Author: CIO Times

Giovanni Di Filippo is a seasoned executive with a distinguished career in the technology industry for nearly 35 years in some of the world’s most highly diverse and fast-paced markets. He currently serves as the President of Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) at Lenovo Data Center Group.

Giovanni started his career at Compaq working his way up through various sales roles including a two-year North America assignment with McKinsey for a global CIO program, then moved to Sun Microsystems where he was leading as Managing Director Central and Eastern Europe. From there he progressed at Cisco steering some of the emerging markets, including the Middle East, during the years of the Financial Crisis back into high profitability. 

Giovanni then spent a few years at SAP leading the worldwide SAP/HANA partner go-to-market strategy and at the same time implementing the Sybase acquisition. On top of that, he was chartered to build and lead SAP’s largest GSI program. He then joined Riverbed Technology bought by Private Equity where he led the EMEA partner ecosystem, including the strategy to transform product sales into a profitable subscription business with the outcome of EMEA becoming the geography of the year. Along the way, he has also stepped up as Executive Sponsor for several Fortune 500 companies including an APAC assignment living in Singapore.

Giovanni is known for his innovative approach to sales models, having developed the rapid operational sales model and the partner quadrant model. He is passionate about developing people and creating world-class teams focused on delighting partners and customers. Giovanni’s vision is to leverage technology to make everyday life easier and solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges.

Leading at Lenovo

Lenovo lives up to its reputation as a global technology powerhouse with innovative end-to-end-full stack IT solutions available. From dual headquarters, in Beijing and Raleigh NC, it operates in 180 markets, with 18 R&D locations, and over 30 manufacturing facilities globally. The business is broken down into three core business groups – Solutions and Services Group (SSG), Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG), and Intelligent Devices Group (IDG) which includes the entire Motorola brand. 

What drew Giovanni to Lenovo was the clear intent that they do not develop tech for tech’s sake; they are purposeful in delivering human-centred innovation. In his role as President of the ISG business in EMEA, Giovanni has worked on ensuring Lenovo is the most trusted technology vendor, focused on empowering customers through their intelligent transformations. One way he has done this was by leading a transformative shift in their Sales Go-To-Market strategy from traditional product-focused sales to a solution and outcome-based sales approach. This strategic pivot allowed them to deeply align with customer needs and deliver measurable business outcomes, strengthening client partnerships. As a result, the organization became recognized in the industry as a thought leader, positioning itself at the forefront of solution-driven innovation and creating lasting value for both its clients and the brand.

Challenges Enroute

“I’ve probably seen some of the best and the most challenging times economically in this region over the years, but despite everything the economy has thrown at us, I’ve seen Lenovo EMEA continue to transform from a company known as the #1 PC manufacturer into a technology solutions powerhouse,” says Giovanni.

In a post-pandemic world, he has seen some of the toughest quarters for the technology industry ever, and guiding teams through them has been challenging. But Giovanni likes to lead with the reminder that success doesn’t happen overnight, nor does it happen in just one quarter, so while there will always be headwinds that they can’t control, he believes that during challenging times, strong vision and leadership can help everybody stay focused with a sense of direction and purpose.

Being able to anticipate and adapt in challenging times is the key to success, and that’s exactly what happened when the industry required a shift from IT costs being CAPEX to OPEX, Lenovo pivoted from traditional product sales to an X-as-a-Service sales model. This meant supporting sales teams across the region to develop their skills beyond product knowledge and adapt to longer and different sales cycles. They now work much more seamlessly with colleagues in the Solutions and Services Group to deliver more consultative selling as one team. 

“Lenovo has achieved remarkable success as a leading provider of supercomputers, powering nearly one-third of the systems on the latest TOP500 list. Of these, 39 are located in EMEA, including 8 new systems. Additionally, Lenovo boasts 3 supercomputers ranked in the Green500’s top 10 for energy efficiency, with two of them situated in EMEA. I am incredibly proud that the Lenovo High-Performance Computing (HPC) business in EMEA continues to outperform other vendors, and our team here in EMEA is such an important contributor to this overall success,” shares Giovanni.

Strategic Vision for Growth and Innovation 

For a long while Lenovo has worked on being the most trusted partner – empowering customers’ intelligent transformation and helping solve humanity’s greatest challenges. In doing this, it is working towards its vision for the infrastructure business to become the largest end-to-end infrastructure solutions provider in the world, but also be the vendor of choice with the greatest purpose. 

