< PreviousTHE POWER LIST 50 Edge/ October 2024 Stephane Timpano didn’t start his career with a traditional engineering background. “I’ve always been fascinated by technology, even though I came from a diff erent fi eld,” he explains. Born in France to an Italian family, he pursued Political Science and Economics, earning an MBA from Bocconi University in Italy. His career took off in consulting at EY and Bain, where he specialised in Telecom, Media, and Technology, gaining experience across more than thirty countries. He first delved into tech product development at News Corp, contributing to the launch of SkyGo, their initial foray into streaming. “It was an exciting time, just as Netfl ix was gaining traction,” he remembers. Now leading ASPIRE and A2RL, Timpano is focused on Robotics, Autonomy, and AI. The launch of the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, featuring AI-driven SuperFormula cars at the Yas Marina Circuit, is a highlight. Timpano maintains a disciplined routine, starting his day at 5 am to stay ahead. and is also passionate about Lego, particularly building complex Star Wars models. STEPHANE TIMPANO CEO ASPIRE Dr. Chris Cooper’s journey into the tech world is as diverse as inspiring. With roots in theoretical physics and a PhD in applied physics and electronics, his path was anything but linear. “I’ve always been interested in how things work,” Cooper recalls. “From a young age, I was dismantling devices, eager to understand their mechanics.” His career took off at Philips, a company that was, at the time, leading the charge in technological innovation. From there, Cooper navigated a complex landscape, moving from telecommunications to IT and ultimately to Dubai in 2009. “I moved to run the mainframe business across several regions, which allowed me to work on projects like Shaheen, the fastest supercomputer in the region at that time,” he says with a hint of pride. Today, as the CEO of AIQ, Cooper is focused on leveraging AI to drive signifi cant value in the Energy sector. “We’ve introduced several groundbreaking solutions,” he explains. “Our RoboWell, for example, is the world’s fi rst AI-enabled Advanced Process Control solution, revolutionising oil and gas wells by automating processes to maximise production and effi ciency while ensuring safety.” DR CHRIS COOPER CEO AIQ Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5030/09/2024 16:14THE POWER LIST Edge/ October 2024 51 Dr. Najwa Aaraj’s journey into the world of technology began with a solid foundation in mathematics, infl uenced by her family’s background in engineering and fi nance. “Coming from a family of strong women in medicine and fi nance, I was drawn to the idea of using my mathematical skills to impact the world positively,” she refl ects. Her path was shaped by curiosity and a desire to innovate, leading her to build her fi rst tech product. This electronic dice circuit began her fascination with engineering and technology. Today, as the Chief Researcher at the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Aaraj is proud of her team’s groundbreaking advancements, notably the Falcon series of Large Language Models (LLMs) and innovations in autonomous vehicles. TII’s contributions to cryptography, robotics, and unmanned systems put the UAE on the map as a hub for cutting-edge research. As she looks to the future, Aaraj remains committed to advancing deep tech and contributing to the UAE’s technological landscape. “I want to prove that we in the Arab world can not only innovate but also export technology,” she says proudly. DR. NAJWA AARAJ CEO TII Elizabeth Churchill’s journey into technology has been shaped by a deep curiosity about how people interact with the world around them. Born in India and raised in the UK, Churchill’s academic path led her from psychology to AI. “I’ve always been intrigued by how tools, from something as simple as a pencil to complex AI systems, can improve our lives,” she says. Her move to Silicon Valley marked a pivotal moment. She joined FXPAL, Fuji Xerox’s research lab. One of her earliest projects, Collaboposter, was designed to encourage social interaction through public display technology. Now at MBZUAI, Churchill focuses on responsible AI, ensuring that innovation benefi ts everyone. PROFESSOR ELIZABETH CHURCHILL MOHAMED BIN ZAYED UNIVERSITY OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (MBZUAI) DEPARTMENT CHAIR of HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERACTION(HCI), PROFESSOR of HCI Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5130/09/2024 16:14THE POWER LIST 52 