Digital First Magazine – November 2023 – Most Innovative Company in 2023 by Connecta Innovation

GLOBAL EDITION

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Digital, Technology and Business Insights

FEATURING INSIDE Dan Lohrmann Field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Public Sector, Presidio Ivana Nikolik Europe 40Under40 Top Business Leader, Forbes Councils Official Member

MOST INNOVATIVE

COMPANY IN 2023

Kevin O’Donovan Technology Evangelist & Founder, A Bit of This and That,

KAPPLER GROUP NATURE’S WAY CO., LTD.

Ricardo Minari Director of Global Partnerships, Ateme Dr. Sina Wulfmeyer Chief Data Officer & Head Financial Services, Unique

ROLAND STAEHLI FOUNDER AND CEO

WebAccountPlus

REVOLUTIONIZING CORPORATE ADVISORY TO EMPOWER SMES ON A GLOBAL SCALE NOVEMBER 2023

Digital First Magazine November 2023

www.digitalfirstmagazine.com

November 2023

Managing Editor Sarath Shyam Consultant Editors Dr. John Andrews Naomi Wilson Emma James Stanly Lui Andrew Scott Steve Hope Sabrina Samson Keith Alexander Creative Consultants Charlie Jameson Louis Bernard Shirley David Branding & Marketing Partnerships Jennifer Anderson Monica Davis Jessica Edword Rachel Roy Anna Elza Stephen Donnell Cathy Chen Enquiry admin@digitalfirstmagazine.com

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Digital First Magazine November 2023

Vol - 4 Issue - 12

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MANAGING EDITOR’S NOTE

Innovate, Illuminate: Navigating Business Frontiers

nnovation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the lifeblood of progress in today’s dynamic business environment. As we dive into the pages of Digital First Magazine’s latest issue, we’re thrilled to spotlight the pioneers who embody the spirit of innovation – the Most Innovative Companies of 2023. Our cover story unfolds the tale of WebAccountPlus (Holding) AG, a Swiss powerhouse redefining the corporate advisory landscape through groundbreaking digitalization. In a world where old solutions fall short of solving new challenges, WebAccountPlus stands out as a beacon of innovation. This issue takes you on a journey through the diverse services offered by WebAccountPlus,

a company at the forefront of corporate evolution. From full-house accounting services to cutting-edge AI-based spend management, multi-banking, cash and asset management, analytics, HR management, strategy tools, ESG rating, and company valuation to industry comparisons – WebAccountPlus encapsulates the essence of comprehensive corporate operations. In addition to our spotlight on trailblazing companies, we’ve woven a tapestry of thought-provoking articles authored by influential business leaders. Dive into the minds of those who shape industries as they share their perspectives on the art and science of innovation. These thought leaders provide a compass, guiding you through the complex currents of the global business arena. Moreover, our exclusive interviews with experts bring you unparalleled insights into emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities. It’s not just about witnessing innovation; it’s about engaging with the minds fueling t he future. Join us in this unique voyage where the convergence of visionary companies, insightful leaders, and expert opinions paints a comprehensive canvas of the business world’s current pulse. As we explore the latest trends and innovations, let the pages of this magazine be your companion in decoding the intricacies of global business dynamics. Enjoy Reading.

Sarath Shyam Digital First Magazine November 2023

10 COVER

STORY

WebAccountPlus Revolutionizing Corporate Advisory to Empower SMEs on a Global Scale

Digital First Magazine November 2023

MOST INNOVATIVE

COMPANY IN

2023 Kappler Group Julia Kappler, Vice President, Kappler Inc

Crafting Success Through Innovation and PatientCentric Design

Nature’s Way Co., Ltd. Yoshiaki Hagiwara, President and CEO

Pioneering Organic Beauty in Japan and Beyond

IN MY VIEW Helping Leaders Build and Enhance their Cybersecurity Strategies Dan Lohrmann, Field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Public Sector, Presidio

Digital First Magazine November 2023

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Leading the Change & Making an Impact in the Tech World Ivana Nikolik, Europe 40Under40 Top Business Leader, Forbes Councils Official Member, Business Development Executive, Women in Tech Ambassador and Mentor, Thought Leader

Advising Companies on How to Bridge the Gap Between Energy Transition Hype & Reality Kevin O’Donovan, Technology Evangelist & Founder, A Bit of This and That, Expert Advisor, & Speaker

Empowering Customers to Captivate Global Audiences

Unlocking the Potential of GPTTechnology for Financial Services Dr. Sina Wulfmeyer, Chief Data Officer & Head Financial Services, Unique

Digital First Magazine November 2023

Ricardo Minari, Director of Global Partnerships, Ateme

Want to Sell or find Investor for your Business?

Digital DigitalFirst FirstMagazine Magazine August2023 2021 November

ROLAND STAEHLI FOUNDER AND CEO WEBACCOUNTPLUS

Digital First First Magazine Magazine 10 Digital November November 2023 2023

COVER STORY

WebAccountPlus Revolutionizing Corporate Advisory to Empower SMEs on a Global Scale Roland Staehli is the visionary Founder and CEO of WebAccountPlus (Holding) AG, a Switzerland-based company that has revolutionized the corporate advisory landscape through cutting-edge digitalization. With over four decades of experience in banking, entrepreneurship, and computer economics, Roland has become a prominent figure in the financial technology sector. His journey spans multiple continents, including Africa and Asia, and countries, including Austria and Germany, with a private footprint in Malaysia. This global exposure has provided Roland with a unique perspective on the diverse needs and challenges faced by businesses of all sizes. Roland’s relentless drive to bridge the digitalization gap in the corporate sector led to the inception of WebAccountPlus. Fueled by his passion for creating meaningful and sustainable solutions, he embarked on a five-year journey of extensive research and collaboration. This dedicated effort resulted in the founding of WebAccountPlus (Holding) AG in November 2021. In a recent insightful conversation with Digital First Magazine, Roland Staehli delved into the core mission of WebAccountPlus, unveils its unique selling points (USPs), and offers a glimpse into the company’s ambitious long-term vision. Let’s explore the highlights of this engaging conversation.

Digital Digital First FirstMagazine Magazine November November 2023 2023

Roland Staehli,

Founder and CEO of WebAccountPlus (Holding) AG

Under Roland’s leadership, WebAccountPlus has introduced a pioneering corporate advisory platform and ecosystem, delivering comprehensive digital support to SMEs and other enterprises worldwide. His commitment to building an all-encompassing solution, including the groundbreaking Digital Corporate Advisor TM (DCA), reflects his dedication to empowering businesses to

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make informed decisions and embrace the digital era fully. With Roland Staehli at the helm, WebAccountPlus continues to shape the future of corporate digitalization, setting new standards for technology and innovation leadership while upholding Swiss quality and excellence. His expertise, combined with his unwavering passion for digital transformation, drives the company’s mission to

create a “Win-Win” situation for all stakeholders in the corporate world. As a thought leader and visionary in the financial technology sector, Roland Staehli remains committed to empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age. His relentless pursuit of innovation and sustainability ensures that WebAccountPlus remains at the forefront of the industry’s evolution.

Can you provide a brief overview of WebAccountPlus, its mission, and the services it offers to clients worldwide? WebAccountPlus is a pioneering digital corporate advisory platform and ecosystem designed to serve businesses, particularly SMEs, worldwide. Our mission is to empower companies by providing them with comprehensive digital support, allowing them to emancipate themselves from third parties

and make informed decisions about their financial and business management. We offer a wide range of services that cover all aspects of corporate operations. These services include full-house accounting services, CRM, AI based spend management, multi-banking, cash management, asset management, analytics, HR management, strategy tools, ESG rating, company valuation, and industry comparisons. Our flagship

Digital First Magazine November 2023

offering, the Digital Corporate Advisor ™ (DCA), provides real-time data analytics and business management guidance. How did the idea for WebAccountPlus come about, and what inspired its creation? The idea for WebAccountPlus stemmed from the need to address the digitalization gap in the corporate world. While digitalization was making waves in the consumer banking sector, businesses were still grappling with inefficient, manual processes, often reliant on expensive consultants. Our inspiration came from the desire to create something substantial and sustainable, benefiting all participants in the corporate world, from SMEs to accounting companies to bank advisors and insurance providers. Through extensive research, discussions, interviews, and a deep understanding of business needs, we shaped our vision for a comprehensive digital solution that automates every aspect of corporate operations. Our goal was to create a “Win-Win” situation for all stakeholders, and we set out to build the world’s first Corporate Ecosystem. Could you highlight the key features and innovations that set WebAccountPlus apart from other accounting service providers? WebAccountPlus stands out for several reasons. First, we offer an all-in-one solution that covers not only accounting but also the entire spectrum of corporate needs, from CRM to asset management. Our Digital Corporate Advisor ™ (DCA) uses real-time data to provide actionable insights and leads the way in proactive business management.

