HANY
ChiefExecutiveOfficer
Visionaries Steering the Future
In today's ever-changing business landscape, it is visionary leaders who drive innovation, foster growth, and inspire transformative change. This special edition, "10 Best CEOs to Watch 2024," spotlights ten exceptional leaders who are not just navigating the complexities of their industries but are setting new standards for excellence.
These CEOs have demonstrated remarkable foresight, resilience, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. From steering their companies through challenging times to embracing cutting-edge technologies, they exemplify the qualities of modern leadership. Their ability to anticipate market trends, prioritize customer needs, and create a lasting impact has set them apart as leaders to
In this issue, we delve into the stories behind their success, uncovering the strategies and philosophies that have propelled their companies forward. Through candid interviews and insights, we celebrate their achievements and share the lessons they've learned on their journeys. We hope these stories of leadership and vision inspire you to pursue bold ideas and take your ventures to new heights.
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Daniel Shelby Managing Editor The Chief's Digest
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12
DR. HANY
SAQR
ChiefExecutiveOfficer
Life for Relief and Development
EmpoweringHumanity,OneActof CompassionataTime
Dr. Hany Saqr, CEO of Life for Relief and Development, exemplifies passionate leadership, transforming the organization with heartfelt dedication. Founded in 1992 and headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, LIFE operates in 23 countries, positively impacting millions annually. Dr. Saqr's journey began with a medical degree in Egypt, followed by a master's and Ph.D. from Ohio State University His career as a scientist and professor at OSU honed his empathetic leadership style. With extensive experience in founding and serving on non-profit boards, Dr. Saqr's tenure at LIFE over the past decade has been marked by significant success in global relief efforts.
A Moment When Dr. Saqr's Leadership Shone
There have been many times when Dr. Hany Saqr's leadership has stood out. Most recently, his skills were crucial during the latest Gaza crisis. This crisis led to a rapid increase in food insecurity and starvation, posing immense challenges such as logistical issues, security risks, and the plight of
thousands of displaced, injured, and suffering families. Dr. Saqr used his network to mobilize resources and partners both in Gaza and abroad. He created new strategies to deliver targeted aid efficiently and safely to Gaza communities.
Thanks to his tireless efforts, LIFE was one of the few organizations able to provide critical aid to displaced families in Gaza. The aid included bread for 200,000 people, 100,000 hot meals, 40,000 food baskets, 15,000 bags of fresh vegetables, 55,500 bags of flour, 5.2 million liters of clean water from a solar-powered filtration system, 2,000 hygiene kits, 7,000 blankets, 3,600 water bottles, 18 truckloads of supplies, 3 medical convoys, 2,000 winterized tents, 100 toys, and 1,000 winter coats for children.
How Does Dr. Saqr's Organization Impact Society?
LIFE provides humanitarian aid and relief to vulnerable populations worldwide. Founded on the principles of compassion, integrity, and equality, LIFE strives to alleviate suffering and promote dignity among those affected by
crises, whether caused by conflict, natural disasters, or socioeconomic challenges. LIFE supports over 13,000 orphans globally through its Orphan Sponsorship Program, offering essentials like food, shelter, and education. Events like the Global Orphan Party bring joy to these children, showing them, they are cherished and valued.
LIFE's Emergency Relief Program responds quickly during disasters, providing clean water, food, clothing, hygiene products, bedding, and shelter. In 2021, LIFE assisted in 432 catastrophic events worldwide. Recognizing the lack of essential health services, LIFE provides medical donations, establishes clinics, and upgrades healthcare facilities. The 'Here to Hear' project helps the hearing impaired with ear exams and hearing aid fittings. In 2023, LIFE distributed $8.5 million worth of medical supplies globally.
LIFE also focuses on clean water solutions, which are essential for health and prosperity. By building wells and using purification technology, LIFE has provided safe
drinking water to many, including in Gaza. To date, LIFE has built nearly 300 water wells worldwide. Through its Education Program, LIFE provides school supplies, builds schools, funds operational costs, sends books to needy schools, and offers scholarships, ensuring every child has access to education.
LIFE's Community Development Program builds infrastructure like community centers, medical clinics, schools, and water wells, creating self-sustaining environments that empower underdeveloped communities. The Family Assistance Program supports vulnerable single mothers and disabled heads of households by providing essentials like food, clothing, hygiene kits, shelter, education, and employment opportunities.
LIFE's Winter Relief initiative offers warmth to displaced and vulnerable communities with clothing, blankets, heating oil, and coats. LIFE provides food and gifts to struggling families during holidays, supporting over 6 million people in 2022. For refugees displaced by conflict, persecution, violence, or disasters, LIFE offers essential support, including food, water, healthcare, housing, and education, to help them rebuild their lives and find stability. LIFE's diverse programs significantly impact millions of lives every year, driven by the power of human empathy and the desire to improve living standards and potential for those in need.
What does Dr. Saqr's typical day as CEO entail?
Throughout his day as CEO, Dr. Hany Saqr engages in a dynamic
LIFE for Relief and Development provides compassionate aid to empower communities globally
mix of activities crucial to overseeing Life for Relief and Development. Starting with an early espresso, he reviews urgent priorities and decisions. Meetings with senior management follow, focusing on project updates and resource strategies. The morning continues with virtual sessions involving teams like media, projects, and public relations, ensuring progress and collaboration. Afternoons often involve discussions with international partners, donors, or officials to secure funding and advocate for humanitarian causes. Strategic initiatives, financial reviews, and public engagements fill his post-lunch schedule, correspondence, and preparation for board meetings. Dr. Saqr remains accessible to his team, offering guidance and addressing crises, embodying effective leadership in the humanitarian field.
How Did Dr. Saqr Handle Leadership Challenges?
One of Dr. Hany's toughest challenges as CEO was balancing expectations and responsibilities while fostering team unity. Balling's long-term strategy, which had daily operational needs, initially presented a significant learning curve. To overcome this hurdle, he prioritized effective communication, listening to team perspectives while
clearly outlining goals and expectations. Building trust and empowering team members to take ownership of their roles were crucial in aligning efforts toward shared objectives.
Fortunately, many LIFE staff members are deeply committed to their humanitarian mission. They actively chose this career path to make a positive impact globally, which facilitates finding common goals and values. This shared dedication has been pivotal in advancing the organization's passion and productivity.
How Does Dr. Saqr Balance Personal and Professional Life?
Dr. Hany Saqr balances his commitment to family and his demanding role in humanitarian work with dedication and grace While he cherishes moments with his loved ones and enjoys occasional vacations, his family understands the urgency of his work, particularly in responding swiftly to global disasters like floods. Despite his busy schedule, Dr. Saqr ensures daily connection with his family and regular shared meals, valuing these times for bonding. As a leader, he exemplifies hands-on engagement with his team, actively participating in meetings, listening attentively to
ideas, providing constructive feedback, and implementing effective strategies. Dr. Saqr encourages an inclusive and supportive work environment where every team member feels empowered to contribute, ensuring that LIFE for Relief and Development continues to excel in its humanitarian efforts.
How Does Dr. Saqr Handle New Ideas for the Organization?