Edge/ October 2024 Ahmad Alwan, CEO of Hub71, has played a pivotal role in positioning Abu Dhabi as a rising tech hub. Soft-spoken yet resolute, Alwan’s journey is defi ned by a passion for fostering innovation and contributing to UAE’s growth. “My passion has always been about contributing to communities and creating real impact,” he shares. With a background in International Relations and Psychology, his path led him to Mubadala, where he contributed to the country’s economic initiatives. In 2019, he joined Hub71 with a vision to create a thriving startup ecosystem in Abu Dhabi. “We knew the infrastructure was there, but the challenge was to bring it all together,” he refl ects. Hub71, under Alwan’s leadership, has become a vital platform for startups, providing support, capital access, and a dynamic community. “Our bond with the community is our strongest asset. Many startups have become partners, even friends.” AI is a signifi cant focus for Hub71, with Alwan hinting at exciting upcoming initiatives: “Generative AI has democratised access to technology like never before. Expect big things soon.” AHMAD ALWAN CEO HUB71 Khalfan Belhoul is orchestrating Dubai’s nex t leap into the future in a city that continually reimagines the boundaries of possibility. As Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), he is driving initiatives that position Dubai as a global nexus of innovation and technology. “We are living the future in the present,” Belhoul observes, embodying Dubai’s commitment to embracing change. Under his stewardship, the DFF has rapidly transformed visionary ideas into tangible realities, forging international partnerships and fostering a culture of creativity. Before leading the DFF, Belhoul was Vice President of Strategy at Dubai Holding, contributing to the diversifi cation of the city’s economy beyond oil. He also founded the Belhoul Investment Offi ce, overseeing a varied portfolio of assets. An alumnus of Boston University with degrees in Finance and Management Information Systems, plus a Master’s in E-Commerce, Belhoul was integrating fi nance and technology ahead of his time. KHALFAN BELHOUL CEO DUBAI FUTURE FOUNDATION Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5230/09/2024 16:14THE POWER LIST Edge/ October 2024 53 HE Khaldoon Al Mubarak is a central fi gure at the intersection of global business, government policy, and international diplomacy. S i n c e 20 0 2 , h e h a s l e d Mubadala Investment Company as Managing Director and Group CEO, steering the $276 billion sovereign fund to achieve sustainable returns for Abu Dhabi through strategic investments . Al Mubarak chairs the Executive Aff airs Authority in the governmental realm, providing strategic counsel to HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His commitment to innovation is evident through his roles as a founding member of the Artifi cial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council and Vice Chair of the Mohammed bin Zayed Water Initiative, both established in 2024. HE KHALDOON KHALIFA AL MUBARAK MANAGING DIRECTOR AND GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MUBADALA INVESTMENT COMPANY Stephane Timpano, CEO of Aspire, is a proud and avid Lego builder with over a million pieces dedicated to creating intricate Star Wars vessels. My most ambitious project has been the Nebulon-B Frigate, a pivotal medical ship in the Rebel fl eet from The Empire Strikes Back. Since no offi cial large-scale Lego set exists for this vessel, I embarked on a six- month journey to design and assemble it from scratch, sourcing every piece to bring this iconic structure to life. It combines creativity, patience, and precision—qualities that resonate deeply with my professional ethos Many tech leaders believe Perfectionism to be an overrated virtue, and HE Huda Al Hashmi is one of those. While striving for excellence and attention to detail are valuable traits, perfectionism often leads to unrealistic expectations, excessive self-criticism, and a fear of failure. It can hinder progress, creativity, and innovation by focusing too much on fl awlessness rather than learning from mistakes and adapting to challenges For Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e&, integrity is key to both individuals and organisations. For Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO, e&, integrity is key to both individuals and organisations. I believe the most overlooked virtue is integrity,” he refl ects. “It’s the cornerstone of trust, reliability, and ethical conduct. Even the most brilliant minds and innovative ideas will falter