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OUR OPEN API FINANCIAL PLATFORM OPEN CORPORATE ™ ALLOWS SEAMLESS INTEGRATION WITH PARTNERS AND OFFERS UNPARALLELED FLEXIBILITY

Our open API financial platform Open Corporate™ allows seamless integration with partners and offers unparalleled flexibility. We also emphasize security and reliability, keeping client data in the Swiss cloud, known for its stringent data protection laws. Can you explain how the Open API financial platform works and its significance for clients? Our Open API Finance Platform Open Corporate ™ offers a connected SME, in

case of a possible financing, investment, job filling, consulting or product need, etc., thanks to our Digital Corporate Advisor ™, the automated possibility to provide its quote requests anonymously to other Eco-systems and market participants from the corporate world. These can be banks, corporate advisors, insurance companies, job portals, suppliers, factoring companies, leasing companies, etc. These, in turn, also make their offer available, anonymized or not, in our platform. The customer accepts or rejects. In case of

acceptance, the names are activated on both sides, and the transaction can be processed electronically immediately. This is our flexible, integrated ecosystem of the future. Could you discuss the partnerships WebAccountPlus has with software providers and how they contribute to the platform’s success? Our partnerships with software providers are essential to expanding the services available to our clients. By collaborating

Digital First Magazine November 2023

with software providers, we can offer a wider array of tools and solutions that integrate seamlessly with our platform. These partnerships enhance the overall value we provide to our clients and ensure they have access to cutting-edge technology. How does WebAccountPlus approach software development and integration within its open architecture framework? We approach software development with a focus on state-of-the-art tools and practices. Our development process ensures full traceability, from envisioning and requirements gathering to architecture, coding, and testing. Within our open architecture framework, we prioritize integration capabilities, making it easy for third-party providers to connect their solutions with our platform, fostering a dynamic and comprehensive ecosystem. What strategies does WebAccountPlus employ to establish itself as a market leader both nationally and internationally? To establish ourselves as a market leader, we leverage our extensive network of industry

experts and partners. We focus on forming strategic alliances and entering into joint ventures with financial institutions, accounting companies, and other key players in various countries. This approach allows us to expand rapidly and offer our solutions on a global scale. Can you provide more details about the Digital Corporate Advisor TM (DCA) and how it benefits clients and professional advisors? How does the DCA leverage real-time data for decision-making and lead generation? The Digital Corporate Advisor ™ (DCA) is a transformative tool that continuously monitors a company’s performance by analyzing real-time data. It provides proactive guidance and identifies opportunities or challenges. For clients, it means staying ahead of financial issues and making informed decisions. For professional advisors, it offers a powerful tool for providing value-added services to clients and identifying new business opportunities.

THE DIGITAL CORPORATE ADVISOR ™ (DCA) IS A TRANSFORMATIVE TOOL THAT CONTINUOUSLY MONITORS A COMPANY’S PERFORMANCE BY ANALYZING REAL-TIME DATA

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Could you elaborate on how WebAccountPlus utilizes artificial intelligence and automation to reduce administrative efforts for clients? We utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to streamline and simplify administrative tasks for our clients. AI algorithms handle repetitive, timeconsuming tasks such as data entry and verification. Automation ensures that processes like accounting and expense management are efficient and error-free, saving clients both time and resources. You emphasize the importance of security and reliability. Could you explain how WebAccountPlus ensures these aspects for its clients, especially regarding data stored in the Swiss cloud? Security and reliability are paramount in our services. Storing data in the Swiss cloud ensures compliance with strict Swiss data protection laws, offering clients peace of mind. We also employ robust encryption protocols and maintain redundant data centers to safeguard data integrity and availability. Regular security audits and updates further bolster our commitment to maintaining a secure and reliable environment. What challenges has WebAccountPlus faced during its journey, and what lessons have been learned along the way? How does the company adapt to evolving technologies and market demands? Our journey has seen its share of challenges, including navigating complex regulatory

landscapes and fostering international growth. Through these challenges, we’ve learned the importance of adaptability and the need to stay ahead of evolving technologies and market demands. We embrace change, invest in research and development, and maintain a proactive stance to ensure our solutions remain at the forefront of innovation. What is WebAccountPlus’s long-term mission in terms of technology and innovation leadership? Our long-term mission is to continue leading the way in technology and innovation, setting new standards for corporate digitalization. We aspire to shape the future of corporate advisory by constantly enhancing our ecosystem, expanding our partnerships, and pioneering groundbreaking solutions that empower businesses worldwide. How does the company plan to sustain profitable growth and maintain Swiss quality standards in the future? To sustain profitable growth and maintain Swiss quality standards, we are actively seeking collaborations with governments globally to facilitate the digitization of physical letters, further enhancing our services. We are also exploring opportunities for integration with existing platforms and the expansion of tools related to financing, investment, and HR. Through these strategic initiatives, we aim to continually evolve while upholding our commitment to Swiss quality and excellence.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

IN MY VIEW

Helping Leaders Build and Enhance their Cybersecurity Strategies Dan Lohrmann, Field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Public Sector, Presidio

According to you, how has cybersecurity changed over the last few years? First, the scale and impact of cyberattacks continues to shock the world - from the smallest companies and local governments on one side to the largest Fortune 500 companies and G7 countries on the other. Ransomware attacks, online fraud and malware distribution through supply chain vulnerabilities are just a few of cyberattacks that have led to massive

data breaches that continue to grow and cost trillions of dollars a year. Second, the business transformations that began during the Covid-19 pandemic are still being felt. While the push to do more business in a “Digital First” manner has been a good thing, the bad actors continue to take advantage of the rapid change in organizational processes. Third, when you add in the war in Ukraine and other growing nation-state cyberthreats,

Security leaders are striving for simplicity (fewer platforms and tools) in an environment that is becoming more complex with a wider attack surface that extends beyond traditional computers to a vast “Internet of Things” that include critical infrastructure First Magazine 18 Digital November 2023

Dan Lohrmann currently serves as a Field CISO at Presidio. He has more than 30 years of experience in the computer industry, beginning his career with the National Security Agency. He worked for three years in England as a senior network engineer for Lockheed Martin (formerly Loral Aerospace) and for four years as a technical director for ManTech International in a U.S./ UK military facility. Lohrmann led Michigan government’s cybersecurity and technology infrastructure teams from May 2002 – August 2014, including enterprise-wide Chief Security Officer (CSO), Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) roles in Michigan. He has been a keynote speaker at global security and technology conferences from South Africa to Dubai and from Washington D.C. to Moscow. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Don shared his insights on the evolution of cybersecurity landscape, key competencies required to succeed as a CISO, the inspiration behind his latest book, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and a lot more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

the landscape for cybersecurity expands to virtually every area of life, including social media impacts on society and areas such as “fake news” and GenAI. In response, I think the cybersecurity industry continues to grow and evolve rapidly, with a surge in new companies and technology interests. Nevertheless, security leaders are striving for simplicity (fewer platforms and tools) in an environment that is becoming more complex with a wider attack surface that extends beyond traditional computers to a vast “Internet of Things” that include critical infrastructure.

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What are some of the key components to succeeding as a CISO in today’s business environment? First and foremost, CISOs must be good leaders who others will follow. Good CISOs know cyber best practices and how to apply those principles successfully in their specific organizational context. For example, how can the NIST Cybersecurity Framework guide our company’s people, process and technology? At the same time, success as a CISO starts with good relationships with key partners, including internal and external customers that cover 360-degrees (CxOs, management peers,

security and tech staff, clients and vendor partners). Of course, excellent relationships take time and effort, and they are hard to maintain in any business. Sadly, many CISOs last only a few years, which makes lasting security culture change difficult. I describe more detail on this topic in this blog. No doubt, technical competence is important, as well as good communication skills. CISOs must strive to be trusted advisors, not only to other executives, but set an example for the enterprise using different channels (such as public speaking, internal newsletters, public blogs, etc.)

CISOs should surround themselves with experts that can strengthen the security and technology and business to work together as one team. Dan, can you tell us about your professional background and areas of interest? I started my career at the National Security Agency (NSA), and my early professional years were focused on multi-vendor interoperability testing, learning networks and protocols. After finishing my master’s degree in computer science at Johns Hopkins, my family moved to

I think that executive challenges in cyber security start with having a good understanding of their current business environment and their data that makes them special or unique

Digital First Magazine November 2023

We will always need good leaders who inspire and maintain the trust of business executives and who can build lasting personal relationships and company partnerships

England with Lockheed Martin, working as a network management specialist in the 90s on a US / UK military base. When asked to lead a network team for ManTech, I discovered that I loved management and working with people to achieve more than I could alone. My family moved back to Michigan in the late 90s, and I took a job as a CIO in Michigan State Government (slight detour from securityspecific roles), and I managed 100 staff and 100 contractors – mainly focused on Y2K and day-to-day customer service. Michigan centralized 20 agencies into one IT department in 2002, and I became the natural choice for the State’s first CISO. We had an incredible team and won tons of awards for our strategies and projects delivered. In 2009, I was promoted to become the State CTO – over all infrastructure, data centers, networks, telecom, etc. (approx. 800 staff, 400 contractors).

