The 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025

طﺳوﻷا قرﺷﻟا ءﺎﻣﻋز The Balancing Profit and Purpose Transforma?ve Corporate Leadership Beyond Compliance Corporate Leadership and ESG Integra?on

“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”

Leading with Vision W elcome to The Middle East Leaders latest edition of The 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025, where we celebrate visionaries shaping the future of leadership, innovation, and enterprise. In an era defined by digital transformation, sustainability, and dynamic market shifts, the role of business leaders has evolved beyond traditional boundaries. Today’s leaders are not just decision-makers but catalysts for change—embracing technology, championing inclusivity, and redefining corporate responsibility. In this special edition, we spotlight ten exceptional leaders who exemplify resilience, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to progress. These individuals are breaking barriers, fostering workplace cultures that prioritize growth and well-being, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to drive industry advancements. From disruptive entrepreneurs to corporate pioneers, each leader featured here has a unique story of impact and inspiration. What sets these leaders apart is their ability to navigate uncertainty while empowering others. They recognize that true leadership is about creating opportunities, fostering collaboration, and setting a course for a more innovative and equitable business landscape. Whether through groundbreaking strategies, sustainable business practices, or transformative digital solutions, they are paving the way for a new era of leadership. We invite you to explore their journeys, insights, and the lessons they impart. As we step into 2025, may their stories inspire you to lead with purpose, innovate with passion, and empower those around you. Happy reading! Preston B. Editor’s Editor’s Editor’s Desk Desk Desk

CONTENTS Cover story 08 Articles 16 Beyond Compliance Corporate Leadership and ESG Integra?on 20 Balancing Prot and Purpose Transforma?ve Corporate Leadership

Company Name Featured Person Brief Editor-in-Chief Merry D'Souza A visionary leader blending tradition with innovation, he drives global expansion in jewelry and real estate, authors books, and supports social causes. Abhishek Gilara Managing Director Rambhajos rambhajo.com Managing Editor Executive Editor Assistant Editors Preston B. Jenny F. Michael W. Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism dubaidet.gov Alkhaja is an influential leader dedicated to advancing organizational goals through strategic initiatives and innovative solutions that drive success. Ahmed Alkhaja CEO Art & Design Director Associate Designer Visualizer David King Rosy Scott Angela Ruskin Bieringer specializes in business development, leveraging market insights to create opportunities that drive commercial success and foster partnerships. Andreas Bieringer Director Business Development & Commercial Masdar masdar.ae Senior Sales Managers Business Development Manager Brain Moody, Jack McDowell Fahad Anwar Andreas Collor Chief Operations Officer Collor focuses on operational excellence, driving efficiency and effectiveness within organizations while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. TAQA Group taqa.com Marketing Manager Sales Executives James M. Max Floyd Anwar P | Jinal shah Managing Director COO Anwar P and Jinal Shah are dynamic leaders with a shared commitment to driving organizational success through innovation and operational excellence. KNOTS Technical Head Business Development Executives knotsonline.com Jacob Smile Simon, Tom Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing dubaidet.gov Kazim is a dynamic leader known for his strategic vision and commitment to driving growth through innovative approaches and collaborative partnerships. Issam Kazim CEO Technical Specialist Digital Marketing Manager Dominique T. Irvin Wilson Sacy is a transformative leader focused on innovation, with a strong background in AI and operational excellence, dedicated to driving sustainable growth and collaboration. Jean-Paul Sacy Head of Middle East and Africa Wand AI wand.ai SME-SMO Executive Research Analyst Steve Rodrigues Frank Adams Alhashmi is a visionary leader committed to driving growth and innovation, with a focus on strategic initiatives that enhance organizational performance. Omar Alhashmi Chief Executive Officer TAQA Distribution taqadistribution.com Database Management Technology Consultant Circulation Manager Stella Andrew David Stokes Robert Brown Griffiths is a seasoned executive with a track record of leadership, focusing on strategic growth and innovation in dynamic business environments. sales@themiddleeastleaders.com March, 2025 Dubai Airports dubaiairports.ae Paul Griffiths CEO Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism dubaidet.gov. Fikry is an expert in operational strategies, dedicated to enhancing organizational efficiency and delivering impactful solutions within the industry. Tarek Magdy Fikry COO www.linkedin.com/company/the-middle-east-leaders/ Follow us on : www.facebook.com/themiddleeastleaders/ We are also available on : Copyright © 2025 The Middle East Leaders, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from The Middle East Leaders. Reprint rights remain solely with The Middle East Leaders.

