Archives: team-member

About Ravi Ravi is a Senior Director for Retail Banking with StraitsBridge Advisors-a Singapore headquartered financial consulting firm. Ravi graduated from BITS-PILANI with a Double Master’s degree in Management Studies & Science. Ravi Hariharan has been associated with well known & respected Corporate institutions such as Pepsico, HDFC Bank, and Bank Muscat. With over 2 decades of experience in Banking, Financial Services & Fast-Moving Consumer Goods, Ravi Hariharan has worked in different geographies viz. India, East Africa, and the Middle East. He has been involved in diverse areas in Retail Banking ranging from Product Development, Branch Banking, Digital Channels, Strategic Planning to Digital Marketing. Under his stewardship, banks have benefited from a slew of new launches, increased market penetration and achieving enviable market shares. Ravi Hariharan in his current role was engaged with one of the largest Islamic banks in the world with assets close to USD 100 billion and a balance sheet size over USD 175 billion At the bank, Ravi has been partnering with the Retail Banking, Marketing, and Digital Banking teams to find new ways of leveraging business intelligence and data analytics to develop sharper targeting, smarter campaigns and systematic cross-selling to a large customer base. About Finext This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre.This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.

Ramesh Kumar Chugh is a seasoned professional with over 16 years of experience in the payment industry, currently serving as the Director of Payment Solutions at Zeta Suite. His expertise lies in simplifying complex card payments and building next-generation card solutions. Ramesh excels in crafting innovative payment solutions by collaborating with founders and influencing senior leadership. With a background in both Merchant Acquiring and Card Issuing, Ramesh’s skills span a wide spectrum. On the acquiring side, he has played a pivotal role in solutioning diverse channels and acquiring switches for POS, ATM, E-commerce, and more. In the realm of Card Issuing, he is known for designing and architecting card issuing processing systems from ideation to reality. One of Ramesh’s key strengths is his ability to transform concepts into strategic realities with precision. He is passionate about knowledge sharing and hosts ‘The Domain Podium’ channel on YouTube, where he provides tutorials and insights for fellow payment enthusiasts, simplifying the complexities of card payment solutions. Ramesh’s professional reach extends globally across regions such as the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Australia, and the US. He has successfully engaged with and catered to various clients including Banks, FinTechs, Financial Institutes, Exchange Houses, PSPs, and vendors. In his role as a Director of Payment Solutions, Ramesh has demonstrated his proficiency in designing and architecting payment solutions, orchestrating top-notch payment solutions, and driving strategic initiatives within the industry. He is known for his expertise in card issuing processing systems, transaction switch, authorization, clearing, and settlement for both domestic and international card networks, including VISA, MasterCard, Rupay, Amex, CUP, and JCB. Ramesh Kumar Chugh is a dedicated professional with a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence in the field of payment solutions. His track record of success, coupled with his extensive experience and global reach, positions him as a key player in the industry, shaping the future of card payments and driving forward-thinking solutions for clients worldwide. Ask GPT-4o

Prince Thomas is the Director of Digital and Innovation at Ooredoo Oman, which is a member of the Ooredoo Group, headquartered in Doha, Ooredoo Oman was founded and registered in the Sultanate of Oman in December 2004 and services were launched in March 2005. As Oman’s data experience leaders, Ooredoo provides individuals and businesses with cutting edge digital products and services, so that customers can enjoy the internet. Prince is an experienced Senior Executive driving Digital Transformation and Innovation. Prince is experienced in setting up and leading digital and driving change and digitalization objectives. His expert skills include Digital Product management and experience design, Partnerships management, Digital experience and channels development. Prince is a strong marketing professional with an Executive MBA (PLD) focused on Business Transformation from Harvard Business School. This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.

About Philippe Philippe Co-Founder & Executive Coach, Reach Outstanding. He holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). Philippe has held senior roles across several global companies such as HP, UBS, Barclays, and Network International to name a few. Philippe also holds a Six Sigma Master Black Belt which he obtained through the Juran Institute. With over 25 years of international experience across the Consulting and Financial Services industries within the Business, Risk and IT disciplines, Philippe has direct experience of the challenges being faced by today’s leaders and how to focus on dealing with these. Philippe has developed programs to advise organizations on selecting and developing Head of departments and Vice Presidents to create high performing leadership teams. Philippe works with clients to build leadership capabilities in client organizations as well as coaching cultures. Philippe has coached and led learning programs across numerous organizations and industries including financial services, payments, pharmaceuticals, healthcare providers, law firms. He has worked and is currently with individuals at leadership and executive levels from all over the world. This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.

Omar Kamal is the Managing Director at Level Financials LLC, UAE. The level is a financial consulting firm that specializes in VAT. They help businesses by submitting their VAT returns whilst ensuring compliance with complex VAT legislation. They cater to small, medium and large-sized organizations from different business segments ranging from manufacturing to the service industry. Omar is an up-and-coming business development expert, leading a dynamic company. He is an articulate, strong and pragmatic leader, provider of specialist services to tackle all tax challenges, with a particular focus on the VAT legislation in the UAE, and experience in the growth of leading companies at the regional level. Omar aims to give his clients the same level of service as an international accounting company. Omar is a proud graduate from The University of Edinburgh, with experience in sales, and an expert background in electrical engineering. This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts.