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In 2011, with a new Governor, I decided I liked security best, and went back to being the State’s CSO – but this time over all cybersecurity and physical security in a combined function. (US DHS / CISA came to us in Michigan to see how we did what we did.) In 2014, I joined Security Mentor, Inc. as CSO and Chief Strategist – focusing mainly on government clients. I loved speaking / blogging / writing all over the world and being an ambassador for cybersecurity in the security awareness space. During this journey, I have been blessed to write three books and contribute to many others. Tell us about your role as Field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Public Sector at Presidio. In November 2021, I joined Presidio, a leading global digital services and solutions provider

accelerating business transformation through secured technology modernization. As the Field CISO for public sector at Presidio, I help public sector clients (and select private sector clients) with their security plans and cyber strategies. I love helping CXOs address operational challenges and build nextgeneration solutions using proven best practices and relevant government case studies. I am a frequent speaker at global technology conferences, and I write for Government Technology Magazine and CSO Magazine. I am also an ambassador for cybersecurity, participating in several non-profit groups like NASCIO, StateRAMP, The Center for Digital Government, and InfraGard. Given your vast years of experience as a CISO leader, what are the main cyber security related challenges that executives face when it comes to embracing new technologies for their business? I think that executive challenges in cyber security start with having a good understanding of their current business environment and their data that makes them special or unique. Ask these questions: What data do we have? Also, how do we collect and store that data? Who do we refresh our data and make sure it is pure, accurate and up to date? What are the laws and privacy policies that affect that data? Beyond the data itself, what people and process issues impact the data? How is the data used? Is current training relevant and helpful? How can we better utilize that data in our new world of GenAI, data analytics and business transformation? After grasping these essential answers regarding data, business executives can work

with their technology teams to understand backup and redundancy, as well as their CISOs and security teams to properly secure that data – based on business risk. Your security team should be able to provide alternatives approaches to ensuring the confidentiality, integrity and availability (CIA) of that data. One more thing. We all need to be lifelong learners. Staying current on cyberthreats and (at least high level) solutions is the responsibility of everyone in the C-Suite and board. At a minimum, ask good questions and measure progress against cybersecurity program objectives. What was the inspiration behind writing your book, ‘Cyber Mayday & The Day After’. Please brief us about the main takeaways from your book. My co-author Shamane Tan and I saw several scary ransomware trends growing at the beginning of the global Covid-19 pandemic. Although we were on opposite sides of the world (Shamane lives in Sydney, Australia), we saw how the number of global cyberattacks, costs to organizations and overall impact to businesses and governments from ransomware was devastating and getting much worse. While there were already some checklists and white paper reports on various things an organization can do to address ransomware, we saw a lack of true stories, through the eyes of CxOs, on what happened when ransomware struck. We saw the need for a comprehensive book that offered best practices on what public and private sector organizations need to be doing before, during and after a ransomware attack or other major cyberattack. Most

Digital First Magazine November 2023

Through my books, articles, blogs, webcasts, keynote speaking and social media, I want to continue to offer engaging content that is relevant, impactful and transformative

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important, we saw the need for real-life examples and stories from global leaders who have actually implemented these practical solutions – sometimes after previous failure(s). It really covers the good, the bad and the ugly regarding evolving ransomware. As far as takeaways, there are too many to mention, and readers typically love the real ransomware, and data breach stories the most. Still, here are three takeaways from chapter one: 1) The world will never be immune from Cyberattacks. Solutions require people, process and technology working together. CISO qualities are important. Reporting structure (governance) is vital. 2) Cybersecurity is a business risk issue. Not just an IT issue. Supply chain attacks opening eyes. Not if, but when, an incident occurs at your organization. Damaging downstream consequences. How the organization reacts, responds, and learns from cyber incidents is very much a reflection of the organization’s values and capability. 3) Act and adjust with resilience when cyber situation evolves. Prepare, practice (with cyber tabletop exercises), know your roles and act - follow the plan. Also, remain resilient as circumstances change. Be ready to adapt to new situations / scenarios.

experts in computers that can address topics like system administration (controlling access to devices), identity management (like passwords and multi-factor authentication) and accessing databases. We also need “hackers” who can break the norm and try new things easily. Cyber roles often require security certifications from companies like Microsoft and Cisco and/or professional degrees from universities in technical areas like computer science or engineering, but some cybersecurity pros are self-starters who taught themselves how to hack. We also need people who can communicate well with the public and clients, provide a liaison role with business areas on new projects, and we also need good writers. As we enter the age of AI, some of these roles will certainly evolve. Nevertheless, we will always need good leaders who inspire and maintain the trust of business executives and who can build lasting personal relationships and company partnerships. As far personality traits, I have seen all Myers Briggs personality types in cybersecurity over the years. Still, being inquisitive, a lifelong learner, technically astute and friendly always help. I wrote a more detailed article on this topic a few years ago, and you can read that here.

What does working in cybersecurity mean on a practical level, and what kinds of skills/personality traits are an asset in the field? Just as running a hospital requires many different roles and skillsets, working in cybersecurity can take on many different forms. Of course, we need hands-on technical

In your academic or work career, were there any mentors who have helped you grow along the way? What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received? I’ve been blessed with several great mentors in my career. Pete Blodgett when I was in England working for ManTech in the 1990s. Rose Wilson, George Boersma and Teri Takai

Digital First Magazine November 2023

I see the cybersecurity (and other tech) industries, going through major changes as a result of GenAI, quantum computing, selfdriving vehicles and more

were government executives who mentored me while in Michigan State Government over 17 years, during roles as an agency CIO, enterprise CISO and enterprise CTO. And while there are other good career tips that I’ve been given over the years, the words that impacted me the most came from my father in the 1980s. He was the one who challenged me early in my career to get my master’s degree in computer science (when I was sick of going to classes), live my life with a well-informed and clear conscience – which flows from personal integrity, be ready for the hard times, which will surely come, strive to really understand the expectations of my boss/management at work – and to do what I can to exceed those expectations, understand the power of delayed gratification, dream big, take risks and even be open to a move oversees. But his best, most memorable (and most impactful) advice came from my father’s last words to me a few days before he died of cancer: “My life seems like one long day. This morning I was just a boy playing baseball. At noon, I started my career, traveled the world and married your mother. This afternoon I raised seven children, earned my PHD in psychology and counseled families at our church. This evening I watched my grandchildren grow. And now, it is almost midnight, and I’ll meet my maker.” Where’s the advice in that? Plan your career with the end in mind. Where would you like to be in the next 5 years? I love my current role with Presidio - advising and helping CISOs, CXOs and other clients with cybersecurity strategies. Through my books, articles, blogs, webcasts, keynote speaking and social media, I want to continue to offer engaging content that is relevant, impactful and

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transformative. I also want to continue to mentor others in cybersecurity and technology. Cybersecurity is becoming more specialized, so I may pick one particular area and try and dive in deeper where and when it makes sense. Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future? I see the cybersecurity (and other tech) industries, going through major changes as a result of GenAI, quantum computing, selfdriving vehicles and more. This is an exciting time, and I hope to pick an area of this change and dive in deeper over the next few years. I am learning more about GenAI now currently, and I am focusing on what in means for government enterprises regarding data and cybersecurity. What advice would you offer others looking to build their career in cybersecurity? Be a leader by moving beyond your position description. You can do that by following these tips: First and foremost, understand that “the box” placed around your position is a good thing which must be respected. Always complete your stated duties and objectives and be sure to meet or exceed these basic expectations. This is your first priority. Note: Staff not completing their basic tasks are often seen as lazy and not respected. Second, volunteer for key committees or important ad hoc teams. This may be a “Tiger Team” for some essential executive sponsored project. On the other hand, you may just become the organizer for the office Christmas party. Strive to lead, deliver and exceed expectations in these roles.

