Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani

Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of the Hiranandani Group, is a prominent figure in India’s real estate industry and a pioneer in developing mixed-use integrated townships. Often hailed as a visionary, he has not only reshaped the Indian real estate landscape, but also taken on multiple pivotal roles, including National Vice-Chairman of NAREDCO and Chairperson of Mumbai University’s Advisory Council. Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, he continues to expand his horizons, venturing into cutting-edge data centers, and logistics and industrial parks

BY JYOTI VERMA

Hailed as the ‘Builder Extraordinaire’ and ‘The Real Estate Czar’ for his visionary prowess, Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani is a man who has not merely glimpsed the future, but actively responded to its evolving demands. The accomplished leader is not only launching innovative realty projects, but has also embarked on a transformative journey to bolster the Indian economy by diversifying in the realms of industrial and logistics parks, energy and data. With his exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to perfection, and dedication to excellence, he has propelled the Hiranandani Group to unprecedented success. Today, his group’s accomplishments extend far beyond cutting-edge mixed-land use projects in Powai and Thane to state-of-the-art hyperscale data centers in Navi Mumbai and Greater Noida, with proposed liquified natural gas (LNG) terminals in Maharashtra and West Bengal.

A FIRST-GENERATION ENTREPRENEUR

Born in the vibrant city of Mumbai, Dr. Hiranandani hails from a family of Sindhi heritage. His father, Shri Lakhumal Hiranand Hiranandani was a celebrated ENT surgeon and a recipient of the Padma Bhushan Award, the third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India. Hailing from a family of professionals, he imbibed innate qualities like discipline, ambition, integrity, and self-motivation. His academic journey is an integral part of his success story. He completed his schooling from Campion School, Mumbai and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree (Hons.), earning a distinction as the second-ranking student in Mumbai University. He further bolstered his professional qualifications by completing his C.A. and obtaining a Doctorate in Philosophy titled “Housing Revolution in India: Challenges and Prospects.”

Dr. Hiranandani began his career as an accounting teacher before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey. In 1981, he took a bold step by opening a textile weaving unit in Kandivali, Mumbai. However, his most significant leap came in 1985 when, with the assistance of his brother Surendra, he acquired a sprawling 250 acres of land in Powai. This marked the birth of Hiranandani Gardens, the flagship real estate project of the Hiranandani Group, which pioneered the concept of developing mixed-used integrated townships model with vibrant community living focus.

Along with members of his family, Dr Hiranandani controls the privately owned Hiranandani Group. Today, the Group has diversified into education, healthcare, hospitality, infrastructure, entertainment, and organised retail, with footprints in the newer markets like Panvel, Alibaug, Khandala, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Pune.

FROM POWAI TO PANVEL

The Hiranandani Group’s commitment to innovation and expansion in real estate continues with its latest project, ‘Golden Willow,’ a premium residential project launched in Panvel, Mumbai in April 2023. The project, involving investment of INR1,000 crore, offers 1 million sq ft of residential space and apartments of one, two and three bedroom, hall, kitchen configurations. Dr. Hiranandani believes this project aligns perfectly with current market dynamics, especially the post-Covid-19 demand for branded luxury homes, and substantial infrastructure development and connectivity improvements in Panvel, including a coastal road, metro rail, multi-modal corridor, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai international airport.

BUSINESS DIVERSIFICATION

Today, the Hiranandani Group has a diversified portfolio with setting up a new business unit for Data Centre (Yotta) and Logistics and Industrial Parks (GreenBase).

Dr. Hiranandani’s initiative, Greenbase, represents the industrial and logistics parks vertical, offering best-in-class real estate solutions for the industrial, logistics, and warehousing sector. His company has expanded into the realm of data infrastructure with the founding of Yotta Data Services, which set up the world’s second-largest data center, NM1, in Navi Mumbai in July 2020, and North India’s first hyperscale data center, Yotta D1, in Greater Noida in October 2022. These centers have already made substantial progress and formed strategic partnerships with global bodies.

A PHILANTHROPIC FAMILY LEGACY

Dr Hiranandani is not just renowned for its business achievements, but also for its philanthropic endeavours. He has generously contributed to various charitable causes, including education, healthcare, and environmental protection. His philanthropic spirit extends to his investments as well. In November 2022, he invested in Goodfellows, a senior companionship start-up. With the funding, Goodfellows plans to expand its operations in Mumbai and venture into new cities such as Pune, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. Dr Hiranandani has also joined the start-up’s advisory board, recognising the importance of addressing the needs of the elderly in today’s world. His appointment as the Chairperson of the Advisory Council of the University of Mumbai in February 2023 also reflects his dedication to education and community building.

Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw

An astute businesswoman, Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is a stalwart of Indian industry and the Executive Chairperson of Biocon Group. Under her leadership, Biocon – Asia’s leading biopharmaceutical enterprise – has evolved from manufacturing pharmaceuticals to discovering, developing and producing biologics to treat chronic diseases. With Biocon consistently ranked as one of the highest R&D spenders in India, she has maintained for long that the nation’s future and growth are inescapably linked to its ability to undertake research and focus on innovation

BY JYOTI VERMA

Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw holds an honours degree in Zoology from Bengaluru University and a Masters in Brewing Technology from Ballarat University, Australia. In addition to a number of Honorary Doctorates from many esteemed international universities for her exceptional contribution in the field of biotechnology, she adorns the coveted chair of Karnataka’s Vision Group on Biotechnology. Her role in integrating and bringing the government, the industrial organisations and academicians together, to elicit appreciable growth in the field of biotechnology, has been widely acclaimed and acknowledged.