When faced with new or unpopular ideas that could benefit the organization, Dr. Hany Saqr assesses them against strategic goals, organizational values, potential impact, and risks. He consults stakeholders, promotes open dialogue, and may pilot the idea to gather additional information. Dr. Saqr stresses transparent communication and careful decision-making to evaluate feasibility, prioritizing innovation and organizational progress while managing potential challenges.
What Values and Culture Define LIFE for Relief and Development?
Integrity forms the bedrock of LIFE for Relief and Development's operations. The organization believes in earning and maintaining trust through transparency and accountability. They ensure that every stakeholder, from donors to beneficiaries, can access their records, financials, partnerships, and ongoing projects. This commitment to openness extends to sourcing high-quality resources at the best prices for their beneficiaries, ensuring that every contribution makes a meaningful impact. This dedication has built long-term donor relationships, with supporters becoming lifelong contributors to LIFE's humanitarian
mission, driving the organization's significant growth.
Compassion is another cornerstone at LIFE, guiding their approach to addressing individual needs with dignity and empathy during crises. It fuels their team's dedication and unity, as many in the organization are driven by a profound desire to make a positive difference in people's lives. Collaboration is equally vital at LIFE, fostering partnerships with local communities, governments, and other organizations. Internally, it promotes teamwork morale and enhances their collective ability to reach and support more individuals in need worldwide
What is Dr. Saqr's Approach to Technology and Innovation?
Technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the future, impacting every aspect of daily life and promising continued transformation in the years ahead. Recent advancements in humanitarian technology have been remarkable, and LIFE for Relief and Development is committed to leveraging these innovations to their fullest extent. Advanced data analytics, such as satellite imagery, empower NGOs to make well-informed decisions and efficiently distribute aid, especially in remote or conflictprone regions. Artificial Intelligence (AI) enhances humanitarian efforts by processing vast datasets to predict and prepare for future crises, offering insights based on past successes and failures.
Drones have emerged as invaluable tools for disaster management and resiliencebuilding, facilitating rapid data collection and aid delivery in inaccessible areas due to
roadblocks, adverse weather, or conflict. The advent of 3D printing has revolutionized humanitarian aid by enabling the production of customized assistive devices like prosthetics and desks. This technology empowers communities to create essential tools locally that were previously inaccessible.
Dr. Hany Saqr emphasizes the critical role of technology in humanitarian work, stating, "As we look ahead, integrating these innovations is essential. They are not just about efficiency but also about enhancing compassion and effectiveness in every humanitarian endeavor”
What Book Inspires Dr. Saqr and LIFE's Culture?
Dr. Hany Saqr, despite his busy schedule, values reading. One of his favorite books is "Originals" by Adam Grant. This book explores how innovators champion new ideas and navigate challenges. It emphasizes recognizing good ideas, building alliances, and promoting cultures that encourage constructive dissent, reflecting LIFE's commitment to feedback and open communication.
Dr. Saqr's Future Plans for LIFE's Growth
LIFE has experienced significant expansion, with operations now spanning all 50 U.S. states and new offices in Yemen, Kenya, Malaysia, and Somalia. Dr. Saqr intends to sustain this momentum by seeking registration in Lebanon and the U.K. and potentially expanding into Bosnia and Ukraine. His vision is for LIFE to grow comprehensively, enhancing its global footprint to deliver effective aid to more people worldwide
Jarrett Streebin Founder&CEO
EasyPost
PioneeringSimplifiedLogistics forE-commerce
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, leading an organization toward growth and success demands a unique leadership spirit for the CEO of EasyPost, whose founding year dates back to 2012; the journey started with the realization that fostering autonomy and mastery is key. The company was built around this principle, creating a platform where individuals could excel, be promoted from within, and operate without unnecessary hindrances. This approach, in turn, became a magnet for the most talented and ambitious individuals.
Creating Value: Simplifying Shipping Processes
EasyPost stands as a beacon in simplifying complicated shipping processes reducing costs for ecommerce companies of all sizes. At its core, the company utilizes technology to streamline logistics, providing a valuable
service to both consumers and society at large. As the CEO, overseeing teams, serving the Board, planning long-term strategy, and tackling significant challenges are all part of a day's work. The dynamic nature of each day adds an element of excitement, highlighting the multifaceted responsibilities that come with the leadership role
Toughest Leadership Moments: Decisions Define Leadership
The toughest part of embracing a leadership role, from the CEO's perspective, lies in making difficult decisions. Leadership, often, is more about making strategic bets and allowing them to play out. Decisions, whether regarding products or personnel, form the crux of the challenges faced. The CEO emphasizes the importance of making bets and letting them unfold, even if they involve inherent risks.
Maintaining a balance between personal and professional life is a critical aspect of the CEO's approach. After completing a day's work, the CEO leaves the phone on the desk, emphasizing the belief in delivering one unit of work per day. The focus is on quality decisions, as success is attributed to the quality, not the quantity, of work.
Efficiency in Decision-Making: The Power of Speed
Efficiency in decision-making is a priority, with the CEO investing energy in creating efficient processes. The emphasis on speed allows for quick actions and, even if a decision turns out to be wrong, the ability to revert in a timeframe comparable to a competitor's initial decision. An example of this approach is the swift implementation of a company-wide carbon-neutral green initiative, demonstrating the power of being quick and
Stay curious, be creative, and make smart decisions—leading with a strong desire to learn will help you succeed in the long run.
responsive to emerging needs. The organizational values and work culture at EasyPost revolve around staying hungry and humble. Prioritizing customer needs is paramount, fostering a culture where letting the customer lead becomes a guiding principle. The CEO underscores the essential role of technology and innovation in organizational growth. The very existence of EasyPost was marked by a quantum leap in technology in the early 2010s, and the company has been consistently innovating since then. While technology is crucial, the CEO emphasizes that it can't thrive without great people
Inspiration from Books: A Dive into Nonfiction
When it comes to drawing inspiration from books, the CEO recommends several reads. From Walter Isaacson's biography of Elon Musk to Chip War and Colson Whitehead's classic,
"Colossus of New York," the CEO leans towards nonfiction. The preference for history and patterns that apply to the business reflects Mark Twain's adage of history rhyming, if not repeating. One piece of advice that the CEO offers to aspiring business leaders is not to take advice from anyone who hasn't done it. Drawing from personal experience, the CEO highlights that when raising money, advice from investors, unless they have started companies themselves, might not be as relevant. If there's one word to describe the CEO, it would be "curious." The commitment to reading a new book every day reflects a deep curiosity and a constant quest for knowledge.
Future Plans: Sustained Growth and Carbon Neutrality
As EasyPost celebrates its 13th year, the focus remains on continuous growth, reaching new partners, and enhancing support
for existing customers. The company takes pride in being at the forefront of carbon neutrality, showcasing a commitment to sustainability as it envisions an exciting future ahead.
Kevin Coop ChiefExecutiveOfficer
DailyPay RewritingtheInvisibleRulesofMoneyto CreateaNewFinancialSystem
In our interaction with Kevin Coop, CEO of DailyPay, he discusses how employers can transform their employees' lives and businesses through modern and innovative pay strategies like DailyPay
Below is an excerpt from our interaction.
Leading an organization toward growth and success is definitely not an easy feat. In what circumstances did you find your leadership spirit?
My leadership style is centered on accountability, transparency and action.
Tell us about your organization. How does it provide value to American workers and society as a whole?