Third, generate good ideas. Look for organizational needs that aren’t being met. Think ahead to upcoming challenges and technologies. Discuss these problems and potential low-cost solutions with your management. Don’t be a complainer but ask to be put in charge of implementing the fix. If you are thinking, “I tried that once,” but no one listened. Try again. Repackage your ideas with a different approach. Perhaps it was the wrong time for your solution. Fourth, find out how you can help make your boss’s boss become successful. What are his/her priorities? Discuss opportunities to work those projects with your supervisor. But also think beyond your own organization. Fifth, what industry-wide opportunities can help? Can your government or company partner with others to provide a better service at a lower cost? Talk to others that you respect if you are unsure on ideas. What external industry groups will add value? Get involved or even lead these groups. Build cross-boundary partnerships. Think medium or long-term about possibilities but stay pragmatic and look for tangible results. Sixth, explore what security skills or functions will be needed in the future in your office? What is lacking now? Obtain those skills or offer to provide training and mentor others if you already have those skills. Be known as the “go to” person in the office for specific answers. Start a blog or wiki. Don’t hoard knowledge, but freely give it away. This will build trust and respect all around. I discuss these ideas in more detail here. But finally, find a good mentor who is ahead of you in your professional journey and listen and act on their advice.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

MOST INNOVATIVE

COMPANY IN

2023

Kappler Group Crafting Success Through Innovation and Patient-Centric Design

n the picturesque landscapes of Germany’s Black Forest, a humble carpentry shop emerged, founded by the visionary couple Berta and Erwin Kappler. Their mission was to support local businesses in constructing and furnishing their spaces. Little did they know that this small endeavour would sow the seeds of a remarkable legacy. Fast forward to the swinging 60s, where the second generation, led by the enterprising Rudi Kappler, stepped into the picture. Under Rudi’s astute leadership, Kappler ventured

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into the dynamic world of medicine. What was once a carpentry shop transformed into a hub for crafting spaces that optimized workflow and organization. The transformative journey continued in the 90s when the third-generation torchbearer, Holger Kappler, assumed the reins. With international expansion in mind, Kappler’s influence crossed borders, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage. Today, the fourth generation, embodied by the dynamic trio of Vivien, Julia, and Kevin Kappler, has breathed new life into

Julia Kappler, Vice President, Kappler Inc

Digital First Magazine November 2023

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Under Julia’s visionary leadership, Kappler Inc. continues to thrive, continually adapting to the ever-evolving demands of the industry

the family business. Kappler, once synonymous with carpentry, now stands as a global beacon for medical professionals. Their comprehensive solutions fuse the realms of workflow, function, design, architecture, technology, and cabinetry to empower medical practitioners worldwide. As Julia Kappler, Vice President of Kappler Inc., eloquently puts it, “Our expertise and innovative mindset set us apart in the field of planning, designing, and outfitting medical practices. Decades of immersion in the medical industry, serving thousands of clients globally, have fueled our passion for change. We’re pioneers, constantly crafting and implementing new workflows to enhance the lives of medical professionals, both within and beyond their practice.” Born and raised in Germany, Julia pursued her passion for design and architecture, embarking on an academic journey that would shape her destiny. Her ascent to becoming the torchbearer of the Kappler legacy symbolizes a fresh perspective on the company’s rich history. As the fourth-generation leader, she shoulders the responsibility of overseeing Kappler Inc.’s operations across the United States, Canada, as well as Middle and South America. Under Julia’s visionary leadership, Kappler Inc. continues to thrive, continually adapting to the ever-evolving demands of the industry. “Our philosophy has remained unwavering since our inception: Form follows function. Every creation is born from a deep understanding of its purpose, followed by thoughtful and innovative design,” Julia affirms. Transforming Medical Practices Kappler’s success stories are more than just business triumphs; they are life-changing narratives. The resounding feedback from clients

Digital First Magazine November 2023

isn’t just about improved business success; it’s about the transformation of their personal lives. One recent client testified, “You guys didn’t just design my office; through your workflow enhancements, I’ve expanded my practice, grown my team, attracted more clients, and, to my surprise, I now have the time to watch my kids grow.”

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Julia elaborates on their approach, “We ensure structured processes, ergonomic furnishings, and efficient workflows in the practices we design, drawing from years of industry experience and attentive listening to our client’s needs and challenges.” While Kappler has established systems, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Unique and custom

Kappler guides clients through the entire journey of building or expanding a practice, from finding the right location to the grand opening

approaches are essential for different practices. Julia emphasizes, “We meticulously analyze each project, identifying the ideal workflow tailored to them. By seamlessly integrating design, architecture, cabinetry, and technology, we transform workflows comprehensively.” One of the key values Kappler brings to its clients is its holistic approach. The company

Digital First Magazine November 2023

When it comes to design, Kappler does not only create spaces; they create experiences

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guides clients through the entire journey of building or expanding a practice, from finding the right location to the grand opening. This personalized approach means Kappler’s clients have a single point of contact throughout the project. Julia reassures, “We are dedicated to forging enduring relationships with our clients, earning their trust in the process, and genuinely caring about their future.” Crafting Dreams with Custom Designs and Patient-Centric Care At the heart of Kappler’s remarkable success lies a commitment to attentive listening. Julia explains, “Our process begins with an in-depth understanding of our clients’ needs, desires, and challenges. We often visit their practices to witness their day-today operations, pinpointing opportunities for workflow improvements. By comprehending their current situation and future aspirations, we craft tailored solutions.”

When it comes to design, Kappler does not only create spaces; they create experiences. Starting with a client’s personal design vision, they embark on a journey to construct custom designs that resonate with their aspirations. “The environment we inhabit has a profound impact on our daily lives. An efficient and organized workflow fosters a less stressful workday, while an ergonomic workspace enhances health,” Julia emphasizes. Kappler’s designs not only optimize functionality but also imbue spaces with comfort. We relish the ambiance of a fine hotel or restaurant, and Kappler extends that privilege to the workplace. The same principle applies to patients, where Kappler’s designs enhance privacy and comfort and reduce anxiety or fear. “Our ultimate goal is to create spaces that both patients and staff love to be in,” adds Julia. Looking toward the future, Kappler remains visionary in its approach. Julia reveals, “We’re

Digital First Magazine November 2023

Kappler’s designs not only optimize functionality but also imbue spaces with comfort

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witnessing a significant shift in the dental industry and have ambitious plans to redefine the patient experience in medical offices. Exciting projects are on the horizon for 2024 and 2025, spanning from Seattle to Texas. These projects are set to break new ground in size and design, never before seen in the medical industry. Stay tuned!” Julia Kappler’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, coupled with her global perspective, has propelled Kappler to new heights. She embodies not only the family’s enduring dedication but also the spirit of a visionary leader, ensuring that Kappler continues to stand as a beacon of excellence in the world of interior architecture and design.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

How has the tech industry changed for women since you started in tech? I am truly happy and content to see the companies’ awareness of diverse work environment constantly increasing, however females are still clearly underrepresented in the tech industry with only 26% of the Tech jobs globally according to the World Economic Forum. If I draw a parallel when I started in Tech and nowadays situation, unfortunately there is no major progress in this field. There is undoubtedly an urgent need to accelerate digitization, drive technical innovations and,

last but not least, compensate for the lack of IT specialists on the market in general. We definitely need more females to facilitate better problem-solving ability and to increase performance at business level as there is an extensive market and potential in building high tech products and services to women. In other words, in a competitive market where half of the world population is women, it is imperative to know that tech companies cannot afford to overlook the importance of female contributions as women are clients, customers, decision makers, end users.

Encouraging young women to pursue their interest and career in tech is not enough, we need them to have a large pool of successful female leaders in tech whom they can choose as their role model or mentor

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Ivana is an International Business Development Executive at IWConnect, leading company’s growth strategy primarily in the EMEA region by utilizing the internal technology knowledge and IT expertise to address client’s requirements while successfully converting them into customized business proposals. She is an experienced C-level executive, corporate Board Member and cross-functional energetic leader with 15 years of experience in FDI sector, international affairs, and IT industry. This year, Ivana was recognized as a TOP Business Leader in Europe by receiving the prestigious Award 40Under40, she’s an official Member of FORBES Councils and former Forbes Fellow Under 30. Women in Tech Ambassador and Mentor, Member of the Financial Times’ group Women at the Top, and Techstars Startup Mentor where she is actively giving her utmost contribution as a real role model into empowering, mentoring, and inspiring young women to pursue their careers in a Tech world. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Ivana shared her career story, the most rewarding aspect of her role as a Business Development Executive at IWConnect, how she has perceived and converted the challenges into motivation, thoughts on diversity and inclusion of women in tech, significant career milestones, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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Moreover, encouraging young women to pursue their interest and career in tech is not enough, we need them to have a large pool of successful female leaders in tech whom they can choose as their role model or mentor. We must all collectively participate in building a new environment that makes women feel comfortable and useful. Our actions today determine the future we’ll create for the

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coming generations of tomorrow. We must embrace diversity and promote inclusion at all levels. It’s only through this way that we can eliminate all the standing barriers and build relationship that thrives on intellectual capacity and teamwork. Finally, the question is: Where do we need more women’s representation”? And the answer is simply- Everywhere!

