the company introduced high-speed and high-efficiency Turbo Blower technology to redefine the norms of the industry. “The wastewater treatment sector was at a crossroads, and we saw an opportunity to bring cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions into the picture,” reflects Omar Hammoud, President & CEO of APG-

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Neuros. His vision was not just to create a company but to pioneer a shift in the paradigm of wastewater treatment. The inaugural Turbo Blower, launched in Quebec, Canada, in 2006, marked the beginning of a trajectory that would reshape wastewater treatment practices. “It wasn’t just about introducing a product; it was about setting a new standard for efficiency and sustainability in our industry,” notes Hammoud. By 2010, APG-Neuros had established a manufacturing facility in Plattsburgh, New York, adhering to the Buy American Act. This strategic move strengthened local presence and set the stage for global impact.

Omar Hammoud, President & CEO

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Today, with over 700 operational installations in municipal and industrial sectors, encompassing more than 1700 Turbo Blower units, APG-Neuros stands as a pioneer in wastewater treatment

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Today, with over 700 operational installations in municipal and industrial sectors, encompassing more than 1700 Turbo Blower units, APG-Neuros stands as a pioneer in wastewater treatment. “Our success is not just measured in numbers; it’s about the positive impact we’re making on the environment and the communities we serve,” Hammoud emphasizes. As the journey progressed, APG-Neuros embraced a commitment to continuous

innovation. The company’s forward-thinking approach was fueled by customer recognition and the need to assist in achieving climate action goals. Inspired by the trust placed in their innovations, APG-Neuros expanded its product offerings. “Our customers drove us to go beyond the expected. They wanted more sustainable solutions, and we were ready to deliver,” says Hammoud. The incorporation of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence into process optimization not only reduced energy consumption but also ensured operational stability. “We believe in the power of technology to drive positive change. It’s not just about the products; it’s about how we can enhance the entire wastewater treatment process,” Hammoud states. One standout addition to the product line was the utilization of Biogas, a by-product of the treatment process, as an alternative energy source. “We wanted to go beyond conventional energy sources. Biogas offered a sustainable and innovative solution,” explains Hammoud. APG-Neuros empowered its customers to reach energy neutrality by saving over 80% of their energy consumption. This was achieved through a combination of high-efficiency products, smart process optimization, and the ingenious use of Biogas. Advancing Technology for Sustainable Solutions As we explore the features and advantages that distinguish APG-Neuros turbo blowers from traditional alternatives, it becomes evident that the company’s commitment to innovation extends across various facets of its offerings. From diffusers to blowers ranging from 30HP to 3000HP, APG-Neuros ensures a

Digital First Magazine January 2024

comprehensive approach to aeration system design and supply. This holistic perspective allows for a seamless integration of components, optimizing the overall efficiency of the wastewater treatment process. One of APG-Neuros’s key differentiators is its in-house expertise in wastewater treatment (WWT) process simulation. This knowledge enables the company to tailor solutions that are not just effective but also aligned with the unique requirements of different treatment processes. APG-Neuros is not only skilled in product design but also in mechanical and electrical installation design. The company develops detailed installation layouts, including pipes, valves, and instruments, supported by 3D and airflow simulation models. This meticulous approach ensures a seamless and efficient implementation of their solutions. In the realm of control and automation, APG-Neuros takes the lead with advanced aeration control modeling and operation driven by Artificial Intelligence. Their commitment to excellence extends to integrating controls with other manufacturers’ products and technologies, providing clients with a versatile and adaptable solution. The dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in APGNeuros’s robust customer support

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and field services. With remote monitoring for rapid response (achieving a response time of less than 30 minutes, 24/7), a team of over 14 service engineers and technicians, and three life cycle regional managers strategically positioned, the company ensures ongoing support throughout the product lifecycle. Hammoud emphasizes the pivotal role of innovation in the company’s trajectory. “Innovation is the key driver for continued progress,” he asserts. A commitment to efficiency, reliability, and affordability has marked the company’s evolution. This commitment, Hammoud notes, has the power to transform an entire industry, inspiring every member to achieve great accomplishments.

Without innovation, industries risk complacency, and companies may falter under the weight of outdated practices. Under Hammoud’s leadership, APG-Neuros has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in wastewater treatment technology. The result is not just a suite of products but a catalyst for positive change, offering municipalities substantial cost reductions, energy savings, footprint efficiency, and a myriad of other benefits. Empowering Efficiency and Flexibility A cornerstone of APG-Neuros’s approach is the integration of cutting-edge technologies into its products. The company optimizes

From diffusers to blowers ranging from 30HP to 3000HP, APG-Neuros ensures a comprehensive approach to aeration system design and supply

Digital First Magazine January 2024

energy efficiency by incorporating state-ofthe-art components, sensors, and control systems while enhancing overall performance. “Innovation is not just about what we add but what we remove. We strip away inefficiencies to create solutions that redefine what’s possible,” shares Omar Hammoud. Recognizing the uniqueness of each customer’s operational requirements, APGNeuros offers tailored solutions. “Our clients are partners in progress. We tailor solutions that don’t just meet their needs but anticipate them,” adds Hammoud. Through close collaboration with clients, the company devises energy-efficient systems that align precisely with their goals, fostering a relationship built on understanding and responsiveness. To initiate the journey towards energy efficiency, APG-Neuros conducts thorough energy audits and operational assessments. By meticulously analyzing existing infrastructure, the company identifies areas for improvement and provides recommendations that enhance energy efficiency and operational flexibility.

“Understanding where you are is the first step to getting where you want to be. Our assessments pave the way for transformative change,” opines Hammoud. Empowering customers is at the heart of APG-Neuros’s philosophy. Through comprehensive training programs, clients are equipped with the knowledge required for the optimal use and maintenance of the products. This not only ensures efficient operation but also extends the overall lifespan of the equipment. The company’s commitment doesn’t conclude with installation. APG-Neuros implements remote monitoring systems for real-time energy consumption tracking and system performance. This data serves as the foundation for informed adjustments and optimizations, ensuring ongoing efficiency throughout the product lifecycle. Conversely, incorporating adaptive control systems in APG-Neuros products enhances operational flexibility. These systems respond dynamically to changing operational conditions, allowing customers to optimize processes based on varying demands and conditions.

