Facebook X-twitter Linkedin Instagram
EN Times Magazine | Header Logo
Main Menu

Tag: leadership

Dustin Jones: The Culture Architect Behind the Future of HR 

Posted on by Shivani Ghadage

In a world full of change where culture is currency, few inspirational voices in humanity resonate as deeply as that of Dustin Jones. Dustin doesn’t just build the policies; she builds trust, legacy, and the unwavering source of the leadership pipeline. Her work across the boardroom and beyond is setting a new gold standard in human-centered HR. Her HR journey simply began from needing the job to someone who wore many hats: HR executive, entrepreneur, speaker, and mentor. With over two decades of experience across corporate, manufacturing, consulting, and entrepreneurial spaces. 

HR Solutions That Listen First, Lead with Purpose 

As the founder & CEO of EcompassHR, Dustin doesn’t believe in copy-paste strategies. Her approach is deeply human: listen first, build with intention, and lead with diplomacy. “There’s no one-size-fits-all in HR. Every business has a unique heartbeat,” she says. One of her proudest moments came while working with a fast-growing manufacturing startup. “Helping them understand why HR isn’t just a function but a foundation was transformative. We helped them hire strategically and build the infrastructure to take care of their people long-term.” 

A Voice for Change, A Shield for People 

Known for her strength in change management and compliance, Dustin believes HR must be both a shield and a catalyst. “It’s about balance, advocating for the business while protecting the employee experience,” she explains. With AI, evolving immigration laws, and rising workplace activism, she sees a critical opportunity. “HR has to lead the shift with clarity and courage. Compliance isn’t enough. We must build systems that empower.” 

Her approach to employee engagement and retention reflects a similar depth. “Engagement is emotional. Culture is intentional. After the pandemic, employees want to feel seen. They want to know they matter. It’s no longer about perks; it’s about purpose and trust,” she says. “We need to close the gap between what leaders say and what employees experience. That starts with listening and acting with empathy.” 

Leading with Legacy at Dallas Country Club 

Today, Dustin Jones holds the role of Chief Human Resource Officer at Dallas Country Club, where she blends strategic HR leadership with the values of service and hospitality. Her focus goes beyond policies; she’s working to build a workplace culture where employees feel appreciated, supported, and empowered to grow. 

“At DCC, we take pride in creating exceptional experiences not just for our members, but for our employees too,” she shares. In 2025, her goal is to deepen that culture even further by investing in leadership development, employee recognition, and internal communication. “Hospitality starts within,” she adds, emphasizing that a truly excellent member experience begins with how well the staff is treated and engaged. 

Empowering Women to Step Forward with Courage 

When asked about the principle she lives by, Dustin’s answer is as sincere as her leadership style. Lead with diplomacy. Deliver with integrity. Whether it’s designing strategy, training emerging leaders, or handling tough conversations, she centers respect, alignment, and authenticity. “I never lose sight of the people behind the process. That’s how you build trust, and that’s how you build a legacy.” 

In a time when HR is being called to evolve faster than ever, leaders like Dustin Jones remind us what truly matters: people, purpose, and doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. 

Wisdom for the Journey Ahead 

For Dustin Jones, leadership isn’t about titles or authority; it’s about how you show up for people when it matters most. Throughout her journey, she has led with clarity, compassion, and a belief. 

“I’ve always believed that how you treat people when no one’s watching is what defines you as a leader,” she says. Her guiding principle is “Lead with diplomacy. Deliver with integrity” isn’t just something she says; it’s how she operates every single day. Whether she is coaching executives, resolving challenges on the ground, or designing future-focused strategies, Dustin consistently prioritizes the human element. Because in the end, she believes, that’s how you build trust. And that’s how you build a legacy. 

Author Bio 

Dustin Jones is a highly respected HR executive, leadership strategist, and the founder of EncompassHR, LLC, with over two decades of experience helping organizations build purpose-driven, people-centered cultures.Throughout her career, she has partnered with companies across industries including manufacturing, hospitality, and corporate consulting to shift HR from a back-office function into a vital force for strategic growth and cultural transformation. 

Currently serving as the chief human resource officer at Dallas Country Club, Dustin brings a unique blend of operational leadership and hospitality-driven values to the table. She is passionate about creating environments where employees feel supported, valued, and inspired to perform at their best because, to her, a great employee experience is the foundation of every great business. 

Dustin holds a master’s in communications from Grand Canyon University, a bachelor’s from California State University San Marcos, and an executive certification in management from Southern Methodist University. Her leadership and impact have earned national recognition, including being named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Dallas (2024). 

Blueprint for the Modern Wealth Advisor 

Posted on by Shivani Ghadage

In an industry where results and credibility are non-negotiable, Tiffany Markarian has long been regarded as a transformative force in financial services marketing. With over three decades of experience, she hasn’t merely adapted to change; she’s helped shape it. As the Founder and Managing Director of Advantus Marketing, Tiffany’s strategic consulting over the past 30 years has empowered thousands of financial advisors and professionals to not only create profitability and scale for their businesses but redefine how they engage with clients and niche markets. Her story is one of deep, tactical execution focused on what truly moves the needle. 

Beyond Marketing: Scaling with Precision 

Over the past several decades, there has been significant migration from commission-based to advisory and fee-driven financial planning models. This necessitates a need for advisors to focus on scaling their business and getting a better return on effort and ROI for the time spent with each client household. It further requires advisors to correctly articulate their value. An advisor’s client experience and going upmarket have become central themes where Tiffany’s impact is unmatched.  

