Hoda Mansour

It’s time to think about social welfare as more than just a safety net. A holistic and strategic welfare model can incentivize workforce participation and help countries meet their economic and social development and diversification goals. Rasha Salem, Nour Oueidat and I describe new goals and 3 imperatives for social welfare models in the region. Read our #SocialWelfareModel for a stronger public sector. Strategy& Middle East

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We are excited to share that Abir Habbal- Managing Director at Accenture has been chosen among Global 200 Women Power Leaders 2024.   Abir Habbal is a distinguished leader in the realm of Data & Artificial Intelligence (AI), serving as MD & Public Sector Applied Intelligence Lead at Accenture in the Middle East. With over 13 years of experience, Abir has been instrumental in driving national digital strategies that fuel economic development, enhance citizen outcomes & propel innovation across various industries.   Abir's impactful career is marked by her expertise in spearheading high-profile national initiatives such as Smart Nations, Proactive Government, National Data Governance & National AI Adoption Acceleration. Her work with senior executives & decision-makers in these projects has helped establish comprehensive national digital frameworks & strategies, shaping the trajectory of data management & AI implementation in the region.   One of her most notable achievements is her pivotal role in the creation of a national data regulator within the Middle East. This accomplishment led to the publication of a suite of essential data policies & standards. These include National Data Management Standards, Data Privacy Policy, Data Classification Policy, Freedom of Information Policy, Open Data Policy & Data Sharing Policy, all of which emphasize the value of data as a strategic asset.   Abir's contributions to AI activation are equally significant, as she developed a National AI Ethics policy & the strategy for a national AI center, focusing on core AI capabilities such as Natural Language Processing (NLP), Computer Vision (CV), and Generative AI. Her work in crafting the AI research and development agenda spans crucial sectors like Health, Energy, Environment, Mobility, and Government.   In her role as Data & AI Officer for Accenture in the Middle East, Abir drives the data and AI agenda across the region, fostering innovation and supporting organizations in their AI transformation journeys. She has built a highly skilled core data and AI team at Accenture Middle East, promoting gender diversity and encouraging diverse perspectives.   Abir's career is further distinguished by her active participation in panel discussions and thought leadership reports, where she collaborates with regional governments on topics such as proactive government and AI adoption.   Abir's educational achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the American University of Beirut (AUB) with high distinction and three honorary awards for academic excellence. Additionally, she holds certifications in AI and Generative AI from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Business Analytics from Northwestern University, and Business Strategy from INSEAD.   Abir Habbal's mission is clear: to equip the youth with future-proof skills and help shape the world of tomorrow through transformative AI and data initiatives. #whitepageinternational #powerleaders

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Unlock financial performance and business value with end-to-end services that infuse data, #AI and automation across core processes - I share my insights on #AIinAction with #watsonx. Explore IBM’s AI for Finance Guidebook to know more. https://ibm.co/47W6fMT

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Today, I had the opportunity to engage deep into our digital marketing strategy for Transgo_ke. What initially seemed like a challenging task was made significantly easier thanks to the invaluable insights from Elijah Maina. His expertise truly highlighted the importance experts play in transforming complex tasks into manageable actions, saving us days, if not weeks, of effort. This experience has reinforced a critical lesson for me as a startup founder: launching a business is much more than just having a great idea. It requires a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of the business, which is often gained through collaboration with knowledgeable experts. Much appreciation to Nakuru Box Innovation Center and KIEP-SKIES for providing the platform for startups to meet with various experts. #Entrepreneurship #StartupLife #Collaboration #DigitalMarketing #Innovation #FutureOfWork #Transgo #KiwanjaImeendaDigital

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As the Middle East region witnesses remarkable strides in its non-oil economy, here’s four priorities for CEOs in the region to adopt now so that you can balance challenges with potential.

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Choosing the Right GCC Structure to Maximize Impact One of the most critical questions in GCC strategy today is how organizations should structure their operational models to maximize impact. Approach 1: Fully Integrated GCC Model This approach integrates the GCC as an extension of the headquarters, ensuring alignment across all business units. It drives global outcomes through seamless collaboration and clear accountability. However, it may slow decision-making due to dependencies on global approvals. Approach 2: Independent GCC Model In this model, the GCC operates independently with its own goals, budgets, and leadership. This autonomy fosters local innovation and agility while contributing to global objectives. The challenge lies in balancing local independence with global alignment, especially for organizations with centralized decision-making practices. Approach 3: Hybrid Model The hybrid model combines the strengths of integration and independence, allowing GCCs to operate semi-autonomously while staying aligned with global strategies. This balance promotes local innovation and global impact but requires robust governance to prevent misalignment. Across all models, the focus should shift from cost savings to achieving measurable business outcomes. Designing the GCC to deliver on innovation, market expansion, or talent acquisition can unlock its full potential. At Zinnov we’ve partnered with global companies to design and evolve GCC operating models that drive significant outcomes. As GCC strategies mature, these models will continue to evolve, reshaping the future of global operations.