There have been pervasive challenges on the way, and unfortunately, we can still witness some obstacles today, especially when it comes to lack of transparency in leadership, gender bias or stereotypes prejudice based on gender

Ivana, did you always know that working in technology was what you wanted to do? How did you decide to go into technology? In my career story, I have learned that the Tech industry is where I can give my utmost contribution and success, the place where I feel like “at home” which certainly comes from my diverse and unique educational background, a combination of Economy (Business Management) and Tech (Computer networks and E-technologies). This absolutely doesn’t mean that I’ve regret accepting job positions in the past related to other industries, just the opposite, I have perceived those experiences as a leverage and affirmation to where I see myself most comfortable and confident to lead change, share vision and strive for success. My dream job was never a specific one, rather always connected with a wish to have a profession that will be dynamic and international on one side, which will give me an opportunity to constantly evolve and grow, on the other side. That’s how “I ended up” in Tech, which is a major driver of economic growth and one of the most fast-paced industries in the world, so I am truly grateful that I am living my dream. What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of your job as the Business Development Executive at IWConnect? It’s an absolute fulfillment to be part of and work in a business environment where diversity and authenticity are truly encouraged, where there is an open field for growth, and lot of company’s success is built on the strength and perseverance of the females we have at IWConnect. The

Digital First Magazine November 2023

most rewarding part is when you are personally overachieving defined goals and set KPIs, especially when the clients and partners are sharing their success with you, that winning moment when you and your team helped them achieve a certain goal or reach a major milestone. Furthermore, one of the key intangible rewarding aspects is to see the impact on my team-members when inspiring and empowering them with empathy and teamwork. Are there any challenges that you have faced as a woman working in this field? If so, how did you overcome them? I would say not only in this field, but rather in general. There have been pervasive challenges on the way, and unfortunately, we can still witness some obstacles today, especially when it comes to lack of transparency in leadership, gender bias or stereotypes prejudice based on gender. Studies are also confirming that men are more likely to receive promotions and leadership positions, even when women demonstrate equivalent or even superior performance. This imbalance is often due to unconscious biases and stereotypes about women’s abilities in the workplace. Despite these facts, I have always perceived and converted the challenges into motivation, which I really believe is one of the crucial factors for running my successful career. This has been my driving force, as a person who is an overachiever not only professionally, but as well as in my personal life. The question is whether you

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are accepting and converting those challenges into successful stories, or you are perceiving them as an obstacle and trying to avoid or simply cancel them. In my case, there is only a play and fast-forward button, so I constantly welcome and grab the challenge by trusting in myself, with honest and truthful approach bringing pragmatic and confident message to the team and trying to make a positive impact on a broader scale. Women aren’t the only underrepresented group in tech – what can be done to make tech more diverse across race, class, and gender? Couldn’t agree more! We must embrace diversity and promote inclusion at all levels. Our actions today determine the future we’ll

create for the coming generations of tomorrow. One solution to close the gender gap is to advance women into higher positions. In fact, a recent study on gender diversity and business performance in Tech shows that diverse teams produce higher levels of profitability, particularly when women occupy a large percentage of top leadership roles. As we take a moment to celebrate the incredible successes and achievements of all women at the top, it is crucial to recognize that there is still a long way to go in establishing gender equality, especially in the technology industry. Closing the gender tech gap is not a one-woman job. Rather, it requires the collective efforts of

As we take a moment to celebrate the incredible successes and achievements of all women at the top, it is crucial to recognize that there is still a long way to go in establishing gender equality, especially in the technology industry

Digital First Magazine November 2023

many dedicated female tech professionals to break into the field and lift other women up — but it also requires men to be allies, advocating for their female peers and educating themselves on problems that arise from gender inequality. I am truly content to see that the awareness of diverse work environment is constantly increasing, where around 70% of businesses acknowledge that there’s a lack of diversity in their tech teams and around half of them are actively working on solving this issue. The first step here will be to expand the talent pool by sourcing internationally. Tech companies should start looking not only at the diverse talent in their country of operation but also abroad, to look for culture add. The talent elsewhere will be pretty different racially, ethnically, and culturally. What’s important is to look at candidates’ value sets and how they can contribute to the company’s culture in addition to their excellent tech skills. How do you stay up to date with the latest trends in technology? Tech is constantly evolving, so staying up to date with industry trends and cutting-edge technologies is really important, in order to be ahead of the curve. Personally, I am reading a lot on a daily basis, books on emerging technology topics, industry publications and newsletters, listening podcasts, participating at conferences and events that present the latest developments and trends in technology, which are helping me to easily anticipate changes, take proactive steps to adapt to them, and finally, to increase my own value.

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Are there any women in tech that have particularly inspired you? I can not say one in particular, but we should admire all the women who reached the top in Tech industry with their hard and smart work, and who are confidently leading the change, sharing their vision and strive for success. However, we need a larger pool of such successful female leaders - role models that inspires the next generation of trailblazers. I am delighted when I see that I am making an impact by giving my uttermost contribution as an Ambassador and Mentor for women to enter and grow their careers in the Tech world and I will undoubtedly continue to do so. Fun fact about you? I’ve always had a passion for sports, photography and traveling. Having a healthy work-life balance is critical to cultivating a healthy and

productive workplace steeped in positivity and for me, there is an undeniable bond between athletic and business success! Since I remember, I have always practiced some sport and it became an integral part of my life - triathlon finisher, marathon runner, basketball (used to practice in primary and high school on a playmaker position), mountainbiking, skiing, hiking, etc. Overall, mostly enjoying doing outdoor sports - I simply love the feeling of enjoyment when being in nature. What are you particularly proud of in your career? The full support and blessings I’ve always had from my family and loved ones which is giving me а wind at my back to continue aspiring for new heights. Since the very beginning of my career, I truly appreciated and valued the opportunities

Digital First Magazine November 2023

It’s important to set powerful goals, to give our brain a place to aim and when we achieve those goals, always to reach a little higher. Perseverance is crucial, to never quit, never give up!

to be in leadership positions, starting with a small team, to being given the responsibility of leading hundreds of people as a CEO. I have set a major milestone every year, but I am particularly proud of the last 2 accomplishments the invitation I received last year from FORBES to become official Member of their Business Council, and this year – to be recognized as one of the TOP Business Leaders in Europe by receiving the prestigious Award 40Under40 and becoming part of the Business Elites Executive Club. Success is not necessarily a destination but a journey that helps us develop the skills and resources we need to thrive. It’s important to set

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powerful goals, to give our brain a place to aim and when we achieve those goals, always to reach a little higher. Perseverance is crucial, to never quit, never give up! What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? Step up and take the lead! Embrace the challenge with strength, intelligence and fearlessness, and thrive as a girl/woman in Tech! In one word, what does it mean to be a woman in tech? Empowerment.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

MOST INNOVATIVE

COMPANY IN

2023

Nature’s Way Co., Ltd. Pioneering Organic Beauty in Japan and Beyond

n the ever-evolving world of cosmetics, where trends come and go, one company stands as a timeless pioneer of organic beauty. Nature’s Way Co., Ltd., a name synonymous with integrity and innovation, has been at the forefront of the natural cosmetics industry, both in Japan and on a global scale. For over four decades, Nature’s Way has been on a mission that extends far beyond creating high-quality cosmetics. It all began in 1974 when the company set its roots in the rich heritage of England, importing cosmetics made from plants. From those humble beginnings, Nature’s Way embarked

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on a journey that would change the beauty landscape in Asia and beyond. “We are the oldest organic cosmetics company in Japan,” states Yoshiaki Hagiwara, President and CEO of Nature’s Way. But their mission was never solely about producing cosmetics; it was about making a difference. Mr. Hagiwara elaborates, “We not only put organic ingredients into our products, but we also hope that the areas where the ingredients are collected will become better through our involvement. It is important to us that the soil in which the ingredients are grown is improving, and we care about whether the lives of the people who grow them are becoming richer.”

Yoshiaki Hagiwara, President and CEO

Digital First Magazine November 2023

This commitment to holistic, sustainable beauty has been the driving force behind Nature’s Way’s success. As they ventured further into the realm of organic cosmetics, differences in skin care practices between Europe and Asia became apparent. To cater to these unique needs, Nature’s Way created its own manufacturing plant with development capabilities. By marrying plant-based cosmetics with a fervent dedication to environmental

Nature’s Way Co., Ltd. is not just a cosmetics company; it’s a reflection of a profound ethos deeply rooted in its history and the vision of bringing smiles to the world

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conservation, the company has truly become unparalleled in the Asian beauty market. Inspiration and Philosophy: Crafting Nature’s Way Nature’s Way Co., Ltd. is not just a cosmetics company; it’s a reflection of a profound ethos deeply rooted in its history and the vision of bringing smiles to the world. “We have been running our business with the idea of being

kind to people’s skin, kind to their hearts, and kind to the global environment, and as a result, we have become a company that specializes in natural organic cosmetics,” shares Mr. Hagiwara. The driving force behind Nature’s Way is not just about creating skincare products; it’s about creating smiles. They seek to bring more joy and positivity into the world through their offerings. This unwavering commitment to the

well-being of their customers has carved out a unique niche for Nature’s Way in the natural organic cosmetics industry in Asia. Mr. Hagiwara further elucidates their core philosophy, saying, “Our basic philosophy is to create beauty and health with the help of nature. In the first place, human beings are part of nature. We hope to be a company that supports people’s desire to love and accept themselves and spend tomorrow in a positive way while drawing on the power of nature.” This philosophy underscores Nature’s Way’s belief that the human connection to nature is intrinsic, and by harnessing the gifts of the natural world, they empower individuals to embrace themselves and shape a brighter tomorrow. Nature’s Way’s commitment to nature isn’t just skin-deep; it’s a profound philosophy that transcends skincare, making it a company that not only cares for outer beauty but inner well-being, too. Unveiling the Magic: Nature’s Way Products for Japanese Skin In the world of cosmetics, one size certainly does not fit all. Nature’s Way Co., Ltd. understands this notion intimately, which is why they’ve crafted products uniquely tailored to suit Japanese skin. “If we focus on ‘feeling good’ instead of just thinking about one part, we can develop the cosmetics we need,” Mr. Hagiwara explains. While improving blemishes and wrinkles is a vital aspect of their cosmetics, their approach extends beyond mere skincare. He adds, “What is important is how we can love ourselves more. We develop cosmetics that make people ‘feel good’ while being conscious of the whole, not just parts of it.”