Standing Out and Staying Ahead 

Standing out as a marketing strategist in the financial services industry requires more than just having general marketing skills; it demands deep industry fluency. The advisors and professionals who work with Tiffany quickly come to realize she knows their business model and the industry landscape inside and out. She understands and navigates regulatory compliance, client segmentation, revenue models, and the nuances of varied business structures, including RIAs, broker-dealers, and insurance brokerage firms.  

Marketing That Improves the Bottom Line 

Today’s marketing focus demands more than just branding and digital marketing. Tiffany helps advisors get real traction with their business development and optimize their practice for future opportunities. She bridges skill gaps, improves conversions, boosts client acquisition, and helps each advisor’s staff embrace the direction at hand. As she states, “We help advisors focus on what their competitors aren’t doing or won’t do.” 

The Branding Missteps Most Advisors Make 

Tiffany often sees advisors fall in love with their own process, using buzzwords like “holistic,” “fiduciary,” or “fee-only” planning in their branding. These phrases are important, but words alone don’t compel prospects to engage. When advisors lead with fee-driven planning, prospects often get focused on the fee, and you end up down a rabbit hole. This causes friction and resistance with prospects and clients. Tiffany’s insights have helped countless advisors reframe their messaging to reflect the emotional and tangible benefits clients actually care about. 

Landing Opportunities 

What truly motivates Tiffany is helping professionals uncover blind spots, streamline their operations, and grow with intention. The goal? Efficiency, profitability, and predictable revenue. Tiffany helps advisors and their teams shift from being merely reactive to becoming intentional with their client outreach and acquisition. “We help them land the opportunities they were previously unequipped to capture, such as going upmarket, acquiring another practice, or creating real results in a niche,” she explains. Her strategies are not only practical; they’re transformative. 

Digital Marketing vs. Distraction 

In today’s fast-paced world of AI and digital tools, too many advisors get caught up in the “shiny new thing.” They tend to lose focus and aren’t getting ROI or ROE from their marketing efforts. Tiffany urges advisors to stay focused on their client experience and the levels of personalization they need to deliver for their different client tiers. Her method is simple but profound: use tech to enhance human relationships, not replace them. From automation in scheduling and onboarding to never forgetting the impact of handwritten thank-you notes, every tool should serve the end goal of better, more personalized client experiences. 

“In the absence of a strategic plan, tech can become a diversion,” she warns. Her framework ensures that every tool fits into a larger, intentional strategy, one that allows the advisor to stay client-facing. 

Action Over Accolades  

While Tiffany is a recognized thought leader, having received numerous awards, including “The Leading Marketing Minds in Financial Services” by The Enterprise World and “Top Marketing Strategist” by Financial Services Review, her focus remains clear: creating opportunities for advisors and their businesses. She stays in constant study and precision mode to help advisors acquire and retain clients and increase the equity value of their business. 

The Path Forward: Trends to Watch 

Looking ahead, Tiffany is laser-focused on helping advisors align their pricing and service models with the time spent for each respective client household. Advisors need to consistently evaluate the health of their practice and how they are spending their time. “Stable revenue doesn’t equal sustainable growth if time and resources aren’t optimized,” she cautions. Clients and consumers are looking to be cared for and cared about by their financial advisory team. As a result, advisors need to structure their time and workflows to maximize proactive client outreach. 

Conclusion 

Tiffany Markarian’s legacy is built not just on awards or achievements, but on the thousands of advisors and financial leaders she has impacted. From messaging and positioning to operational scale, she continues to transform financial practices. It’s about staying on top of what matters most and keeping watch on where the industry is headed next. 

Richard C. Larson: The Mind Behind Models That Move the World 

Posted on by Shivani Ghadage

In the global quest to solve society’s most complex challenges, one name stands tall Dr. Richard C. Larson, a pioneer who has bridged mathematical theory with real-world transformation for more than five decades. Known widely as “Doctor Queue” for his breakthrough work in operations research, Dr. Larson’s career at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a testament to what happens when analytical rigor meets public purpose. 

His contributions have shaped emergency response systems, reimagined global education, and redefined how we think about decision-making itself. 

Solving Problems That Matter 

Dr. Larson began his journey under the mentorship of Professor Al Drake, who inspired him to join MIT. That single invitation set off a 54-year academic legacy one rooted in the belief that mathematics is a tool for impact, not just insight. 

His famed Hypercube Queuing Model used by police, fire, and medical systems improved how emergency services deploy personnel, directly saving lives by reducing response times in high-risk urban environments. This model stands as a shining example of how theory, when directed with purpose, can have life-saving results. 

From MIT to the World: An Education Visionary 

Beyond emergency systems, Dr. Larson’s greatest gift may be his democratization of knowledge. As co-founder of MIT BLOSSOMS (Blended Learning Open-Source Science Or Math Studies), he created one of the earliest open-source STEM repositories for high school students. BLOSSOMS delivers free, world-class math and science video lessons to students around the globe especially in underserved areas. 

“Access to quality education shouldn’t depend on geography,” he has often said, a philosophy deeply ingrained in both his work and his legacy. 

Through the Learning International Networks Consortium (LINC) and leadership roles at MIT’s Center for Advanced Educational Services, Dr. Larson has reshaped how digital learning is delivered, expanding educational opportunity far beyond campus walls. 