Giovanni shares that part of their plan is to drive growth and innovation by continuing to partner with research facilities, universities, and other entities that require innovative HPC solutions to progress in fields that impact humanity the most. For example, in Spain and the UK, Physics Centres and Universities are using Lenovo-based supercomputers to address some of the most complex questions about the universe, and in Italy, the Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change runs on Lenovo technology with improved operational efficiency for its important research activities. In Saudi Arabia, Lenovo technology is used by NCM to run weather and climate models to produce predictions that save lives during extreme weather conditions. These projects will always be important to society and are certain growth drivers. 

In fact, in EMEA Lenovo’s vision specifically includes building on the momentum it has seen in the Middle East that has been fuelled by an increasing number of large-cap projects and its strong economies. It wants to tap into the robust growth in the region and unlock the transformative potential of digital technologies there, which it plans to do through its recently announced strategic collaboration with Alat and other proposed investments in the region.  

Integrating ESG principles into Business Operations 

ESG principles are part of the fabric of business at Lenovo and it demonstrates the brand’s commitment, persistence, and ongoing progress in all areas. Based on financial and corporate social responsibility data and community opinion, Lenovo’s supply chain was ranked #10 in the Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 for 2024, which is a great reflection of the increased focus it has had on key areas such as security, digital transformation, and environmental sustainability. 

“We know it’s important that sustainability in particular permeates every inch of our business too, and as a company, we are on track for our 2030 emission reduction goals, after announcing our commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 in alignment to the Science Based Targets initiative’s Net-Zero Standard,” assures Giovanni.

Fuelled by its own commitments and services-led transformation, Lenovo continues to meet its customers wherever they are on their ESG journey with its sustainability services and partner programs as well. Just to name some of the more recent efforts, Lenovo now offers a new reduced carbon transport service for global logistics, as well as L.I.S.S.A., an AI-powered consultant that can help customers optimize their IT solutions in support of their sustainability goals. For the channel, it launched Lenovo 360 Circle, a community where 438 active partners, 314 based in EMEA, come together to align on ESG objectives and leverage new market trends driven by sustainability.  

Leveraging Data to Achieve Business Goals

Even as a Fortune 500 company, Lenovo faces the same challenges as many of its customers, and like them, its success can depend on IT systems and services running reliably. One of the best things about Lenovo is that it doesn’t just talk the talk, it walks the walk. Lenovo draws on its own products and services to unleash the power of its data, improve operations, and achieve its business goals. It showcases how ‘Lenovo Powers Lenovo’ publicly because it is so proud of its solutions and the results. 

“For example, we improved our own on-prem and cloud IT operations with a solution called xSpark that combines valuable data with LLM’s and our cloud technology. It allows the teams internally to add a higher level of automation and intelligence to different IT operations processes, and it combines and analyses data from multiple sources to identify the root causes of data centre incidents. On the customer-facing side, Lenovo created Smart Avatar—a first-of-its-kind AI solution that uses data to automatically direct each Lenovo PC customer to the appropriate support resources in real-time. It’s already delivered $10 million in cost-avoidance and a 15.4-point increase in customer satisfaction,” explains Giovanni.

More broadly, to support its Net Zero goals, Lenovo uses an innovative management system called Lenovo ESG Navigator that uses data to monitor key ESG metrics at our factory sites and delivers near-real-time insights on GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions and energy use.  

Exciting Time Ahead

It’s no surprise that AI is having the biggest impact on technological advancements at the moment. The rapid growth of generative AI is driving a surge in energy demand, which in turn puts pressure on data centres’ cooling abilities as well as the need to reduce their carbon emissions. Energy-intensive GPUs require more advanced cooling methods than traditional air systems, which is prompting a shift to liquid cooling, which (with the right solution) can cut power consumption by up to 40%. 

Datacentres need to be re-engineered for these higher thermal densities and in some cases completely redesigned. Giovanni has been excited about the latest generation of Lenovo’s Neptune Water Cooling systems since it launched in October last year. They have reshaped liquid cooling, with innovation that puts the highest accelerated computing available in a compact chassis that any size organization can use. The industry-first design takes liquid cooling vertical and delivers a system that is 100% liquid-cooled, eliminating the need for power-consuming fans.

“It’s a game changer for how data centres are going to look as well as how they operate and manage their environmental footprint,” he says.

Enhancing Customer Experience

Giovanni has always led with a customer-centric and partner-first approach and to ensure the highest satisfaction levels he implores all his teams to engage with customers on a human level. He leads by example meeting with hundreds of customers and partners a year – and in every interaction, he looks at the people not just the company. When it comes to selling, the starting point of a sales cycle is sacred, and the priority should be looking at what exactly your customer needs – not at what your solution is. 

