I have lived and worked in five different countries spanning four different continents. Throughout my career, I have collaborated with individuals from diverse backgrounds. As a result, I have come to realize that the importance of diversity and inclusion within an organization has become paramount to me. It is far more profound than fulfilment of predefined quotas to comply with contemporary regulations and societal expectations. Instead, it involves wholeheartedly embracing each individual, appreciating their unique experiences, insights, cultures, and competencies.

My typical workday begins with collaboration with our teams in Asia, followed by calls with colleagues from India, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, and concluding with conversations with our London teams, U.S. counterparts, and Latin American partners. This routine offers a rich perspective on cultural interests, religious festivities celebrated in different countries, diverse expectations based on the people I interact with, and significant variations in job requirements from one side of the world to the other.

Thanks to diversity, our world is not just global; it is multi-local.

I deeply value this aspect of our company, Noventiq, which extends beyond the mere integration of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Our embrace of diversity is ingrained in our culture because we genuinely value individuals for their unique contributions and their essence as individuals. At Noventiq, we hold the human spirit, attitude, and personality in as high regard as the skills and expertise individuals bring to the table.

From my perspective, a genuinely diverse and inclusive environment also prioritizes work-life balance. Despite my role as the CEO of a global technology company with over 6,400 employees operating in 60 countries, my role as a husband, father, and grandfather takes precedence. Prioritizing family is not merely a personal preference; it’s a value that resonates within our team. We cultivate a culture that values flexibility, empathizes with personal commitments, and encourages the sharing of joyful moments. This approach stems from our trust in each team member’s professionalism and dedication to our common objectives, enabling us to maintain a healthy balance without compromising our work.

While we are proud of the diverse and inclusive ethos embedded in our company’s DNA, characterized by mutual respect, acceptance, and trust, we acknowledge that there is always room for improvement. It’s crucial that we, along with organizations worldwide, continually assess and enhance our practices to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and included.

Diversity and inclusion are not solely ethical and moral imperatives; they are fundamental components that drive innovation, enhance decision-making, and contribute to the overall success and wellbeing of the organization and its members. I am immensely proud to lead a company where diversity and inclusion are more than mere buzzwords; they are deeply ingrained principles that guide our journey and shape our identity.