The Scientist of Daily Life 

Even after retirement, Dr. Larson remains a thought leader. In 2023, he released “Model Thinking for Everyday Life,” a book published by INFORMS that offers readers a new lens to make better personal, professional, and policy decisions. 

Through real-world examples, he demonstrates how structured models usually confined to boardrooms and research labs can empower individuals in their daily lives. 

A Living Legacy 

Dr. Larson’s accolades include: 

  • Membership in the National Academy of Engineering 
  • The INFORMS President’s Award and Kimball Medal 
  • Founding roles in ORSA and INFORMS 
  • And listings in Marquis Who’s Who in America® 

Yet, he remains focused on what’s next: promoting open-access knowledge, advising public institutions, and inspiring the next generation of operations researchers. 

For EN TIMES readers looking for a model of leadership that combines intellect, humility, and global impact Dr. Richard C. Larson is the system thinker the world didn’t know it needed, but absolutely cannot ignore. 

Next: Richard C. Larson: Engineering Simplicity in a Complex World 

Richard C. Larson: Democratizing Education Through Technology and Systems Thinking 

Posted on by Shivani Ghadage

In an age where digital transformation is reshaping education systems around the globe, few figures have been as visionary or as impactful as Prof. Richard C. Larson, the Mitsui Professor at MIT’s Institute for Data, Systems, and Society. With a background rooted in operations research and systems engineering, Larson has spent the better part of five decades applying analytical precision to solve one of humanity’s most important challenges: how to make education accessible, equitable, and effective for all. 

From high-tech classrooms in Singapore to under-resourced schools in rural communities, his work continues to redefine what’s possible in global education. 

A Systems Thinker in the Classroom 

Larson’s approach to education is grounded in the same systems thinking he applied to urban emergency services and logistics. As he puts it: “Whether it’s a traffic network or a learning ecosystem, you need to define the problem, identify constraints, and build a solution that scales.” 

This mindset led him to launch some of the most forward-thinking educational initiatives at MIT, including MIT BLOSSOMS and MIT LINC—projects that have transformed the delivery and accessibility of STEM education across continents. 

MIT BLOSSOMS: A Blooming Legacy 

Standing for Blended Learning Open Source Science or Math Studies, MIT BLOSSOMS is one of Larson’s most enduring educational contributions. The initiative creates engaging, video-based STEM lessons designed to be paired with in-class teaching, making it especially valuable in resource-limited environments. 

“BLOSSOMS isn’t just about watching videos,” Larson says. “It’s about interaction, exploration, and discovery with a local teacher guiding the experience.” 

The program has been implemented in classrooms from the United States to the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa, bridging educational divides by using open-source technology and a collaborative development model. 

The Global Reach of MIT LINC 

As founder and director of the Learning International Networks Consortium (LINC), Larson envisioned a global forum where educators, technologists, and policymakers could collaboratively reimagine learning. Since its inception, LINC has hosted eight international symposia, bringing together voices from over 40 countries. 

His leadership ensured LINC was not just an academic think tank, but a platform for action, facilitating technology-enabled programs and policy changes in real-world educational environments. 

Singapore-MIT Alliance: A Digital Milestone 

Long before the term “online education” became mainstream, Larson spearheaded the Singapore-MIT Alliance (SMA) a trailblazing point-to-point digital education program that delivered MIT-level learning across oceans. 

Launched in the 1990s, SMA proved that distance is not a barrier to quality, offering interactive, real-time learning for students in Asia from faculty based in Cambridge. This initiative remains a blueprint for international e-learning partnerships. 

Back to Basics: The Pencil, the Paper, and the Mind 

Despite his passion for edtech, Larson warns against over-reliance on automation especially in an era dominated by AI. 

“AI can generate essays and solve equations, often at A+ levels,” he notes. “But that’s not learning. That’s outsourcing cognition. We need to return to the basics pencil, paper, and structured thinking. These are tools that build long-term understanding.” 

He references recent cognitive science research that validates the benefits of handwriting in memory retention and conceptual comprehension, emphasizing the importance of balanced learning methodologies. 

Policy, Equity, and the Democratization of Knowledge 

At the core of Larson’s educational philosophy is democratization ensuring that quality education is not limited by geography, economic status, or infrastructure. 

“Where you’re born should not determine whether you get a good education,” he says firmly. “If we can use technology to deliver banking, health care, and government services to remote areas, then surely we can deliver learning.” 

This belief has driven his consultancy work with the World Bank, the United Nations, and educational institutions across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. 

A Lifetime of Educational Innovation 

  • Director of MIT’s CAES (Center for Advanced Educational Services) 
  • Principal Investigator of PIVoT (Physics Interactive Video Tutor) 
  • Creator of MIT World, Masters’ Voices, and Inventing the Global Classroom 
  • Invited speaker at U.S. Congress and forums across Asia, Europe, and South America 
  • Co-author of the award-winning paper: “STEM Crisis or STEM Surplus? Yes and Yes” 

His research on education has influenced curriculum design, teacher training, and digital pedagogy worldwide. 

Looking Ahead: A Blueprint for Future Classrooms 

For Larson, the future of education lies in blended ecosystems a harmonious mix of digital content, local teaching, systems engineering, and human empathy. 