DailyPay is reimagining the way money moves, from the moment work starts. For decades, employees were controlled by the invisible rules of money:
• Rules that only give you biweekly access to your pay even when you worked and earned your pay
• Rules that say you can only start saving and investing after your employer runs payroll.
• Rules that decide who has access to the best banking services.
• Rules that say you pay your rent in advance but get paid by your employer in arrears.
These rules, written and enforced by an analog 20th-century payroll structure, have forced the majority of the American workforce to turn to predatory financial products when short on cash to make ends meet or to pay for an emergency expense. When tens of millions of households face financial hardship, it bleeds into work and ultimately the economy. People are less engaged at work, companies make less profit, families are less secure and there's less money circulating throughout the economy.
To tackle these challenges, DailyPay built a new financial system that's centered around the employee. Our first-of-its-kind technology platform gives our users a real-time accumulating balance of available funds as they work throughout the pay period. We have seen DailyPay users, who once relied on overdraft and credit to make it to the next payday, begin to save their hardearned pay before payroll is even run. By putting money in the hands of the people when they need it and when they earn it, we can break the negative cycle of financial stress that has endured for too long.
Recently, in an effort to provide financial equity to the millions of Americans who are unbanked or underbanked, DailyPay created Friday, a new general purpose reloadable (GPR) prepaid card and app that makes financial transparency and control available to millions of hard-working Americans. Friday offers the
DailyPay delivers the industry's leading on-demand pay solution with modern pay strategies that help employers to activate their workforce by building stronger relationships with their employees so they feel more engaged, work harder and stay longer.
benefits of banking with no minimum balance requirement and no maintenance fees. With Friday, card users have no-fee instant access to their earned wages which empowers them with financial control and allows them to avoid having to use expensive alternatives.
What are your responsibilities as the CEO of your organization?
Please walk us through what a regular day at work looks like.
As a CEO, it's my job to remove barriers for my team members at DailyPay, and empower them to do their best work. Every day, I'm working to best set up our organization for success by helping every DailyPay colleague
serve our customers better than the day before
At a high level, this looks like ensuring DailyPay's leadership team, and ultimately the entire organization is aligned on a common mission, vision and set of goals as a company. By working toward the same common outcome rather than competing priorities, we're a more efficient and collaborative team.
What was the toughest part of embracing a leadership role? How did you manage to overcome them and move forward?
The best way to embrace a leadership role is to embrace
adaptability. In an always-on, digital world, all stakeholders of a business expect a much faster clock speed than a leader had to have just a few years ago. Expectations from consumers to employees have shifted, meaning leaders of today must adapt to this rapidly-evolving environment.
As a leader, this all culminates for me in more transparent and frequent communication to stakeholders.
How do you keep yourself and your employees motivated?
As a team, we are motivated by our ambitious mission of rewriting the invisible rules of money. Our products and services have a real impact on the users we serve; research shows that access to DailyPay significantly decreases the need for predatory financial products like payday loans and overdraft fees. Every day, we're helping our users in their journey to financial wellness, literacy and freedom – and everyone at DailyPay takes this seriously.
Could you describe the values and work culture that drives your organization?
DailyPay prioritizes cultivating a workplace where everyone feels a sense of inclusion and belonging. To ensure everyone is encouraged to innovate and do their best work, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) is at the core of everything DailyPay does. One of the company's core values is 'We Win With Diversity,' underscoring not only our commitment to fostering a diverse
and inclusive workforce, but also the fact that we are better because of it. DailyPay is committed to building, developing and engaging diverse teams that are agile, innovative, accountable, decisive and resilient.
How crucial is the role of technology and innovation in any organization?
When it comes to technology and innovation - never be satisfied. Find how to incrementally improve your products and solutions, and how you relentlessly focus on delighting your customers with both operational excellence and quality
Have you taken any steps to innovate at the technological level?
Just last year, Time Magazine featured DailyPay's Pay Balance in its “Best Inventions of 2021” issue. We take tremendous pride in how seamlessly DailyPay integrates into all payroll systems and how easy it is to use for the customer As an example, our new Friday card is truly a game-changer Designed to help the everyday worker take control of their finances, Friday provides a no-fee option for transfers and creates an opportunity for the user to make in-store and online purchases, manage their money and track spending, all in one mobile app
What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring business leader reading this?
The most successful people in
Hard Work Pays Off On the Daily
business are problem-solvers, not problem-identifiers. It's easy to point out what's going wrong with a project or within an organization, but it's much more difficult–and valuable–to drive actual solutions.
What are your plans for the future, and how do you hope to see your organization and team grow?
DailyPay is the market leader in on-demand pay and continues to grow at an incredible pace. 2023 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet for DailyPay as we look to expand our business on a global scale.
Thought Leadership Kevin Coop
Kevin is the Chief Executive Officer of DailyPay, a leading financial technology company Under his leadership, Coop plans to embark on international expansion and further into the consumer space following the launch of Friday, DailyPay's new product enabling users to make no-fee instant on-demand pay transfers.
Prior to joining DailyPay, Kevin
served as the President of North America at Dun & Bradstreet (NYSE: DNB). As part of the leadership team that identified and privatized D&B in 2019, he was initially asked to assume the role of Chief Commercial Officer, where he led the Firm's commercial sales and marketing efforts, including sales, sales enablement, predictive analytics and insights, marketing and sales operations, marketing content and branding, demand generation, advisory solutions and business development.
Subsequently, he assumed the role of President, North America where he was responsible for the profitability and growth of North America across all product lines and businesses, as well as leading the global teams responsible for eCommerce, Digital and enterprise common platforms. Kevin earned his bachelor's degrees in history and political science from UCLA.
Axel Schörling President&CEO
EQL Pharma AnEntrepreneurialPharmaceuticalCompany
LeadingtheNicheGenericsMedicinesSpace inTheNordicRegion
In our interaction with Axel Schörling, President/CEO of EQL Pharma, he discusses how costefficient medicines of the highest quality can be delivered to pharmacies and hospitals and his role as a CEO to take EQL Pharma to new heights along with his team.
Below is an excerpt from The Chief's Digest interview with Axel.
Leading an organization toward growth and success is definitely not an easy feat. In what circumstances did you find your leadership spirit?
For me, personally, leadership is a lot about engagement and empowerment, which I believe is quite a part of the Northern European leadership style where the primary focus is given on creating a positive and
supportive work culture. In my opinion, having a work atmosphere where people feel engaged, involved, and empowered really helps to get the most out of the team.
Speaking of our organizational structure, we are a small and flat organization, where most of the team members understand the broader picture of our success and the outcomes of our collective efforts. It's not only me and the CFO who have knowledge of the strategic direction and priorities; our team members know that as well.
I try to be as transparent as possible so that people truly know where we're going and feel empowered to make their own decisions that are in line with our long-term goals, both at the individual and organizational levels.
If you were to tell us about the value system that drives your work culture, what would it be?
We have talked about how transparency is a crucial part of our value system. In addition to that, I would say we have an approach that we call – “We roll up our sleeves and get things done.” Sometimes, organizations tend to get caught up in too much analysis and evaluation before doing something. We believe in rolling up our sleeves and getting to work regardless of the situation we have at hand.
