Hall of Fame
CIOLook welcomes you to Hall of Fame — a tribute to visionary leaders and inspiring clients whose innovation, resilience, and impact continue to inspire. We are proud of those who are shaping industries, driving change, and setting new benchmarks for excellence. Your journey is our own pride!
Richard Larson,
Professor, MIT
Richard Larson, Professor at MIT, is a globally recognized expert in operations research, queuing theory, and urban service systems. Known as “Doctor Queue,” he’s led groundbreaking research in public systems, healthcare, and education. As Founding Director of MIT LINC, he advances global education through technology, shaping policy and practice across developing and developed nations alike.
Richard Larson
Professor, MIT
Richard Larson, Professor at MIT, is a globally recognized expert in operations research, queuing theory, and urban service systems. Known as “Doctor Queue,” he’s led groundbreaking research in public systems, healthcare, and education. As Founding Director of MIT LINC, he advances global education through technology, shaping policy and practice across developing and developed nations alike.
Bala V. Sathyanarayanan,
Executive Vice President | Chief Human Resources Officer | Greif
Bala V. Sathyanarayanan serves as Executive Vice President and CHRO at Greif, Inc., where he drives global workforce transformation and cultural innovation. With prior leadership roles at Xerox, HP, Coca-Cola, and Avaya, he integrates strategic HR with business goals. A Harvard AMP graduate, Bala champions servant leadership, diversity, and digital transformation in industrial packaging.
Bala V. Sathyanarayanan
Executive Vice President | Chief Human Resources Officer | Greif
Bala V. Sathyanarayanan serves as Executive Vice President and CHRO at Greif, Inc., where he drives global workforce transformation and cultural innovation. With prior leadership roles at Xerox, HP, Coca-Cola, and Avaya, he integrates strategic HR with business goals. A Harvard AMP graduate, Bala champions servant leadership, diversity, and digital transformation in industrial packaging.
Aisling Guilfoyle,
Project Manager, WSP Middle East
Aisling Guilfoyle, Project Manager at WSP Middle East, is celebrated for her inclusive leadership and commitment to excellence in infrastructure development. She fosters collaboration and empowers teams to deliver impactful projects across the Middle East.
Aisling Guilfoyle
Project Manager, WSP Middle East
Aisling Guilfoyle, Project Manager at WSP Middle East, is celebrated for her inclusive leadership and commitment to excellence in infrastructure development. She fosters collaboration and empowers teams to deliver impactful projects across the Middle East.
Ramona Fayazfar,
Professor and ECAM Lab Director
Dr. Ramona Fayazfar, PhD, P.Eng., is an Assistant Professor at Ontario Tech University and Director of the Eco-Friendly Circular Advanced Materials & Additive Manufacturing (E-CAM) Lab. Her research focuses on developing sustainable, recyclable materials for 3D printing, transforming waste into high-performance, low-carbon solutions.
Ramona Fayazfar
Professor and ECAM Lab Director
Dr. Ramona Fayazfar, PhD, P.Eng., is an Assistant Professor at Ontario Tech University and Director of the Eco-Friendly Circular Advanced Materials & Additive Manufacturing (E-CAM) Lab. Her research focuses on developing sustainable, recyclable materials for 3D printing, transforming waste into high-performance, low-carbon solutions.
Lance Jay,
Chief Procurement Officer at the City and County of Denver
Lance Jay, Chief Procurement Officer for the City and County of Denver, oversees over $700 million in annual procurements. Recognized for integrating technology and championing supplier diversity, his leadership earned the division the 2023 RMGPA Purchasing Team of the Year award.
Lance Jay
Chief Procurement Officer at the City and County of Denver
Lance Jay, Chief Procurement Officer for the City and County of Denver, oversees over $700 million in annual procurements. Recognized for integrating technology and championing supplier diversity, his leadership earned the division the 2023 RMGPA Purchasing Team of the Year award.
Emad Bukhamseen,
Bukhamseen Group
Emad Bukhamseen, Vice Chairman and CEO of Bukhamseen Group Holding Company, spearheads one of Kuwait’s largest conglomerates, with interests spanning real estate, finance, hospitality, and media. Under his leadership, the group has expanded its footprint across the Middle East, emphasizing innovation and sustainable development. A philanthropist at heart, Emad actively supports humanitarian initiatives and cultural preservation efforts.
Emad Bukhamseen,
Bukhamseen Group
Emad Bukhamseen, Vice Chairman and CEO of Bukhamseen Group Holding Company, spearheads one of Kuwait’s largest conglomerates, with interests spanning real estate, finance, hospitality, and media. Under his leadership, the group has expanded its footprint across the Middle East, emphasizing innovation and sustainable development. A philanthropist at heart, Emad actively supports humanitarian initiatives and cultural preservation efforts.
Dr. Christian Klein,
Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer
Dr. Christian Klein, CEO of SAP SE, has been instrumental in steering the company towards a cloud-first strategy, emphasizing AI integration and sustainability. Joining SAP in 1999, he ascended through various roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Co-CEO, before becoming sole CEO in 2020. Under his leadership, SAP has embraced innovation to meet evolving enterprise needs.