He advocates for: 

  • Teacher-centric edtech platforms, not teacher-replacing ones 
  • Global collaboration in educational research and policy 
  • Integration of operations research and systems thinking into science curricula 
  • Universal access to open educational resources (OERs) 

“Education is the most important service sector,” Larson affirms. “If we get this right, everything else follows health, economy, innovation, and equity.” 

Final Thought: Leading with Purpose 

With a legacy that spans disciplines, borders, and generations, Richard C. Larson stands as a beacon in the global movement for educational transformation. His work reminds us that the true purpose of education is not just to inform, but to empower. 

In a world grappling with inequality, conflict, and technological disruption, Larson’s message is more relevant than ever: “Great education is a human right. And great systems can make it universal.” 

NEXT: Richard C. Larson: The Mind Behind Models That Move the World 

Richard C. Larson: Lifelong Mission to Transform Ideas into Impact 

Posted on by Shivani Ghadage

In the realm of research leadership, few names resonate with such enduring influence as Prof. Richard C. Larson the Mitsui Professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS). Over five decades of groundbreaking work have established Larson not just as an operations research pioneer, but as one of the world’s most effective and visionary research program leaders. 

From modeling 911 emergency systems to spearheading global education initiatives, Larson’s hallmark has been clear: research must not live only in theory—it must serve society. 

Redefining the Role of a Research Leader 

Unlike conventional academics who specialize narrowly, Larson’s career has spanned an extraordinary range of domains: public safety, pandemics, STEM education, urban planning, AI ethics, and logistics. What sets him apart is his ability to build and lead programs that bridge science and public service, consistently producing results that are measurable, scalable, and socially impactful. 

As Co-Director of MIT’s Operations Research Center for over 15 years, and later as Director of the Center for Advanced Educational Services (CAES), he didn’t just manage programs—he architected platforms that allowed interdisciplinary research to thrive. 

Founding MIT LINC and the BLOSSOMS Initiative 

Among his most celebrated ventures is MIT LINC (Learning International Networks Consortium), an international platform that unites educators, technologists, and policymakers from over 40 countries. Through LINC, Larson cultivated a space where high-level research could be translated into global learning reform, hosting eight international symposia to date. 

In parallel, he launched MIT BLOSSOMS, a blended learning initiative that delivers high-quality STEM lessons across economically and culturally diverse classrooms. Under his leadership, BLOSSOMS has impacted thousands of students worldwide and empowered educators to rethink teaching methodologies. 

His programs are characterized not just by scale but by inclusion and accessibility. “No student,” he insists, “should be denied quality education because of where they were born.” 

From Boardrooms to Classrooms: Universal Application of Research 

Larson has advised a diverse array of institutions from the U.S. Department of Justice, the World Bank, and the United Nations to Citibank, American Airlines, and the City of New York. His ability to adapt complex operations research models into actionable strategies has earned him over 175 peer-reviewed publications, six books, and numerous citations across disciplines. 

He is the creator of breakthrough methodologies like the Queue Inference Engine and the Hypercube Queueing Model, and has authored award-winning research on pandemic response, workforce planning, and education reform. 

Whether collaborating with policymakers or mentoring Ph.D. students, Larson’s guiding principle remains the same: research should simplify the complex and solve real problems. 

Navigating the Digital Shift in Education 

Under his stewardship, MIT became a global leader in technology-enabled education. As Director of CAES, he expanded the center from two to seven business units and led the development of the Singapore-MIT Alliance, the most ambitious point-to-point distance learning program of its time. 

His efforts were not only about pushing digital boundaries but also about ensuring digital equity. “Global learning,” he says, “can be just as immersive as traditional education, provided we keep human teachers in the loop.” 

Recognitions Fit for a Global Influencer 

  • Prof. Larson’s contributions have earned him global accolades: 
  • Member, National Academy of Engineering 
  • Recipient of INFORMS President’s Award and the Kimball Medal 
  • First-ever Lifetime Achievement Daniel Berg Medal, India, 2017 
  • Lanchester Prize for his book Urban Police Patrol Analysis 
  • Honored lecturer and board advisor across continents 

He has also served as President of the Operations Research Society of America (ORSA) and INFORMS, and continues to be a mentor for future research leaders. 

A Vision for Future Research Leadership 

In an era where data, AI, and complexity converge, Larson’s voice remains grounded yet progressive. He advocates for ethical frameworks in AI, resilience strategies for both private and public sectors, and broader inclusion of operations research in school curricula to tackle global issues like climate change, healthcare inequality, and educational access. 

His retirement is more of a technicality than a reality he continues to write, consult, and lead. His optimism for the future remains firm: “Operations Research,” he says, “is the invisible engine behind smarter, fairer systems. And we need more engines.” 

The Larson Blueprint for Program Leadership 

  • What can aspiring research leaders learn from Richard C. Larson? 
  • Interdisciplinary Vision: Build bridges between science, service, and society. 
  • Scalability with Empathy: Think globally, but tailor solutions locally. 
  • Mentorship Matters: Create platforms that grow people, not just papers. 
  • Keep It Real: Ensure research never loses sight of real-world impact. 

In every metric scholarly, social, and systemic, Prof. Richard C. Larson has redefined what it means to be a Best Research Program Leader. At MIT and beyond, his leadership has proven that when brilliant minds think in systems, they don’t just study the world—they change it. 