Digital First Magazine November 2023

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In the world of cosmetics, one size certainly does not fit all. Nature’s Way Co., Ltd. understands this notion intimately, which is why they’ve crafted products uniquely tailored to suit Japanese skin

This emphasis on holistic well-being is a defining feature of Nature’s Way products. It’s not just about looking better; it’s about feeling better, embracing yourself, and radiating confidence. By taking a broader view of beauty and focusing on the emotional aspect of skincare, Nature’s Way sets itself apart as a brand that truly cares for its customers. Maintaining quality and purity is at the core of Nature’s Way’s commitment. Mr. Hagiwara sheds light on their efforts to ensure ingredient integrity, saying, “There is no certification for organic cosmetics in Japan. Therefore, we grow some of our ingredients organically. We have cultivated, tilled, and organically grown our own fields. We are not yet able to grow all of our own raw materials, but we hope to increase the number of raw materials we grow ourselves.” This dedication to organically sourced ingredients showcases Nature’s Way’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of quality and purity. It’s not just a business decision; it’s a testament to their ethos of respecting nature, which, in turn, nurtures skin and enhances well-being. Innovations, Sustainability, and EcoFriendly Commitment: Nature’s Way’s Triad of Excellence Nature’s Way Co., Ltd. has a history of breaking new ground in the world of cosmetics. “When it comes to recent innovations in our product line,” Mr. Hagiwara hints at their groundbreaking work in scalp care, a highly secretive field. He offers a glimpse, saying, “I cannot tell you too much because it is a highly secretive field.” This enigmatic statement exemplifies Nature’s Way’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of beauty and wellness. Their eagerness to delve into uncharted territory is what keeps them at the forefront of the cosmetics industry.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

But how does the company balance innovation with sustainability in the production of cosmetics? Mr. Hagiwara’s answer is clear: “Innovation and sustainability are not opposites. Innovation is what makes us sustainable. We are always thinking of products that break the mold of existing products. Respecting the past does not mean staying the same but rather continuing to change by taking advantage of the goodness. We continue to innovate the research we do, putting our knowledge of trendy brands and products through regular surveys of markets around the world.” This approach showcases Nature’s Way’s commitment to staying ecoconscious while simultaneously striving for cutting-edge products. However, what truly stands out is the company’s eco-friendly initiatives. Mr. Hagiwara shares one that they take immense pride in: “We are proud of our efforts to collect used caps and recycle them into new caps. In addition to the reuse technology, what was necessary for the success of this project was the cooperation of our customers. Customers who purchased the product in our stores brought their used containers and caps to our stores. This must be the first such initiative in Asia. We are proud of the fact that our customers bring in so many used containers every week, and we collect them at our stores and turn them into new containers.” This initiative not only underscores Nature’s Way’s commitment to sustainability but also highlights the strong partnership they’ve built with their customers. It’s a holistic approach to eco-friendliness, where the entire ecosystem, from production to consumption, is involved.

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Customer-Centric Excellence: Nature’s Way’s Commitment to Skin Health For Nature’s Way Co., Ltd., the journey isn’t about selling cosmetics; it’s about empowering their customers to have healthy, radiant skin. “Our ultimate goal is not to sell cosmetics but to help our customers have healthy skin,” emphasizes Mr. Hagiwara. This fundamental belief is the cornerstone of Nature’s Way’s philosophy. Unlike products that provide temporary relief, Nature’s Way’s skincare and makeup products go beyond that. Mr. Hagiwara elucidates, “For example, our makeup products are made with beauty ingredients. It might be easier to understand if you imagine that we are adding color to skincare products.” This innovative approach fuses the worlds of skincare and cosmetics, ensuring that makeup

not only enhances appearance but also nourishes the skin, contributing to long-term skin health. It’s a testament to the company’s genuine commitment to the well-being of its customers. But how does Nature’s Way gather insights and feedback to continuously improve its products? Mr. Hagiwara provides insight into their unique approach: “We do not conduct product development solely through our marketing department. The staff who serve customers in the stores and the sales staff who negotiate with buyers also play a major role in the development committee meetings. We gather as many opinions as possible from staff members who are close to the customers and read through each one before proceeding to the next stage of product development.” This customer-centric approach extends to all facets of the company, ensuring that the

For Nature’s Way Co., Ltd., the journey isn’t about selling cosmetics; it’s about empowering their customers to have healthy, radiant skin

Digital First Magazine November 2023

In Asia, Nature’s Way studies the Korean market for advanced attempts and the Chinese market for high sales

voice of the customer is not just heard but valued. It’s an approach that sets Nature’s Way apart, ensuring that the products they create reflect genuine customer needs and desires. A Glimpse into the Future: Nature’s Way’s Expansion and Ongoing Commitment As we draw the curtains on our exploration of Nature’s Way Co., Ltd., we turn our gaze toward the horizon, where the company’s future awaits. “Our advantage is in our factories,” Mr. Hagiwara explains. While they haven’t expanded their factories to other countries yet, they are open to the possibility. Mr. Hagiwara adds, “There are not many factories in the world that can produce organic cosmetics, so if we find a good partner, it will be a great growth opportunity for both of us.” This hints at the potential for Nature’s Way to expand its presence and impact on a global scale while also fostering collaborations that align with its mission. Nature’s Way is committed to delivering better products in the future, but how do they plan to do so? The company keeps up with

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major cosmetic trends and gathers information on both general and organic cosmetics from around the world in order to promote product development. Mr. Hagiwara shares, “We conduct regular research on new and hotselling products in the UK and Germany, the leading organic countries, as well as the U.S. market.” In Asia, Nature’s Way studies the Korean market for advanced attempts and the Chinese market for high sales. They also study words that have become popular on social networking sites and sales rankings to better understand global trends. The company’s unique approach is to develop products based on this comprehensive understanding. This forward-thinking approach, driven by thorough research and a commitment to keeping a finger on the pulse of global beauty trends, underscores Nature’s Way’s dedication to creating products that are always at the forefront of the industry. It’s a formula that ensures they continue to set new standards in the world of organic cosmetics. As we anticipate the future, one thing is certain: Nature’s Way will continue to shine brightly on the path of beauty and wellness.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Advising Companies on How to Bridge the Gap Between Energy Transition Hype & Reality Kevin O’Donovan, Technology Evangelist & Founder, A Bit of This and That, Expert Advisor, & Speaker

According to you, what impact will new technologies have on the energy industry? Also, what is the most innovative advancement in the energy industry right now? New technologies have always had a transformative impact on the energy industry, but in 2023 I’d argue that we have never seen such a pace of change. The advancements in areas like renewable energy, smart grids, eV’s, energy storage, sustainability, decentralization etc would simply not be possible but for the pace of innovation

and the adoption of digital technologies we see today. These technologies span various areas, from enhancing existing infrastructure with IoT systems to expediting decision-making processes, and even extending to designing future infrastructures such as fusion reactors, small modular reactors, carbon capture plants, hydrogen plants, and electric vehicle charger placements within the grid. Digital Technologies are at the core of all of this and in my opinion, the most ‘innovative’ advancement right now is the adoption of the latest digital twin technology.

Digital Technologies are at the core of all of this and in my opinion, the most ‘innovative’ advancement right now is the adoption of the latest digital twin technology

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Kevin O’Donovan is a highly respected Technology Evangelist, helping companies internalize the implications new technologies may have on their business, by ‘Bridging the Gap’ between the art of the possible versus what is actually feasible for that company today. He is currently co-chair of the VRARA Industrial Metaverse & Digital Twin Committee, a European Commission External Expert, a Member of the Siemens Influencer Community, on the Board of Advisors for IIoT World and ranked by Thinkers360 as a TOP 10 Thought Leader for: Digital Twin, Metaverse and Renewable Energy topics. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Kevin shared his insights on the impact of new technologies on the energy industry, the role of digital twins in the metaverse, the inspiration behind establishing his company, ‘A Bit of This & That’, his goals for 2023, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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What is the role of digital twins in the metaverse? Within the metaverse, digital twins are the key building blocks for whatever the Metaverse turns out to be. A digital twin is the virtual counterpart of an existing or planned real-world object, system, or environment. While digital twins are not a new concept, the current generation of digital twin technology excels in integrating data from diverse sources, offering real-time insights, and delivering photorealistic representations, making it distinct and significant in its capabilities.