SCRIPTING A SUCCESS STORY

In 1975, a pivotal year in Dr. Shaw’s life, she had just completed her brewing education in Australia. Upon her return to India, brimming with aspirations of becoming a master brewer, she encountered a harsh reality. Despite her extensive knowledge and skills, the brewing industry seemed reluctant to accept a woman in this role. However, undaunted by these obstacles, she resolved to establish her own enterprise, determined to shatter the gender stereotypes that had hindered her and demonstrate that women should never be underestimated or denied opportunities based solely on their gender. After a few years of consultancy assignments, she was invited by an Irish corporator, Leslie Auchincloss, Founder of Biocon Biochemicals, who foresaw her potential and zeal in the field, as a partner in the new venture Biocon India to produce enzymes used in paper manufacturing, production of alcohol and other such products, which soon earned business in the lucrative markets of the United States and Europe.

In a significant turn of events, the ownership stake in the company, once held by Leslie Auchincloss, transitioned to Unilever in 1989, then to Imperial Chemical Industries in 1997, and ultimately found its way into the hands of Dr. Shaw’s husband. His involvement in the management proved to be a turning point in her entrepreneurial journey.

A FIRST-GENERATION ENTREPRENEUR

The first-generation entrepreneur, global business leader and billionaire, in a recent interview, opened up about the struggles she faced and the “foolish courage” that led her to start the biotech company. She was only 25, had no business experience, and only INR 10,000 in her bank account. She was high risk in the eyes of everyone that she had to meet, starting with bankers. She just wanted a credit line and in those days, there was no venture funding; it was debt finance. She wanted a loan and a credit line, making things impossible for her. Then, bankers wanted her father to step in as a guarantor.

Once the finances were sorted, Dr. Shaw faced problems in hiring people, as people did not want to work for a woman. Her first two employees were retired tractor mechanics who needed a job desperately. Things began to change soon and a few years later she was able to hire some of her best talents.Today, Biocon has become one of the largest employers in the region, with an 11,000-plus workforce, and is a pioneer of Bengaluru’s technology hub, and Dr. Shaw’s name has become synonymous with the biotech industry in India. When the banks refused to lend her money, she developed a business model based on revenues and profits, rather than venture capital. This model gave her the cash flow to fund the research and production of pharmaceutical drugs.

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Shaw, Biocon has transformed into a well-grown, comprehensive pharmaceutical venture from its initial status of an industrial enzymes manufacturer in 1978. She was quick to spot the tremendous potential for growth in the field of biotechnology, and focused on research, particularly on diabetes, oncology and auto-immune diseases along with sale of products and rendering services. Biocon has earned the approval from the US Food & Drug Administration for the production of cholesterol-lowering molecules.

Within years, Biocon has become one of the prominent producers of orally consumed insulin globally. It has Asia’s largest insulin factory in Malaysia’s Johor region. In February 2022, Biocon Biologics inked a deal to acquire the biosimilars business of Viatris, an American healthcare firm, for $3.3 billion. In April 2023, vaccine billionaire Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla’s Serum Institute of Life Sciences doubled its investment in Biocon Biologics to $300 million.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Today, Dr. Shaw is more than just an business leader; she is recognised as a global thought leader and a change maker. Throughout Biocon’s incredible growth, she has been driven by her ambition to create a business that would leverage science for the benefit of society. Biocon is leading efforts to provide affordable insulin for patients around the world.

She has received two of India’s highest civilian honours. In 2023, she became a member of the Court of Regents at Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, which has several active Regents and several Emeritus Regents. The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is a prestigious Scottish medical association and the oldest Surgical Colleges in the world with nearly 30,000 members in 100 countries.

Anubhav Agarwal

In 2006, Mr. Anubhav Agarwal embarked on his journey within the family business, dedicating himself to growth and innovation. Recognising the significance of the food industry, he passionately delved into mastering the intricacies of his ancestral business.

Driven by innovation and a commitment to his family’s legacy, Mr. Agarwal founded BN Agritech in 2011. This visionary move marked a significant milestone in India’s edible oil industry. Over the past decade, BN Agritech has emerged as a prominent B2B edible oil manufacturer, making substantial contributions to our nation’s economic growth. His stewardship has transformed the company into a leading player in the industry.

In 2013, Mr. Agarwal pioneered the launch of the group’s flagship edible oil brand, ‘Simply Fresh,’ with the aim of catering to institutional buyers seeking affordable, healthy options. The brand quickly gained prominence for its high quality among consumers. Later, to meet the escalating demand, he strategically expanded oil production by establishing facilities in Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat in 2015 and 2016, respectively. In 2018, a state-of-the-art refinery near Kandla Port further solidified the group’s industry standing, cementing its reputation for quality and innovation.

COMMITMENT TO NATION BUILDING

Under his unwavering commitment to nation building, BN Group transcended boundaries, extending its reputation through retail brands and venturing into international markets with the inauguration of an overseas office in Singapore. Today, the BN Group embodies not just a legacy but also the philosophy of “Building Nation,” thanks to Mr. Agarwal’s resolute commitment.