Giovanni gets to know what they care about, and the truth is, they care about more than just the solution turning up and doing its job. They care about where it comes from, and how it’s made, and increasingly they care about the impact each purchase has on the environment. 

“To do this effectively we have moved manufacturing into EMEA to be closer to our customers. This increases the geographic diversification of Lenovo’s manufacturing footprint and enables us to capitalize on the growth momentum within specific regions of EMEA. We can respond to customer needs more effectively, with greater efficiency and control over product development and supply chain operations, all while continuing our commitment to sustainability and supporting the local community,” he shares.

Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Excellence

At Lenovo, particularly within the EMEA region, Giovanni and the team are deeply committed to fostering continuous development and supporting a culture of innovation and excellence. They invest significantly in ongoing training, offering weekly Solution Sales Enablement sessions across their entire sales force, including technical sales. These sessions are led by internal subject matter experts and trainers, as well as external coaches, covering everything from solution-focused strategies to advanced sales methodologies and execution practices. Their approach blends practical, hands-on learning to equip the teams to address customer needs, pain points, and desired outcomes through best-in-class solution selling.

Lenovo’s partnerships with industry leaders also play a key role in this development. For instance, it collaborates with NVIDIA to train and accredit its EMEA sales teams as NVIDIA AI Advisors, empowering both the sales and technical teams with cutting-edge AI expertise. Beyond technical skills, it offers a comprehensive portfolio of self-paced soft-skill training in areas such as innovation and design thinking, essential for nurturing adaptable, forward-thinking professionals. Next to that are programs in EMEA that support its ‘high potentials’ in becoming Lenovo’s next-gen leaders, and at the same time, it develops its existing leaders up to the executive level. 

“Importantly, this commitment to life-long learning begins with leadership: I, along with my managerial peers, actively engage in these same training programs to stay agile and resilient in our fast-evolving industry. By investing in our people, we’re not only fostering individual growth but also creating a culture where innovation, resilience, and diversity thrive,” says Giovanni.

Trends in the Data Center Industry

Per Giovanni, Artificial Intelligence is probably more of a disruptor than a trend, but either way, it’s certainly shaping the future of data centre infrastructure across every vertical. Lenovo has been building its AI-ready portfolio for the data centre since 2017, so it is more than ready for this evolution.  

“Alongside AI, security has become a paramount focus. Enterprises today are acutely aware of growing cyber risks, and as a trusted partner, it’s our role to ensure their data and data centres are protected. Lenovo invests heavily in security innovations throughout our portfolio, embedding layers of protection into our hardware and software to mitigate threats proactively. We work closely with customers, delivering end-to-end solutions that address their unique security challenges, ensuring robust, resilient infrastructure and devices to support their AI ambitions and broader digital transformation,” he says.

Next on the Cards

Lenovo’s ‘Smarter AI for All’ vision will remain Giovanni and his team’s focus over the coming years, and with their hybrid AI strategy, he sees Lenovo paving the way for AI to become accessible to everyone.​ AI is not new for Lenovo, and they are capitalising on the continual investment in innovation for AI-powered edge computing and hybrid cloud, as well as the expansion of their AI-ready server and storage portfolio.

Beyond the solutions, they are also taking steps to grow their AI Innovators Program which acts as a unique ecosystem of best-in-class software partners who collaborate with them to provide tailored, proven and ready-to-develop AI solutions including computer vision, audio recognition, prediction, security, and virtual assistants for every industry. To date, Lenovo has more than 50 of the industry’s leading software providers, 25 headquartered in EMEA, who have access to its AI Discover Labs where they validate their solutions and launch proof of concepts.  There have been over 150 industry turnkey solutions brought to market from the program and they are doing everything required to keep that number rising.

“For Lenovo, the Middle East momentum has never been stronger and we’ve made a big commitment in the region that will pan out over the next 5 years and more. We see the region hailed as a phenomenon in economic performance, breaking the trends and avoiding recessions, specifically the large-scale digital transformations are being seen in Saudi Arabia right now as they drive towards the Vision 2030 plan and position themselves as the platform for AI innovation,” concludes Giovanni.

A Quote to Live By:

“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination – Jimmy Dean.”

For me, it’s a reminder that change is a constant in life and business and that people need to adapt, persevere, and learn to endure – and the best way to do that is as a team.