Under Hammoud’s leadership, APG-Neuros has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in wastewater treatment technology

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“Flexibility is not just a feature; it’s a necessity. Our systems adapt to meet the challenges of a dynamic environment,” says Hammoud. Staying ahead of energy efficiency standards and regulatory requirements, APGNeuros ensures its products comply with industry guidelines. This proactive approach not only helps customers meet regulatory benchmarks but often exceeds them. In a bid to further reduce energy consumption in wastewater secondary treatment, APGNeuros has introduced model predictive control

for activated sludge aeration and solid retention time (SRT). Leveraging advanced and costeffective machine learning (ML) software, the company actively determines dissolved oxygen targets in each aerated zone. This ensures compliance with discharge permit requirements while minimizing air supply from blowers and reducing operator involvement. “Innovation is not just about the present; it’s about shaping a sustainable future. We’re not just reducing energy; we’re transforming how it’s used,” explains Hammoud. The

Digital First Magazine January 2024

software also optimizes SRT and sludge quality, effectively increasing plant capacity. Equipped with a single-user interface, the control system harmonizes aeration valves and blowers, minimizing installation costs through its integrated design.

APG-Neuros has established a substantial global footprint with over 1700 units installed in North America and Europe and a remarkable 6,000 units worldwide

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Global Market Presence Looking at APG-Neuros’s global market presence and manufacturing practices, it’s evident that the company’s success is not confined to a specific region but extends across continents. APG-Neuros has established a substantial global footprint with over 1700 units installed in North America and Europe and a remarkable 6,000 units worldwide. The company’s primary markets include North America, with a significant presence in the United States, specifically in California and Texas. European markets, including the United Kingdom and the Middle East, have also witnessed notable success. Furthermore, APG-Neuros is actively expanding its presence in South America. The company’s strategy involves further international expansion in Europe and the Middle East with its existing product line and an entry into the Asian market with its new innovative products. Notably, APGNeuros expresses its adaptability, stating that it can tailor its products to suit any region globally. “Our success is a testament to the universal need for sustainable wastewater treatment solutions. We are committed to meeting the unique challenges of diverse regions across the globe,” says Omar Hammoud. Maintaining high standards in manufacturing and testing is a cornerstone of APG-Neuros’s operational philosophy. The company operates manufacturing facilities in Quebec, Canada, and Plattsburgh, NY, USA. APG-Neuros

products are internationally certified by UL, CSA, and CE, demonstrating compliance with stringent safety, quality, and reliability standards. The company distinguishes itself by meeting UL Certification requirements, which are considered more rigorous than certifications from competitors such as TUV or ETL. Hammoud adds, “Certification is not just a badge; it’s a commitment to delivering products that surpass expectations. Our dedication to quality sets us apart.” A Vision for Evolution and Sustainability Looking ahead, APG-Neuros has a groundbreaking project in its final stages of production and testing—the Gas Turbine Turbo Blower. Set to be delivered to its first customers by the end of 2024, this innovative solution promises several advantages over traditional electric blowers. Upcoming installations for the Gas Turbine include locations in Cincinnati, Ohio; Merced, CA; Eastern MWRD, CA; Flint, MI; and Linden, MI. “The Gas Turbine Turbo Blower represents a leap forward in efficiency, sustainability, and reliability. It’s not just a product; it’s a solution for the future,” shares Hammoud. In the coming years, APG-Neuros aims to solidify its position as a market leader by embracing emerging technologies and enhancing sustainability practices. The company envisions playing a pivotal role in shaping industry trends, contributing to advancements in the sector, and maintaining a customer-centric focus. The commitment to positive impact

and enduring success underscores APGNeuros’s forward-looking approach. “Innovation is not just about staying ahead; it’s about leading the way. We envision being at the forefront of positive change in the wastewater treatment industry,” pinpoints Hammoud. APGNeuros is actively contributing to sustainable practices through a multi-faceted approach. The company prioritizes the development and utilization of environmentally friendly technologies in its products and services. This includes incorporating energy-efficient systems, using materials with reduced environmental impact, and adhering to ecofriendly manufacturing processes. “Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of our operations. From product design to manufacturing, we strive to impact the environment positively,” says Hammoud. The commitment to sustainability extends to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to minimize the environmental footprint associated with the company’s products. APG-Neuros is actively engaged in several key efforts, including sustainable sourcing, the development of energyefficient products, carbon footprint reduction measures, community engagement in environmental projects, comprehensive product lifecycle assessments, compliance with environmental standards, and ongoing employee education and involvement in sustainability initiatives. “Our commitment to the environment goes beyond compliance; it’s a responsibility we embrace. We believe in making a positive impact on the world around us,” concludes Hammoud.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Helping Companies Build their Data & AI Capabilities to Make Smarter and More Informed Decisions Koo Ping Shung, Co-Founder/Practicum Director, Data Science Rex Pte. Ltd.

In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, data science is considered as a catalyst for business growth and success. In what ways does data science empower businesses? Data Science empowers businesses in many areas but all in all, is to make better decisions. In business and in personal lives, our current circumstances are a result of all our past decisions. As such, making good decisions, decisions that can improve business and personal lives, is extremely important.

To make good decisions, a key ingredient is information and that is where data science comes into the picture. Data science can help us to comb through the data using different mathematical algorithms or just simple rules to gain insights that will be valuable, that provide us with a clearer indication of which decision is good to take up or bad decisions to avoid. And it is pretty natural. Think about the last time you chose a restaurant for your lunch in a new city. What did you do? Do you search for restaurants with good reviews? Where

Data Science empowers businesses and individuals to make better decisions, and in turn, move towards a longer-lasting business or a more comfortable life for individuals

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Koo Ping Shung has almost 20 years of experience in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. His experience spans a wide variety of industries and the whole data value chain. He is an instructor, facilitator for various institutions, both locally and overseas. Koo is an advisor to businesses and startups and has mentored many individuals. He is a speaker and panellist at various conferences too. His strong passion is shown by co-founding DataScience SG, one of the largest tech communities in the region. He was previously the President of the AI Professionals Association, heavily involved in the professional accreditation process for AI Engineers. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Koo shared his insights on how data science can empower businesses, the inspiration behind establishing Data Science Rex, his professional journey, success mantra, pearls of wisdom, future plans, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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does the review come from? They are data provided by individuals who were in the same situation. Data Science empowers businesses and individuals to make better decisions, and in turn, move towards a longer-lasting business or a more comfortable life for individuals. What was the inspiration behind establishing Data Science Rex? What sets it apart from other market competitors? I strongly believe that a lot of companies will benefit from data, as technology improves and decreases the cost of data collection. When I run tech communities and in my current role, I see many companies struggling to make sense of the data collected. I strongly believe that going forward, data professions are here to stay. I hope to inspire more passionate talents to join the data industry. Putting these together, I want to help more companies make sense of data through hiring good talents to take advantage of data. This is where Data Science Rex comes in. We are a group of data professionals who are very passionate and keen to help companies build up Data and Artificial Intelligence capabilities. Unlike other consultancies who want to work on projects, Data Science Rex is keen to do knowledge transfer to our clients through training, consulting, and mentoring to help companies build up the necessary capabilities to bring their data to the next level. Our success comes from clients being able to build up more data use cases and hire more data talents.