Then we also focus on doing things right and delivering care and service to our customers. Since we are in the pharmaceutical industry, people consume our very products and it is supposed to cure them. So, we can never compromise on the quality of our products or take any shortcuts.
How would you say that you provide value to society at large?
On a structural level, we provide value to society through two components. Firstly, when we talk about the niche generic segment, the price drops in the patent expiry aren't as big as they are for other generic products. In the case of other generic products where you have twenty competitors, there's a huge price drop where a lot of money can be saved for patients and payers.
For the niche products, the price can drop by around 20 or 30 percent since the patent expiry. Here, we can enter the market and push the price down even further so that pharmaceuticals can be made cheaper for patients, society, and taxpayers.
Secondly, these niche products aren't so common. And when there are only one or two suppliers, there's a risk that the product may not come to the patient. Therefore, we build a more robust system where important pharmaceuticals can actually go to the patients who need them.
Last but not least, there's one product that I'm particularly proud of that we call Mellozzan. It's a melatonin-based product used to treat insomnia in children with ADHD. The patient group is very close to my heart because it's a very complicated disorder that happens to affect the whole
Our entire business is based on us delivering the cheapest top-quality medicines to pharmacies and hospitals, in this way daily lowering the cost of high-quality drugs for patients and society at large.
family. With this product, we can help overactive children who cannot focus to have a good night's sleep and make it more probable for them to have a healthy and functioning life. They can go to school, focus on doing their homework, and really improve their quality of life
CEOs have to work round the clock. How important do you think it is to maintain a balance in one's personal and professional life?
I feel work-life balance is extremely important. I know colleagues who work 40 hours per week, who are motivated and engaged, but personally, I tend to work a little bit more. I also try to do some physical workouts, and I am very diligent with my sleep. I try to keep the weekends work-free as much as
possible so that I can spend time with my family and be in nature. Recently, I have also started to work on mental strengthening practices like meditation and cognitive exercises.
How crucial is the role of technology and innovation in any organization? Have you taken any steps to innovate at the technological level at EQL Pharma?
We aren't really about technological innovation but we are about commercial innovation. Innovation is crucial for us, and we always try to be active with our business development team and brainstorm ways of creating new clever business models. Besides, we look at other countries and see how the pharmaceutical industry performs there. If there is something the
industry is doing very well, we try to capture that and expand it into our system of innovation.
If there is one word that would describe you what would be what would it be and why?
Driven. I think so because I have extremely high energy to work and always think that it's fun to work. I have new ideas and want to push myself and others to grow the business, and find better ways to do things in costefficient and smart ways. So, I believe it's fair to say I have a lot of energy and I'm very driven.
What are your plans for the future? How do you hope to see your organization and team grow?
I am extremely happy where I am, and I am 110% all in on EQL Pharma. I believe so much in what we are doing in our strategic plan and in our team that I want to stay here and build a huge and successful pharmaceutical company together with my colleagues.
Knowing The Man Behind EQL Pharma's Success
Axel Schörling, President/CEO, EQL Pharma
Axel has double master's degrees, one in engineering physics and the other in financial economics. He has worked for five years in management consulting focusing mainly on operations and supply chains. Then, he worked for two years in business control, and later he joined EQL as the Chief Operating Officer in 2018. He was promoted to Deputy CEO in 2020, and in 2022, he became the CEO of EQL Pharma.
Dr. Peter Forsell CEO&Founder
Implantica
BuildingANewFutureofHealthcareby BringingAdvancedTechnologyintoTheBody
The Chief's Digest had the pleasure of interacting with Dr. Peter Forsell on novel medical treatments and the way they can change the future of healthcare Here's his story and excerpts from the insights he shared.
Dr. Peter Forsell
Dr. Peter Forsell is a distinguished inventor, surgeon, founder, and Medical Device serial entrepreneur originally from the country of great medical technology innovations, Sweden. Dr. Forsell is the CEO and Founder of Implantica AG and the brain behind the company's first commercialized product, RefluxStop™. The device obtained the CE mark in 2018 after a very successful clinical trial and has the potential to create a paradigm shift in the treatment of acid reflux.
Dr. Forsell is an internationally renowned specialist in surgery and obtained his medical degree
at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden. He has also studied basic law, tax, and finance. Prior to founding Implantica, he was the Executive Chairman of Obtech Medical AG, who developed the gastric band and captured 28% of the non-US obesity surgery market. It was later sold to Johnson & Johnson for over USD 175 million. As CEO, he is focused on guiding Implantica to the next level.
Leading an organization toward growth and success is definitely not an easy feat. In what circumstances did you find your leadership spirit?
I have always been curious to find solutions for the difficult problems I have encountered in my patients' lives. And that was the foundation of my vision for creating Implantica to leverage technology in improving patient outcomes and transforming the world around us with smart implantable solutions.
During my long journey with Obtech, I gained extensive experience on how to lead and develop a business from inception to a successful global enterprise. In my experience, at the core of a company's success, lies its people and a shared vision. This shared vision is how we have successfully attracted some of the finest world-class talents around the world.
Tell us about your organization. How does it provide value to consumers or society at large?
Implantica is all about changing the world to become a better place for patients at the core and society at large. With over 15 years of extensive research and development work, with main operations in the heart of Switzerland along with subsidiaries and key partners in the US, Sweden, and many other countries, Implantica has been at the forefront of disrupting the field of smart medical implants
and eHealth technologies with an initial focus on urology and digestive surgery
At Implantica, we develop worldchanging novel medical treatments. Our first commercial product, RefluxStop, is a profoundly simple yet incredibly smart & unique solution to treat the root cause of Acid Reflux that impacts more than 1 billion people worldwide. RefluxStop is the first implantable medical device that truly restores and maintains the normal physiology of the body, known as the antireflux barrier. In such a short time, we are very proud to have won the trust of some of the best Anti-Reflux Surgeons in the world. The product has already created a huge impact on the lives of patients in Switzerland, Germany, UK among others and we believe this is just the beginning of a global movement.
Beyond RefluxStop, Implantica is simultaneously working on the development of a diverse product pipeline of groundbreaking smart medical implants. Our vision is to become the leader of the smart implant revolution of the future.
What are your responsibilities as the CEO of your organization?
I love football and, in some ways, I see myself as a Coach of an incredibly talented team where my key responsibility is to share my vision with the team and guide each member of the
Our mission is to provide medical implant solutions to millions of patients with substantial medical needs and at the same time save costs for society.
organization to bring out their best to make Implantica's dream of creating a long-lasting positive impact on patients and society at large a reality.
I take this responsibility very seriously as the success of the company does not only impact employees but also future patient care. As a humble gesture of my commitment, I would like to share that I have personally invested close to 100 million US dollars in the creation of Implantica over the past decade prior to our very successful IPO in 2020, in total raising almost USD 200 million. We have a strong cash position to continue to grow Implantica into a large successful company.
As a leader, what is the biggest challenge you have faced while commercializing RefluxStop?
My prior experiences taught me, every technology has its own unique challenges, but you will prevail if you stay focused,
committed, and don't give up. RefluxStop journey is no different. We launched RefluxStop commercially at the end of 2018, just before the start of COVID. At the beginning of 2020, most hospitals had discontinued doing elective procedures and our whole world changed overnight. This severely impacted our ability to access the key markets. The good news is, we were able to sustain and use this downtime to work on market development activities and further advance our overall business strategy.