Quote: “Data will remain front and centre of everything we do, and how we innovate for our customers.”

Akram Shaar is a seasoned hospitality leader with over 27 years of experience in the industry. Currently serving as the General Manager of Crowne Plaza Jeddah, Akram has been instrumental in driving the hotel’s remarkable growth and success. His strategic leadership and innovative approach have significantly contributed to achieving targets and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. Akram’s commitment to excellence and sustainability aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, making him a key figure in the kingdom’s evolving hospitality sector.

Positioned strategically in the bustling Al Hamra District, Crowne Plaza Jeddah, an IHG Hotel, epitomizes the perfect fusion of modern luxury and Arabian tradition. Catering to the discerning business traveller, this 5-star establishment offers proximity to King Abdulaziz International Airport, advanced meeting facilities, and a range of gourmet dining options. One can experience unparalleled hospitality and tailored services designed to elevate their business engagements and leisure moments alike.

The Professional Journey

Akram’s professional journey in the hospitality industry spans over two decades, during which he has worked with some of the most renowned hotel brands, including IHG Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Worldwide, Raffles, and Mövenpick. From an early age, his love for travel and fascination with different cultures inspired Akram to join the hospitality industry. It’s a career that allows him to connect with people from around the world and continuously learn about their traditions and lifestyles. 

After taking his first steps into the hospitality industry with IHG in 1997, Akram quickly realized that this was where he belonged. Over the years, he has held multiple leadership roles, where he has honed his skills in operations, strategy, management and guest experience. His journey has been one of continuous learning, adapting to industry trends, and embracing cultural nuances to drive guest satisfaction and business growth.

A Challenging Role

One of the biggest challenges Akram has faced as a General Manager is striking the right balance between operational efficiency and providing an exceptional guest experience. For instance, during periods of high occupancy, it’s critical to ensure that services are delivered promptly without compromising quality. He overcame this by implementing streamlined processes, cross-training staff to handle multiple roles, and maintaining constant communication with the team to address issues in real time.

Secondly, leading a team with diverse cultural backgrounds, languages, and work styles can be challenging. Akram focused on fostering a culture of inclusivity, creating clear communication channels, and organizing team-building activities to bridge gaps. Regular training sessions also help to ensure that everyone shares the same vision and standards for guest service.

Thirdly, the rapid evolution of technology in hospitality, from booking platforms to in-room tech, can be overwhelming. He has ensured the hotel stayed competitive by investing in scalable technology and conducting regular training sessions for staff to stay updated on new tools, thereby improving both operations and the guest experience.

Addressing critical guest feedback in real time can be difficult, especially when it involves emotionally charged situations. Akram always takes a hands-on approach, personally engaging with the guest, offering a solution on the spot, and following up to ensure satisfaction. Building a reputation for transparency and swift action has helped turn complaints into opportunities.

“In highly competitive markets, distinguishing the property from competitors can be daunting. I focused on identifying unique selling points, such as personalized guest services or exclusive partnerships, and developed marketing campaigns that highlighted these advantages,” shares Akram.

Signature Experiences 

Crowne Plaza Jeddah is renowned for blending contemporary luxury with traditional Saudi hospitality. Signature experiences include its diverse dining options, such as Sakura, an award-winning Japanese restaurant, and Al Zahra, which offers a wide range of international cuisines. 

Guests also enjoy state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces equipped with cutting-edge technology, making us a preferred choice for business travellers and luxury events and weddings. Additionally, its wellness facilities, including a fully equipped fitness centre and outdoor pool, ensure guests can maintain their health routines during their stay. Personalized service and a commitment to exceeding guest expectations are at the core of every experience Crowne Plaza Jeddah offers.

Owning Environmental Responsibility

Sustainability is integral to Crowne Plaza Jeddah’s operations. It has implemented energy-efficient lighting systems, water conservation measures, and waste management programs. Its commitment to reducing single-use plastics is evident in initiatives such as replacing plastic water bottles with glass alternatives. Additionally, Crowne Plaza Jeddah sources local produce for its restaurants, reducing its carbon footprint while supporting local communities. These efforts align with IHG’s Green Engage program, which provides actionable solutions to minimize environmental impact.