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Last week, I had the privilege of joining an insightful panel discussion at Fragomen Middle East & Africa Annual Client Conference, alongside Hadi Badri, Tod Day and moderated by Julia Onslow-Cole. We explored how geopolitical shifts are reshaping global talent mobility, focusing on the ways economic and political changes are influencing workforce dynamics. A key part of the conversation centered around the role of #AI, upskilling, and cross-border collaboration in addressing the growing talent gaps across regions. In particular, we discussed the opportunities in the Middle East, especially in #Dubai, where collaboration between businesses and governments is driving innovation and creating a strong foundation for talent mobility. It’s clear that ongoing collaboration will be essential to meeting the region’s evolving workforce needs and unlocking new opportunities for growth. Pinar Yucealp, Varun Kapoor, Ahmad TAHA

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This article by Clément Gibon does a good job of summarizing why we exist as a foundation from the voices of youth. MENA’s youth demand more - they deserve robust support for their innovative ideas and aspirations. As they navigate a rapidly changing world, they seek access to #education, #jobs, and resources that enable them to shape their #future. When we invest in their potential, we assure the region’s growth and stability. We know the stats from the International Labour Organization & The World Bank etc. But now, it’s time for need scalable solutions!

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Scale of business and operations often lead to straying away from innovation, however, R&D on frontier technologies cost no less than an arm! In my experience, that's where corporations turn to corporate innovation programs; a direct address towards the development of specific technologies with needle-marked relevance. That's where InnovaMENA comes in!!

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Such a great article Kristine Lasam !! I recommend every leader read this article. The contents of which are seminally affirmed, that this is the new way to be and lead in complex changing times.

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Governments across the MEA region are facing the challenge of delivering better experiences while keeping costs down. I had the privilege to share my thoughts with The Integrator on how #eGovernment entities can achieve this delicate balance. Explore the article to learn more about the strategies and technologies enabling public sector transformation: https://lnkd.in/e5GeMj5s. #eGov #DigitalID #CIAMint

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Shared some thoughts with The HR Observer on how we're tackling vital talent challenges, pushing for continuous innovation and a skills first strategy, among other things. You can watch the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/dEpQgYS2

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Transform your business with Strategic Agility! Join Loïc Sadoulet 's Masterclass to learn how to adapt, innovate, and drive sustainable growth in an ever-changing market. #StrategicAgility #BusinessTransformation #Growth"

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As a woman, I remember sometimes being invited « for diversity purposes ». In my panel today at the United Nations Convention to Combat Deforestation #COP16 in #Riyadh, it felt the world has changed! On the fifth anniversary of the #JamaisSansElles Charter, I am encouraged to see how much progress we’ve made. Ensuring the meaningful participation of both women and men isn’t just a principle, it is an impactful way to build a more #inclusive future and a more #equitable society. #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #bnpp4diversity

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Transform Your GCC into a Powerhouse: The Secret to Seamless HR, TA, Finance, and Back-Office Operations Building, running and scaling a Global Capability Center (GCC) isn’t just about talent—it’s about ensuring every aspect of your operations runs smoothly and efficiently. From HR, TA and payroll to finance and corporate support, the complexity of managing back-office operations in India can hinder your GCC’s ability to deliver world-class outcomes. At Zinnov we offer a comprehensive back-office solution tailored for GCCs, empowering you to scale and succeed without operational headaches. Here’s how we can help: 1. End-to-End HR and Talent Solutions: From hiring top talent to managing compliance, we ensure your workforce is equipped to excel. 2. Streamlined Payroll and Finance: Avoid local compliance pitfalls with our expert team managing payroll, taxation, and financial reporting with precision. 3. Office and Corporate Support: We handle operational functions like vendor management, administrative support, and office setup so you can focus on your core business. 4. Lower Attrition, Greater Stability: GCCs partnering with Zinnov experience 25% lower attrition on average, ensuring continuity and operational excellence. 5. Risk-Free Operations: Our dedicated team of experts minimizes the risks associated with attrition or disruptions in your insourced back-office teams. By partnering with Zinnov for your back-office operations, you gain a partner with deep expertise and proven experts, processes, data and frameworks to scale efficiently and operate a world-class GCC. Let’s explore how we can help transform your GCC into a global powerhouse. Namita Adavi Karthik Padmanabhan Dipanwita Ghosh ieswariya k Komal Shah Hani Mukhey Veerendra Baligeri

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An interesting two minute read article summarising my view on the rapid growth of the digital lending for SMEs in the Saudi Arabia. Starting with the market need and the opportunity to tap into the expected total segment value of $ 15B in digital lending by 2025. Enjoy the article and please share your thoughts and comments when you read it. #backbase #digitalbanking #digitalchannels #digitallending https://lnkd.in/dz9dz9Sx

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Learn about the critical stages of a teacher's career in our report. From new teacher to experienced educator, see how continuous professional development can lead to educational leadership and transformative teaching: https://pwc.to/3VkNLRq #teacherdevelopment PwC Middle East

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The #UAE is ramping up preparations for #COP29, focusing on collaborative action to meet global climate goals. With a spotlight on building consensus, the country aims to strengthen international cooperation and accelerate efforts to address climate change. This push aligns with the UAE's broader strategy of driving #innovation and #sustainability, while leveraging its position as a global leader in environmental initiatives. https://lnkd.in/dwX9FuA9

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Despite growing momentum to embed #diversity, #equity, and #inclusion initiatives into organizations across the #MiddleEast and #Africa, a lot more can be done. The benefits are obvious, but we are still far from where we should be. What are the main challenges facing businesses when it comes to meeting DEI ambitions—and what steps can they take to overcome these? Find out here: Authors: Robyn Wright, Christopher Jones, Brendan Marais, and Kanika Aggarwal

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