A COVER STORY Luxury is not just about opulence; it is about heritage, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.”

The 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025 "Luxury is not just about opulence; it is about heritage, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.” A ship and innovation, he has successfully positioned Rambhajo’s as a global name in high-end jewellery. Under his leadership, the brand seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, preserving heritage while embracing cutting- edge trends. bhishek Gilara, the Managing Director of Rambhajo’s, is a visionary leader redefining luxury jewelry. With a deep-rooted passion for craftsman- Leadership is about enabling growth—both for the company and the people who drive it forward.” A strategist at heart and a creator by vision, Abhishek is committed to excellence, sustainability, and pushing the boundaries of what fine jewelry can represent. His approach to leadership is centered on empowerment, innovation, and building a legacy that will shine for generations. Redefining Legacy with Innovation Abhishek’s journey at Rambhajo’s is a testament to passion, perseverance, and a commitment to evolving a century-old legacy. Upon joining the family business, he faced a crucial decision—whether to follow tradition or redefine it. He chose the latter, believing that in an ever-changing world, legacy alone is not enough; innovation must drive its future. His expertise in accreditation, assessment frameworks, and student-centric innovations led him to a leadership role as a college dean at one of the largest for-profit universities. His entrepreneurial mindset drove him to design new degree programs, certifications, and corporate training workshops—akin to launching an early-stage startup. His initial focus was on mastering the core aspects of the business—craftsmanship, customer relationships, and operational intricacies. He dedicated years to understanding fine jewelry making, engaging with artisans, and exploring global luxury markets to grasp consumer behavior. This journey shaped his leadership philosophy, emphasizing agility, proactive change management, and team collaboration. With a focus on quality assurance and continuous improvement, Abhishek remains committed to driving impactful change across industries. The true challenge, however, lies in scaling the brand while preserving its heritage. Through the integration of modern technology, strategic branding, and global outreach, he successfully expanded Rambhajo’s presence. Today, as Managing Director, he leads the brand with a vision that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, ensuring every creation tells a timeless story. Role as Managing Director As the Managing Director of Rambhajo’s, Abhishek plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future through strategy, innovation, and leadership. His key responsibilities include: Career Shaped by Entrepreneurship Abhishek’s career has been a dynamic blend of entrepreneurship, education, and leadership. Starting as a business owner before pursuing higher education, he navigated the evolving landscape of online learning in the early 2000s. As digital education transformed traditional institutions, he played a pivotal role in consulting universities, developing online curricula, and implementing learning management systems (LMS). Strategic Growth & Expansion – Crafting long-term plans to strengthen Rambhajo’s position in domestic and global luxury markets. Brand Positioning – Ensuring Rambhajo’s remains synonymous with heritage, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. Ÿ Ÿ

Innovation & Product Development – Encouraging designers to create one-of-a-kind jewelry that blends traditional artistry with modern aesthetics. Financial Oversight & Investments – Managing the company’s financial health and exploring new business opportunities. Team Empowerment – Leading by example, fostering trust, and empowering his team to reach their highest potential. Strategic Thinking – Balancing heritage with modern business expansion. Resilience & Adaptability – Navigating challenges with flexibility and a solution-driven mindset. Integrity & Ethical Commitment – Upholding trust through responsible sourcing and ethical business practices. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ The key is not just managing time but managing energy effectively.” These qualities define his leadership style and continue to shape Rambhajo’s success. His leadership philosophy is centered on “leading from the back” – providing vision and direction while allowing his team the freedom to innovate and take ownership. For him, leadership is about enabling growth—both for the company and the people who drive it forward. Motivating the Team to Excel A motivated team is the foundation of any successful brand, and Abhishek fosters a culture of excellence through: Ensuring Market Leadership & Growth Empowerment & Trust – Encouraging autonomy and creative freedom. Recognizing & Rewarding Talent – Celebrating achievements to build a high-performance culture. Leading by Example – Demonstrating discipline, innovation, and dedication. Encouraging Learning & Growth – Investing in continuous learning, industry training, and professional development. Ÿ The luxury jewelry market is highly competitive, requiring a balance between timeless craftsmanship and forward- thinking strategies. Under Abhishek leadership, Rambhajo’s remains at the forefront by focusing on: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Continuous Innovation – Investing in cutting-edge jewelry-making techniques to create unique, standout pieces. Digital Transformation – Integrating AI-driven customization, virtual try-ons, and a seamless digital shopping experience. Customer-Centric Approach – Adapting to evolving client preferences with personalized designs and services. Sustainability & Ethical Practices – Upholding eco- friendly sourcing and ethical production to resonate with modern buyers. Global Market Expansion – Actively participating in international jewelry exhibitions to enhance brand presence. Ÿ By creating an environment where individuals feel valued and inspired, he ensures that the Rambhajo’s team consistently delivers excellence. Ÿ Ÿ Balancing Professional and Personal Life Managing a demanding professional life while maintaining personal commitments requires a structured approach. Abhishek follows key strategies to achieve this balance: Ÿ Ÿ Structured Scheduling – He sets clear work hours while dedicating quality time to family. Prioritization – He focuses on high-impact tasks and delegates operational details. Health & Well-being – A disciplined fitness routine, a healthy diet, and meditation keep him energized. Family Engagement – He remains actively involved in important personal moments despite a demanding schedule. Ÿ Ÿ By embracing innovation while staying true to its heritage, Rambhajo’s continues to lead in the luxury jewelry space. Ÿ Essential Leadership Qualities in Luxury Jewelry Ÿ Luxury jewelry is built on trust, artistry, and exclusivity. To lead effectively, Abhishek believes a leader must embody: For him, the key is not just managing time but managing energy effectively. Vision & Innovation – Anticipating trends and driving forward-thinking strategies. Empathy & People-Centric Leadership – Understanding both customer aspirations and team dynamics. Ÿ Ÿ