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My long-term vision is to create an ecosystem, spanning across regions, that allows companies to flourish with their data science and AI capabilities, and professionals doing data science and AI can be gainfully employed

Koo, please tell us about your past work experiences, career growth journey, and your long-term vision. My major is in Economics with a minor in Mathematics and Computational Finance. I graduated during the SARS crisis, and it was very brutal for fresh graduates back then, but I held on doing part-time jobs. After about 18 months, my friend made a job recommendation, and I started my first job as a research assistant in an Education and Pedagogy Research Center. During my research stint, I took the opportunity to be a software trainer as well, because I wanted to increase my skill set, especially communication skills. Because of my skill in the software in which I train people, I managed to get into the banking industry as a credit risk analyst. I manage the data server for my team and work on a few analysis projects picking up knowledge and skills in data management. One of the memorable projects I did was to use credit bureau data to identify customer segments that have good risk-reward ratios. I was on the credit risk management team in two banks for about 4 years, completing my MBA at the same time. Back then, I felt that banks did not really take much advantage of machine-learning algorithms and wanted to learn more about their applications. This is where the next opportunity came. I was asked to join a local Analytics master’s Programme as a Practicum Manager. What a Practicum Manager does is liaise and consult businesses and scope data science projects for master’s students. Basically is to manage the industry relationship for the Master’s Programme. I also got to supervise master’s students on

Digital First Magazine January 2024

their data science projects. It is about that time I started DataScience SG, currently one of the largest Data Science tech communities in Singapore. As the years progressed, I felt that I needed change but had no idea which industry to go into, so I resigned and wanted to take a career break. When news of my break came out, I got requests asking me to do training, consulting, and mentoring. One thing led to the next, I now run Data Science Rex where I conduct training at various institutions, consult a few startups and accelerators, and mentor a few passionate talents. My long-term vision is to create an ecosystem, spanning across regions, that allows companies to flourish with their data science and AI capabilities, and professionals doing data science and AI can be gainfully employed. I hope to get more passionate individuals onboard, to consider data and AI as their long-term career. And at the same time,

help more businesses be able to tap into AI, to use AI more effectively, efficiently, and more importantly, ethically. What are your thoughts about ChatGPT? Do you feel that data science jobs may become obsolete or can the AI chatbot help data scientists in diligent tasks? I like Generative AI like ChatGPT, StabledDiffusion, etc. Text Generative AI like ChatGPT is one of the best research tools I can ask for. I mean, where do you find a research assistant that has read that extensively in the first place? Granted, it does “hallucinate” and provide the wrong information, but it does not mean humans do not. This is where critical thinking comes into the picture. Generative AI like ChatGPT, I felt actually enhanced my productivity, in terms of writing, researching for ideas, translations, learning established topics like ancient history and philosophy, etc.

Generative AI will help data scientists to be more productive, focusing more effort on asking the right question on data to solve business challenges rather

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Moreover, I cannot draw well enough to save my life, this is where Image Generative AI comes into the picture where I can get decent drawings using text prompts for my work. I am rather a strong believer in Augmented Intelligence. Knowing how to question the data to solve problems is where data scientists are generating the most value for their employers. Generative AI will help data scientists to be more productive, focusing more effort on asking the right question on data to solve business challenges rather. The most valuable data scientist will be the one that is able to use the tools to enhance his/her capabilities. Thus, I am not worried Knowledge Economy jobs like Data Scientist will be obsolete unless by choice. What key personality traits are common among successful data scientists? There are a few actually. Firstly, they are passionate about the field. They get excited looking through data and crunching those data for insights. Secondly, they are always openminded and willing to learn and pick up new things, which is very important. Another trait is they like numbers and are sensitive to numbers i.e., they know how numbers and data work and thus understand how to “question” the data. Last but not least, they have very good presentation and communication skills. The data science job requires communication across different teams and being able to speak different “languages” helps in that aspect. The successful data scientist knows how to communicate well, get buy-in from other relevant stakeholders and move in the direction together in solving the business challenge.

Do you think non engineers can perform well in analytics? Definitely! I feel that people who are sensitive to numbers, and who are able to ask data the right questions are going to succeed in analytics and data science. It really does not matter if you come from a computer science background or social science background, as long as you know how to crunch data, and know the right questions to ask the data, you can perform well in analytics for sure. What, personally, has allowed you the success you have had in the role of a leader in technology? I personally feel my role as a leader in technology is to allow other people to shine, and to give them the necessary guidance and resources for them to succeed. The more people who succeed, the better I feel as a leader, that I have helped others to grow. This mentality also motivated me to learn more, to synthesize information and knowledge more. The more I learn, the more I can share to help others to grow, to understand the profession and industry better. What is the best career advice you’ve received and how have you sought to put this into practice? There are a few lessons I have experienced in my career. Firstly, do not fall for impostor syndrome. If an opportunity arises and you feel that you are 80% ready for it, do not say “No” to the opportunity! Take it up and wing the 20% along, learn fast even from mistakes! Because a fantastic opportunity is rare than an opportunity you are able to pick it up and succeed with 100% confidence! I would not be where I am if I waited

Digital First Magazine January 2024

for myself to be 100% confident to take up the opportunities that came my way. Another lesson I have experienced is results speak for themselves. Constantly think about how you can create a win-win situation for the other party and yourself. There will be people who will hear about the positive results you have through word of mouth and reach out to you. Good opportunities come knocking this way mostly or at least that is how I get my opportunities. Take up opportunities, work to get the best results you can, and move to the next one. Last but not least, stay curious and keep learning! If you find someone smarter than you, invite the person into your life as a mentor. Getting a mentor really helps a lot in your career and life. Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future? I am always curious and always looking to help those around me to be better together, so any technology that helps me to achieve that is what I will invest my effort and time in learning. Learning how to learn effectively and efficiently will be a fantastic skill to have since AI will slowly but surely replace more and more tasks, while a human will move on to higher value add tasks that require more thinking, such as critical thinking, design thinking, strategic thinking, logic thinking, etc. What advice would you offer others looking to build their careers as data scientists? Ask yourself if you are passionate about data. If you are, congratulations you have taken your first step. The next step is to build up your own