• Water-Saving Measures: Implemented strategies led to a remarkable 30% reduction in water consumption, highlighting the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and resulting in substantial utility savings.
• Sustainable Transportation: The installation of two electric vehicle (EV) chargers promotes green transportation, supporting the hotel’s corporate sustainability goals and helping reduce carbon emissions.
• Energy-Efficient Lighting: Transitioned 2,500 lights to energy-efficient LED systems, significantly lowering energy consumption and aligning with CSA requirements.
• Enhancing Greenery: Added 2,500 new plants to improve air quality and the hotel’s environmental footprint, creating a more inviting atmosphere for guests and staff.
• Toilet Flush Sensors: Installed sensors in all public area toilets to minimize water waste, enhancing overall efficiency.

Infrastructure Improvements

• Water Tank Renovation: Oversaw a comprehensive renovation of the hotel’s ageing water tank, ensuring compliance with safety standards and improving water quality.
• Guard House Construction: Built a new guardhouse to enhance security and visibility, aligning with regulatory standards and improving guest safety and trust.
• Water and Heat Insulation: Completed critical repairs and insulation on the roof, protecting key operational areas and enhancing the building’s efficiency during heavy rains.
• A/C Enhancement for Ballroom: Installed a new package unit to effectively manage ballroom temperatures, significantly enhancing guest comfort during events.
• Drain Line Renovation: Upgraded the drainage system to eliminate health hazards and ensure compliance with hygiene standards.
• Accessible Pathways Project: Constructed new pathways to improve accessibility at the main entrance, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to inclusivity.

Integrating Local Culture 

Celebrating local culture is central to the work philosophy at Crowne Plaza Jeddah. From the architectural elements of the hotel’s design, which reflect Saudi heritage, to the inclusion of traditional dishes on its menus, the hotel aims to offer guests an authentic taste of the region. 

“Our cultural integration extends to our services, such as arranging guided tours to historical landmarks in Jeddah and showcasing local art within the hotel premises. Additionally, our staff undergoes cultural training to ensure they can deliver services that resonate with both local and international guests,” shares Akram.

Employee Well-Being

Akram believes that the employees at Crowne Plaza Jeddah are the backbone of its success, and he prioritizes their growth and well-being. Crowne Plaza Jeddah is dedicated to people development and Saudi Vision 2030. The localization percentage at the hotel has exceeded regional targets, with all key departments being led by talented local individuals. In 2024, Crowne Plaza Jeddah made remarkable progress in adhering to the regulations set by the Ministry of Human Resources and the Labor Office. The hotel achieved an impressive Saudization rate of over 75%, demonstrating a strong commitment to employing Saudi nationals and enhancing local workforce participation.

Through comprehensive training programs, Crowne Plaza Jeddah ensures that the staff is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to exceed guest expectations. Regular feedback sessions and performance recognition initiatives foster a culture of motivation and excellence. It also provides opportunities for career advancement and promotes a supportive work environment that values diversity and inclusivity.

Adapting to Trends

The hospitality industry, observes Akram, is being shaped by several trends, including technological innovation, sustainable travel, and personalization. Crowne Plaza Jeddah is staying ahead by investing in smart technologies. Personalization of guest experiences is a key area of focus for the hotel, with AI-enabled data analytics and machine learning algorithms enabling the team to understand guest preferences at a granular level. This allows them to curate bespoke experiences, from tailored dining options to customized stay packages, ensuring every guest feels valued and catered to. In 2023, Crowne Plaza Jeddah achieved an impressive ranking of 6th among EMEAA hotels and secured the top position in Saudi Arabia for Wi-Fi Guest Experience. This achievement underscores the commitment to enhancing guest satisfaction through reliable connectivity.

Enhanced Guest Experience

Guest well-being is a top priority at Crowne Plaza Jeddah. It offers premium bedding and an array of amenities to ensure restful stays. Its wellness offerings, including fitness facilities and nutritious dining options, cater to guests seeking a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, the team is trained to provide personalized service, ensuring every guest feels valued and cared for throughout their stay.

Crowne Plaza Jeddah has recently revamped its Bridge Café, offering a refreshed menu and a comfortable poolside setting with large screens for sports enthusiasts. For business travellers, state-of-the-art meeting facilities and advanced audio-visual tools ensure seamless and impactful events. The hotel also offers personalized services, such as tailored wedding packages and rejuvenating spa treatments, to make every stay memorable. With a focus on both relaxation and productivity, Crowne Plaza Jeddah ensures that every guest’s needs are met with unparalleled hospitality and attention to detail.

Balancing Business and Leisure

Crowne Plaza Jeddah strikes a balance by offering tailored services for both business and leisure guests. For business travellers, it provides well-equipped meeting spaces, high-speed internet, and a business centre. Leisure guests can enjoy its diverse dining options, recreational facilities, proximity to cultural landmarks and tailored recreational packages ranging from diving to hiking, paragliding, etc. Its staff is trained to understand the unique needs of each guest segment, ensuring a seamless experience for all.

