1. Can you share the story behind your company and its journey so far?
Back in 2010, I was serving in a software house, and when we were at home on the weekend, HR called to inform us that the software house had been closed. That day, I thought that a job is not reliable; I should do business. Since that day, I started exploring how to become a businessman, and I kept searching for 8 months on Google. After that research, I had 7 products to sell without investing a single penny.
2. What key challenges is your industry facing today, and how is your company tackling them?
The main challenge of the IT industry is its acceptance within the local market and the approach of IT companies in Pakistan to first-world companies. As you are aware, visa restrictions are not even allowing us to attend expos, seminars, and conferences. Sometimes, government policies also become challenging, even though the government knows the IT industry will be the top exporter in the near future.
3. How has digital transformation impacted your industry in recent years?
The world is witnessing how the technology market is growing, and the pace is the fastest it has ever been. Technology offers solutions to every challenge with innovation, making processes easier, growth faster, productivity more efficient, and saving money too. The challenge now is to adopt emerging technologies as soon as possible and to create experts in areas like AI, IoT, Robotics, Data Science, Cloud, Blockchain, and Cybersecurity.
4. What innovative solutions or technologies has your company introduced to stay ahead?
Alhamdulillah, by observing technological trends and forthcoming challenges related to global market requirements, we adopted the approach to work on innovative solutions from the start. We delivered the world’s first virtual hospital as our first project and later received the Business Technology Innovator award at the global level in 2023.
5. How do you see AI and automation shaping the future of your industry?
AI and automation will completely transform technology and future approaches globally by mirroring human behavior to become more proactive and facilitate human life from all aspects.
6. What leadership principles do you follow to drive business success?
Teamwork with continuous growth, while being a role model, is the best approach and has been the cause of my success so far.
7. How do you balance innovation with business stability?
Innovation attracts clients, making business acquisition easier as everyone wants better options than existing solutions.
8. What strategies have helped you scale and expand your business?
Cost-effective solutions with quality have been the most effective approach to scaling and expanding our business.
9. How do you foster a culture of creativity and innovation in your organization?
As an innovator, I constantly come up with new ideas and openly share them with the team for brainstorming and improvement, which helps in fostering an innovative culture.
10. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or industry leaders?
Entrepreneurs in Pakistan often follow existing ideas, which is not effective. Instead of seeing Pakistan’s challenges, see the opportunities they bring, and use them to cultivate more entrepreneurs.
11. How is your industry adapting to the rapid advancements in AI and machine learning?
We are not keeping pace with global advancements. There is a need for brainstorming and practical steps to align our industry with technological progress.
12. What role does cybersecurity play in your sector, and how do you address threats?
Cybersecurity threats are significant challenges. In Pakistan, low awareness and neglect of cybersecurity importance cause many losses. I deliver awareness sessions in academia and industry, and I believe Pakistan needs a cybersecurity force. Many skilled professionals have left the country for better opportunities.
13. What are the biggest trends in fintech and banking that professionals should be aware of?
The fintech and banking sectors are evolving due to technological advancements, shifting consumer expectations, and new regulations. Cryptocurrency, Embedded Finance, Open Banking, AI and ML, and Neobanks are essential trends to focus on.
14. How is cloud computing transforming business operations in your field?
Cloud computing is essential for data security, cost savings, and ensuring data availability. More businesses are adopting cloud solutions for these benefits.
15. How do you see blockchain technology impacting your industry in the future?
Blockchain will revolutionize many industries through decentralization, transparency, security, faster payments, smart contracts, and secure records.
16. What are the most important factors for maintaining strong customer relationships?
Customer service has always been my focus. I believe in loving customers, not just liking them. The best way to gain word-of-mouth marketing is through customer satisfaction by providing solutions that meet their needs.
17. How do you ensure operational efficiency and cost optimization in your company?
We train undergraduates and fresh graduates under senior professionals in three phases: training, internship, and employment. This approach provides skilled resources at lower costs while building a pool of trained professionals.
18. What role does data analytics play in decision-making for your business?
Data is the modern treasure, and analyzing it before making decisions is crucial. Data-driven insights allow proactive decisions without second-guessing.
19. How do you manage risks and compliance in your industry?
With my experience in cybersecurity, I focus on risk identification, data protection, security measures, incident response, and regular compliance audits to manage risks effectively.
20. How do you approach hiring and retaining top talent in a competitive job market?
I focus on training fresh graduates and nurturing them within our organizational culture, creating a consistent talent pipeline.
21. What is your long-term vision for your company and industry?
My vision is to build a unicorn that helps Pakistani youth find better opportunities while enhancing Pakistan’s reputation in the global market.
22. What emerging technologies or trends do you believe will disrupt your industry next?
The focus should be on adopting emerging technologies and providing solutions based on them rather than using them solely for convenience.
23. What sustainability or ESG initiatives is your company focusing on?
Since 2017, I have been actively working on SDGs through forums like the Nation Building Initiative and SDG Academy, implementing these within the organization and creating solutions related to healthcare, education, and poverty.
24. How do you see the role of AI evolving in your industry over the next decade?
Although there is limited awareness in Pakistan, the demand for technology will naturally compel the industry to innovate, leading to groundbreaking solutions.
25. If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of leaders, what would it be?
Be a trend maker, not a follower, and strive to transform your idols into your rivals.
26. How has being a part of the CxO Global Forum benefited you and your business?
Professional networking is key to business success, and forums like CxO Global enable professionals to connect with the industry rapidly.
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