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personal data project portfolio. Do not use any school project because that is what others might do and it will be difficult to differentiate yourself out. Rather, work on data projects you are passionate about, and document them in code repositories, blogs, etc. Then share them with prospective employers. Why a personal project portfolio rather than certification or degrees? Because your employers are keener on people who have demonstrated the ability to turn data into gold rather than papers that say you have the ability. Once you get into being a data scientist, start to learn how to learn because being in the data science and artificial intelligence field, there are new tools and knowledge being developed and thus it is important for us to keep learning, to keep the momentum on helping our employers to solve problems with data. Why did you co-found DataScience SG tech community and how did you grow it to a few thousand strong on Facebook? DataScience SG was co-founded almost a decade ago in late 2013. Back then there were too many people trying to steer conversations to fit their personal agenda, like selling their own training classes or consulting services. My co-founder and I felt that for the industry to grow healthily, we need to provide a platform for people to learn what Data Science (back then) and (now) Artificial Intelligence really is about. That is why we set up DataScience SG. We hope to get more and more people to really understand what Data Science and Artificial Intelligence are about and whether it is worth building a career in it. We wanted DataScience SG to be a platform for people to learn, network, and attract job opportunities.

I will say that we grow it to such a large community because we are always focusing on content and do not allow too many ads to be shown to the community. We try our best to ensure we get the best speakers to come and share their knowledge and not sell too much. We are very glad that it is working out and that DataScience SG is still relevant, as proven by the huge attendance we attract even after the Covid pandemic.

I am always curious and always looking to help those around me to be better together, so any technology that helps me to achieve that is what I will invest my effort and time in learning

What else do you do to advocate for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence? I wanted to gain experience in a lot of other mediums as well, so I do have a website where I write my thoughts on the latest in Artificial Intelligence or my research in Artificial General Intelligence. I just re-launched my newsletter as well for followers who want my content straight into their inbox rather than filtered through social media algorithms. I also did podcasting where I shared my thoughts and I invited guests to share their data career journey, as references for anyone keen to kickstart their data career to learn from. What kind of topics in AI excites you tremendously? One of the people I follow closely is Demis Hassabis from Google Deepmind. He set up Deepmind wanting to “Solve Intelligence”. This is a topic that I am very excited about. I am very keen to understand more about Intelligence, intelligence in humans and machines. And when I read more about Intelligence, it leads to other topics that I am very interested in like Philosophy, Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Mathematics. Yes, “What is Intelligence?” will be the topic that will excite me the most!

Digital First Magazine January 2024

MOST INNOVATIVE

PAY M E N T SOLUTION PROVIDER TO WATCH IN

2024

Zūm Rails

Pioneering the Future of Payments

ith an unparalleled focus on payments, Marc Milewski boasts a remarkable 15-year journey in the realms of both banking and fintech. His illustrious career began at VersaPay, where he played a pivotal role in shaping Canada’s first EFT gateway. Over seven years, Marc spearheaded countless rollouts across diverse business landscapes, gaining a profound understanding of market gaps. In 2017, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a vision of Payments as “financial interactions,” Marc ventured out to the Maritimes, leaving VersaPay to establish his payment company. During his consultancy days,

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fate brought him together with Miles Schwartz, Zūm Rails’ co-founder and a maestro in Data Aggregation. Reflecting on those early days, Marc Milewski shares, “I was working as a consultant and ISO to generate revenue streams to fund version one. It was here that I met the other cofounder of Zūm Rails, Miles Schwartz while consulting.” United by Miles’s expertise and Marc’s Payments insights, Zūm Rails emerged in 2019, evolving from two individuals at a kitchen table to a robust team of 30+, offering groundbreaking payment solutions that seamlessly integrate a client’s financial interactions with Payments.

Marc Milewski, CEO and CO-Founder

Digital First Magazine January 2024

United by Miles’s expertise and Marc’s Payments insights, Zūm Rails emerged in 2019, evolving from two individuals at a kitchen table to a robust team of 30+, offering groundbreaking payment solutions that seamlessly integrate a client’s financial interactions with Payments

Exploring the convergence of open banking and instant payments, Zūm Rails introduces Canada’s only instant Payment gateway. Marc emphasizes, “Merging open banking and instant payments, Zūm Rails’ all-in-one payments gateway allows users to seamlessly utilize the payment rails that best fit their needs in the fastest,

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safest and most efficient way possible.” This innovative platform supports the entire payment journey, from customer onboarding to advanced data aggregation and KYC tools. Operating in real-time, it places a strong emphasis on fraud prevention and account validation and simplifies the reconciliation process—all from a single API.

“We have created software that has the functionality and capabilities to replace an entire payments tech stack with just one user-friendly interface,” Marc explains. In contrast to disparate digital tools, Zūm Rails offers a centralized hub empowering businesses to move, manage, and analyze their funds seamlessly, reducing risks and elevating their customers’ payment experience. Transforming Transactions, Empowering Users and Businesses Zūm Rails undergoes a profound metamorphosis, turning individual transactions into seamless financial interactions. The transformative journey begins with onboarding, where Zūm Rails doesn’t just streamline but elevates the customer experience. Marc expresses the significance, stating, “From the initial onboarding, we aim to create an experience where users can seamlessly connect their accounts through aggregation. It’s about ease, about logging in using their banking credentials and connecting instantly.” Once the connection is established, users experience unparalleled freedom over their

funds, navigating Zūm Rails’ open banking gateway with the swiftness of a keystroke. Behind this user-friendly façade, Marc assures, “Our software is hard at work validating accounts through name-verification, running penny tests, and eliminating the risk of fraud. It’s about making the entire process easier, faster, and safer for our users.” Yet, Zūm Rails is not just a user-centric platform; it’s a powerful tool for businesses. Marc highlights this, stating, “Businesses gain access to essential insights and reporting, allowing them to better understand and support their customers. It’s about providing businesses with the tools they need to operate efficiently and intelligently.” Zūm Rails, therefore, redefines the essence of moving money—making it easier, faster, safer, and smarter. Marc emphasizes, “By enabling users to connect their bank accounts via data aggregation, we’ve turned a historically timeconsuming process into a matter of seconds. It’s about empowering businesses to make informed decisions swiftly and granting customers access to funds with unprecedented speed.”