Looking Ahead

Akram’s vision for Crowne Plaza Jeddah is to solidify its position as a market leader in the hospitality industry by delivering exceptional guest experiences and driving sustainable growth. To achieve this, his team is focusing on continuous innovation, enhancing their service offerings, and strengthening their community engagement. They aim to expand their digital capabilities, improve operational efficiencies, and foster a culture of excellence among the employees. 

“Diversity and inclusion are core values at our hotel, and I have ensured a progressive work environment for all our female colleagues. By mentoring and coaching six female colleagues who now lead critical departments such as rooms division, Engineering, Sales and Marketing, Revenue, Housekeeping, and Culinary Director, we have not only empowered these individuals but also contributed to our overall success,” concludes Akram.

A Quote to Live By

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” 

“This quote by Albert Schweitzer resonates with me deeply and serves as a guiding principle in my professional and personal life. It reminds me of the importance of passion and commitment in achieving meaningful success,” says Akram.

Saleh AlHariri is a distinguished corporate services and business operations professional with over 18 years of diverse experience spanning sectors such as manufacturing, FMCG, healthcare, logistics, insurance, and IT. Known for his exceptional strategic design and implementation skills, Saleh has spearheaded numerous projects that have significantly contributed to corporate growth and operational excellence. A highlight of his career includes leading the establishment of a Strategy Office for Acquisition and Mergers, which accelerated business expansion and optimized efficiencies, setting new industry benchmarks.

Throughout his career, Saleh has demonstrated a profound ability to manage organizational resistance and drive superior outcomes using critical strategic tools and frameworks. His meticulous planning and execution have consistently surpassed strategic goals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Moreover, Saleh’s operational expertise in steering strategies through PMO and TMO frameworks ensures flawless implementation. He is deeply committed to leadership development, promoting competencies that inspire teams, enhance decision-making, and adeptly manage change, thereby securing the enduring success and adaptability of his organization.

Currently, Saleh serves as the Chief Executive Officer of KDL Logistics.

The Company

KDL Logistics is a premier provider of comprehensive logistics solutions in Saudi Arabia established in 1980 to deliver tailored services, including transportation, warehousing, and digital logistics. With over 350 employees and a well-established logistics network, KDL supports businesses across a wide range of industries.

Key Milestones and Achievements:

1.           Infrastructure and Capacity:

•  Managing over 90,000 square meters of storage space across strategic locations.
•  Operating through 6 seaports and 5 airports, ensuring seamless connectivity.
•  A fleet of over 250 trucks and equipment tailored for diverse transportation needs.

2.           Operational Excellence:

• Handling more than 30,000 shipments annually while maintaining high service standards.
• Serving over 10,000 satisfied customers with innovative logistics solutions.

3.           Innovation and Technology:

• Integrating advanced technologies such as real-time tracking to enhance operational efficiency.
• Implementing digital tools that streamline processes and improve client experiences.

4.           Sustainability and Vision 2030:

• Adopting eco-friendly transportation practices to reduce environmental impact.
• Contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by enhancing logistics infrastructure and promoting economic diversification.

KDL’s journey reflects a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, positioning the company as a trusted partner in the logistics industry.

Addressing the Industry Challenges

The logistics industry in the region presents unique challenges, including technological gaps, fluctuating market demands, and the need for sustainable operations. KDL Logistics has effectively turned these challenges into opportunities through innovation and adaptability.

• Technological Gaps: The lack of digital infrastructure in the local market initially hindered efficiency and transparency. To overcome this, we invested in advanced technology, such as real-time tracking systems, providing end-to-end visibility and optimizing operations.
• Fluctuating Market Demands: During disruptions like the pandemic, we implemented an agile operational model, allowing us to scale services quickly and meet the evolving needs of our 10,000+ customers.
• Sustainability: We incorporated eco-friendly practices into our operations, aligning with Vision 2030 and meeting growing expectations for sustainable logistics solutions.
• Strong Partnerships: Collaborating with global leaders allowed us to introduce international best practices, reinforcing our position as a logistics pioneer in the region.

“By emphasizing innovation, flexibility, and collaboration, KDL has consistently exceeded expectations, delivering best-in-class logistics and supply chain solutions while acting as a trusted partner in the success of our clients,” says Saleh.