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With todays digital twins, we’ve never had such capabilities to bridge between the physical and digital realms. Today’s digital twins allow us to further our comprehension, foster immersive collaboration, enable all sorts of simulation and ‘what if’ scenario planning in order to empower faster and effective decision-making. Kevin, can you tell us about your professional journey and areas of interest? I’ve always been a technology evangelist, always advocating new technologies. It all began in the

I’ve always been a technology evangelist, always advocating new technologies. It all began in the early 90s with IBM and Compaq, being an OS/2 Ambassador

early 90s with IBM and Compaq, being an OS/2 Ambassador. Since then, I have always been drawn to the progression and interplay of different technologies, such as the likes of client/server, datacentres, cloud computing, Wi-Fi, drones, and AR, VR etc, etc. So I’ve always been looking at what could be the next big thing, and how will that impact how we work, how we build things, how we collaborate, and how will it change our lives. This has been my area of interest; new technologies and trying to game out their potential implications. In 2017, you established a boutique technology advisory company, A Bit of This & That. What was the inspiration behind establishing this company and what is its USP? Around 2016, I was leading Intel’s WW Enterprise Solution Sales efforts in the energy sector. To cut a long story short, Intel asked us to relocate back to Munich. Having worked for prominent American multinational corporations throughout my career,

I found myself approaching the age of 50 and looking for a change. So, I made the decision to establish my own company based from here on the Cote d’Azur. Thus ‘A Bit of This and That’ was born, enabling me to continue advocating around new technology & advising companies on how bridging the gap between the art of the possible and what is feasible. You are the Co-Chair of the VRARA Industrial Metaverse & Digital Twin Committee. Can you tell us about this global community and its key objectives and vision? The VR/AR Association (VRARA) is an international organization designed to foster collaboration between spatial computing solution providers and end-users that accelerates growth, fosters research and education, helps develop industry best practices, connects member organizations and promotes the services of member companies.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

Generative AI unlocks almost limitless creativity, empowers our innovation, allows us to ‘game things out’ in ways we never could before

Now for the Industrial Metaverse and Digital Twin Committee, our charter is; - Serve as a resource to promote the use of digital twins enabling the industrial metaverse and the opportunities and challenges for the ecosystem. - The committee will enable the sharing of best practices and information as well as curate industry relevant case studies. - Drive business, and technical thought leadership for the community.

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What, personally, has allowed you the success you have had in the role of a leader in technology? I honestly believe having hands-on experience is a must have when it comes to exploring new technologies, concepts, and ideas. It’s crucial to try to immerse yourself and truly understand the technology by playing with it, trying things out, and witnessing its real-world applications. You can’t rely on just PowerPoint presentations and

online videos. Look to engage with individuals who actively use the technology and learn from their experiences, both the successes and challenges. Again, its about ‘bridging the gap’ between the art of the possible and reality, and this necessitates comprehending not only the technology itself but also its potential implications of business processes, workflows, and user acceptance. Ultimately, my mantra for success has been to always try is out for myself, to experiment, via a hands-on approach. What is the best career advice you’ve received and how have you sought to put this into practice? One of the most valuable career insights I received dates back to the 90’s when a senior VP called me aside one day after a project had gone off the rails. He emphasized the importance of trying out new things, taking risks and said to me, “... it’s OK to make mistakes ... Just do not make the same mistake twice!” Now I like everyone have had my share of mistakes and setbacks. But I’ve always tried to never make that same mistake twice. What did you learn in 2022 and what are your goals for 2023? In 2022, I delved deeper into exploring the capabilities of digital twin software, from the likes of the established players like Siemens, Bentley Systems, newer entrants like Blender, Unity, Epic, and Nvidia Omniverse. While I am never going to be an expert in these systems, my goal for 2023

was to expand my understanding of how you go about integrating diverse data sets, different data silos in order to develop the next generation of digital twins. This is non-trivial and it’s complex but we have to understand what is feasible and practical today. Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future? Generative AI, so that I can understand and articulate the technology under the covers but more importantly become proficient in how to best use the new wave of Generative AI tools, to up my game. Generative AI unlocks almost limitless creativity, empowers our innovation, allows us to ‘game things out’ in ways we never could before. In my opinion, ‘Prompt Engineering’ will be a critical ‘soft skill’ we’ll all need to develop and expand on in the coming years. What advice would you offer others looking to build their careers in tech? Cultivate a passion for always learning. Now you have to start somewhere, so begin by focusing on a technology or solution you’re passionate about. Build your expertise and be become recognized for it by your peers. Look to continuously learn and stay updated. Embrace curiosity, explore different approaches, and keep an eye out for emerging technologies, so that you can anticipate their implications. All with the goal of being one of the first to ‘connect the dots’ early, to be seen to be ahead of the curve, thus either maintaining or expanding your own competitive edge.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Empowering Customers to Captivate Global Audiences Ricardo Minari, Director of Global Partnerships, Ateme

According to you, what are the key trends shaping the OTT video market today? With the subscription fatigue (lots of streaming platforms pilling up the bills), certainly we will see the rise of varied monetization models, such as, FAST (Free Ad Supported Television), AVOD (Ad VOD), T-VOD (Transact VOD) and Telecom Operators Bundled Packages. AI is starting to be incorporated on all layers of technology ecosystem: video automation,

content creation, content/channel personalization, recommendation and curation. Another trend we are foreseeing is the Content highlight detection, helping viewers to not only find the right content, but also the right moments inside those contents. Talking about devices, we see the consolidation of smart TV as the preferred device to watch OTT content. Smart TV Sales are booming and improvements on the UX is leading people to prefer using this device as the main screen.

AI is starting to be incorporated on all layers of technology ecosystem: video automation, content creation, content/channel personalization, recommendation and curation

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Ricardo Minari is a seasoned professional with more than two decades of expertise in the intersection of technology, business development, and innovation within the media tech industry. As the Director of Global Partnerships at Ateme, a leading French media tech company renowned for cutting-edge technologies for video encoding and delivery, he plays a pivotal role in empowering customers to captivate global audiences. With great experience and industry insights, he is sought after as a renowned speaker at international conferences and a respected content creator on LinkedIn. Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Ricardo shared his insights on the key trends shaping the OTT market today, current roles and responsibilities at Ateme, personal role model, future plans, and a lot more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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Media tech industry has a complex ecosystem where you will never be able to offer all the pieces together, unless you are surrounded by a great number of partners

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What factors drive the success of video streaming services? Content will always be the king, but good content is not enough anymore. Streaming platforms will need to find the right balance between good content, good user experience, good recommendation engines and good distribution. There are tons of contents out there. OTT Platforms will need to find a way to promote this content wisely and make sure they can generate the right buzz around it, bringing viewers to that content and make it reverberate inside social networks. As soon as they get viewers’ attention, they will need to make sure they captivate this audience with the right experience offering a good UX, good video quality, low buffering and low latency. Finally, learning throughout the entire customer journey, collecting the right data, is key to creating intelligence and turning the experience more and more personalized. Describe your background and what did you do before you joined Ateme? I started my career as a developer, most part of the time working with real time embedded software development, first inside the Space Industry, later for Defense (developing warlike simulators) and, later on, programming set top boxes inside the video industry. After 15 years programming, I was a little bit bored and decided to engage in the executive career working for different companies and different roles: CTO for Set Box Manufacturer (Visiontec), Business Development Director for Chipset Company (Ali Corp) and Vice President Latin America at SeaChange.

Finally, I joined Ateme as Vice President of Business Development, transitioning two years later to Global Director of Partnerships position.

For the future, I am working to restart my YouTube channel and, finally, publish my book.

As the Director of Global Partnerships, what are your primary roles and responsibilities at Ateme? Media tech industry has a complex ecosystem where you will never be able to offer all the pieces together, unless you are surrounded by a great number of partners. Having it in mind, I am responsible for (inside a team) bringing all these pieces together, define the global partnership strategy, work on the partners relationship management, identify opportunities and mediate the conversation between Ateme sales team and Partner sales team.

As a techie, who’s your inspiration and why? Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, due to his visionary leadership, empathy and emotional intelligence combined to his commitment to social impact. In my opinion, his leadership was one of the key reasons for Microsoft’s resurgence and growth recently.