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Zūm Rails stands out as a premier payment gateway, pioneering the fusion of Data Aggregation and KYC elements at the point of sign-up

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Redefining Payments with Omni-Rail Innovation and Advanced Security Features Zūm Rails stands out as a premier payment gateway, pioneering the fusion of Data Aggregation and KYC elements at the point of sign-up. Marc Milewski, Co-Founder and CEO, emphasizes, “Our approach is unique— we not only derisk instant payments but also capture and store multiple payment rail information in a single solution. Being an Omni-rail provider means our customers can make safer and smarter choices for payment options based on their individual needs.” Here are some key features that define Zūm Rails’ software, especially concerning KYC/ AML tools and real-time fund movement:

Multi-rail payment provider: Users can choose the payment rails that best fit their individual needs and use cases but still maintain the convenience of one centralized wallet, allowing better financial visibility and tracking. Financial data aggregation: Businesses can enable their customers to seamlessly connect their bank accounts using any digital device, leading to faster onboarding and a more streamlined payment experience.

Partner portal: Through our open API, third parties and business partners can offer Zūm Rails a full payment solution line-up but in a completely white-labeled experience. KYC data and financial insights: Businesses can have greater visibility into their customer’s financial trends and habits in the form of practical reports and analytics, allowing for more informed decision-making and enabling businesses to offer a more customized experience.

Digital First Magazine January 2024

Fraud monitoring and prevention tools: Protecting our user’s digital assets is our top priority, so we have implemented a multifaceted system to ensure both financial security and data privacy, including name-match verification, penny testing as well as PCI DSS compliance, and SOC II Type II compliance. Invoicing and subscriptions: Users can set up automated invoicing and recurring payments to eliminate redundant tasks and reduce the risk of account delinquency. Zūm Rails’ commitment extends beyond facilitating transactions; it’s about providing a comprehensive, secure, and customizable payment experience for both users and businesses. Securing Transactions, Streamlining Fund Transfers, and Revolutionizing Payment Processes Marc Milewski sheds light on Zūm Rails’ Visa Direct solution, stating, “We are the only market solution that can validate the name on a Visa debit card,

ensuring no stolen cards can be used for instant payments. Stolen cards contribute significantly to fraud, and there are almost no tools to prevent it. Zūm Rails figured it out before everyone else.” This unique validation mechanism positions Zūm Rails as a pioneer in thwarting fraudulent activities associated with stolen cards, ensuring the security of every Visa Direct transaction. Addressing the Interac service, Marc explains, “Zūm Rails has worked tirelessly to deliver multiple Interac products using multiple banks in the background. This is because multiple banks don’t really have a complete solution. We aim to shield our clients from complexities such as navigating bank-specific protocols and potential fumbles. Our Interac solution not only facilitates real-time fund transfers but also layers in Aggregation to manage risk and prevent stolen cards.” One standout advantage is the seamless integration with other rails; as Marc points out, “Our API allows users to have access to other rails with one line of code change, making setup and processing easier than any other solution on the market.”

Zūm Rails’ commitment extends beyond facilitating transactions; it’s about providing a comprehensive, secure, and customizable payment experience for both users and businesses

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Speaking about the EFT service, Marc emphasizes, “Zūm Rails boasts one of the most robust and comprehensive EFT solutions in Canada. We integrate data aggregation and enhanced transactional risk monitoring to keep this delicate network as secure as possible. Our efforts also focus on simplifying complexities for end customers, with webhooks providing all potential outcomes via our API, allowing

clients to automate their next actions based on specific successes or failures.” Marc outlines Zūm Rails’ approach to credit card processing, stating, “We work with multiple banks and even operate as a Payfac ourselves. A distinctive feature is our ability to split credit card payments and payout directly from the merchant account. This ensures marketplaces and large-scale retailers can

Digital First Magazine January 2024

automate quicker payouts, particularly in scenarios like ticketing sites, gig economy platforms, or any marketplace aggregating multiple users/stores.”

Having successfully expanded into the US market, Zūm Rails is poised for international outreach, driven by user demand

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Innovating Beyond Weak Points: Shaping the Industry Standard Marc emphasizes Zūm Rails’ commitment to addressing pain points within users’ payment journeys, stating, “Identifying and eliminating these weak points not only drives our software improvements but also sets a new industry standard for how money is moved. We see each challenge as an opportunity to innovate, constantly aiming to beat yesterday’s best.” Leveraging pre-existing tools, Zūm Rails meticulously analyzes transaction speeds, customer spending habits, and the dynamic interactions between customers and businesses in their financial realm. Marc underscores, “Applying this data is our way of improving the overall financial experience. We focus on utilizing emerging technologies to enhance our software rather than comparing ourselves to competitors running a different race. We set the trend; companies follow our lead.” Zūm Rails goes the extra mile to ensure users are primed for success from their first transaction onward. Marc Milewski highlights this personalized approach, stating, “We assign a specialized integrations specialist to assess our users’ unique needs and tailor their integration to specific use cases. A custom API is crafted with the user’s entire payments workflow in mind, ensuring a streamlined and user-friendly experience.” To further empower users, Zūm Rails provides an extensive library of resources. Marc

explains, “We offer a wealth of how-to videos, articles, and other resources to answer questions along the way. Our goal is to equip users with the knowledge they need to navigate seamlessly through our platform.” Recognizing that growth is an ongoing journey, Zūm Rails stands by its users with a knowledgeable post-live support team. Marc asserts, “As our users grow their business, our support team provides ongoing guidance and assistance. We are dedicated to being there every step of the way, ensuring our users’ success aligns with their aspirations.” Pioneering a Comprehensive Payment Platform In a strategic alliance with FISERV, Zūm Rails has taken a monumental step in developing a revolutionary payment platform. Marc Milewski affirms, “This collaboration allows us to seamlessly combine different services into a cohesive solution for our clientele. We’ve obtained authorization as a comprehensive payment facilitator, integrating conventional card acceptance, real-time payment processing, and distribution services.” By intertwining these features with bank data aggregation services, Zūm Rails aims to offer an allencompassing solution for both traditional and contemporary payment acceptance techniques, robust capabilities in KYC, and credit scoring. This positions us as a versatile resource, catering to a broad spectrum of customer requirements. Having successfully expanded into the US market, Zūm Rails is poised for