A HUMBLE LEADER

Humility is a guiding principle for Mr. Agarwal. He goes to great lengths to empower others, enabling their autonomy and fostering their growth. Being a perpetual learner himself, he consistently seeks innovative methods to keep his team motivated, ensuring they have a solid and dependable footing in the constantly evolving business environment.

The leader’s talent for effective delegation not only empowers his team, but also drives their personal growth. With a people-centric approach, he champions open communication and collaboration, while encouraging a harmonious work environment where every idea is embraced with open arms.

Mr. Agarwal seamlessly blends participative and delegative approaches to steer his team. He values diverse perspectives within his team to harness the collective wisdom of the group and create a sense of ownership and commitment among team members. He firmly holds that true leadership is not just about giving orders but empowering others to take ownership. Through delegative leadership paired with accountability, he instils a sense of responsibility in the team.

CAREER MILESTONES

Mr. Agarwal has taken BN Group on an extraordinary journey from its humble beginnings in Agra’s timber industry to a dynamic powerhouse in the edible oil sector. His visionary leadership has led to significant milestones, including the establishment of cutting-edge facilities and expansive market reach. A defining moment in his tenure was the establishment of a state-of-the-art refinery near Kandla Port, which solidified his position as a leading edible oil manufacturer. Another notable milestone in his career was the creation of a cutting-edge facility situated just beyond the borders of Agra.

DRIVEN BY GOALS

Mr. Agarwal envisions expanding his group’s footprint across a spectrum of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) categories, spanning both B2B and B2C markets, while concurrently fortifying its global presence. Additionally, he contemplates diversifying the BN Group into a multifaceted conglomerate.

With a forward-looking perspective, Mr. Agarwal is poised to explore emerging sectors like renewable energy. Leveraging his extensive knowledge, he is steadfastly committed to making significant strides in sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, thereby paving the path for a more environmentally conscious and prosperous future.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY

With an unwavering commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility, he has steered the company towards becoming the epitome of ethical business practices. Under his stellar leadership, BN Group has seamlessly woven sustainability into its DNA, making it an integral part of every facet of its operations. From developing responsible supply chains to embracing eco-conscious production processes and sustainable packaging, Mr. Agarwal’s vision transcends mere profit-making. He aims to create a positive influence on the environment as well as the communities he engages with.

The strong-minded leader tirelessly continues his journey, advocating for environmental stewardship, the conservation of resources, and innovation, all while working diligently to offer consumers nutritious and high quality products.

Ashish Aggarwal

A REMARKABLE PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY

Mr. Ashish Aggarwal’s academic sojourn began at the prestigious Delhi University, where he attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. He then set his sights on the Ivy League, embarking on an executive management degree at the revered Harvard Business School. Following this, he cut his teeth on numerous international projects at HCL Technologies before briefly joining Intel Corporation’s ranks in Bangalore. After a brief stint with Intel Corporation, he spent six years in the US working for several bigwigs in the corporate world.

Mr. Aggarwal’s stay in the USA proved to be a pivotal phase in his professional journey, for it offered him a plethora of opportunities to forge valuable connections, hone his technical acumen, and master the nuances of emerging technologies. He returned to India in 2011 and joined Tata Communications, the erstwhile Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited. As the head of Business Process Management and Integration, he led his team with aplomb and steered the organisation towards uncharted territories of success.

In 2015, the leader charted his course towards entrepreneurial glory after bidding adieu to Tata Communications. His visionary spirit culminated in the establishment of ANDD Techservices Private Limited, a company aimed at empowering organisations worldwide with right technology and processes to achieve digital transformation and automation.

Under his stewardship, the company stands unwavering in its commitment to delivering maximum value to clients and employing avant-garde technologies. Also, the team’s 120-plus project completions reflect its devotion to excellence.

A TECH-SAVVY ENTREPRENEUR

Mr. Aggarwal has carved a niche for himself in the corporate world, with a specialisation in security and digital transformation programs. His extensive experience in the industry prompted him to embark on a journey of self-discovery, where he could utilise his acquired knowledge to establish a unique and independent venture. His vision to expand his company both in terms of employees and customers is a testament to his entrepreneurial prowess. Born and raised in humble beginnings, he learned the value of hard work and perseverance, which has been instrumental in managing his two businesses in California, USA, and India.

GARNERING ACCOLADES

Mr. Aggarwal’s remarkable career has been adorned with numerous accolades, marking him as an outstanding professional in his field. As a member of the Merger and Acquisition team at Tata Communications, he was recognised for his exceptional collaborative skills, receiving the prestigious ‘Collaboration Award’ from the CIO and Legal team. Additionally, his ingenuity and creativity were on full display when he was named a semi-finalist in Tata Communications’ Shape the Future competition, where he presented an innovative vision for the organisation’s future.

The determined leader’s exceptional business acumen and his ability to identify areas for improvement have resulted in significant savings, such as the $600,000 reduction in software licences achieved through his thoughtful efforts.

Mr. Aggarwal’s contribution to the latest addition to the digital transformation literature, the book – Digital Transformation and Modernization with IBM API Connect on API Administration – co-authored in 2021, has earned him further recognition as an authority in the sector.

Currently, Mr. Ashish Aggarwal leads a business program for a prominent financial institution in the United States, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.