NEXT: Richard C. Larson: Democratizing Education Through Technology and Systems Thinking 

Joe Garber: Empowering Marketing Leadership in the AI Era 

Posted on by Shivani Ghadage

In the fast-paced world of B2B marketing, the difference between failure and success often comes down to a leader’s ability to empower. By building a framework and a team that enables one to delegate authority, a leader can maximize output and set the foundations for scale.  

Few leaders have embodied the concept of empowerment more than Joe Garber. A multi-time CMO and current fractional CMO practice lead for Kainos Consulting, a 20-year-old management consulting firm, Garber has served on the front lines of numerous success stories.  

As CMO of Axiad, a cybersecurity software vendor serving enterprise and public sector customers, he led a complete overhaul of the marketing department. This included a comprehensive rebranding effort, the construction of a modern demand generation engine and MarTech stack, and a realignment of several internal and outsourced resources.  

Two years later, the company notched its best four individual quarters (from a marketing funnel perspective) in its 12-year history and 100% net-new ARR growth year-over-year. Axiad was also recognized as a finalist for “Excellence in Brand Activation & Experience” in Gartner Research’s annual marketing and communications awards and he was named CMO of the Year by GRC Outlook Magazine following these efforts. 

Garber has similarly led growth initiatives for $200M+ business units at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Quest Software, and HP and for early-stage companies like RenewData. He is quick to point out that his success is built on his ability to leverage the strengths and passions of those around him, however. 

“Business success ultimately comes down to growth, and rarely is that accomplished on your own. The most successful executives I know recognize they have strengths and weaknesses, and they know how to tap into others – and leverage technology and process – to close the gaps. But that success isn’t just accomplished simply through delegation. It’s about building clarity, culture, and consistency across teams, and then aligning strategy, process, and purpose.” 

Demand Built on Empowering Extended Teams 

Garber has led demand generation teams for more than 15 years – crafting strategy and leading execution via direct or matrixed teams in up to 50 countries worldwide. He naturally has learned to delegate to trusted individuals who directly report to him. But he has also learned how to empower extended teams to build sustainable pipeline as well. 

For instance, he is a believer in outsourcing certain highly specialized or hard-to-retain roles to third parties. At Axiad, he outsourced digital marketing to a specialized media agency for SEO optimization, plus executing pay-per-click and paid social campaigns that required a unique skillset. He also shifted outbound calling resources (business development representatives) to an outside organization that specialized in attracting, training, and retaining these valuable assets.  

A common thread to success in empowering these outside teams is alignment on the fundamentals. Garber is quick to make sure that any supporting function is clear on who they are marketing to (the ideal customer profile and target personas), core messaging, and what success looks like (as defined by target metrics or KPIs). 

Growth Driven by Customer Empowerment 

Oftentimes, marketing is so focused on building demand via new logos that it takes its eye off another important element to growth – existing customers. According to Garber, this is a recipe for business slowdown, as customers who are feeling unfulfilled often jump to competitive offerings. This churn of course leads to lower net revenue retention (NRR) but also requires more expensive outreach to net-new prospects to make up the difference.  

As former head of corporate marketing for a global public company, Garber was responsible for customer advocacy across thousands of the company’s buyers. He understood the importance of connecting with them to gather testimonials and “voice-of-customer” that could help build the organization’s market credibility. He soon realized that another core part of his role was to gather feedback from these customers for empowering them to attain maximum value from their investments. 

Garber executed customer events on five continents, employed teams to regularly touch base with these organizations and solicit input from them, and organized executive-level advisory boards to foster open dialogue. He also actively engaged with industry analysts who served as a proxy for emerging customer needs. He then formalized a mechanism for gathering and codifying this information to ensure this critical insight was delivered to appropriate product development teams. That company subsequently registered a successful exit at nearly $6B.  

Scale Via Empowering (AI) Technology  

Empowerment is not only applicable to people, and this is particularly true at this juncture in history as artificial intelligence becomes a trusted marketing ally. Garber has embraced this technology and employs it for a variety of business-critical actions, including:  

  • Segmentation: Refining the ideal customer profile and identifying new potential “more like this” targets. 
  • Market Analysis: Extracting customer insights and understanding buying propensity by applying predictive analytics to intent data.  
  • Content Creation: Developing marketing copy, subject lines, voiceovers for demos, and imagery that underpins the company narrative.  
  • Digital Marketing: Inspiring offers and content plus informing advertisement targeting and retargeting.  
  • Engagement: Leveraging chatbots to quickly interact with customers and prospective customers to ascertain needs and resolution.  
  • Optimization: Monitoring of data trends to get the most out of search engine optimization, lead scoring and routing, asset performance, and more. 

Garber not only uses this technology, but in fact takes certain steps to let it act largely on its own – without significant human oversight – in an “agentic” fashion.  

He does not take letting technology act autonomously lightly, however, and he is conscious about its risk to brand and company if technology is left unchecked. He notes that it is critical to establish unambiguous policies about corporate IT, brand, and privacy to serve as guardrails as the technology performs actions on behalf of the function, and that cybersecurity checkups should regularly be performed to ensure a side door isn’t inadvertently left open for bad actors.  

In Summary 

Joe Garber’s impact as a business leader goes far beyond metrics—it’s rooted in his unwavering belief that empowerment drives excellence. Whether he’s scaling marketing across continents, elevating customer voices, or harnessing the power of AI, Garber consistently builds frameworks where people, partners, and platforms thrive together. His legacy isn’t just growth; it’s growth that lasts because it’s built on trust, clarity, and collaboration. In an era of constant change, Garber stands out as a business leader who doesn’t just adapt – he empowers others to lead alongside him. 

