Intelligent CIO Africa Issue 54 | Page 72

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The real danger is over complicating the cloud-based applications , the tools and additions within a business ’ ecosystem . Without oversight , businesses can quickly disconnect , with systems overlapping , lacking functionality and ultimately hindering execution .
Proteus solves this problem by becoming the thin thread that runs and connects the disparity . Proteus will not be everything to everyone . What it will be is the surface that enables employees to focus on the task at hand .
How do you deal with stress and unwind outside the office ?
Podcasts have been a great outlet for me to take time out . Late to the party , but I still arrived ! Brilliant conversations are happening all over the world and podcasts are the fly on the wall allowing you to listen in . Reply All and RadioLab are my go to for all the latest technology chat while on my daily walk . The storydriven approach of these shows really consumes your mind , letting the stress of the day drift away .
If you could go back and change one career decision what would it be ?
Delegation is a challenge many leadership teams struggle to master , if at all . We are all guilty of allowing the power ownership holds to overwhelm us , which was something I was privy to when I was in the early stages of my career .
Delegation is essential for productivity . Effective implementation of this within teams not only enhances training and development but strengthens internal communication channels . I now see delegation as an opportunity to draw on decision-making from various experiences and skills , which helps to strike an operational balance to deliver optimal performance .
What do you currently identify as the major areas of investment in your industry ?
The Digital Transformation of legacy systems driving the industry is a key area for investment . The pandemic has ripped up the rulebook when it comes to operating systems and companies have had to find new ways of conducting workflows to remain competitive . As we look to the future post-pandemic , there is an opportunity for companies to invest in the permanent overhaul of the software driving their business . Think of all the time and resources saved by modernising systems with a cloudbased operating platform like Proteus OS that fully integrates into existing software stacks . By automating the management and collaboration of teams , efficiency and productivity , as a result , is a game-changer .
What are the specific challenges when implementing new technologies in Europe ?
The gig economy is growing and the pandemic has further incited a cultural working shift . Technology is an excellent way to attract , engage and open up the door to a global pool of talent . However , when new ways of operating occur , so does legislation , laws and policies .
Implementing technologies to support gig workers in EMEA will require companies to collaborate with the government in navigating compliance and ensuring the protection of those employed on a gig worker basis . As we better understand the implications and opportunities of working together , negotiating with unions , representatives and workers will be paramount as we navigate deploying technology in EMEA .
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months ?
We have seen a shift from a product to client focus . The past year has shown the importance of delivering on people ’ s needs and tangible results , not just adopting a shiny new tool because it ’ s the hot commodity right now .
As CTO , having an in-depth discussion at the client implementation stage on the effective seamless integration of software within existing systems is key . This will be under the microscope even more for professionals at this level as the vaccine sheds light on the industry ’ s landscape in the coming 12 months . We ’ re moving away from technical jargon and the software deliverables to a broader overview of the power of integrating a software stack like Proteus in achieving business goals .
What advice would you offer somebody aspiring to obtain C-level position in your industry ?
Technology and software development is constantly changing . Sustaining awareness of the latest updates is challenging for any C-level professional navigating the mountain of priorities the role presents . Investing in laying the foundations to building a fantastic team is a key skill and carries longevity . Drawing from different areas of expertise within your team will broaden the knowledge pool driving your business . Look to your talent to help democratise the burden of technological innovation and progress . Empowering teams to harness each other ’ s capabilities will strengthen both the core inputs and outputs . Small implementations such as this will foster a great leader and team , which is essential for any C-level role . p
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