A Staying Ahead in the Luxury Jewelry Industry Luxury jewelry is an ever-evolving space. To stay ahead of trends and evolving customer preferences, Abhishek follows these practices: Success is not just about what you know but also about the value you bring to people.” Attending Global Jewelry Shows & Summits – Engaging with luxury industry leaders worldwide. Monitoring High-Value Consumer Behavior – Understanding the desires and expectations of elite customers. Engaging with Digital & Tech Innovations – Exploring how AI, blockchain, and AR are transforming the industry. Reading Luxury Market Reports – Staying informed about emerging trends in design, sustainability, and branding. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ For him, continuous learning is non-negotiable in such a dynamic industry. Advice for Aspiring Professionals Integrating Digital Luxury – Enhancing virtual experiences, AI-driven customization, and blockchain authentication. Sustainability Leadership – Becoming a pioneer in ethical sourcing and eco-friendly jewelry. Training & Empowering Artisans – Preserving handcrafted excellence by supporting skilled artisans. Ÿ For those looking to build a successful career in luxury jewelry or any field, Abhishek shares the following insights: Ÿ Master Your Craft – Be an expert in your domain, whether it's jewelry, business, or finance. Be Consistent & Disciplined – Success is built on daily habits, not overnight wins. Adapt & Innovate – Stay ahead of market changes by continuously learning and evolving. Build Meaningful Relationships – Success is not just about what you know but also about the value you bring to people. Stay Resilient – Setbacks are inevitable, but persistence turns failures into stepping stones. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ The future of Rambhajo’s is about redefining luxury while staying true to its heritage. Ÿ Leaving a Legacy Ÿ Abhishek’s vision extends beyond luxury jewelry—he aspires to create a brand that stands for: Great careers are built with knowledge, dedication, and a relentless hunger for growth. Timeless Craftsmanship – Jewelry that transcends generations. Innovation-Driven Luxury – Redefining how jewelry integrates with modern lifestyles. A Culture of Excellence – A company where people, artistry, and business flourish together. A Global Indian Brand – Showcasing Indian heritage on the world’s most prestigious luxury platforms. Ÿ Ÿ Future Goals for Rambhajo’s Ÿ Abhishek envisions Rambhajo’s as a global icon of luxury jewelry. His key objectives for the brand’s future include: Ÿ Expanding Internationally – Establishing showrooms in luxury destinations worldwide. Creating a High-Jewelry Line – Launching exclusive, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Ÿ Above all, he wants to be remembered as a leader who honored tradition while embracing the future—a visionary who built a legacy that will shine for generations. Ÿ