We are very happy that most of the restrictions during COVID have been lifted now allowing us to make tremendous progress in implementing our market access and commercialization plans.
What do you do when you come across new or unpopular ideas that could be beneficial for the organization?
New ideas and concepts are the
foundation of our strong culture of innovation and commercialization, we are very open-minded and excited about new ideas. Living within an everchanging market landscape, all ideas should always be considered. I don't believe we have ever labeled an idea as unpopular before having a healthy, open conversation, guaranteeing that the best ideas are driven forward.
How crucial is the role of technology and innovation in any organization? Have you taken any steps to innovate at the technological level?
Technology and innovation are critical. Advanced technology has totally changed our daily lives and is at the heart of what we do. Patented new smart implants previously seen as unachievable have become viable with our innovative wireless energizing and eHealth platform. Individual product patents comprising >2000 patent cases support Implantica's ability to change Healthcare fundamentally. Technology has developed at high speed outside the body; however, these advancements have not reached inside the body. Implantica has spent over a decade developing and patenting how to bring such advances into the body.
If there is one word that would describe you, what would it be and why?
Devoted. As a surgeon, I have
dedicated all my life to developing solutions and technologies that could positively change people's lives and I am 100% devoted to my personal mission.
What are your plans for the immediate future, and how do you hope to see your organization and team grow?
Our vision is to become the world leader in smart medical implants, and I am sure we will accomplish that goal sooner or later. While we are developing our pipeline of world-changing products, our plan for the immediate future is to continue the commercialization of RefluxStop in Europe and soon enter the US and other international markets with regulatory approvals.
Of the one billion people affected by acid reflux, around 400 million of those are suffering from it daily. We are on a mission to help these patients and create a new standard of care that can address the root cause of this severe disease condition.
Speaking from our shareholders' perspective, RefluxStop is our number one priority with the potential to have a huge positive impact on healthcare systems while offering a multibillion-dollar business opportunity that we believe will become a reality over the coming years.
RICARDO AMPER
Founder&CEO
Incode Technologies RevolutionizingIdentityVerificationfor aTrustworthyWorld
Incode Technologies stands as an illustrious beacon in identity verification, reshaping the worldwide landscape of trust and security. This dynamic identity verification company has garnered unwavering admiration for its unwavering commitment to streamlining the process of verifying users. Their exceptional approach, anchored in AI prowess, transcends traditional norms and champions a future where trust and convenience unite seamlessly
At the heart of Incode's corporate culture lies a relentless pursuit of perfection, with a steadfast focus on customer satisfaction. The paramount directive is clear: "Your customers want a frictionless experience." Incode delivers on this promise with an integrated identity platform powered by cutting-edge artificial intelligence, ensuring that users can be verified quickly.
Incode's AI-first Identity Orchestration Platform boasts the industry's lowest error rates, a testament to its unwavering dedication to providing a positive user experience. This, in turn, catalyzes higher conversion rates and boosts business revenue. With 98% of users validated on their first attempt and an average recognition time of just 1.5 seconds, Incode has forged a reputation for speed and precision that few can match.
The impact of Incode's solutions extends far and wide, saving an impressive USD 170 million annually through fraud prevention. Over 100 million users are verified by Incode each year, a testament to their global reach and their clients' profound trust in their services.
Incode's offerings span an array of critical areas:
Identity & Document
Verification: Onboard genuine
users instantly, harnessing AI automation, passive liveness, and comprehensive document coverage to drive conversions while thwarting fraud.
Database Verification: Deter fraud with a comprehensive check against government data sources, commercial registrars, and third-party providers, ensuring that only verified users gain access.
Know Your Customer (KYC):
Incode's Identity Ecosystem enables businesses to scale all KYC processes efficiently, from customer due diligence and data validation to risk assessment and record keeping. Their no-code workflow orchestration and biometric IDV make it a seamless experience.
Age Verification: Incode's verification solution ensures compliance while reducing user drop-off during sign-up, improving the customer journey
Anti-Money Laundering (AML):
Screen and monitor customers against sanctions, watchlists, and PEPs, empowering businesses to thwart perpetrators and protect their interests.
Know Your Business (KYB): Growing your business doesn't have to mean increasing risk.
Incode's eKYB business verification ensures a frictionless customer experience while keeping your operations safe and compliant.
Incode's influence extends across diverse industries, including financial services, gaming, web services, the public sector, and more. Their expertise in fighting financial crime, facilitating age verification, and preventing fraud resonates with financial institutions.
Simultaneously, the gaming industry revels in the advantages of instantaneous onboarding. The gig economy witnesses reduced online fraud and the public sector benefits from remote access to vital government services.
Incode's Working Principles: Pioneering Trust in Identity Verification
A profound respect for the enduser is at the heart of Incode's identity verification methodology. They firmly believe everyone interacting with their services should have a frictionless, secure, and convenient experience. Incode's approach is rooted in putting the user first,
We connect businesses with high-quality, low-risk customers.
ensuring that the verification process is not a hindrance but a seamless part of the user journey
Incode thrives on innovation. They are dedicated to remaining at the forefront of technology, constantly seeking to leverage the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. This commitment to cutting-edge AI technology enables them to offer industryleading solutions that are both precise and swift. Incode recognizes the sensitivity of the data it handles. Protecting the privacy and security of user information is non-negotiable Their working principle revolves around stringent data protection measures, ensuring user data is handled with the utmost care and safeguarded against breaches.
Incode operates in an environment of continuous learning and improvement. They believe that progress is an ongoing journey. Consequently, their teams are perpetually engaged in research, development, and enhancement of their solutions to stay ahead of evolving fraud and security challenges. The company
operates with a strong sense of global responsibility. They diligently follow and adapt to the ever-evolving regulatory landscape. Incode ensures that its identity verification services comply with international regulations and standards, helping businesses navigate complex legal frameworks seamlessly.
Incode Technologies's Vision for the Future
This future vision propels Incode to innovate and redefine identity verification parameters continually. It fuels their commitment to creating a future where trust is not just a concept but a tangible reality, making digital interactions secure, efficient, and trustworthy. Incode aims to be the driving force behind this vision, pioneering a future where identity verification is a catalyst for seamless, secure, and boundless digital experiences.
Chuck Bongiovanni
Co-Founder&CEO
Majestic Residence WhereEverySunsetBringsComfort andCare
Chuck, a Certified Franchise Executive and the visionary behind CarePatrol Franchise Systems embarked on a trailblazing career that began with his background in Social Work. For over a quarter-century, he has been a trailblazer in the senior placement and referral industry. In a remarkable placement agent career, Chuck and his company found homes for over 100,000 seniors, bringing them the comfort of assisted living and residential care
With an entrepreneurial spirit, Chuck transitioned into the role of a franchisor for 11 prosperous years. Under his guidance, CarePatrol soared to great heights, receiving accolades aplenty - including induction into the Franchisee Satisfaction Hall of Fame and recognition as the Fastest Growing Privately-Held Company in America by the revered INC. Magazine
Chuck's leadership extended beyond his company, becoming
the President of The National Placement and Referral Alliance
At conferences across the nation, his insights on Medicare Spending Per Beneficiary and Patient Choice captivated audiences, earning him the prestigious “Hospital Readmission Innovation Award” in 2015.