without integrity Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5330/09/2024 16:14THE POWER LIST 54 Edge/ October 2024 Ronaldo Mouchawar, Vice President of Amazon MENA, has played a pivotal role in the region’s e-commerce landscape since Amazon acquired Souq.com in 2017—a platform he co-founded in 2005. A visionary entrepreneur, Mouchawar has been instrumental in aligning Amazon’s strategies with local economies. In October 2023, Amazon Saudi Arabia launched its “Saudi Made” storefront, highlighting Saudi-produced goods, while Amazon UAE partnered with RAKEZ to support local SMEs. Beyond e-commerce, Mouchawar is deeply involved in the region’s tech ecosystem. He sits on the board of the Dubai Future Council on Artifi cial Intelligence and is a member of both the Dubai Future Academy Board of Trustees and the International Advisory Council’s executive council. His infl uence extends beyond retail, driving conversations about AI, innovation, and the future of tech in the Middle East. With his Syrian-American background and expertise, Mouchawar continues to bridge global technology with local development. RONALDO MOUCHAWAR VP AMAZON MENA A nthony Nakache, MD of Google for the Middle East and North Africa, is navigating one of the world’s most dynamic regions. Having joined Google in 2008, Nakache assumed his current role in 2022 and has since focused on advancing Google’s presence in MENA. In May 2024, he oversaw the introduction of the Arabic version of Google’s AI Gemini Advanced, marking a major step in localising cutting- edge technology. With a background that includes leading partner ecosystems across EMEA, Nakache brings deep expertise to Google’s eff orts in the region. Under his leadership, Google continues to bridge global technology with local innovation, ensuring that MENA remains an essential part of the company’s global strategy. His career, which began at Altran in France, has now found its centre in Dubai, where Nakache is spearheading Google’s mission to harness the region’s immense digital potential. ANTHONY NAKACHE GOOGLE MANAGING DIRECTOR MENA Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5430/09/2024 16:14THE POWER LIST Edge/ October 2024 55 Born and raised in Lebanon, Naim Yazbeck, General Manager, Microsoft UAE, first became captivated by technology through his curiosity about gadgets entering the local market. “I’ve always been fascinated by how things work,” he recalls. This passion led him to pursue a master’s degree in computer engineering, eventually landing him at Microsoft, where his career took off . “My path was a mix of planning and serendipity,” he refl ects, as opportunities aligned perfectly with his ambitions. Today, Yazbeck is driving innovation across the Middle East, particularly with introducing Microsoft’s AI-driven products like Copilot and Azure AI Studio. “Our vision is to have a Copilot for every role, in every industry,” he says. M i cr osof t ’s t e chnologies ar e transforming sectors from healthcare to government, with AI-powered solutions enhancing productivity and public services across the UAE. Looking ahead, he focuses on empowering the region through technology and nurturing local talent. NAIM YAZBECK GENERAL MANAGER MICROSOFT, UAE Jobin Joejoe’s career trajectory with Sony Middle East and Africa (MEA) is a testament to his leadership and deep understanding of electronics. Born and raised in India, Joejoe has steadily climbed the ranks within Sony, starting in 2007 and advancing to Deputy Managing Director in 2022. His promotion to Managing Director in April 2024 marks a pivotal moment for Joejoe and the company’s regional strategy. “The Middle East and Africa are dynamic markets brimming with potential,” Joejoe noted as he took the helm, ready to guide Sony’s innovations into new territories. His appointment coincided with a major product launch—Sony MEA unveiled its latest BRAVIA series in April 2024, showcasing cutting-edge advancements in display technology. The BRAVIA lineup underscores Sony’s commitment to delivering unparalleled viewing experiences, which Joejoe views as a core part of the brand’s identity. Beyond products, Joejoe has also been instrumental in forging strategic partnerships, most notably with the Esports World Cup Foundation. JOBIN JOEJOE MANAGING DIRECTOR MENA, SONY Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5530/09/2024 16:14THE POWER LIST 56 Edge/ October 2024 Fares A kkad, t he Regional Director for Meta in the Middle East and Africa, has over 25 years of experience driving growth in media and technology. He has been recognised as one of