Digital Global Systems (DGS) specializes in advanced solutions for monitoring, analyzing, and securing wireless communications networks. With a strong focus on the defense, transportation, utilities, public safety, and telecommunications sectors, DGS leverages its extensive expertise to optimize Radio Frequency (RF) environments. The company has been awarded approximately 135 patents for its innovative spectrum monitoring and RF data management technologies, enabling real-time situational awareness and enhanced spectrum utilization.
DGS offers both off-the-shelf and custom solutions, addressing a wide range of industry needs through its cutting-edge hardware and software products. Their flagship platforms, such as CLEARSITE™ and CLEARSKY™, provide critical asset protection and network optimization, ensuring safe, reliable, and automated RF environments.
A Dynamic Leader
As the Chairman and CEO of Digital Global Systems (DGS), Fernando Murias has been driving the company with a passion for technology and innovation. His background as managing partner of PwC’s Washington, DC, office provided a solid foundation for understanding complex systems, which was crucial as he transitioned into leadership roles. His early career involved working in mergers and acquisitions, with a focus on technology development and strategy. This is where he gained invaluable experience in managing teams and driving projects from conception to completion.
A pivotal moment in his career was joining DGS, where Fernando was tasked with developing the business plan and capital raise strategy. Besides being a significant moment, it was also a challenging one as he was entrusted with transitioning DGS from a research-focused organization to one that is now poised for commercial production.
This shift required not only a change in DGS’s business strategy but also in the organizational mindset. To overcome this challenge, Fernando focused on building a strong leadership team that could drive this transition, ensuring that they had the right talent and resources in place to scale their operations. He also placed a strong emphasis on fostering a learning culture within the engineering team, which allowed them to adapt quickly and effectively to the new demands of commercial production.
“Collaborating closely with the existing team, I played a key role in expanding our engineering footprint and structuring the organization, which paved the way for my current leadership role,” he says.
Fostering Innovation & Positive Culture
What sets Fernando apart as a dynamic leader is his commitment to fostering innovation and building a collaborative environment where ideas can flourish. He believes in leading by example, maintaining transparency, and ensuring that every team member feels empowered to contribute to the organization’s success. His guiding principles include integrity, adaptability, and a relentless focus on continuous improvement.
For Fernando, fostering innovation and adaptability within DGS starts with creating an environment where experimentation is encouraged, and failure is seen as a learning opportunity. DGS has implemented processes that allow for rapid prototyping and iteration, which helps it stay ahead of the curve in a fast-paced industry.
“Additionally, we invest heavily in our team’s development, ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of our field. Open communication and cross-functional collaboration are also key elements in driving innovation within the organization,” shares Fernando.
Cultivating a positive organizational culture at DGS starts with a strong emphasis on communication and transparency. Fernando ensures that every team member feels valued and has a clear understanding of how their work contributes to the overall mission. DGS also promotes a collaborative environment by encouraging cross-functional teamwork and providing opportunities for team members to share their ideas and insights. Recognizing and celebrating achievements, no matter how small is another way they foster a positive culture and keep their team motivated and engaged.
Significant Achievements
Fernando considers his most significant professional achievement to be the successful capital raise of $100M for DGS. This funding was critical in allowing them to invest in their R&D efforts and develop a strong patent portfolio that positions them as a global leader in spectrum management. Securing this level of investment was not an easy task, but it has been instrumental in enabling DGS to innovate and drive forward the vision for the company.
Significant achievements come with risks and tough decisions. Fernando also had to make some very tough decisions during the transition of DGS from an R&D-focused company to one ready for commercial production. The decision to shift the focus required careful consideration of resources, talent, and market opportunities. He approached this decision by gathering input from his leadership team, conducting a thorough market analysis, and weighing the risks and benefits. Ultimately, the decision was driven by their long-term vision for the company, and while it was challenging, it has proven to be the right path for their growth and success.
Fernando is particularly proud of their recent advancements in AI for spectrum optimization. This initiative has not only positioned DGS at the forefront of addressing the global demand for efficient spectrum usage but will also significantly impact the telecommunications industry. The AI technologies they are developing are set to revolutionize how quickly usable RF data can be made available, making wireless networks more efficient and accessible, which is crucial for the future of connectivity.
“The success of this project underscores our commitment to innovation and our ability to lead in a rapidly evolving industry,” he says.
Honing Leadership Skills
Fernando believes that every dynamic leader should possess a strong vision, the ability to inspire and motivate their team, and a high level of emotional intelligence. It’s important to be adaptable and open to change, as the business landscape is constantly evolving. Effective communication is also crucial, as it ensures that everyone is aligned and working toward the same goals. Lastly, a dynamic leader must be committed to continuous learning and self-improvement, always seeking out new ways to grow and develop as a leader.
As a leader, he makes continuous learning a core part of his daily routine. He regularly engages with industry experts, attends conferences, and reads extensively to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies. Mentorship is another key strategy he employs, both as a mentor and a mentee, as it provides invaluable insights and learning opportunities. He also sets aside time for reflection and self-assessment, which helps him identify areas for improvement and set goals for his development as a leader.
Envisioning the Future
Fernando envisions the future of leadership being increasingly focused on adaptability and emotional intelligence. As the business landscape becomes more complex and interconnected, leaders will need to be more agile and responsive to change. He plans to continue evolving and adapting by staying committed to continuous learning and being open to new perspectives and ideas.
“Additionally, I will focus on nurturing the next generation of leaders within DGS, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills and mindset needed to navigate the challenges of the future,” concludes Fernando.
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Words of Wisdom
Fernando’s advice for young and aspiring leaders is to stay curious, be adaptable, and never stop learning. The path to leadership is filled with challenges, but those who are willing to take risks, embrace change, and continuously seek out new knowledge will find success. It’s also important to build a strong network and find mentors who can offer guidance and support along the way. Finally, always lead with integrity and stay true to your values, as this will build trust and respect among your team and peers.
Rapid Fire Questions:
- Favorite leadership book or resource? Leaders Eat Last
- One word to describe your leadership style? Relentless
- Biggest lesson you’ve learned as a leader? It is best if people want to follow you versus managing by fear.
- Favorite productivity hack? I Like To Do Lists to help prioritize my time.
- Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Stay focused and never ever give up.
- Favorite leadership quote? Leadership is the ability to translate vision into reality.
Quote: “I am driven by the belief that the best solutions come from a diverse team working together toward a common goal, and I strive to create an environment where that is possible.”