In 2020, Chuck took a step back from CarePatrol to breathe new life into Majestic Residences; his new endeavor focused on residential care homes. A resident of Gilbert, Arizona, Chuck's dedication to his craft is mirrored in his personal life - he's a devoted husband, a father of four, a dog lover, and a connoisseur of tranquility beside his Koi pond.
Pioneering a Vision
The inception of Chuck's journey into the senior care industry wasn't a mere endeavor - it was an audacious step to fill the void
in standardized senior residential care across the nation.
Recognizing the absence of streamlined practices and technology-driven operations among smaller residential assisted living homes, Chuck aimed to elevate the quality of senior care by establishing a brand that embraced innovation and exceptional care standards.
Navigating the Market Landscape
Within a landscape of over 36,000 senior living options nationwide, including 30,000 smaller residential assisted living homes, Majestic Residences stands out. The company's challenge isn't solely to educate families about their existence but to outshine competitors with more substantial marketing budgets. The independent homes that struggle with branding and profitability create an opportunity for Majestic Residences to shine - with its
strong branding, marketing prowess, and unwavering commitment to care
A Global Impact
Majestic Residences' influence reaches beyond the walls of its care homes, leaving a lasting impression on the communities where they are located around the US and the Dominican Republic. These homes fulfill a crucial role in providing safe havens for the elderly, generating employment opportunities, and nurturing innovation in healthcare and technology. Beyond the aged care they provide, Majestic Residences' impact reverberates through societal and economic dynamics worldwide
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Majestic Residences emerged amid the tumultuous backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, defying odds by establishing an international franchise system when many others shuttered. The journey wasn't without its trials, as capital accessibility for franchisees faced obstacles due to high-interest rates and housing costs. Yet, even in a challenging economy, the demand for their services surged, a testament to the urgency of their mission.
Attributes of Influence
An influential company mirrors Majestic Residences' ethosinnovation-driven growth, inspired leadership, transparency,
customer-centricity, and ethical practices. These qualities intertwine to craft a strong brand presence, fostering adaptability, motivating employees, and fueling collaboration. The company's unwavering commitment to high-quality services solidifies its reputation and influence.
Cultivating a Harmonious Work Environment
Majestic Residences' work environment is a symphony of open communication, mutual respect, and support. Grounded in a clear mission, growth opportunities, and recognition, it cultivates job satisfaction. A balance between work and life, fair compensation, and flexibility create a nurturing setting. Colleague relationships and adept leadership converge to stimulate creativity, resulting in collective achievements.
Balancing Business and Social Responsibility
For Majestic Residences, business transcends profit. It's a conduit for community support and compassionate care. The company's model emphasizes social programs, contributing to the welfare of the elderly and underscoring its commitment to societal betterment. A commanding online presence propels a business, a tenet Majestic Residences fervently embraces. This digital reputation isn't independent of its real-world actions - consistency between
online branding and day-to-day interactions defines true influence. The company acknowledges that its virtual identity is only as potent as its real-world impact.
Empowering Employee Success
In Majestic Residences, employees are more than just roles; they are Resident Ambassadors, essential to its success. Without their dedication, the company's achievements, services, and existence would falter. Innovation and technology propel Majestic Residences' expansion. These tools optimize processes, inform decisions through data analytics, and open new markets. Integration of pioneering solutions ensures product enhancement and customer engagement, fostering the company's competitive edge.
The Journey Ahead
Majestic Residences envisions becoming the premier choice for residential assisted living, spanning over 250 homes across the United States and beyond. Chuck's vision shines bright, promising to impact tens of thousands of seniors, illuminating their lives in the years to come.
ChiefExecutiveOfficer
Aslak de Silva
Selfly Store
Themindsetsandpracticesofleaders toleadthebestteam,setastrategy,and aligntheorganization
CEOs are the ultimate decisionmakers when setting and realizing a company's vision. They do that by taking into account the strengths of their company, an understanding of their ability to deliver value, the expectations of their board and employees as well as their personal ethics and values.
The Chief's Digest is proud to cover the story of one such business leader, who leads Selfly Store with the aim to create exceptional customer experiences with a complete, easy-to-set-up solution for running one's unmanned selfservice micro-store.
Leading an organization toward growth and success is definitely not an easy feat. In what circumstances did you find your leadership spirit?
I assumed my first leadership roles and positions when I
noticed that other team members didn't have a strong belief in reaching “impossible” targets or going through turbulent times. When there was disbelief and mistrust, people turned to me to ask for advice
I figured out that I love to work in an environment, where nothing is certain, and the future seems to be unclear. The same principles apply to high-growth targets, which people don't believe are reachable. Due to my martial arts background, I tend to have the approach of finding a way to fight the odds. I am used to working hard and adjusting the plan quickly. This approach builds confidence in the team as well. Leadership isn't only about showing or telling, I believe it is more about building confidence and trust and helping team members surpass their own perceived potential.
What are your responsibilities as the CEO of your organization? Could you please walk us through what a regular day at work looks like?
There are two focus areas for a CEO – the company and the team. I always prioritize the team first. I have 5 direct reports with whom I have one scheduled meeting each week. On top of that, I am available at any time and proactively drop them a note or two during the day. I try to give continuous encouragement and feedback.
Moreover, I believe in providing my team members with a direction and vision, but then empowering them to figure out their own way of reaching that vision. I am always there in the background to help and support them the best I can. My nickname is 'Assu', so I consider myself to be an 'assustant', so helping in whatever is needed.
Also, I tend to be involved with customer meetings and do my own sales as well. Similarly, I focus on marketing and am active on LinkedIn by posting something daily and taking part in conversations. I believe that the leader of the company can and should be visible. This is part of marketing and brings in new sales opportunities as well.
I follow industry news and other media to pick up relevant news items to share with the whole team. I feel communication and easy access to the CEO are crucial. Due to having team members in 7 countries, I rarely meet people face-to-face. But video calls, weekly all-employee calls, events, kick-offs, and others, are all important in keeping up the closeness with all team members.
How do you maintain a balance in your personal and professional life?
A good balance in life is crucial. I wouldn't call it work-life balance, since balance is more comprehensive and includes other aspects as well. I am an active user of the calendar and all my events, meetings, bookings, etc. go into it, regardless of if they are related to work or leisure time. For instance, I mark my daughters' training schedule as the basis of my weekly agenda. I will not book any business meetings to overlap those, which allow me to take them to their training, watch them train, and train by myself at
You cannot lead without people. Treat them well and fairly, and you will succeed together.
the same time. This eases up the need for my personal time and at the same time helps my wife to have a short break for herself as well. So, scheduling and including all the important items in my calendar equally helps me to keep the balance and ensures that everything is under control.
What do you do when you come across new or unpopular ideas that could be beneficial for the organization?
I think all ideas are always welcome. I used to say that “the best argument wins”, meaning that we should always be willing to discuss ideas and after hearing the main points, agree on which had better arguments in favor of the idea. I still believe that we need to talk and look at ideas from different angles, but the winning idea is not decided by debate skills dependent on the person bringing it up, but it should always also include understanding and help from those, who didn't come up with the idea. Not all of us are good at expressing our ideas and having the best arguments available.
Sometimes, a hunch is better than any given argument. Moreover, I have no trouble changing my mind or decision if something new comes up or I notice that the decision was not the best.