international outreach, driven by user demand. Operating in the dynamic digital space, Marc emphasizes, “Our software is ever-evolving to address industry gaps and solve the everyday problems in payments that businesses and their customers face. We are committed to staying at the forefront of payment technology.” A Vision Beyond Transactions Zūm Rails sees payments not merely as the movement of funds from A to B but as a “financial interaction.” Marc underscores, “This perspective starts from how you onboard clients and how you handle KYC. Recognizing that payments entail an element of risk, we aim to own more than just the movement of funds. Many companies have commoditized this industry, but we want to go beyond it. We want to own the KYC and risk around it, making payments safer and harder for others to displace us.” The commitment to ownership and continuous building is ingrained in Zūm Rails’ culture. Marc notes, “We don’t mind getting calluses on our hands from the building. It’s part of our culture to always be building, not just to move funds but to own more.” Marc reveals exciting future plans, stating, “We’re gearing up to offer virtual cards for instant funding and a unique way to monetize accounts payables for our clients. Additionally, new countries and KYC products are on the horizon, showcasing our commitment to innovation and staying ahead in the payment landscape.”

Digital First Magazine January 2024

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Bridging the Gap Between Technology, Society, & Business Somi Arian, Founder & CEO, InPeak, Filmmaker, & Author

Somi, please share with us your background, journey into technology, and what inspired you along the way? From an early age, I was always drawn to the big questions of life. My academic background is rooted in the philosophy of science and technology. These fields allowed me to grapple with the complexities and potential of our relationship with technology. Over time, I began to perceive the patterns of how

technology was rapidly evolving and shaping human behavior. My dive into the tech world was quite organic. It wasn’t just about being fascinated by the latest gadgets or software but rather understanding the underpinnings of these innovations — the philosophical, social, and economic ramifications they brought along. It’s this blend of technology and philosophy that led me to coin the term “Tech Philosopher.”

The future of technology and its symbiotic relationship with humanity promises endless possibilities, and I’m eager to continue exploring them

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Somi Arian is a prominent tech entrepreneur and thought leader in AI, Web3, Business and Marketing and the Future of Work. She founded InPeak, an innovative platform enabling creators and businesses to build and monetize communities using AI and blockchain functionalities. She’s a transition architect, bridging the gap between technology, society, and business, offering invaluable insights for the fast-evolving digital age. In addition, Somi is an award-winning filmmaker, tech philosopher, and author whose work sits at the intersection of AI, blockchain, and the future of work. Her documentary, “The Millennial Disruption,” won several international awards and featured industry leaders from The Economist, Marie Claire, Bentley, JLR, and Steinway. She is a regular speaker at international tech conferences, has appeared on BBC5 Live, ran an Influencer campaign for the Times and Sunday Times and has given a TED talk. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Somi shared her professional journey, inspiration behind establishing InPeak, biggest stress relivers, success mantra, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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Inspiration came in many forms. I was inspired by the disruptors, the thinkers, and the doers. I became a voracious consumer of knowledge, from AI research papers to Ted Talks. Alongside, my own projects — like my podcast — allowed me to connect with some of the brightest minds in the Web3 and AI spaces. Each interaction, be it with a tech entrepreneur or an AI ethicist, added a new dimension to my understanding. My journey is still very much in progress. The more I learn, the more I realize how much there is yet to understand. The future of

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technology and its symbiotic relationship with humanity promises endless possibilities, and I’m eager to continue exploring them. What was the inspiration behind establishing InPeak? Tell us about its mission and vision. The inspiration for InPeak was born out of recognizing a gap in the professional learning, development, and strategic networking realm. In the age of information overload, there was a stark need for a more curated and focused space where meaningful connections

could flourish, particularly in the frontier technology sector. InPeak is designed as a Closed Social Network for professional learning and development, and strategic networking. Our platform isn’t just another networking site; it’s a meticulously curated ecosystem. By connecting startups in frontier technologies with their ideal audiences, such as VCs and other innovative founders, we are bridging gaps and fostering genuine collaborations. With an extensive library of proprietary educational content, InPeak is more than just a platform—it’s a thriving community. We are dedicated to nurturing early adopters across both B2B and B2C landscapes, ensuring that they’re not only wellinformed but also strategically connected. The vision for InPeak is a world where professional learning and strategic networking aren’t just buzzwords but tangible values that drive growth and innovation. Our commitment remains

strong: to create an environment where startups, VCs, and pioneers in frontier technologies can connect, collaborate, and flourish. Your documentary, “The Millennial Disruption,” won several international awards and featured industry leaders from The Economist, Marie Claire, Bentley, JLR, and Steinway. Can you please brief us about the documentary? “The Millennial Disruption” is a documentary that delves into the intricacies of consumer behaviour in our rapidly evolving digital age. It’s not just about observing shifts in purchasing patterns, but about understanding the driving forces behind these changes. Rooted in rigorous research, the documentary seeks to unpack how technological advancements, particularly the rise of digital platforms and social media, have reshaped the way millennials interact with

The underrepresentation of females in the technology sector is a multifaceted issue that stems from deeply ingrained societal norms, early educational biases, and workplace challenges

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brands and consume products. It also raises pertinent questions about what this means for businesses, especially established ones, in adapting their strategies to resonate with a more tech-savvy, value-driven generation.

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The film’s unique approach to dissecting these changes has earned it notable acclaim. Featured on BBC5 Live, for its forward-thinking and innovative perspective. Its significance is further underscored by its 12 international

award nominations, of which it secured three wins. Beyond the film festivals and media features, “The Millennial Disruption” has also been leveraged as a pivotal educational tool for senior leadership across a spectrum of iconic brands, facilitating deeper conversations about aligning business strategies with modern consumer behaviour.

Emotional Intelligence empowers us to understand, regulate, and channel emotions constructively, both within ourselves and in our interactions with others

Why do you think there are still so few females in the technology sector? How can we get more women into technology? The underrepresentation of females in the technology sector is a multifaceted issue that stems from deeply ingrained societal norms, early educational biases, and workplace challenges. Historically, the tech industry has been predominantly male-driven, making it difficult for women to find relatable role models. The industry’s fast-paced nature, coupled with the pressures of a competitive environment, can sometimes deter women who might otherwise be interested. However, initiatives and platforms are rising to address these challenges. At InPeak, we host a dedicated channel called FemPeak, aimed at directly addressing the educational and representational gaps. FemPeak focuses on education, networking, representation, and support for women, tailored to their unique experiences and challenges in the tech industry. By showcasing achievements and contributions, and connecting women with industry leaders and peers, FemPeak serves as a beacon for those looking to navigate the tech landscape. To get more women into technology: Education: We need to introduce technologybased subjects at an early age and ensure that girls feel as encouraged as boys to participate and excel. Mentorship: Having a mentor in the field can guide, inspire, and open doors. With platforms like FemPeak, we aim to provide this mentorship and networking opportunity. Representation: Seeing someone like you in a role you aspire to can be incredibly motivating.