Joe Garber Bio 

Joe Garber is a fractional Chief Marketing Officer at Kainos Consulting, where we advises early-to-mid-stage organizations on marketing strategy and execution. He has more than 15 years of marketing leadership experience, with marketing VP-level roles at startups and billion-dollar companies like Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Quest Software, and HP. 

NEXT: AI in Public Relations: How Brands Can Keep Up in 2025


IGNACIO BONASA: Transforming Leadership Through Art, Compassion & Purpose to cultivate more human, conscious, and authentic leaders. 

Posted on by admin

In a world grappling with rapid change, uncertainty, and rising stress levels, leadership is undergoing a necessary transformation. At the heart of this evolution is Ignacio Bonasa, Executive President of LIDERARTE, a pioneering company redefining the development of talent and leadership through an unexpected yet powerful tool—art. 

For Bonasa, leadership is not just a title or a function. It’s a human experience, a journey of consciousness, and above all, an opportunity to serve. Over the last 15 years, he has built a professional and personal legacy around this belief, impacting thousands of individuals across Latin America and Europe. 

FROM CORPORATE STRUCTURE TO CREATIVE SOUL 

Ignacio’s story doesn’t begin in the world of art. With a background in law, economics, and business administration, and experience in the banking sector and prestigious consulting firms, his early career was shaped by structure and logic. But something was missing. 

“I had the professional success, but not the inner fulfillment,” Ignacio shares. “I realized that leadership without purpose and emotional connection lacks depth. That’s when I began exploring the role of art in understanding and expressing human potential.” 

This realization laid the foundation for Aprendizaje por el Arte® (Learning Through Art)—a unique methodology developed by LIDERARTE. Using painting, music, theater, and creative expression, it helps leaders access new dimensions of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and meaningful communication. 

LEADERSHIP THAT CONNECTS HEAD, HEART, AND HANDS 

Unlike traditional leadership training programs, Bonasa’s approach is deeply experiential and transformative. His sessions are not about teaching theories—they are about awakening consciousness. 

“We use art not to create artists, but to help leaders reconnect with their essence,” Ignacio explains. “Leadership today requires not only analytical intelligence but emotional depth, spiritual grounding, and creative agility.” 

Through hands-on workshops and reflective experiences, executives discover untapped strengths, release internal blockages, and learn to lead with clarity, humility, and humanity. 

THE EXECUTIVE ARTISAN: A NEW KIND OF LEADER 

Central to Ignacio’s philosophy is the idea of the “Executive Artisan”—leaders who craft their roles with soul, intention, and authenticity. 

“These are people who don’t separate who they are from what they do,” he says. “They understand that real leadership means being present, vulnerable, and courageous. It’s about shaping culture, not just managing results.” 

LIDERARTE has built a network of such Executive Artisans—trainers, facilitators, psychologists, and business experts who share a common mission: to humanize leadership. 

CULTIVATING WELL-BEING AND PERFORMANCE THROUGH PURPOSE 

One of Ignacio’s key insights is that well-being is not a luxury—it’s a business imperative. His programs are designed to foster inner peace, resilience, and happiness at work. And they deliver results. 

From senior management teams to emerging leaders, organizations working with LIDERARTE report increased engagement, improved collaboration, and deeper purpose alignment. Bonasa emphasizes that sustainable high performance doesn’t come from pressure, but from connection, trust, and meaning. 

“Companies often focus on ‘doing’ more,” he says, “but transformation begins when we look at who we are being.” 

MENTORING THE FUTURE: YOUNG TALENT AND PURPOSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP 

Beyond executive coaching, Ignacio is deeply committed to shaping the next generation of conscious leaders. Through initiatives like Young Talent Camp and Resetéate, he empowers young professionals to build careers with integrity, creativity, and purpose. 

“Young people are searching for more than jobs—they want to make an impact,” Ignacio notes. “Our role is to guide them, support them emotionally, and equip them with the tools to navigate life with confidence and compassion.” 

A GLOBAL MISSION ROOTED IN LOCAL VALUES 

Though based in Latin America, Ignacio’s work resonates globally. He has collaborated with multinational organizations, academic institutions, and social enterprises across Europe and the Americas. His deep respect for local culture and context allows him to tailor each experience to the unique identity of his clients. 

He’s also a recognized thought leader, having received the San Raimundo de Peñafort Legal Essay Award, and served as an advisor in complex regulatory and economic environments. Yet, he remains grounded in his mission: to bring human consciousness to the center of leadership. 

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BONASA AND LIDERARTE? 

Looking ahead, Ignacio is focused on expanding the impact of LIDERARTE by developing new alliances and digital tools. His goal is to make conscious leadership development more accessible, scalable, and inclusive—especially for those in educational and nonprofit sectors. 

“I want to democratize this work,” he says. “Everyone deserves the chance to find their purpose and lead with authenticity.” 

Ignacio Bonasa is currently fully dedicated to “Dale la vuelta a la tortilla” (Turn things around) a soulful global movement he founded to help individuals, teams, and organizations transform pain into strength and challenges into opportunities. Through art, habit-building, and transformative experiences, this initiative proposes a new way of living, leading, and growing — from authenticity, emotion, and purpose. 

THE ART OF LIVING AND LEADING WELL 

In a time when organizations are redefining what it means to thrive, Ignacio Bonasa offers a powerful reminder: Leadership isn’t just about success—it’s about significance. 