the top 50 leaders in MENA, and he has played a pivotal role in expanding Meta’s presence in emerging markets. Before Meta, Akkad led digital development at MBC Group and worked as a senior consultant at Booz & Co. and KPMG. Akkad’s leadership at Meta has been marked by his strategic focus on building bridges between global tech and regional innovation. In 2024, he oversaw the launch of Meta’s fi rst advisory board for the Middle East & Africa, aiming to foster collaboration and growth within the region’s digital ecosystem. His expertise in media partnerships, developed over years in global markets like APAC and LATAM, has been critical in expanding Meta’s regional infl uence. Akkad advises startups and advocates for autism awareness. He also sits on the boards of companies such as Cafu, Aleph Investments, and Enhance Technologies, further refl ecting his commitment to fostering innovation and business growth. FARES AKKAD REGIONAL DIRECTOR META Yasser Hassan’s journey through the tech world began with a spark ignited at Cairo University, where he earned a degree in communication engineering. His career took off during the Internet boom of the late ‘90s at IBM, which stoked his passion for technology’s transformative potential. Hassan’s path wasn’t meticulously p lanned bu t rat her shap ed by serendipitous turns—from his time at Microsoft, managing operations in Egypt and Sweden, to his current role at AWS. “Seeing fi rsthand how technology could make a real diff erence in emerging markets was magical,” he notes. Now, as the MD for MENAT at AWS, Hassan is deeply committed to harnessing tech for societal impact, particularly in education and healthcare. His enthusiasm for technology’s rapid evolution is palpable. “We’ve gone from blockchain to the metaverse to AI, all within a few years—it’s fascinating how quickly these technologies emerge,” he marvels. With initiatives like the AWS GenAI Accelerator and signifi cant investments in regional infrastructure, AWS, under Hassan’s leadership, is shaping the tech landscape and promoting inclusivity. YASSER HASSAN MANAGING DIRECTOR MENAT, AWS Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5630/09/2024 16:14THE POWER LIST Edge/ October 2024 57 Walid Yehia, Managing Director of Dell Technologies UAE, has spent over three decades shaping the region’s technology landscape. Growing up in Egypt, Yehia’s curiosity about gadgets led him to pursue a Electrical and Communications Engineering degree. “As a young boy, I loved tinkering with gadgets. That passion drove my career,” he says. Now at Dell, Yehia oversees strategy, sales, and delivery, focusing on tech’s transformative power. “What excites me is how technology can improve lives,” he refl ects. His leadership was instrumental in launching the region’s fi rst cloud project in 2010, and today, he continues to drive Dell’s AI and GenAI innovations. A firm believer in collaborative leadership, Yehia prioritises his team’s needs. “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others,” he notes. His focus on balance extends to his life, as he maintains a healthy work-life equilibrium. “True productivity isn’t about long hours—it’s about working smart.” For Yehia, success isn’t just about technology. “The greatest achievement in my life is my family. Professionally, it’s understanding and empathy with my team and clients.” WALID YEHIA MANAGING DIRECTOR DELL TECHNOLOGIES, UAE Peter Oganesean, the Managing Director of HP Middle East and East Africa, never planned to enter the tech world. Growing up in Moldova, with Armenian roots, he moved to Dubai in 2005. “I stumbled into the tech world by chance,” he admits. “But I never imagined staying with such an amazing company for this long.” Since joining HP, Oganesean has spearheaded significant innovations, including the launch of AI-enabled PCs like the HP EliteBook Ultra and OmniStudio X. “We’re empowering users to thrive in both work and personal life,” he says. His leadership has focused not only on technology but also on fostering diversity and inclusion. With 27 nationalities across his team, he ensures that HP’s values of equality and community thrive. Reflecting on his leadership style, Oganesean says, “I want to be involved, but not micromanage. Listening and understanding are key.” His commitment to HP’s vision is clear, as he leads the charge toward democratising access to advanced technologies in the region. PETER OGANESEAN MANAGING DIRECTOR HP MIDDLE EAST AND EAST AFRICA Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5730/09/2024 16:15THE POWER LIST 58 Edge/ October 2024 For David