Bernard Arnault

In the world of luxury fashion and retail, few names command as much respect and admiration as Bernard Arnault. As the Chairman and CEO of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Arnault has not only solidified his position as one of the most influential figures in the industry, but has also left an indelible mark on the global business landscape. Beginning from a small town in France to becoming a self-made billionaire and a revolutionary force in the luxury industry, Arnault demonstrates the power of relentless pursuit of excellence, commitment to innovation, and global vision

BY JYOTI VERMA

In the annals of business history, the story of Bernard Arnault stands as a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and relentless determination. He is the Chairman and Chief Executive of LVMH, which owns Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Moët & Chandon champagne. The company’s shares have shot up by more than 150% in the past three years, hitting a new high of €853 in April 2023. The rise helped Arnault and his family witness an estimated peak net worth of US$240.7 billion, making him the richest person in the world at the time. The 74-year-old then became only the third person in history – after Tesla’s Elon Musk and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos – to have hit the milestone of amassing an estimated fortune above $200 billion. In 2022, LVMH achieved record sales of €79.2 billion, and has begun a €1.5 billion share buyback programme, which has helped further lift the share price.

EARLY LIFE AND AMBITION

However, there is more to Arnault than his stupendous wealth. Born in Roubaix, France, in 1949, he emerged from humble beginnings to become a self-made billionaire who not only transformed his life, but also revolutionised the entire luxury industry. His journey to the pinnacle of the luxury industry began with a keen interest in entrepreneurship and a burning ambition to succeed.

Arnault attended the prestigious École Polytechnique and École des Hautes Études Commerciales in France, acquiring a solid educational foundation in engineering and business management. This academic rigour would serve as the foundation for his future success. His early career saw him working for his family’s construction and real estate business, Ferret-Savinel. However, it was his acquisition of Boussac, a textile company in financial distress that marked the turning point in his career. At just 34 years old, the young leader displayed his entrepreneurial acumen by reviving the struggling firm, laying the groundwork for his ascent in the business world.

THE BIRTH OF LVMH

The defining moment in Arnault’s career came in 1989 when he engineered the takeover of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH). Recognising the immense potential of the luxury market, he embarked on a mission to consolidate and redefine the industry. This bold move laid the foundation for the creation of the world’s largest luxury conglomerate.

Under Arnault’s leadership, LVMH acquired an impressive portfolio of iconic brands, including Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Givenchy, Fendi, and many others. His ability to identify and nurture talent, coupled with a commitment to preserving the unique identity of each brand, set LVMH apart as a leader in the luxury market.

Arnault’s visionary leadership style encouraged innovation and creativity within the conglomerate. He understood that luxury is not static; it evolves with the times. As a result, the leader championed collaborations with artists, designers, and even technology companies, taking LVMH to new heights, and pushing the boundaries of what luxury could be.

“BEYOND BUSINESS SUCCESS, BERNARD ARNAULT CHAMPIONED SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. HE COMMITTED LVMH TO ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY PRACTICES AND ETHICAL SOURCING, ALIGNING THE LUXURY INDUSTRY WITH CHANGING CONSUMER VALUES”

AHEAD OF THE CURVE

At the heart of Arnault’s leadership is his visionary approach. He has always been ahead of the curve, possessing an innate ability to spot opportunities and trends in the luxury market long before others. His foresight allowed him to acquire iconic brands such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Moët & Chandon, transforming LVMH into a conglomerate that houses over 70 prestigious brands spanning fashion, cosmetics, jewellery, and more.

Arnault was among the first to recognise the potential of emerging markets, particularly China. He strategically positioned LVMH to capitalise on the rising affluence of consumers in these regions, solidifying its global dominance. His acquisitions and partnerships have strengthened LVMH’s presence in key markets worldwide. Its commitment to international growth has helped it become a truly global luxury powerhouse.

One of Arnault’s key leadership achievements is his ability to create synergy among LVMH’s diverse portfolio of brands. He has fostered collaboration and cross-pollination between brands, enabling them to share resources, expertise, and market insights. This synergy has increased the overall value of LVMH, and allowed each of its brands to thrive within the conglomerate.

COMMITTED TO CHANGE

Throughout his tenure, Arnault has faced numerous challenges, from economic downturns to global crises. However, his leadership has consistently demonstrated resilience and adaptability. His ability to pivot and make tough decisions has allowed LVMH to weather storms and emerge stronger from adversity. Today, his leadership is a testament to his visionary mindset, innovative spirit, and commitment to excellence.

Beyond business success, Arnault championed sustainability and social responsibility. He committed LVMH to environment-friendly practices and ethical sourcing, aligning the luxury

industry with changing consumer values. It sticks to sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting ethical sourcing.

Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla

A senior Indian businessman and philanthropist known for his significant contributions to the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla is the Founder and Chairman of the Pune-based Serum Institute of India, one of the world’s largest vaccine manufacturers. His success story and leadership style are inspiring examples of entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Passionate about making the cheapest vaccines for the underprivileged people of the world, he exports his products to 100 different countries

BY JYOTI VERMA

Arevolutionary leader who transformed medicine in India, Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla not only helped India become self-reliant decades ago by manufacturing vaccines at affordable prices, but also empowered the country to serve many countries across the globe. Today, his company, Poonawalla Group includes the privately owned Serum Institute of India (SII), India’s top biotech company and the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer by number of doses produced and sold globally (more than 1.3 billion doses). Dr. Poonawalla’s strong belief in “No Compromise with Quality” and willful commitment in “Health for All with Affordable Vaccines” has today lead SII to earn the title. It is estimated that about 65%

of the children in the world receive at least one vaccine manufactured by the Pune-based company. Notably, the SII supplied the measles vaccine to UNICEF and PAHO (Pan American Health Organization) from 1990 to 2016, preventing an estimated 22 million deaths.

