EDITOR’ S QUESTION
ZAID GHATTAS, META REGIONAL LEAD, AMD
The next generation of business executives will need to evolve their skillsets in line with the fast-moving pace of technology, which is enabling organisations to become more productive and data-driven. Understanding the potential of technologies such as AI, cloud and big data analytics is key for future leaders who want to build high-performing teams, unlock new revenue streams and create outstanding customer experiences. benefits of exciting new technologies without putting the business at risk.
As well as giving employees the tools they need, next-generation business leaders must also take responsibility for providing them with a vision which they can buy into and gives them purpose. The competition for skills is fierce – particularly in a fast-growing region like the Middle East with its ambitious transformation agenda.
The greatest asset a business has is ultimately its people – so regardless of industry, successful leadership is about the ability to lead people as much as it is about running smooth business operations. One of the biggest opportunities, but also biggest challenges, for leaders of the next generation will be equipping employees with the tools that give them a competitive advantage.
The pace of technological change is so fast that organisations cannot afford to delay deploying technologies that will make their employees more efficient, more productive and more datadriven. Furthermore, employees are ultimately like any other consumer of technology. They want to use the latest and greatest devices, applications and have access to as much information as possible.
The most talented and skilled employees can effectively guarantee that they will earn great salaries, benefits and rewards. These are now hygiene factors that are expected rather than desired. To attract top talent, businesses must sell their strategy and vision – both to potential employees – but also to their existing ones to ensure they remain engaged and feel a sense of achievement through their work.
In summary, the next generation of business executives must empower their teams operationally – embracing technologies like AI – and be data-driven in their decision-making. At the same time, they must understand the company’ s broader vision and how their team can contribute positively towards achieving its strategic objectives.
Take the phenomenon of Generative AI as an example. If your employees are using tools like ChatGPT in their personal lives, they will expect to be able to use it at work and won’ t wait to be granted permission.
However, deploying AI technologies in the workplace must be done in a way that protects the business and its employees from potential risks. There is an onus on the business to ensure their employees are using AI ethically and responsibly. So, future leaders must be nimble when it comes to implementing policies and guidance to ensure employees can enjoy the
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