Could you describe the values and work culture that drives your organization?
Transparency, communication, voicing out concerns, and trusting each team member are all crucial parts of Selfly Store's work culture. We are not afraid to disagree or bring bad news to each other. We openly talk about our concerns and opportunities, to keep everyone in the loop and also be able to allow everyone to contribute. It is not always easy, and I know that speaking up in an all-employee call with 10+ nationalities attending is not even possible. But it is more important to have a chance and hear the discussion than optimize the conversation at one meeting. Everyone can then discuss and bring new opinions and approaches in team meetings or 1-1s with their leader.
I am then expecting to get information from these discussions and bring them up to the whole company, when applicable
This year, we wanted to take our Customer Experience to another level. Our Customer Success Director led the process and we, as a team, worked a lot on our CX values. We included the whole team in discussions and worked together to find the words which described us very well. In the end, we adopted these values to be our brand and core values for the whole company. This made a lot of sense since the whole team was passionately giving input and finding the process motivating. After all, we all do this for our customers, thus making a lot of sense of having the same values for everything. This was a new approach for me, but I really liked the outcome of it.
From the CEO's desk: Knowing the man behind Selfly Store
Aslak started to train in martial arts when he was 12 years old. He competed in about 100 fullcontract fights and won the world championship gold medal in the USA in 2000. Aslak coached in 4 different countries but due to injuries, he had to stop fighting. He focused on finishing his studies at Graduate Business School at Gothenburg University, Sweden and received the best thesis award of his class. Aslak's second career started in customer service and sales
positions, and he has been leading teams and companies for almost 15 years now. Prior to joining Selfly Store, he was the CEO of Nordic Business Forum, an event with customers from 50+ countries and featuring speakers such as Barack Obama, George Clooney, Steve Wozniak, and many more. Prior to that, he was the CRO for Naava, heading an international sales and marketing team in Scandinavia and USA.
In the end of 2022, Aslak was accepted in the Forbes Business
Council. Admission was based on the depth and diversity of his experience, including a track record of successfully impacting business growth metrics, as well as personal and professional achievements and honors.
Shannon Scott CEO&Founder
Trak Capital
astrategicinitiativeaimedatoptimizing HRcomplianceforcompanies,whilealso facilitatingimprovedcashflowandprofitability.
Shannon Scott founded Track Capital in 2022 to facilitate the lives of business owners. Not to mention, Shannon Scott is a seasoned business owner with an impressive track record spanning over 20 years in the industry
With a wealth of experience under his belt, Shannon has successfully built and sold 15 companies, making him a true entrepreneurial powerhouse
His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his exceptional business acumen, strategic thinking, and ability to navigate complex challenges.
Shannon's diverse portfolio of successful business ventures speaks volumes about his expertise in various industries and his unwavering commitment to achieving business success.
His new venture, Trak Capital, caught attention in a short amount of time
“From a young age, I've always been driven by a sense of competitiveness. While other kids dreamed of becoming firefighters or police officers, I found myself imagining a future as a coach or leader. I have a natural inclination towards mentoring and guiding others, and the idea of being a CEO, with all the mentorship opportunities that come with it, truly excites me. Witnessing others grow and develop brings me immense joy, and I thrive on the challenges and responsibilities that come with leading a team toward success”.
How Trak Capital is Empowering Business Owners
At Trak Capital, the core idea is to create a future where
business owners can thrive by focusing on their core competencies, without being overwhelmed by HR compliance
Through cutting-edge solutions and expert guidance, Trak Capital empowers business owners to streamline their compliance processes, saving them precious time and resources.
The goal is to help businesses achieve lasting success by increasing their profitability and cash flow, allowing them to fully dedicate themselves to their business objectives. With Trak Capital, business owners can confidently navigate the complexities of HR compliance, knowing that they have a trusted partner by their side
Being a CEO himself, Shannon Scott understands all the struggle & challenges an
executive title deal with. Certainly, the top title carries the ultimate responsibility for the success or failure of the business.
Track Capital goes beyond merely facilitating the lives of business owners; they also prioritize ensuring the stability and success of their companies. As a leader, Shannon Scott believes that challenges never cease. As a CEO of an organization, one must be prepared to embrace these challenges, make timely decisions, and never become complacent.
Therefore, Trak Capital is designed to play an integral part in a business owner's life by paving a path for continuous growth, and adaptability and making them ready to face & overcome the obstacles that come their way.
The Three Values in Trak Capital
Innovation: Trak Capital thrives on the core concept of being a catalyst for change in the industry. The expert and professionals in Trak Cpital constantly strive to iterate, adapt, and generate new ideas in their products, service lines, and internal culture to stay ahead of the curve.
Integrity: Trak Capital holds itself to the highest standards of integrity. Their products, services, and customer
Complacency is the biggest threat to the growth of any company. To stay ahead, constant innovation is crucial. It's important to continually think about how you can create and improve, and to listen attentively to your clients to anticipate their needs. Staying one step ahead of your competitors requires proactive thinking and a commitment to continuous improvement
relationships are built on the pillars of reliability, honesty, trust, and transparency, ensuring that they always act in the best interests of their clients.
Impact: Trak Capital is committed to delivering tangible and trackable ROI (Return on Investment) to the businesses they serve. Their products and services are designed to boost profitability and safeguard the bottom line of their clients, making a real and measurable impact on their success.
Role of Technology in Trak Capital & Every Industry
Technology plays a pivotal role in Trak Capital, as well as in every industry. In Trak Capital, the team of 30 professionals leverages cutting-edge technology to streamline its operations, enhance its products and services, and provide clients with the most advanced solutions for their HR compliance needs. The proprietary software, data analytics, and automation tools enable Track Capital to efficiently manage compliance processes,
analyze data for insights, and deliver customized solutions to their clients.
In addition to Trak Capital, technology has transformed every industry in numerous ways. It has revolutionized how businesses operate, communicate, and deliver value to customers. Technology has enabled unprecedented levels of efficiency, scalability, and innovation.
From automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to data analytics and cloud computing, technology has opened up new opportunities, created new business models, and accelerated growth in industries such as healthcare, finance, transportation, manufacturing, and more
Technology has also significantly impacted customer experiences, with the rise of e-commerce, social media, and digital marketing transforming how businesses engage with consumers. It has facilitated global connectivity, allowing businesses to reach new markets and customers across borders. Technology has also facilitated remote work, collaboration, and communication, especially during the recent global pandemic, changing the way businesses operate and interact with their employees.
Innovation fueling the future of work.
What Makes Shannon Scott One of the Best CEOs Today?
Competitiveness is a core value in Shanon Scott's approach. As Shannon Stated “Losing may be disappointing, but it does not signify the end of the season. Instead, we view losses as opportunities to learn, grow, and become stronger”.
Loss analyze our mistakes, refine our strategies, and bounce back with renewed determination. Every setback is a chance to gain valuable insights and come back even stronger, armed with the experience and knowledge to achieve greater success.
A Helpful Tip from Shannon Scott for Aspiring Business Leader
As a leader, it's important to strike a balance between strength, vision, and compassion. Being present and visible to your team is crucial. Avoid hiding in your office and make yourself accessible. Inspire your team with your physical presence and positive attitude. Show compassion towards your employees, be approachable,
and listen to their concerns. Being a leader means not only guiding from the front but also showing empathy and understanding toward your team, fostering a positive work environment, and leading by example
What Awaits in the Future for Trak Capital?