Headquartered in Pune, India, the Cyrus Poonawalla Group of Companies is a diversified group with business interests that include pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, finance, clean energy, hospitality and realty and aviation with the emphasis on quality, innovation, dedication, and customer support.

BEGINNING OF A GLORIOUS JOURNEY

Dr. Poonawalla hails from a traditional Parsi family of Maharashtra. He started SII in 1966 because he wanted to diversify away from horse breeding. His family owns India’s largest stud farm—the Poonawalla Stud Farms— that was set up in 1946. Their horses have won many classics. A chance meeting with a veterinary doctor led the leader into vaccines. Then, the farm’s retired horses were donated to government-owned Haffkine Institute in Mumbai, which made vaccines from horse serum. Dr. Poonawalla soon decided to extract the serum from horses and produce vaccines on a mass scale. Horse serum is used for creating vaccines for diphtheria, tetanus and scarlet fever.

Dr. Poonawalla began with a small laboratory in a corner of his stud farm. The first vaccine produced was for Tetanus Antitoxin in 1967. The major breakthrough came in the mid- 1980s when he got pre-qualified or accredited for supplying vaccines to the United Nation agencies. Thereafter, there was a meteoric rise for the company, Dr. Poonawalla said in an interview. Gradually, the SII produced a range of vaccines for DTP, measles, and snake-venom, to name a few, and became India’s largest manufacturer of vaccines in just one year. By 1998, SII was exporting its vaccines across the world and almost every second child in the world was vaccinated by one of its vaccines.

A LEADER PAR EXCELLENCE

Dr. Poonawalla’s leadership style is a blend of vision, innovation, social consciousness, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. His visionary thinking allowed him to anticipate future needs in the healthcare sector and invest in innovative solutions. He foresaw the demand for vaccines and positioned his company to be a global leader in vaccine production. His commitment to research and development led to the creation of effective and affordable vaccines. He encouraged innovation within his organisation and consistently sought ways to improve and expand their product portfolio.

Dr. Poonawalla was not afraid to take calculated risks. He invested significant resources into expanding his company’s manufacturing capabilities and increasing production capacity, even when faced with uncertainties. His global outlook allowed him to understand the broader healthcare challenges faced by various countries. This perspective enabled him to produce vaccines that addressed the needs of diverse populations.

“DR. CYRUS S. POONAWALLA IS PASSIONATE ABOUT MAKING THE CHEAPEST VACCINES FOR THE UNDERPRIVILEGED PEOPLE OF THE WORLD. HE BELIEVES THAT GETTING MONEY IS NOT ALL A MAN’S BUSINESS. TO CULTIVATE KINDNESS IS A VALUABLE PART OF THE BUSINESS OF LIFE“

DEDICATED TO PHILANTHROPY

Dr. Poonawalla takes equal pride in his philanthropic policies. He is passionate about making the cheapest vaccines for the underprivileged people of the world. He believes that getting money is not all a man’s business. To cultivate kindness is a valuable part of the business of life. He has followed this philosophy since beginning. He has worked with the United Nations. He exports his products to 100 different countries.

This list of Dr. Poonawalla’s humanitarian work towards his society is unending. He not only made his immense contribution through his institute, but also advanced to help the country in the sector of education and infrastructure. He has opened schools, gave funds for the construction of roads, highways, parks and rehabilitation centre for leprosy and handicapped people. He is also an Executive Council Member of Poona District Leprosy Committee, which is a charitable trust. He provided donations to organisations working towards a better future of the people as well.

To improve the lives of people of Pune, he also participated in Confederation of Indian Industries’ Program of “Zero Load Shedding” by Captive Power Generation by Private Companies. In addition, Dr. Poonawalla also organises free rubella immunisation camps for the girls of slum areas in collaboration with Rotary International.

Dr. Sultan Bin Ahmed AL Jaber

H. E. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC Group, is the President – Designate of the forthcoming UN climate conference COP28. He has served as the UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change for two terms, and played a proactive participatory role at over ten COPs, including the historic Paris COP21 in 2015. He brings to this task two decades of executive business and leadership experience in government, climate policy, and renewable and conventional energy sectors

BY JYOTI VERMA

Dr. Al Jaber is an accomplished figure in the fields of energy, business, and government. He grew up in a family with a strong tradition of public service and entrepreneurship. From his graduation in Chemical Engineering from the University of Southern California, US, to his Ph.D. in Business and Economics from Coventry University in the United Kingdom, his academic background reflects a combination of technical and business knowledge, which is valuable in various sectors, including energy and industry. He has held key positions in the

energy and industry sectors in the UAE. He has been involved in various leadership roles within the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and its subsidiaries that helped him play a significant role in advancing the country’s energy and industrial strategies. His career has included positions in the UAE government, including the role of UAE Minister of State and as a member of the UAE Cabinet, which involved policy-making, strategy development, and representing the UAE on the international stage. In 2023, his selection as COP28 President-Designate has not only put him in the centre of the most crucial discussion of modern times, but also has given him the arduous task of striking the balance between the development fossil fuels promise and their greenhouse emissions that actually is the problem.