CorporateLeadership and ESGIntegration E corporate leadership plays a critical role in embedding ESG principles into organizational frameworks. This article explores how effective leadership drives ESG integration through board accountability, vision alignment, and governance structures while highlighting the transformative potential of ESG strategies for businesses. Beyond Compliance nvironmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have transformed from peripheral concerns into central pillars of corporate strategy. As stakeholders demand greater accountability, transparency, and sustainable practices, The Rising Importance of ESG in Corporate Strategy The integration of ESG principles is no longer optional—it is a necessity driven by regulatory pressures, stakeholder expectations, and the growing call for ethical business practices. Companies that fail to align their strategies with ESG risk falling behind competitors and facing reputational damage. Many CEOs recognize the importance of ESG in driving customer loyalty, attracting talent, reducing regulatory risks, and enhancing resilience. Board Accountability: The Foundation of ESG Success Effective ESG integration starts at the top. Boards of directors must shift from traditional governance models to frameworks that prioritize sustainability alongside financial performance. This requires embedding ESG into decision-making processes and holding leaders accountable for achieving measurable outcomes. Key practices include: • • • Establishing ESG oversight mechanisms within board structures. Linking executive compensation to sustainability goals. Regularly reviewing progress against ESG objectives. Leading companies have set industry benchmarks by tying CEO bonuses to sustainability outcomes. Such measures ensure that leaders remain committed to advancing ESG priorities. Vision Alignment: Embedding ESG in Corporate Culture Corporate leadership must align organizational vision with ESG principles to foster a culture of sustainability. This involves integrating ESG into mission statements, operational goals, and long-term strategies. Strategies for vision alignment include: • • • Setting bold sustainability targets. Incorporating ESG into corporate values and employee engagement initiatives. Communicating the company’s purpose-driven agenda to stakeholders. 16 17 The Middle East Leaders | March 2025 | The Middle East Leaders | March 2025|

world.s Ambitious sustainability goals exemplify how aligning vision with ESG can drive innovation and differentiation. Leadership workshops and advisory services can further help organizations embed these principles into their culture. dimensions of sustainability. These leaders must possess industry-specific acumen while being able to influence diverse stakeholders—from boards and investors to supply chain partners. Their responsibilities include: Governance: The Backbone of ESG Integration • • • Creating enterprise-wide ESG policies. Ensuring consistent execution across business lines. Articulating the organization’s commitment to sustainability internally and externally. Strong governance frameworks are essential for effective ESG integration. Governance ensures that policies are implemented consistently across the organization and monitored for impact. It also enables companies to navigate risks, seize opportunities, and build resilience. Demand for such multi-functional leaders has grown significantly as companies seek individuals capable of translating ESG priorities into actionable strategies across all levels of the organization. Core governance practices include: Steps Toward Effective Integration • • Developing comprehensive ESG reporting frameworks. Engaging stakeholders through transparent communication. Integrating ESG metrics into annual reports. Integrating ESG into business requires a phased approach: • 1. Level Setting: Establish common ground among stakeholders regarding the definition and importance of ESG. Global leaders have demonstrated the importance of governance by maintaining transparency on both challenges and achievements in their sustainability journey. Firms can offer expertise in establishing world-class governance systems that support long-term success. 2. Materiality Assessment: Identify key areas where the organization can make an impact. Strategic Actions for CEOs 3. Governance: Build frameworks for oversight and accountability. To fully integrate ESG into corporate strategy, CEOs must adopt a proactive approach guided by three principles: 4. Risk Management: Address potential risks associated with sustainability initiatives. 1. Identify Material ESG Elements CEOs should determine which aspects of ESG matter most to their stakeholders—whether reducing carbon footprints, fostering inclusivity, or supporting local communities. 5. Reporting: Communicate progress transparently through annual reports or other channels. Conclusion: Leading the ESG Revolution 2. Focus on Impactful Initiatives Not every popular ESG initiative aligns with a company’s mission or competitive position. Companies should prioritize areas that deliver meaningful stakeholder outcomes while enhancing their market position. Corporate leadership holds the key to driving transformative change through effective ESG integration. By prioritizing board accountability, aligning vision with sustainability goals, and establishing robust governance systems, businesses can meet stakeholder expectations while creating long-term value. 3. Develop a Blueprint for Behavior Change Effective strategies require clear KPIs, aligned incentives, robust data management systems, and processes for monitoring progress. As companies navigate this new era of sustainable business practices, they must recognize that integrating ESG is not just about compliance—it is about building a purpose- driven brand that thrives in an increasingly conscious The Role of Next-Generation Leadership Subscribe to The Middle East Leaders Your Gateway to a world of Knowledge and Creativity! The emergence of "ESG 2.0" leadership reflects the need for senior executives who are fluent across multiple 18 The Middle East Leaders | March 2025 |