Through LIDERARTE, he continues to inspire a new wave of leaders who are grounded in empathy, guided by values, and driven by purpose. 

“Ultimately, we are all artists,” he reflects. “We are shaping our lives, our relationships, and our impact—stroke by stroke, choice by choice.” 

Look into his digital magazine to spark your own transformation.

Görkem Gür: Pioneering Fintech Innovation and Leadership at Sipay

Posted on by admin

The fintech landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with innovation at its core. One of the key figures shaping this transformation is Görkem Gür, Chief Strategy and Investment Officer at Sipay. With a career spanning finance, investment, and technology, Gür has been instrumental in driving strategic growth, fostering innovation, and positioning Sipay as a leader in the financial technology sector.

A Passion for Finance and Technology

Gür’s journey into leadership was fueled by an early fascination with the intersection of finance and technology. His motivation has always been rooted in solving complex problems, creating value, and building sustainable business models. For him, leadership is not just about making decisions but about empowering teams to push boundaries and drive meaningful impact.

A Journey Defined by Pivotal Moments

Having started his career in high-stakes investment projects, Gür developed strong analytical and strategic thinking skills. His transition into fintech was a defining moment, allowing him to witness firsthand the revolutionary impact of technology on financial services. Joining Sipay was another milestone that provided him with the opportunity to lead strategic initiatives in one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving sectors of the global economy.

Core Leadership Principles

Gür believes that successful business leadership is built on three fundamental principles: vision, agility, and empowerment. A clear vision helps navigate an ever-changing business environment, agility ensures adaptability to shifting market conditions, and empowerment fosters a culture of innovation and high performance.

Overcoming Challenges Through Strategic Decision-Making

One of the most challenging decisions Gür faced was Sipay’s expansion into new markets amidst economic uncertainty. Successfully navigating different regulatory frameworks, securing strategic partnerships, and balancing risk with opportunity required a data-driven approach. Through meticulous planning and leveraging the expertise of his team, Sipay managed to establish a strong foothold in these markets, reinforcing its position as a global fintech leader.

Cultivating Innovation at Sipay

Under Gür’s leadership, Sipay has embraced a culture of innovation by investing in research and development, adopting emerging technologies, and maintaining a startup mindset even as the company scales. By engaging with fintech ecosystems, startups, and regulators, Sipay remains ahead of industry trends, continuously delivering cutting-edge solutions to businesses and individuals.

Adapting to Market and Technological Changes

In a sector as dynamic as fintech, adaptability is crucial. Gür ensures that Sipay remains proactive by monitoring market trends, understanding customer behavior, and staying informed about regulatory changes. The company prioritizes agility in technology, leveraging cloud-based infrastructure, AI-driven solutions, and blockchain applications to maintain a competitive edge.

A Strategic Approach to Risk Management

For Gür, risk management is a strategic priority. Sipay employs a multi-layered approach that includes identifying potential risks, assessing their impact, and implementing mitigation strategies. Whether dealing with financial, operational, or cybersecurity risks, the company relies on data analytics, scenario planning, and compliance frameworks to make informed decisions. Diversification and strategic partnerships further enhance its resilience.

Building a Legacy in Fintech

Beyond business success, Gür aims to contribute to the future of fintech by driving innovation, promoting financial inclusion, and fostering sustainable growth. His vision extends beyond Sipay, as he hopes to inspire the next generation of leaders to challenge conventions, embrace change, and develop solutions that create lasting value for industries and communities alike.

Sipay: A Fintech Powerhouse

Founded in 2019, Sipay has rapidly grown into an innovative fintech company that designs financial solutions tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals. By providing a platform where companies can seamlessly manage their financial landscape, Sipay ensures impartial access to a wide range of financial options.

Sipay’s customer-centric approach and commitment to innovation have positioned it as a market leader. The company offers up-to-date, fast, easy, and secure payment solutions, helping businesses and individuals navigate an increasingly digital financial world. Sipay’s remarkable growth was recognized in 2023 when it was named Turkey’s fastest-growing fintech company in Deloitte Technology Fast 50 and ranked 187th in the Technology Fast 500 EMEA list. Furthermore, Sipay has been acknowledged as a top employer by earning the Great Place to Work certification.

Looking Ahead

With Gür at the helm of its strategic initiatives, Sipay is well on its way to becoming a global fintech powerhouse. By fostering a culture of innovation, adaptability, and strategic foresight, the company is set to redefine the financial services industry while leaving a lasting impact on the global fintech landscape.

As fintech continues to revolutionize the way businesses and individuals interact with financial services, leaders like Görkem Gür are playing a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future. Through vision, agility, and empowerment, he is not only driving Sipay’s success but also inspiring the next wave of fintech innovators.

Also Read: Most Empowering Leaders to Watch in 2025

Wayve Accelerates Global Expansion with German Hub

Posted on by admin

Wayve, a British autonomous driving startup, is speeding its worldwide expansion by creating a new testing and development center in Germany. This strategic move intends to increase the company’s position in Europe’s largest automotive market while also strengthening cooperation with leading manufacturers and engineering expertise.

Wayve, founded in 2017, quickly positioned itself as a major participant in the autonomous vehicle (AV) market. The company’s revolutionary method uses artificial intelligence (AI) to develop self-driving systems that can learn from and adapt to a variety of driving scenarios. This methodology differs from conventional AV systems, which rely primarily on thorough mapping and extensive testing in specific places.