ONE WITH A BUSINESS MINDSET

A businessman extraordinaire, Dr. Al Jaber is of the opinion that the world needs a “business mindset” to tackle the climate crisis. In one of the statements as the President-Designate of the COP28 summit, he said, “the forthcoming UN talks is a great platform to set out how the private sector can limit greenhouse gas emissions and give businesses and governments a clear set of tasks and targets. He calls for a major course correction and a massive effort to reignite progress, which governments cannot accomplish alone. The scale of the problem requires everyone working in solidarity,” he said.

Dr. Al Jaber’s previous roles have taught him the importance of concrete key performance indicators as the cornerstone of most commercial strategies and an ambitious action – oriented agenda to achieve success. His roles as the UAE Minister for Industry and Advanced Technology, Chief Executive of the UAE’s national oil company and one of the world’s biggest oil and gas producers, ADNOC, and the Founding Chief Executive of Masdar, has taught him the importance of the oil industry as an energy supplier to most countries.

What’s challenging though is the fact that his global role as COP28 President-Designate comes at a time when ADNOC is planning a massive expansion of oil and gas. His job is difficult as the climate conferences have traditionally been dominated by policymakers, ministers and politicians, and civil society activists, most of whom believe that his appointment is “a truly breathtaking conflict of interest.” On the other hand, a few experts prefer to see the big picture. There is a broad consensus that while the last few COPs have made incremental progress, they have failed to produce the kind of breakthrough needed to address the challenges. The urgency of the climate crisis needs a different approach and the UAE, under the experienced leadership of Dr. Al Jaber, just might be the country that helps bridge the gap between the Global North and Global South to produce this breakthrough.

“DR. AL JABER IS OF THE OPINION THAT THE WORLD NEEDS A “BUSINESS MINDSET” TO TACKLE THE CLIMATE CRISIS. HE BELIEVES THAT THE FORTHCOMING UN CLIMATE TALKS IN DUBAI IS A GREAT PLATFORM TO SET OUT HOW THE PRIVATE SECTOR CAN LIMIT GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS”

A CLIMATE EXPERT

Dr. Al Jaber was the UAE’s Special Envoy for Climate Change from 2010 to 2016, and has been from 2020 onwards. Over eight years in this role and representing the country at previous climate conferences has given him a thorough insight into the complex challenges of sustainable development. As CEO of Masdar, he played a vital role in executing the vision of the country’s leadership to encourage the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) to set up its headquarters in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi. IRENA now has 167 countries plus the EU as its members, and plays a lead role in guiding and supporting green energy transitions.

Dr. Al Jaber has been a vocal advocate for sustainability and environmental conservation. He has been involved in initiatives aimed at promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. His leadership has contributed to the UAE’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce its carbon footprint.

Masdar or the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company was set up in 2006 with the goal of becoming a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable urban development. Under Dr. Al Jaber’s stewardship, the company has become one of the largest global players in the renewable energy space globally. It has invested in solar and wind energy projects in 40 countries, and aims at accomplishing the target of 100 GW by 2030. It is also investing in modern technology to build solar-powered water desalination and waste to energy plants. The leader’s two decades of dedication to renewable energy serve as evidence that he and the UAE offer the most promising opportunity to achieve a global consensus for addressing climate change.

Tim Cook

One of the most successful CEOs in the world, Tim Cook began as the Chief Executive Officer of Apple Inc. in 2011. A story from innovation to dominance, he previously served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer under its Co-Founder Steve Jobs. His journey from an engineer to the CEO of Apple Inc. showcases his dedication to innovation, operational excellence, and ethical leadership. His ability to navigate challenges, maintain a customer-centric approach, and uphold the company’s core values has contributed significantly to the brand’s continued success

BY JYOTI VERMA

As Apple CEO, Tim Cook has been responsible for leading one of the world’s most innovative and creative companies. While Steve Jobs is often associated with Apple’s initial groundbreaking products and creative culture, Tim Cook’s leadership has also played a significant role in fostering and maintaining the company’s creativity. Under his leadership, Apple has continued to introduce new and innovative products, such as the Apple Watch, AirPods, and various iterations of the iPhone and iPad. He has been known for his meticulous attention to detail and his focus on operational excellence, which has allowed Apple to maintain its high standards of design, quality, and user experience across its product lineup.

The Apple CEO has also shown a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, pushing Apple to become more environmentally friendly and ethical in its practices. He has championed renewable energy initiatives, reduced the company’s carbon footprint, and taken steps to improve working conditions within Apple’s supply chain.

In terms of fostering a creative environment within Apple, Cook has encouraged collaboration and diversity among employees. He has supported initiatives that promote inclusivity and the sharing of ideas, recognising that a diverse workforce can lead to more innovative solutions and products. Apple’s emphasis on design aesthetics and user-centered experiences can be attributed to Cook’s dedication to maintaining the company’s creative spirit.

A LIVING SUCCESS STORY

Tim Cook’s success story is marked by his journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming the CEO of one of the world’s most valuable and influential companies. Born on November 1, 1960, in Mobile, Alabama, he grew up in a middle-class family and displayed a strong interest in technology from a young age. The leader earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Auburn University in 1982 and later obtained an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business in 1988. Cook began his career in the tech industry at IBM, where he held various positions in the company’s personal computer division. He quickly gained a reputation for his organisational skills and keen understanding of supply chain management (SCM).