Balancing Profit and Purpose Transformative Corporate Leadership A initiative towards achievement is a form of leadership that has been most effective: transformational corporate leadership. Not only does it make the employees strive their best, but also corporate culture with emphasis on innovation, creativity, and cooperation towards a goal. mid the busy lives of the contemporary business world, corporations are always searching for the wherewithal to innovate, change, and survive. Spearheading this In this article, we will describe the characteristics, benefits, and examples of transformative corporate leadership and how it can result in long-term growth and organizational transformation. What is Transformative Corporate Leadership? Transformational corporate leadership is a leadership that is intended to inspire employees to think and devise innovative means of leading the company to success. It is designed to provide employees with the skills to make decisions, stimulate creativity, and instill in a workplace the possibility of team players to be motivated towards the organizational objective. Unlike transactional reward-and-punish-type of leadership, transformational leadership is summed up in motivational zeal that motivates employees' personal interest and transforms it into organizational aspiration. Key Features of Transformative Leaders Transformative leaders share some common characteristics that distinguish them from other leaders: • Visionary Style: They have a vision for the company's future and are able to articulate their vision to the employees. This forces the employees to work towards a common objective. Charismatic Leadership: Transformational leaders are charismatic leaders by default and inspire others through their vision and passion. They are role models who inspire the employees to emulate their behavior and overcome it. Empowerment: Empowers the employees by involving them in the process of decision-making. Not only gives the employees a sense that they are part of something that belongs to them, but also provides the employees an opportunity to formulate new ideas and solutions. • • • 20 21 The Middle East Leaders | March 2025 | The Middle East Leaders | March 2025|

Risk Taking and Flexibility: Transcendental leaders adopt innovative risk-taking and are flexible. They put their subordinates in a position of departure from the usual and experimentation, which is a good medium to develop and broaden. Development of Self: They spend time in work and individual self-improvement of the employees because they view empowered employees as more successful in company achievement. Steve Jobs of Apple: Apple's visionary CEO with his charismatic presence, Jobs transformed Apple into a hub of innovation around the globe. He motivated employees to exceed boundaries and think beyond the usual, and this resulted in groundbreaking devices like the iPhone and iPad. Howard Schultz of Starbucks: Schultz created Starbucks from an intimate coffee company to a global brand through his customer experience-centered approach and worker empowerment. Employees were made autonomous to own employment and support company vision by Schultz, creating robust corporate culture. Mary Barra of General Motors: Barra has been an important driver in pushing GM to become a slimmer, technology-based company. She has encouraged employee empowerment, diversity, and technology to make GM an electric vehicle leader. Her corporate leadership style has been central to this transformation. • • • • Weaknesses of Transcendental Corporate Leadership The advantages of transcendental corporate management are numerous and are among the biggest contributory factors for an organization to thrive in the long term: • • Creativity and Innovation: Transcendental leaders foster a culture that is full of creativity and innovation because of the freedom of employees to question traditional thinking and bring in new ideas. Employee Motivation and Engagement: Workers become more motivated and engaged as they feel they are working mission-critical and mission-oriented and in alignment with the vision of the organization. This leads to job satisfaction and turnover decline. One Mission Teamwork: Successful leaders unite their teams around one mission, and that sense of oneness and common purpose maximizes collaboration and teamwork and leads to better problem-solving and decision-making. Flexibility and Resilience: Leading companies are more likely to react to shifting marketplace conditions and unexpected setbacks. Being flexible is the secret to long-term success and survival. • Challenges and Future Directions • While as valuable as it has many benefits, innovative corporate leadership is not without challenges. Among the lower negatives is that their leaders are confronted with a need of balancing short-term and long vision requirements. Not all will have the wish or be able to transform in this direction, and the leaders would have to fight against opposition. As corporations expand, corporate leadership transformational needs will increasingly be dedicated to a higher cause to shape corporations towards overcoming its weaknesses. • • Conclusion Infusing Transformative Corporate Leadership into Practice Transformational corporate leadership is so much of an asset for innovation, growth, and profitability in the long term. Transformational leaders, by inspiring people to look beyond their immediate short-run self-interest and to work cooperatively in shaping a shared vision, create a world where adaptability, imagination, and collective dedication become the rule. With the business revolution worldwide, the function of this type of leadership will even further be vast, acting as an example for the future for organizations that want to innovate, become change-oriented, and grow over the next few years. Simplified comprehension of the precepts and acceptance of the integration of innovation and cooperation as culture for ease of application of transformative corporate leadership is imperative. Empowerment of the groups and open communication fostered by the leaders, the pillars of corporate leadership, are required. Examples of Transfromative Corporate Leadership Certain examples build the evidence of the effectiveness of transformative corporate leadership: 22 The Middle East Leaders | March 2025 |

The 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025

The 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025

Presentation Transcript

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