Intelligent CXO Issue 41 | Page 41

FEATURE

Flexible , independent talent can make a huge difference to companies , especially where there are skill gaps . Outsized ’ s Talenton-Demand 2023 report shows a 142 % surge in demand for flexible talent in the MENA region , driven by technological advancements and initiatives like Digital Nomad visas encouraging skilled professionals to base themselves in the region . Azeem Zainulbhai , Co-founder & Chief Product Officer at Outsized , outlines how the C-suite can leverage independent talent to drive competitive advantage and ensure efficient project delivery .

Continuous innovation is vital for business survival and growth in today ’ s dynamic landscape . C-suite executives , including CEOs , CTOs and CIOs , must navigate skill gaps and the need to scale productivity and prioritise the rising value of expertise over job titles . Internally assembling a qualified team can be daunting when resources are fully engaged or misaligned with project requirements . Industry 4.0 has heightened the demand for specialised skills , making reliance on an on-demand talent pool not just an option but a necessity . By leveraging independent talent , C-suite leaders can drive competitive advantage and ensure efficient project delivery , positioning their organisations at the forefront of innovation .

The ability to tap into a global pool of on-demand talent provides invaluable agility , ensuring businesses can meet and even exceed client expectations within tight timelines . In growth markets like the Middle East , highly skilled professionals are vital to economic development and innovation . The region , one of the fastestgrowing gig economies with a US $ 4 billion market for digital freelancing , is diversifying towards a knowledge-based economy . Highly skilled independent professionals are assets who offer strategic thinking , interim leadership and indemand skills to push the region ’ s goals . Outsized ’ s Talent-on-Demand 2023 report shows a 142 % surge in demand for flexible talent in the MENA region , driven by technological advancements and initiatives like Digital Nomad visas encouraging skilled professionals to base themselves in the region .

HOW THE C-SUITE CAN FOSTER INNOVATION BY TAPPING INTO INDEPENDENT TALENT

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