TRANSITION TO APPLE

Cook joined Apple in 1998 as Senior Vice President for Worldwide Operations. He played a crucial role in revamping Apple’s supply chain and manufacturing processes, which helped the company streamline its operations and reduce costs. Cook’s contributions became especially evident during the launch of the iPod, where he ensured that Apple could meet the high demand for the product.

Cook’s emphasis on operational efficiency and SCM played a significant role in transforming Apple into a more agile and cost- effective company. He implemented just-in- time manufacturing and distribution methods, reducing inventory levels and improving the company’s financial performance.

As CEO, Cook continued to build upon Apple’s culture of innovation, while also focusing on expanding its product line- up and global reach. He oversaw the launch of iconic products like the iPhone 4s, iPhone 5, iPad Pro, Apple Watch, and AirPods. Under his leadership, Apple also introduced services like Apple Music, Apple Pay, and Apple TV+.

Cook maintained Apple’s legacy of innovation by introducing new products like the Apple Watch, AirPods, and iPhone models with iterative improvements. His leadership demonstrates that innovation does not always mean radical changes; it can also involve incremental enhancements that address customer needs and preferences.

The Apple CEO understands the importance of listening to customers and delivering products that resonate with their desires. He has emphasised the user experience, design aesthetics, and the integration of hardware and software to create products that customers love. One of Cook’s standout strengths is his focus on operational efficiency. He streamlined Apple’s supply chain, reduced inventory levels, and optimised manufacturing processes. This approach not only improved cost-effectiveness, but also ensured that Apple could meet high product demands. Under Cook’s leadership, Apple’s market value and revenue continued to soar. The company reached the milestone of being the first publicly traded company to surpass a $1 trillion market capitalisation.

“UNDER TIM COOK’S LEADERSHIP, APPLE’S MARKET VALUE AND REVENUE CONTINUED TO SOAR. IT BECAME THE FIRST PUBLICLY TRADED COMPANY TO SURPASS A $1 TRILLION MARKET CAPITALISATION. HE STREAMLINED SUPPLY CHAIN, REDUCED INVENTORY LEVELS, AND OPTIMISED MANUFACTURING PROCESSES”

COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABILITY

The Apple CEO has been an advocate for sustainability and ethical business practices. He pushed Apple to commit to using 100% renewable energy for its operations and worked to improve labour conditions in the company’s supply chain. Under his leadership, Apple has been working to power its operations and data centers with 100% renewable energy. This includes investing in solar power installations, wind energy, and other renewable sources. Apple has also committed to using recycled materials in its products. It has designed its products with energy efficiency and recyclability in mind. For instance, it introduced the “Daisy” recycling robot to disassemble old iPhones and recover valuable materials.

Atif Rahman

Born and brought up in Patna, India, Mr. Rahman holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Applications from Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi. ORO24 is his brainchild and he is highly passionate about the brand. Founded in the year 2021, ORO24 is a forward integrated real estate firm specializing in Developments, FacilitiesManagement and Investments, offering a unique combination of convenience and lifestyle at attractive prices, thereby catering to the needs of 21st-century home buyers.

ORO24’s headquarters is located on the popular Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. The avant-garde facility is uniquely designed to add experience, comfort and convenience for its employees’ and visitors. The name ‘ORO’ is inspired by the Italian word forgold and ‘24’ indicates the purest form of it. True to the inspiration, the brand is a seamless amalgamation of financial value engineering and innovative real estate solutions, presented with top-notch quality and service across its different business verticals of affordable housing, premium luxury, business parks, hospitality, and cohabitation assets.

AN OUTSTANDING ENTREPRENEUR

Mr. Rahman is known for his brilliant entrepreneurial skills. In his view, every business is a combination of vision, intention, courage and execution. Hisadvise to upcoming entrepreneurs is to remain focused and follow their hearts while establishing a system of transparency in their corporate affairs, forboth customers and employees. Through ORO24 Developments, he aspires to fulfil his dreams of building and delivering structures that will be cherished for a lifetime.

An avid learner, Mr. Rahman takes each day as a challenge to be able to progress and conquer. His goal is to utilize his expertiseof over two decades within the industry to make a noticeable difference in Dubai’s real estate market by leveraging modern technology through ORO24’s diversified platform.

The entrepreneur says, “We are positioned as a next gen tech-driven real estate business and have included technology in every possible avenue of our dealings. From incorporating BIM data into our designing process, we have also invested heavily in cyber security and ERP systems to create seamless and secured transaction module for our customers. Our headquarters is loaded with tech infrastructurefurther infused with Artificial intelligence (AI) to create unmatched consumer experience.”

DESIGNED TO SUCCEED

Innovation is the hallmark of ORO24 Real Estate Developments. Mr. Rahman has developed an in-house design strategy as part of his efforts to stay ahead of the competition. The company’s engineering department regularly updates its strategy for every project to ensure originality, hence creating new benchmarks. It is the leader’s core business objective to deliver quality and value to everyone associated with the company. Because of his robust commitment and goodwill garnered over the years, the brand ‘ORO24’ has been received exceptionally well by the consumers and market, which gives his team that extra motivation to continue growing in line with the company’s vision.