In every organization, the team initiates or acquires a set of solid Goals. They keep their focus on that ambitious target and unwavering vision statement. Every day, Trak Capital strives to inspire its teams to pursue that goal with determination and relentless effort. And when the teams achieve it, they'' 'll eagerly anticipate what lies beyond, ready to embark on the next chapter of our journey toward even greater success. It's yet to see what the future holds for Trak Capital.
Amiel L. Wade Founder,President,&ManagingPartner
Wade Law Group
Weareaggressivewhenweneedtobeand wesavorgoingintobattleforourclientsto helpthemachievetheirultimategoal.
Wade Law Group was founded in the year 2003. Initially, the firm was small with just two attorneys, and provided services primarily to the county of Santa Clara. However, over the years the firm blossomed into what is now a firm with approximately 40 employees.
The firm's founder Amiel Wade is a former police officer, who while spending time testifying in court as a witness, realized that his real calling was to be the person on the other side of the microphone (the attorney). He then quit his police job and set out to become one of the top attorneys in the county whose mission would be to rescue as many people as possible from the stress of civil litigation. His mission has been to win as many cases as possible while building client relationships second to none, in order to bring as many smiles as possible to every client's face
In conversation with Amiel L. Wade, Founder, President, and Managing Partner of Wade Law Group
Tell us about your organization. How does it provide value to consumers or society at large?
What sets us apart from other law firms is the firm's culture, its policies, and its proven systematic approach to litigation. With regard to our culture, client satisfaction is the most important aspect of our practice, and it's the firm's mission to provide superior and distinctive services while building client relationships and achieving client satisfaction second to none.
The hallmark of the firm's systematic approach to litigation that contributes to our clients successes is as follows:
• Client Relationships. Unlike other firms, Wade Law
Group's staff is empathetic to its clients, listens to their concerns, and implements strategies to achieve their goals. The firm's attorneys have the knowledge necessary to evaluate what needs to be done in each case and to implement the strategies necessary to achieve the client's goals.
• The Aggressiveness and Quality of Service. When representing clients, the firm does whatever it takes (within the rules of ethics) to achieve success. The firm has access to the latest research databases and training and each lawyer is routinely evaluated for their effectiveness and trained to achieve success for the client.
• Responsiveness. The firm prides itself on the way it responds to each client's needs. The firm has policies
Wade Law Group's mission statement for clients is to help as many individuals and businesses as possible, win court cases in an expeditious and cost-effective manner, while at the same time building client relationships and achieving client satisfaction second to none.
• that result in both attorneys and staff being required to return clients' calls expeditiously and treat clients with kindness and fairness, whether a call is made after hours or on the weekend. At Wade Law Group, we keep you informed every step of the way
• Billing Practices. The firm prides itself on invoicing its clients fairly. The firm's attorneys and staff are trained to invoice accurately and conscientiously so that the client can be fairly invoiced. The firm has a policy of not allowing any invoice to leave the firm without at least two members of the invoicing team having reviewed it for accuracy and fairness before it is sent to the client.
• Client Results. The firm has a proven track record of winning on behalf of its clients. The firm has received
awards for the high number of five-star client testimonials received. The firm's goal is to have our core areas of practice rank among the top in the legal community Simply speaking, we at Wade Law Group desire to be the best litigation law firm in California. In fact, in 2021, we were named just that. We were named the top business litigation firm by New World Report.
What was the toughest part of embracing a leadership role? How did you manage to overcome them and move forward?
The toughest part was learning to stop performing billing services for clients and start working on building the company. Making strategic firm decisions and working on matters that grow the company is very hard to do when I have to handle a full caseload of cases.
So, the key was learning to delegate things to staff members so I could have more time to work on strategy
How do you maintain a balance in your personal and professional life? How do you keep yourself and your employees motivated?
I exercise every day and I am good at delegating matters to staff members. This allows me to manage my time better. We keep staff motivated by making them feel like a part of a team and by providing a culture that is supportive of their efforts. Rewarding staff for work well done is also important.
What do you do when you come across new or unpopular ideas that could be beneficial for the organization?
I discuss those things with the staff to explain the benefits of the ideas and to gather their input so that they understand that they were part of the decision-making process.
Could you describe the values and work culture that drive your organization?
Wade Law Group's mission statement for clients is to help as many individuals and businesses as possible, win court cases in an expeditious and cost-effective manner, while at the same time building client relationships and achieving client satisfaction second to none.
Our mission statement for employees is to assemble motivated and talented individuals with a passionate and unyielding work ethic who want to be part of an amazing team that provides exceptional service in a work environment that will enhance both their sense of selfworth and sense of accomplishment while allowing them to generate astonishing wealth over time
What are your plans for the future, and how do you hope to see your organization and team grow?
The firm has overcome many challenges over the years to establish itself as a leading law firm. We have taken an innovative and sophisticated approach to market ourselves and achieve client satisfaction. For example, we have employed our own in-house SEO, marketing, google ads, and Facebook ads campaign specialist, who uses the latest marketing techniques to bring the firm's message of excellence to the public attention.
We also have our own in-house recruiter to help the firm attract the most talented employees to the firm. Through the latest recruiting techniques and employment qualification tests and methods, we ensure that Wade Law Group is attracting the best talent.
At Wade Law Group, we have inhouse client intake specialists to
speak with potential clients who help guide them through the onboarding process. Additionally, the firm employs in-house client liaison specialists to assist clients who need special attention and/or who have ongoing questions.
Since the pandemic, we have implemented a remote component into our workforce which has allowed the firm to attract even more talented employees (some of whom live outside the state). In order to accomplish these goals, we integrated the latest technologies that have allowed us to run a remote-oriented company and seamlessly deal with documents and data.
Wade Law Group expects to see more firms integrating remote operations into its business. The firm also expects itself to continue to use the latest technologies to get its message out to potential clients while at the same time using the latest techniques to attract the most talented employees and to provide the best services to clients.
Knowing Amiel L. Wade
Amiel L. Wade is the Founder, President, and Managing Partner H specializes in civil litigation, conducting jury trials in complex cases, and helping individuals and businesses in every phase of their development. He has been practicing law for over twentyfive years. He has served as both
judge pro tem and an arbitrator for the Santa Clara County Superior Court and has guest lectured at Stanford University
Wade has received numerous honors as a top California attorney, including, but not limited to, being named, civil litigation attorney of the year in 2022 and 2023; a top ten famiy law attorney; a top 100 attorney in the US and a recipient of the prestigious Martindale Hubble Client Distinction award for receiving the requisite number of client reviews that average 4.8 or better on a scale from 1 to 5.
Prior to becoming a lawyer, Wade served as a San Jose Police Officer for four years. He is also a black belt in Karate. Wade's experience as a trial attorney has led him to successfully represent clients as chief counsel in both jury and non-jury trials involving complex litigation cases. He has developed a reputation as being a tenacious, savvy, and sophisticated trial attorney who savors going into battle for his clients. Wade has represented clients in both pre-litigation disputes, mediation, and arbitration matters. He also has represented clients in both commercial and serious personal injury cases.