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Highlighting success stories of women in tech can inspire a new generation. Flexibility: As the industry evolves, workplaces need to offer more flexible working conditions to cater to everyone, especially women who often juggle multiple roles. Ultimately, we need to challenge stereotypes at every level - from homes to schools to workplaces. This means highlighting the achievements of women in tech, celebrating their contributions, and providing platforms where they can learn, network, and grow. What has been the driving force to get you where you are today? Pure Grit. Who has been your biggest advocate/ mentor in the workplace and why? Throughout my journey in the tech sector, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to cross paths with individuals who believed deeply in my potential and vision. These advocates, more than just mentors, not only imparted wisdom and guidance but also actively invested in InPeak, reinforcing their belief in its mission. Their backing, both in terms of wisdom and tangible support, has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the company and my personal journey within the industry. Their actions have underscored the immense power of genuine advocacy in driving innovation and fostering talent. What is your biggest stress reliever? My biggest stress reliever is an active blend of both physical and mental exercises. I’ve always believed in a “work-life blend” rather than balance, as the lines often blur in today’s

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digital age. To navigate this, I’ve incorporated habits that anchor me amidst the chaos. Physical Activity: I engage in regular weight training sessions, which not only strengthens my body but also helps clear my mind. On days I can’t step out, my treadmill becomes my sanctuary. The rhythmic pace helps me process thoughts, while the physical movement alleviates stress. Meditation: It’s a vital part of my daily routine. Even a few minutes of mindfulness can recalibrate my thoughts, providing clarity and calm. Walks: There’s something therapeutic about walks. It connects me to nature, provides a change of scenery, and often sparks new perspectives or solutions to challenges. All these practices combined ensure that I’m not just reacting to stressors, but actively cultivating a lifestyle that equips me to handle them. It’s about harmonizing the mental and physical aspects, allowing me to navigate both my professional and personal spheres effectively. What job did you dream of when you were a kid – your Plan A career path? First astronaut, and once I realized I didn’t have the math I decided to go for philosopher. Which are the top 3 skills that every future-ready leader must possess? Emotional Intelligence (EI): As machines continue to evolve, the one domain where humans distinctly hold an advantage is our intrinsic emotional complexity. Emotional Intelligence empowers us to understand, regulate, and channel emotions constructively, both within ourselves and in our interactions with others. In the dynamic landscape of leadership, having a profound EI ensures that

By being present, fully engaged, and conscious of our environment, we can harness our human skills optimally, giving us a distinct edge in a world progressively merging with technology

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we not only respond to challenges efficiently but also foster healthier, more productive relationships in our professional environments. Critical Thinking: In an age inundated with information and rapid changes, the ability to think critically is paramount. Leaders should be adept at using both their instinctual ‘fast mode’ of thinking and the more rational ‘slow mode’ to assess situations and make informed decisions. This dual approach ensures quick reactions when needed, balanced with wellconsidered strategies stemming from an indepth analysis. Contextual Creativity: Beyond mere innovation, leaders of the future need to excel in ‘Contextual Creativity.’ It involves an interdisciplinary grasp, where one understands the nuances of various domains and can cohesively bring them together to devise solutions. This skill is pivotal in our interconnected world, where problems are multifaceted and require leaders to think outside the conventional box. While these three stand out, it’s essential to acknowledge the foundational role of Mindfulness. By being present, fully engaged, and conscious of our environment, we can harness our human skills optimally, giving us a distinct edge in a world progressively merging with technology. This skill acts as the cornerstone, amplifying the effectiveness of EI, Critical Thinking, and Contextual Creativity. Throughout your career, you have been a recipient of prestigious awards and accolades. What is your secret mantra for being successful? Never be satisfied with second best.

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What advice would you pass on to other women to help them progress in this industry? Stay ahead in the tech industry by prioritizing continuous learning, given the everevolving nature of the landscape. Utilize platforms like InPeak, which are designed to empower women with relevant tools and resources. Cultivate resilience; setbacks are often stepping stones in disguise. And always value networking. Being active in events and online forums can open doors to countless opportunities. Your progress not only elevates your own career but also sets an important precedent for other aspiring women in tech. Somi Arian is a prominent tech entrepreneur and thought leader in AI, Web3, Business and Marketing and the Future of Work. She founded InPeak, an innovative platform enabling creators and businesses to build and monetize communities using AI and blockchain functionalities. She’s a transition architect, bridging the gap between technology, society, and business, offering invaluable insights for the fast-evolving digital age. She is also an award-winning filmmaker, tech philosopher, and author whose work sits at the intersection of AI, blockchain, and the future of work. Her documentary, “The Millennial Disruption,” won several international awards and featured industry leaders from The Economist, Marie Claire, Bentley, JLR, and Steinway. She is a regular speaker at international tech conferences, has appeared on BBC5 Live, ran an Influencer campaign for the Times and Sunday Times and has given a TED talk.

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LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Helping Companies Harness the Power of their Data to Unlock New Revenue Opportunities Ken Elliott, Co-founder & Chief Data & Analytics Officer, Provision Analytics

Do you think that data science is perceived to be more important than ever before? And what has been the impact of AI on data science? Yes, data science is truly more important than ever. Not only because of the exponentially growing amount of data to analyze, but labor shortages in many industries are driving the need for automation in both front-office and back-office business processes. And, when these processes require automated or semiautomated decisions, companies are turning to

data science to create more intelligent, scalable, accurate, and secure applications. The advent of Generative AI capabilities, like ChatGPT, is adding exponential demand on data science. Specifically, the “science” part. GenAI solutions are deceptively simple and seemly accurate at face value. However, we are beginning to see the critical need for disciplined scientific methods to reduce bias, ensure accuracy, and rapidly identify unintended outcomes. The ‘science’ will help companies avoid regulatory and ethical issues

The ‘science’ will help companies avoid regulatory and ethical issues while improving outcomes for their business and society

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Ken Elliott is Co-founder and Chief Data & Analytics Officer at Provision Analytics, an advisory services firm helping clients harness the power of data and artificial intelligence. Ken has been recognized by DataIQ as one of the “100 Most Influential people in Data” and by AIMS Research as one of the “100 Top Leaders in Artificial Intelligence”. He has been delivering data and analytic solutions for over 30 years. Prior to Provision Analytics, Ken was the Chief Data & Analytics Officer at Waste Management, Vice President of Analytics at UnitedHealthcare, led Global Analytics at Hewlett Packard Enterprise Services, and was Vice President of Analytic Solutions as SPSS Inc (now IBM). Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Ken shared his insights on the impact of AI on data science, his professional journey, significant career milestones, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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while improving outcomes for their business and society.