About Nilufer Gunhan Nilufer is a  Non Executive Board Member and Management Consultant with over 20 years of experience working at the C-level, leveraging my MBA and expertise in leading and transforming companies for a digital, data-driven future. My passion lies in helping businesses across various sectors such as holding corporations, consumer finance, insurance, and automotive to prepare for success in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Having founded and led multiple successful consumer finance companies, I have a proven track record in developing innovative business models, managing P&L, mitigating enterprise risks, and fostering organizational growth and innovation. I am known for my visionary leadership style, strategic acumen, and ability to craft and implement competitive market strategies that drive success. Currently serving as a board member for four prominent companies in Turkey, I bring valuable insights and oversight on crucial matters such as strategy, audit, risk management, governance, and finance. My contributions help shape governance structures and drive organizational performance in alignment with strategic goals. In addition to my corporate roles, I also dedicate my time to mentoring emerging leaders and sharing my expertise with aspiring professionals through leadership mentorship programs. I believe in the power of mentorship to foster growth and development in both individuals and organizations, and I am committed to supporting the next generation of leaders on their journey towards success. Throughout my career, I have been recognized for my ability to anticipate market trends, adapt to changing business landscapes, and drive sustainable growth for the companies I work with. I thrive on challenges and am always seeking new opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and drive positive change within the organizations I am involved with. With a strong foundation in business management, a passion for leadership development, and a commitment to excellence, I am dedicated to driving success for companies navigating the complexities of today’s business environment. I continue to strive for excellence in all my endeavors, bringing a unique blend of experience, expertise, and strategic vision to every role I undertake. FiNext Awards & Conference This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.

About Nidal Nidal Abu-Maizer is the CFO of the Saudi Jordanian Investment Fund, a Jordan-based infrastructure fund that is a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia. In his current role Nidal is responsible for the company’s financial management, planning, and operations, and also serves as a member of the investment team. Nidal holds an EMBA from INSEAD, as well as a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in finance from Bentley University. Nidal is also a CFA charter holder. Nidal is experienced in assessing M&A opportunities, leading due diligence assignments, presenting recommendations to executive management, and managing the transaction closing processes. He is a financial professional with experience in investment management, corporate finance, and financial planning. He has a proven track record of launching and managing projects and startup operations in new markets within the Middle East and Africa and is well versed in structuring and negotiating transactions with anchor customers and joint venture partners. Previously, Nidal was Corporate Finance Director at Bupa Arabia, where he managed the company’s $1.5 billion investment portfolio, over saw its financial planning and in-house business advisory functions, and managed investor relations. About FiNext Awards This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Meridien Hotel and Conference Centre, Dubai. This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.

Nearchos Petrides is the Chief Executive Officer of Ellinas Finance Public Company Ltd. Ellinas Finance Public Company Ltd (“ELF”) is a Cypriot public company with more than 20 years of experience and expertise in financing. Nearchos is an Associate Chartered Accountant from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. As CEO of the company, some amongst his responsibilities have been to determine and communicate the organization’s strategic direction, building the strategic vision of the company with the assistance of the Board of Directors and Ensure proper Corporate Governance is followed as per the Company’s policies. During his tenure, Nearchos introduced new company products, lead the new business project of the company for the introduction of company’s factoring services, created strategic partnerships for the business development of the company and facilitated the restructuring of several non performing loans and working on effective solutions with the customers. Nearchos also has valuable audit and business experience in financial institutions, retail, oil and gas, insurance and investment holding industries.He has worked as the Audit Supervisor at KPMG Limited where he Conducted assigned audit engagements successfully from beginning to end, developed audit programs and testing procedures relevant to risk and test objectives and obtained and reviewed evidence ensuring audit conclusions are well-documented. Nearchos holds various esteemed positions in many renowned companies.He is the Director of J&P Fresca (Cyprus) Produce Ltd, Executive Member of the Board of Directors at Ellinas Finance Public Company Ltd, and Non Executive Director and member of the Audit Committee of the Company at Actibond Growth Fund Public Company Ltd. This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.

Nayef Shahin is the Founder & Managing Partner of Metis; Focusing on business development, capital markets, marketing, strategy, and new business valuation. Nayef holds an Electrical Engineering Degree and began his career in the space industry. Nayef has extensive experience in Business Development, Market Entry, Program Management, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). He was Spectrum Strategy and Market Development Manager at one of the leading satellite operators in the UAE. He was responsible for setting the company’s spectrum strategy to drive the business’s growth agenda in EMEA, Asia, and the Americas. Nayef has assisted several SMEs to raise growth capital or develop a growth strategy across several industries such as FinTech, Healthcare, and Manufacturing just to name a few. Additionally, He heads the implementation of the blockchain and Digital Security Offering (DSO) strategy for Metis to guide their clients through the journey of issuing a fully compliant offering. This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre.This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.

Mohammed AlTunisi is the Payroll Section Head at Saudi Airlines Catering Company. He is a strong professional graduate with a degree of Bachelor in Finance from the University of Business and Technology in Saudi Arabia, Took more than 10 additional courses in finance and Banking. Mohammed has more than 5 years of working experience in different high-end companies not to mention SAMBA Bank, Al-Sharif Holding Group, Siemens , Experienced Management Associate with a demonstrated history of working in the banking industry. Skilled in Team Building, HR Policies & Procedures, Management, Data Analytics, Project Coordination, and Finance controller. This FiNext Awards & Conference is to be held on the 26th and 27th of February at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. This is the much-awaited conference of the year as it brings together and celebrates the excellence of companies and people in the FinTech sector. Fin-Tech industry needed space for the smartest, innovative, inventive and ambitious people to connect and create, consequently FiNext Awards and Conference were started as a dedicated platform to serve the needs of the Fin-Tech industry in terms of interaction, innovation, networking and showcasing of the talent. Two days of celebration of people who have put their lives in innovating, transforming the way how people transact through technology. FiNext Awards acknowledge people who are bringing the future of finance through their persistent efforts. The conference strives to build a platform for startups, SMEs, key decision-makers, researchers, investors and people from the media to interact and garner meaningful alliances.