Germany: A Strategic Choice

Germany’s extensive automotive tradition and engineering competence make it a perfect site for Wayve’s expansion. The country’s various and demanding driving scenarios, ranging from high-speed Autobahns to complicated urban settings and changing weather conditions, make an ideal testing ground for Wayve’s AI-powered driving technology.

By establishing a presence in Germany, Wayve positions itself to collaborate closely with the region’s leading automotive manufacturers. This proximity is expected to facilitate the integration of Wayve’s technology into production vehicles, aligning with the company’s goal of deploying its systems globally.

Recent Funding and Global Ambitions

In May 2024, Wayve secured a significant investment of over $1 billion, led by Japan’s SoftBank, with participation from Microsoft and Nvidia. This funding round marked the largest investment in a European AI startup to date and underscored the confidence of major investors in Wayve’s vision and technology.

With this substantial financial backing, Wayve has been actively expanding its operations. The company established an office in Silicon Valley and began testing in the San Francisco Bay Area in October 2024. Plans are also underway to extend testing to Vancouver, Canada, where Wayve has an R&D outpost. The company’s CEO, Alex Kendall, has expressed enthusiasm about entering the Japanese market, highlighting it as a key area for future expansion.

Innovative Approach to Autonomous Driving

Wayve’s approach to autonomous driving sets it apart from competitors. The company focuses on developing a single AI model capable of operating across various locations without the need for extensive mapping or city-specific adaptations. This adaptability allows Wayve’s system to function effectively in new environments with minimal adjustments.

Currently, Wayve’s technology delivers Level 2 advanced driver assistance, requiring active human supervision. The company aims to progress to higher levels of autonomy by leveraging its AI-driven, camera-based system, which is more cost-effective compared to traditional sensor-heavy approaches.

Collaborations and Industry Impact

Wayve’s expansion into Germany is expected to foster collaborations with local automotive giants, potentially leading to the integration of its technology into mass-produced vehicles. Such partnerships could accelerate the adoption of autonomous driving features and position Wayve as a key player in the global AV industry.

The company’s commitment to a flexible and adaptive AI system addresses some of the critical challenges in the autonomous driving sector, such as the need for extensive pre-mapped data and high-cost hardware. By focusing on a scalable and cost-effective solution, Wayve aims to make autonomous driving more accessible and practical for widespread use.

Future Outlook

As Wayve continues its global expansion, the establishment of the German hub signifies a pivotal step toward achieving its vision of deploying autonomous driving technology worldwide. The company’s innovative AI-driven approach, combined with strategic collaborations and substantial financial backing, positions it well to navigate the evolving landscape of the autonomous vehicle industry.

With ongoing developments and testing across multiple continents, Wayve is poised to contribute significantly to the future of transportation, offering safer, more efficient, and adaptable autonomous driving solutions.

Also read: latest Magazines

Stories of Entrepreneurs Overcoming Challenges in 2025

Posted on by admin

In the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship, success is frequently linked to resilience. A resilient entrepreneur has the ability to tackle problems head on, adapt to unexpected events, and persevere in the pursuit of their goals. In this article, we delve into the art of resilience by analyzing the experiences of entrepreneurs who have surmounted tremendous obstacles on their route to success..

Learning from Setbacks

A common thread among successful businesses is their ability to turn failures into stepping stones. Many entrepreneurs encounter challenges such as financial issues, market volatility, or unforeseen catastrophes. Instead of succumbing to despair, strong entrepreneurs turn losses into learning opportunities. They investigate the underlying causes, reassess their approach, and emerge stronger and more knowledgeable.

Adapting to Change

The business landscape is dynamic, and adaptability is a key trait of resilient entrepreneurs. The ability to pivot in response to market trends or unexpected disruptions can be the difference between success and failure. Examining cases where entrepreneurs have navigated industry shifts or technological advancements provides valuable insights into the importance of staying nimble and open to change.

Building a Support Network

Resilience is not a solitary endeavor; it often thrives in a supportive community. Successful entrepreneurs recognize the significance of building a robust network of mentors, advisors, and like-minded individuals. These connections provide not only guidance and advice but also emotional support during challenging times. Exploring how entrepreneurs cultivate and leverage their support networks can inspire others to do the same.

Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone

Failure is a part of the business journey, but resilient people see it as a temporary setback rather than the ultimate goal. By looking at how entrepreneurs embrace failure, learn from it, and utilize it as a springboard to future success, we obtain vital insights into the mindset required to handle the unpredictable nature of business.

Celebrating Small Wins

Resilience isn’t only about overcoming major obstacles; it’s also about recognizing and celebrating small victories along the way. Entrepreneurs who acknowledge and appreciate their achievements, no matter how minor, build momentum and maintain a positive outlook. Exploring stories of entrepreneurs who practice gratitude and celebrate small wins can inspire others to adopt a similar mindset.

Conclusion

In the world of entrepreneurship, the journey is often as important as the destination. Resilience, the art of bouncing back from challenges, is a critical attribute that sets successful entrepreneurs apart. By examining the stories of those who have faced adversity and triumphed, we uncover valuable lessons and insights that can inspire and guide aspiring entrepreneurs on their own paths to success. The art of resilience is not just a skill; it’s a mindset that can be cultivated and honed, empowering individuals to navigate the uncertainties of entrepreneurship with grace and determination.