Empowering Clients

KDL Logistics empowers its clients with innovative solutions to navigate the digital landscape while leveraging social media to enhance their business.

• Digital Logistics Support:
  • Real-time tracking systems offer clients full visibility across 6 seaports and 5 airports, covering over 30,000 shipments annually.
  • Digital platforms facilitate seamless interaction between clients, suppliers, and customers, improving efficiency.
• Social Media Integration:
  • Real-Time Updates: KDL helps clients integrate logistics data, such as delivery timelines, into social media platforms, fostering trust and engagement.
  • Content Strategies: Its experts provide insights to enhance social media presence, aligning it with logistics and customer engagement goals.
  • Brand Advocacy: Through reliable service, it amplifies positive customer feedback, strengthening its brand reputation.

“By blending cutting-edge technology with tailored strategies, we enable clients to optimize their operations and build stronger connections in the digital age,” shares Saleh.

Effective Success Measurement 

KDL Logistics employs a holistic approach to measuring the success and impact of its campaigns and projects by combining qualitative and quantitative metrics with robust governance practices. This ensures that every initiative is executed with transparency, accountability, and a clear alignment to its strategic goals.

Key Metrics for Success:

• Operational Efficiency: KDL assesses improvements in delivery times, cost optimization, and overall supply chain performance to ensure that our solutions meet and exceed client expectations.
• Customer Satisfaction: Using tools like client surveys, feedback mechanisms, and Net Promoter Scores (NPS), it gauges client satisfaction and loyalty, enabling it to refine its services for continuous improvement.
• Technology Integration: KDL evaluates the adoption and effectiveness of digital tools such as real-time tracking systems and data analytics in enhancing visibility and optimizing operations.
• Sustainability Impact: KDL measures the success of its sustainable practices, ensuring alignment with environmental goals and evolving market demands.

Governance as a Cornerstone

Governance plays a critical role in how KDL Logistics manages and measures its campaigns and projects. Implementing structured governance frameworks ensures:

•  Accountability: Clear roles, responsibilities, and reporting mechanisms for every project.
• Transparency: Open communication with all stakeholders to track progress and address challenges proactively.
• Compliance: Adherence to industry standards, regulations, and ethical practices.
• Continuous Improvement: It conducts regular review sessions with both clients and internal teams to:
• Monitor progress against defined Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Identify opportunities for innovation and enhancement.
• Foster a culture of learning and adaptability to achieve long-term success.

By integrating governance with data-driven metrics and a client-focused approach, KDL Logistics ensures that every project not only delivers measurable value but also aligns with the company’s vision for sustainable and impactful growth.

Creating a Creative Environment

At KDL Logistics, fostering a creative and collaborative environment is at the heart of the organizational culture. The company believes that innovation and teamwork drive success, and it implements several strategies to support this:

     1.  Empowering Employees: KDL encourages team members to take ownership of their ideas and projects, providing them with the tools and autonomy needed to innovate.

  2.   Open Communication: It maintains an open-door policy, ensuring that every team member feels heard and valued. Regular brainstorming sessions and cross-functional meetings help spark new ideas.

  3.   Continuous Learning: By offering training programs, workshops, and access to industry resources, KDL enables its team to stay ahead of trends and develop creative solutions.

4. Recognition and Rewards: The company celebrates successes and recognizes contributions, fostering motivation and a sense of accomplishment.

5. Technology and Collaboration Tools: Utilizing digital platforms to facilitate seamless collaboration, even for remote teams, ensuring everyone remains connected and productive.

This approach not only enhances creativity and collaboration but also ensures that the team is aligned with the company’s vision of delivering innovative logistics solutions.

Expanding the Reach

KDL Logistics is implementing a phased expansion strategy, starting with Saudi Arabia as the primary focus, followed by growth across the Gulf region. Guided by an Agile approach, it aims to achieve its goals efficiently and effectively through three core strategies:

              1. Strategic Hubs: Strengthening logistics hubs in key locations across Saudi Arabia, with plans to gradually expand. Advanced technologies will be integrated to enhance operational efficiency and adaptability to evolving market demands.

              2.Partnerships: Building strong alliances with regional businesses and government entities to deliver seamless, high-quality logistics solutions that meet international standards.

              3. Sustainability and Innovation: Embedding sustainable practices and adopting cutting-edge technologies aligned with Vision 2030, ensuring environmental efficiency and long-term competitiveness.