Mr. Rahman’s love for the industry and his motivation to serve the society by pursuing excellence, delivering a sustainable real estate ecosystem, and creating admirable livelihood opportunities has been inheritedas a part of his familylineage. He spent his growing up years learning under the mentorship of his grandfather, Mr. Mohammed Ataur Rahman, a Gold Medalist in Civil Engineering. He credits his beloved grandfather for inculcating in him the qualities of a well-rounded human being, besides passing on a formidable legacy and drive to explore the realty and construction industry. He fondly narrates that real estate plays a pivotal role in every human’s life, right from the time of their birth. The dynamics of combining boundless imagination and giving it a consistent contour captivates Mr. Rahman.

MILESTONES ACHIEVED

In his two plus decades of successful real estate and construction tenure,Mr. Rahman has efficaciously launched 27 diverse projects, delivering over AED 7.6 billion worth of sales, with approximately 10,100 unitssuccessfully soldto more than 150 nationalities. By developing ‘customer friendly’ payment plans, the dynamic leader revolutionized the concept of affordable housing with enhanced functionalities in the UAE market.

From the construction perspective, his aim is to build ‘practical, smart and sustainable’ homes for families. His business is built around Products, Associated Services, Financial Engineering and Relationships. It’s a futuristic and resilient business model built with the capability of facilitating diversified and innovative real estate solutions, locally and globally. ORO24 is built with the motto of being people-sensitive and governed by maintaining transparency and risk management policies. The company follows a decentralized organizational structure, delegating power to respective department heads, thus creating transformational leaders.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY

Mr. Rahman is a firm believer of giving back to society in every way possible. With a solitary thought of bringing a ‘positive’ change in the surroundings, the organization regularly conducts and supports CSR drives across the country.‘OROCares’ the CSR wing of the company works with different non-profit organizations within the UAE to support the under privileged.

This year during Ramadan, OROCares led ‘Smile in Ramadan’ campaign that supported the blue-collared workers employed in the region. On each day of the holy month, the initiative provided the workers a chance to connect with their loved ones back home and send Eid gifts, thus bringing a smile to their families.

Mr. Rahman is a cricket enthusiastand despite his busy schedulehe follows the game very closely.He often supports sports academies for better training and upliftment of the budding talent in the region

TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE

ORO24 is growing at a fast pace and in less than a year, the brand has already announced its infrastructure expansion with a second facility to provide an accelerating experience for the customers.

The future is promising for ORO24 Developments. The real estate industry is growing, and immense love is pouring in for the brand. In fact, the team is already working towards announcing the next project before the year end.The intent is to deliver a product having glocal outreach, therefore promising some unique, fresh and revolutionary offerings to the customers. Moving forward, ORO24 also plans to bring premium facility management options to its customers while tapping into its local experience with advanced tech incorporation into the design, construction, sale, and maintenance cycle

Erik Solheim

STELLAR CAREER TRAJECTORY

Born in Oslo, Mr. Solheim is a Norwegian diplomat well-known in the circles of international environment and development programmes. An active member of Norway’s Green Party, he has served parties, governments and international-level organisations.

Mr. Solheim was Norway’s Minister of the Environment and the Minister of International Development from 2005 to 2012. His commendable work during this period helped raise his name to the international level.

Seeing Mr. Solheim’s work as the Norwegian Minister of Environment, the United Nations chose him to lead its Environment Programme. From June 2016 to November 2018, the diplomat and former politician served as the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme-UNEP. He has led many campaigns focusing on the environment and sustainable development. The vast experience gained over decades makes him perfect as a leader with a primary focus on execution.

WHERE IT ALL STARTED

Mr. Solheim’s story as an advocate for ecological causes started at his college, where he studied history, sociology and political science. During his college years at the University of Oslo, he became the leader of the Socialist Youth. After serving for three years as the youth wing leader, he became the party secretary of the Socialist Left Party.

Seven years after graduating, he became the leader of the Socialist Left Party. It is rare to see a rise of a young leader becoming a political figure at a national level so quickly. In 1989, he was chosen by the people of Sør-Trøndelag and sent to the Parliament of Norway.

As time passed, Mr. Solheim kept gaining popularity in the politics of Norway. After the 1989 election, he was elected to the Parliament of Norway again in 1993 and 1997. The leader has been known for his fact-based solid opinions, even if they lead to criticism.

On 17 October 2005, Mr. Solheim was appointed as the Minister of International Development as part of Stoltenberg’s Second Cabinet. Impressed by his work as the International Development Minister, the leadership of the national government appointed him as the environment minister on 18 October 2007.

AN INTERNATIONAL PEACE MAKER

The leadership skills of Mr. Solheim touched the lives of not only Norwegian citizens, but also the people of Sri Lanka. In 2000, he was granted a leave of absence from the Norwegian Parliament to become a special advisor to the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Sri Lanka.

In the upcoming few years, he emerged as one of the most well-known peacemaking figures in the conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers.

LEAVING A MARK

No matter what political party, government or organisation he served, Mr. Solheim left his mark wherever he went. An active political figure, organisations worldwide seek his advice on the matters of environment and sustainable development for his valuable thoughts.

Mr. Solheim has also written three critically acclaimed books: PolitikkErA Ville, Den Store Samtalen, and Naermere. Due to his extensive work for the environment and climate, he has been awarded with many prestigious awards.

The list of awards include TIME Magazine’s Hero of the Environment and the United Nations’ Environment Champions of the Earth Award. In October 2022, he returned to Sri Lanka after being appointed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe as his International Climate Advisor.