Meads, Vice President at Cisco, the technology journey began unexpectedly but soon became a lifelong passion. “I began my career working for a small UK-based technology company, where I became intrigued by the world of sales,” he refl ects. This curiosity led him to Cisco in 1996, where he now oversees operations across 80 markets, including the Middle East, Africa, Romania, and CIS countries. Meads is fascinated by the transformative power of technology, particularly in the Middle East, where digital connectivity is reshaping daily life. “Technology is making healthcare more accessible, education more inclusive, and our travels safer and smarter,” he notes, emphasising the region’s unique embrace of digital innovation. Under Meads’ leadership, Cisco has launched several groundbreaking initiatives. In 2024 alone, the company introduced a $1B global investment fund to foster secure AI solutions. It rolled out Cisco Hypershield, an AI-native security architecture described as the most signifi cant security advancement in Cisco’s 40-year history. DAVID MEADS VICE PRESIDENT CISCO MIDDLE EAST, AFRICA ROMANIA & CIS COUNTRIES Cherian Va rghese, is t h e Senior Vice President of AI, Cloud Infrastructure, ISV, and MySQL Business at Oracle EMEA, balances his demanding role with a morning walk alongside his loyal golden retriever. This ritual keeps him grounded amidst the pace of innovation. With over 30 years of experience at IBM and Oracle, Varghese now leads Oracle’s AI and cloud initiatives in key emerging markets. “We don’t just provide parts of the solution—we deliver the entire package,” he says, highlighting Oracle’s strength in AI infrastructure and cloud services. A central fi gure in the development of Oracle’s Exadata, Varghese draws inspiration from Larry Ellison’s continued drive for innovation. “Larry’s energy and vision at nearly 80 are unmatched.” Beyond his work at Oracle, Varghese is also passionate about social impact, particularly clean water initiatives in Africa. CHERIAN VARGHESE SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF AI, CLOUD INFRASTRUCTURE, ISV, AND MYSQL BUSINESS ORACLE EMEA Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5830/09/2024 16:15THE POWER LIST Edge/ October 2024 59 Shukri Eid’s journey into the world of technology started in Jordan, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and developed a passion for computer design and software. Born to Palestinian parents and raised in Kuwait, Eid moved to the UAE nearly 30 years ago, where his career took off with roles at multinational companies like PwC and IBM. “My career has been non- linear,” he refl ects. “You need a vision but also the fl exibility to let your path unfold naturally.” As General Manager for Gulf, Levant, and Pakistan at IBM, Eid leads eff orts to push technological boundaries in the region. Under his leadership, IBM has launched key innovations, including the Watsonx platform, which has signifi cantly advanced AI governance and enabled breakthroughs in Arabic language processing. “Our products help businesses confidently tackle AI challenges,” he says. Eid is passionate about AI’s role in shaping the future. IBM’s recent projects, like a $200 million Software Lab in Riyadh and a strategic partnership with COP28 in Dubai, highlight the company’s commitment to the region. SHUKRI EID GENERAL MANAGER, GULF, LEVANT & PAKISTAN IBM Toufi c Derbass, Managing Director for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa at Kaspersky, fi rst discovered his passion for technology while studying Computer and Communication Engineering at the American University of Beirut. “It was then I realised this was my future,” he refl ects. His career, spanning over a decade in engineering roles, has been shaped by his fascination with the ever-evolving tech landscape. At Kaspersky, Derbass is proud of innovations like Cyber Immunity, which off ers new levels of protection against cyberattacks. “Our Thin Client 2.0 is a game-changer for secure remote work,” he says. Under his leadership, the Middle East has seen impressive growth, with the region at the forefront of digital adoption. Known for encouraging innovation within his team, Derbass believes in empowering individuals to fi nd solutions. “Creativity thrives when everyone has a voice,” he says. Balancing his busy role with family, Derbass prioritises time with his children. “Taking my kids to school is the best part of my day,” he shares. TOUFIC DERBASS MANAGING DIRECTOR, MIDDLE EAST, TURKEY, AND AFRICA KASPERSKY Edge_Oct2024_42-79_The Power List_13391269.indd 5930/09/2024 16:15Next >