What do you love the most (and the least) about your job? I have the privilege of working in a people centered company where respect, care and innovation is in the core, so every day I have a new opportunity to fulfill my passions: traveling around the world, generating business opportunities and friends by connecting great people to innovative technology. No reason to complain. How are you helping young people build their careers in your community? I do regular mentorship sessions with young and brilliant people, and I am humbled to see a good number of them doing great in their careers. Besides the mentorships I also contribute a lot creating content on LinkedIn, posting hundreds of works and life experience stories, trying to bring insights and, more than that, to show that nobody is perfect and making mistakes is part of our learning and evolutional process.

What are the aims and ideals that guide you as an individual and a professional? For me, it’s difficult to separate the individual from professional life nowadays. After the pandemic and working from home, both things are kind of mixed for me. No matter where you are, you need to put people first: take care of your family, take care of your team and act like a supporter, being there as an instrument to help people growth. This is how I try to be as a leader, as a husband, as a father and as a son. Where would you like to be in the next 5 years? C-Level position of a Global Tech company. What piece of advice would you give to someone who is looking to make a career in the media tech industry? Study. This is a very dynamic industry so never stop learning. Treat people with kindness. This is a very small industry and people will remember you, for the good or for the bad.

Digital First Magazine November 2023

LEADER’S INSIGHTS

Unlocking the Potential of GPT-Technology for Financial Services Dr. Sina Wulfmeyer, Chief Data Officer & Head Financial Services, Unique

In a highly regulated industry such as banking, what can be some of the challenges when it comes to data? Focusing on enterprise usage of GPT-based functionalities in banking presents several key challenges that need to be addressed. Firstly, data privacy and data protection of client identifying data are crucial considerations. Banks must ensure that customer information remains secure and confidential throughout the chat interactions, implementing robust encryption measures and access controls. Additionally, regulatory frameworks play a significant role in the deployment of Generative

AI in banking. Financial institutions need to comply with relevant laws and regulations governing data privacy, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). One example is the “right to be forgotten” which is difficult to adhere to in the generative AI space where key data (like the prompt and output) is stored for model improvements. Adhering to these frameworks ensures that customer data is handled responsibly and in accordance with legal requirements. Confidentiality, trust, and identity are essential factors for successful adoption of GPTtechnology in banking. Customers must

By effectively addressing challenges, the enterprise usage of GPT-technology in banking can provide customers with convenient and personalized assistance while upholding the highest standards of data privacy, regulatory compliance, confidentiality, trust, and identity protection

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Dr. Sina Wulfmeyer is Chief Data Officer and Lead Financial Industries at Unique – a European startup providing an AI-driven conversational platform to better understand customers and build deeper, more meaningful client relationships. She is a proven data specialist for financial applications with over 15 years of experience. Prior to joining Unique, Sina led various projects in the area of data strategy and applications in a major international bank in Switzerland (Credit Suisse AG). As part of the bank’s largest compliance project, Sina and her team were responsible for standardizing data, defining the legal framework and developing relevant use cases for 20+ international branches of the bank. Previously, she worked as a consultant for a large management consulting firm in Germany and the USA (Accenture AG). Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Dr. Sina shared her insights on the data related challenges faced by the banking industry, professional journey, her current roles and responsibilities as the CDO at Unique, personal source of inspiration, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.

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As the Chief Data Officer, my scope of activities encompasses overseeing data protection and IT security with a focus on highly sensitive data like clientidentifying data (CID)

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regulatory compliance, confidentiality, trust, and identity protection.

have confidence that their conversations are confidential and protected against unauthorized access. Banks should implement measures to authenticate users, validate identities, and maintain a high level of trust in the chat interactions. By effectively addressing these challenges, the enterprise usage of GPT-technology in banking can provide customers with convenient and personalized assistance while upholding the highest standards of data privacy,

Dr. Sina, tell us about your background path to your current role at Unique? I am Chief Data Officer and Head of Financial Services at Unique AG – a European tech startup offering a GPT-powered conversational intelligence platform to gain more insights from client conversations. In short: we want to reduce admin work and have more time for clients. I have started my career in banking where I led various projects in the area of data strategy and applications in a major international bank in Switzerland (Credit Suisse AG). As part of the bank’s largest compliance project, my team and I were responsible for standardizing data, defining the legal framework and developing relevant use cases for 20+ international branches of the bank. Previously, I have worked as a consultant for a large management consulting firm in Germany and the USA (Accenture AG). In addition, I am a regular speaker and lecturer for Conversational AI (ChatGPT, GPT), Ecosystem Technology and Data. I am an advocate for executive education in data literacy, and mentor young executives in leading hybrid teams. I hold a PhD in Financial Modeling from the University of St. Gallen (HSG, Switzerland) and a Diploma in Economics from the University of Mannheim (Germany). As a Chief Data Officer, what is the scope of your activities around data collection, data engineering, data governance, and data management? As the Chief Data Officer, my scope of activities encompasses overseeing data protection and

Digital First Magazine November 2023

Banking data is fascinating due to its vastness, encompassing a wealth of information, including customer behavior, financial transactions, and account activity

IT security with a focus on highly sensitive data like client-identifying data (CID). Additionally, I am responsible for leading data engineering efforts, including data integration, transformation, and storage, to enable efficient controls, analysis and reporting. Moreover, I establish and enforce data governance policies and frameworks, ensuring compliance with data regulations, data quality standards, and data privacy requirements, while also managing data assets and their lifecycle across the organization. This has recently been recognized by successful ISO certifications (ISO 27001 and 9001). According to you, what data considerations need to be in place for AI and ML projects? a. Data quality: Ensuring the data used for AI projects is accurate, complete, and reliable is crucial. b. Data privacy and security: Safeguarding sensitive and personally identifiable information (PII) is paramount. Implementing data anonymization techniques, access controls, encryption, and adhering to relevant privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, Swiss Data Protection rules) are essential considerations. c. Data governance: Establishing clear guidelines and processes for data ownership, data access, and data lifecycle management helps maintain data integrity, consistency, and compliance across the organization.

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d. Data and AI ethics: Assessing the ethical implications of the data used, potential biases, and unintended consequences of AI models is important to ensure fairness, accountability, and avoid perpetuating discriminatory practices.

account activity. Moreover, it offers meaningful insights that span across various client groups, locations, and departments, enabling a holistic approach to areas like fraud detection, risk assessment, and customer segmentation.

How are you taking a holistic approach to data and focusing on people, process, and technology at Unique? Client-Centric Mindset is key: we start with the customer first and work backwards. We put the end-user at the center of our strategy, understanding their needs, pain points, and expectations to provide the best experience. Within our company, we foster crossdepartment collaboration between data scientists, developers, product managers, legal experts and domain experts to ensure a wellrounded approach to data and AI. In addition, we implement agile practices to enable flexibility and adaptability in response to changing requirements and market dynamics (e.g., new AI models evolving). At the core, we want to build a scalable and robust infrastructure capable of handling the data processing, storage, and computational requirements of GPT-based solutions in the cloud while ensuring highest level of data protection and IT security (focus: use case in the financial services industry).

What AI technologies are you most looking forward to in the coming years?

What are some interesting insights you’ve discovered when it comes to data in the banking industry? Banking data is fascinating due to its vastness, encompassing a wealth of information, including customer behavior, financial transactions, and

Personalized Financial Advice: AI can analyze customer data, including transaction history, spending patterns, and investment preferences, to offer personalized financial advice. Risk Assessment and Credit Scoring: AI algorithms can analyze extensive data sources, including credit history, social media profiles, and transaction data, to assess creditworthiness and calculate risk scores. Fraud Detection and Prevention: AI algorithms are being employed to enhance fraud detection and prevention systems in banking. By analyzing large volumes of data, AI can identify patterns and anomalies indicative of fraudulent activity. Where or whom do you seek motivation and inspiration from? How? I seek motivation and inspiration from my network of professionals and friends, as well as through extensive reading (articles, papers, books, newsletters, LinkedIn). Furthermore, I make a conscious effort to disconnect from the digital realm and spend time outdoors. Immersing myself in nature helps me to reflect, recharge, and find inspiration. The

Digital First Magazine November 2023

Building genuine connections and supporting others in the industry can help create opportunities for collaboration and advancement

tranquillity and beauty of the natural world often provides a fresh perspective and allows me to connect the dots in unexpected ways. What’s a leadership lesson that you’ve learnt that’s unique to being a female leader? Being a female leader in tech requires a strong network, which starts by helping others and being willing to give and invest in their growth. Building genuine connections and supporting others in the industry can help create opportunities for collaboration and

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advancement. I also place a strong focus on client relationships: by understanding the needs and expectations of clients, I can deliver innovative solutions that address real-world challenges and drive business growth. What advice would you give to women who want to pursue a career in tech? Believe in Yourself: Have confidence in your abilities and believe that you can succeed in the tech industry (but do your homework: know your tools, programming skills, etc. while fostering continuous learning to stay relevant).

Digital First Magazine November 2023

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