“By focusing on Saudi Arabia as the foundation for growth, we are committed to developing innovative solutions tailored to local market needs. This gradual expansion into the Gulf and the Middle East positions KDL Logistics as a key player in the region’s evolving logistics landscape. Our Agile methodology ensures that we remain adaptable and responsive to market changes while driving lasting impact,” shares Saleh.

Technology as an Enabler

Technology plays a pivotal role in KDL Logistics’ approach to marketing and communications, enabling it to reach, engage, and serve its clients more effectively. Here’s how it leverages technology in these areas:

              1. Data-Driven Insights: KDL uses advanced analytics tools to study market trends, customer preferences, and performance metrics. This helps it create targeted marketing campaigns and refine its messaging to meet client needs.

              2. Digital Platforms: Through social media, content marketing, and digital advertising, KDL maintains a strong online presence, ensuring its services reach the right audience. Real-time engagement tools allow it to interact directly with clients and address their queries promptly.

              3.Customer Relationship Management (CRM): By integrating CRM systems and creating unique accounts for its clients in its custom platform, KDL enhances the customer experience by enabling them to track their shipments and access all necessary services in one place. This personalized approach ensures transparency and convenience.

              4. Innovative Storytelling: The company utilizes digital media to showcase its expertise and success stories through videos, infographics, and case studies, reinforcing its brand as a leader in logistics innovation.

By embracing technology, KDL Logistics not only enhances its marketing and communication strategies but also builds stronger, long-lasting connections with its clients.

Exceeding Client Expectations

At KDL Logistics, exceeding client expectations is a cornerstone of the company’s mission. Saleh and the team achieve this through a combination of tailored solutions, advanced technology, and a client-centric approach. Here’s how they ensure exceptional service:

              1.Customized Solutions: They take the time to understand each client’s unique needs and challenges, crafting bespoke logistics strategies that align with their business goals.

              2.Technology Integration: By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as real-time tracking and automated systems, team KDL provides seamless, transparent, and efficient operations.

              3.Proactive Communication: They maintain open and consistent communication with their clients, offering regular updates and real-time insights into logistics operations to ensure transparency and trust.

              4. Continuous Improvement: Through client feedback and performance reviews, they consistently refine their processes to deliver enhanced value and stay ahead of industry trends.

              5. Dedicated Support Teams: KDL’s expert teams are available to address any concerns, provide solutions, and ensure smooth operations at all times.

By prioritizing innovation, adaptability, and collaboration, they not only meet their clients’ expectations but often surpass them, building long-lasting partnerships based on trust and excellence.

New Year, New Goals

At KDL Logistics, Saleh and his team’s goal for the next five years is to solidify their position as a leading provider of integrated logistics solutions in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, while gradually expanding into the broader Middle East and international markets. They aim to deliver innovative, efficient, and technology-driven services supported by robust governance practices, all in alignment with Vision 2030.

Steps to Achieve This Goal:

              1. Regional and International Expansion:

              •  Strengthening their presence in Saudi Arabia by developing strategic logistics hubs.

              2. Enhancing Governance for Transparency and Effectiveness:

              • Strengthening KDL’s governance framework to ensure transparency and accountability across all operations.

              • Conduct regular reviews of projects and operations to maintain full compliance with local and international standards, building trust with clients and partners.

              • Embedding governance principles in decision-making processes to ensure efficient and sustainable resource management.

              3.Investing in Advanced Technology:

              • Leveraging cutting-edge tools for predictive insights, blockchain for supply chain transparency, and IoT to improve connectivity and operational performance.

              •Enhancing customer experiences with real-time tracking and innovative digital solutions.

              4. Providing Comprehensive and Integrated Solutions:

              • Expanding their service offerings to cover all aspects of the supply chain, from transportation and warehousing to digital logistics solutions.

              • Delivering tailored, end-to-end solutions to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and drive customer satisfaction.

              5. Driving Efficiency and Sustainability:

              • Reducing KDL’s carbon footprint by adopting eco-friendly practices and sustainable technologies.

              •   Optimizing resource utilization to enhance operational efficiency and speed of delivery.

              6. Developing Talent and Expertise:

              • Investing in advanced training programs to ensure the workforce remains agile and equipped with the latest industry knowledge.

              • Encouraging innovation and strategic thinking within the teams to drive excellence in operations.

“By integrating innovation, technology, governance, and sustainability, we aim to be a key enabler of excellence in logistics, supporting local and regional businesses in achieving growth. Our vision is to deliver value-driven services built on transparency, efficiency, and customer-centricity, establishing KDL Logistics as a leader in the logistics industry and ensuring sustainable growth for years to come,” concludes Saleh.