Generative AI models, like ChatGPT, will have a dramatic impact on the productivity of software programming in general – including data science

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What can leaders do to promote a data driven decision-making culture in their organizations? To become a data-driven organization, companies must first have a true desire to do so. Having a passion to be data-driven implies that the company (1) understands the value of data and sees it as a corporate asset, (2) has a clear understanding of how data can improve business processes and/ or create new revenue opportunities, (3) has committed to a vision and implemented policies and practices that integrate data stewardship throughout their ways of working. Leaders looking to promote a data-driven culture should start by proving the value of data and analytics through quick wins and promoting the success of those cases as part of a well-planned Data Literacy campaign. Rince and repeat. Ken, please tell us about your past work experiences, career growth journey, and your long-term vision. I began my career at a statistical software company called SPSS Inc. (now part of IBM). There, I had the privilege to build the global professional services function delivering data and analytics solutions to companies across numerous industries. From there I ‘went to the dark side’ and joined the “IT” within HP Inc. delivering data and analytics to all business functions of the then $300B company. I then joined the ‘operations’ organization of United Healthcare to deliver data and analytics supporting the business functions directly. Most recently, I was Chief Data and Analytics Officer at an environmental services company (Waste Management).

This combination of experience has given me broad exposure across multiple industries and from various perspectives including software development, consulting services, business operations, and IT delivery management. Admittedly, I did not plan this. I wish I could say I had. It was all dumb luck. My advice to aspiring data scientists (or anyone) is don’t overthink it. Follow your passion and enjoy the journey. You’ll only have it all figured out when you’re done.

need for data scientists. In fact, it will have the opposite effect. These new systems will require more scientists to address the increased demand. Data scientists are too burdened with data wrangling and code development. I am optimistic that accelerators in each of these domains will allow data scientists to focus more on business problems and crafting innovative approaches to solving the more challenging aspects of bias, ethics, accuracy, and transparency.

As the Co-founder, what are your top two priorities at Provision Analytics? The mission of Provision Analytics is to help companies navigate and accelerate their journey to becoming data-driven and maximizing their use of AI. Our focus is on helping companies become self-sufficient along their data maturity journey in a way that aligns with their corporate strategy. The hot topic now is the safe, ethical, and impactful use of Generative AI. We are seeing a dramatic rise up the ‘hype cycle’ which will be followed by an equally dramatic fall through the ‘trough of disillusionment’. Our goal is to use our experience in data, analytics, and digital transformation to help companies chart a straight course through this cycle and emerge as industry leaders in the new age of AI.

What key personality traits are common among successful data scientists? The best data scientists are more focused on achieving business outcomes than writing elegant code. Sometimes, simple solutions are the most appropriate. Great data scientists look for the best path to achieve the optimal business outcome. Too often, young data scientists focus more on building the next cool thing and hope it adds value, versus realizing that only things that add value are cool. As far as personality traits, I would say Curiosity, Outcome Orientation, Fearless (fail fast and learn), and for all of us – caring.

What are your thoughts about ChatGPT? Do you feel that data science jobs may become obsolete or can the AI chatbot help data scientists in diligent tasks? Generative AI models, like ChatGPT, will have a dramatic impact on the productivity of software programming in general – including data science. However, this will not eliminate the

Are there still hurdles chief data officers have to overcome in their roles or are CDOs now accepted in parts of the organizational hierarchy? The role of Chief Data Officer is emerging. Companies either don’t have one, have one but struggle, or have a well-established CDO function. The hurdles are mostly with the middle group. These CDOs are appointed, but they are spending too much time clarifying or justifying their role. It is ironic that we’ve accepted Chief Finance Officers to oversee our finances, Chief

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People Officers to oversee our people, Chief Operating Officers to oversee our operations, Chief Legal Officers to oversee our legal affairs, but are struggling with the appointment of Chief Data Officers to oversee our data. I believe this is due to three primary issues. First, data is still not understood and often viewed as an “IT” thing. It must be seen as a business asset. Second, data is pervasive across all business functions, both in its production and its use. As a result, ownership is ambiguous and shared. Finally, data tells a story. As an executive, if I relinquish data to another executive, it might not tell the story I believe. Given that most of it is bad anyway, I don’t trust losing control of my story. Once a company realizes that data is a share corporate ‘asset’ that needs governance, management, and monetization, a CDO can be of tremendous value as a trusted corporate steward. What has been your most career-defining moment that you are proud of? It has been an exciting career with many amazing things to celebrate. I expect many more to come. But, so far, the thing I am most proud of is seeing my team prosper. At HP we were encouraged to manage talent and proactively rotate and/or move up to top talent. My team was often poached for future leaders. That made me very proud. It is an outcome I aspire to in every organization I am a part of. What is the best career advice you’ve received and how have you sought to put this into practice? I distinctly remember the day, early in my career, when I screwed up a project which led to a delay

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in a customer delivery date. My boss and I met with the customer to explain. I was panicking and sure I was going to be fired after the meeting. Instead, my boss took accountability and never blamed me. Instead, we met the next day to walk through the project and worked together to find out how the miss happened and what process we could put into place to help ‘others’ avoid this outcome in the future. It was my first lesson in being a caring leader, and also embracing failure fast and learn mindset. What are your passions outside of work? My wife and I have two children who have graduated and are on to their careers. My greatest joy is getting together as a family, hanging out, playing games, or enjoying a movie. We also enjoy sailing. At least once a year you’ll find us on a catamaran in the BVIs. On a personal level I enjoy making music and creating art. What advice would you offer others looking to build their careers as data scientists? Find a company that has a warm culture and a cause you believe in. Make sure your manager is finding ways to help you grow. You are in demand, so don’t accept anything less. Focus more on business outcomes than the complexity of your code. Devote time to personal learning – perhaps join a Kaggle competition or two. Have fun. And, be prepared to give back by mentoring others.

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