Dr. Christian Klein,
Chief Information Officer & Chief Operating Officer
Dr. Christian Klein, CEO of SAP SE, has been instrumental in steering the company towards a cloud-first strategy, emphasizing AI integration and sustainability. Joining SAP in 1999, he ascended through various roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Co-CEO, before becoming sole CEO in 2020. Under his leadership, SAP has embraced innovation to meet evolving enterprise needs.
Caspar Jans,
Director of Celonis Process Management
Caspar Jans, Director of Celonis Process Management, brings over 25 years of expertise in business process management. He has collaborated with global enterprises like Unilever and Rolls-Royce to enhance operational efficiency. Caspar also co-hosts the BPM360 podcast, sharing insights on process innovation.
Caspar Jans,
Director of Celonis Process Management
Caspar Jans, Director of Celonis Process Management, brings over 25 years of expertise in business process management. He has collaborated with global enterprises like Unilever and Rolls-Royce to enhance operational efficiency. Caspar also co-hosts the BPM360 podcast, sharing insights on process innovation.
Ian Philips,
General Manager, HCLSoftware
Ian Philips is the General Manager of Observability Product Offerings at HCLSoftware. He was featured in CIO Look’s “Most Influential Leaders in RegTech to Watch in 2024” for his pioneering work in business observability within the fast-paced software market. Philips emphasizes the importance of understanding the entire observable business ecosystem to facilitate timely, informed decision-making—a critical aspect in today’s digital economy.
Ian Philips,
General Manager, HCLSoftware
Ian Philips is the General Manager of Observability Product Offerings at HCLSoftware. He was featured in CIO Look’s “Most Influential Leaders in RegTech to Watch in 2024” for his pioneering work in business observability within the fast-paced software market. Philips emphasizes the importance of understanding the entire observable business ecosystem to facilitate timely, informed decision-making—a critical aspect in today’s digital economy.
Abhishek Agarwal,
A Journey of Vision, Grit, and Global Impact
Every once in a while, we come across individuals whose journeys not only define their careers but also inspire the world around them. Abhishek Agarwal is one such individual – a leader who didn’t just climb the ladder of success but reshaped the rungs as he went, making space for innovation, inclusion, and integrity.
From Early Lessons to Global Leadership
Abhishek’s story isn’t just built on titles and milestones; it’s grounded in experiences, challenges, and choices that shaped him into the leader he is today. He began his career like many—curious, ambitious, and eager to make a difference.
From a young age, Abhishek showed a natural inclination for leadership and an inherent aptitude for learning. His early curiosity and drive for academic excellence laid the foundation for his career. He solidified this bedrock with impressive academic achievements, including an MBA from the renowned ENPC in Paris, France, and his experience as a Wharton alumnus.
Abhishek has ventured across multiple industries —from business services to cutting-edge technology—and gradually built a reputation for being someone who could see the bigger picture without losing sight of the details. Whether it was leading a team through digital transformation, navigating complex client ecosystems, or expanding a business into new territories, Abhishek brought a rare combination of clarity and empathy to every challenge.
Leadership That Looks Beyond the Boardroom
What makes Abhishek’s professional journey truly admirable isn’t just his impressive portfolio—it’s his approach to leadership. In boardrooms, he’s known for his strategic thinking and business foresight. Among his teams, he’s respected for his humility, mentorship, and the way he leads by example.
Abhishek champions a modern view of leadership, believing it has evolved from authoritative to empathetic and visionary. To truly thrive, leaders must prioritize empathy, adapt swiftly to change, possess strategic foresight, and communicate effectively. Abhishek’s success is a testament to his people-centric approach and community focus, underscoring the power of compassion. He emphasizes that a holistic leader balances these qualities with strong strategic acumen for sustained success.
His success has always been shared, rooted in collaboration, purpose, and a deep respect for people and processes.
And it’s this balance between business acumen and human insight that has made him such a compelling figure in today’s leadership landscape.
Why We Chose to Honour Abhishek Agarwal
When our editorial team began reviewing nominations for this recognition, Abhishek’s name stood out not just for his accomplishments, but for the impact behind them. We weren’t just looking at his titles or tenure, we were looking at the ripple effect of his work.
More than just a corporate leader, Abhishek is also a recognized thought leader and mentor. As a TEDx speaker and the bestselling author of ‘The 3I Effect,’ he actively shares his expertise on leadership, innovation, and personal development. He’s dedicated to inspiring the next generation by championing a mindset of continuous learning and personal growth in himself and his teams.
That’s why we’re proud to present Abhishek Agarwal with a Certificate of Honour—a gesture that acknowledges not only what he’s done, but who he is as a professional, a leader, and a human being.
Extending the Business of Fame (BOAF) Honor
Alongside this, we are also thrilled to extend to Abhishek the Business of Fame (BOAF) Honor—a global branding recognition given to individuals who are redefining the way business is done across borders and industries.
This is more than an accolade. It’s a platform that celebrates stories like Abhishek’s—stories of resilience, purpose, and evolution. It’s a recognition designed not just to applaud success, but to spotlight leadership that is courageous, future-ready, and globally relevant.
A Well-Deserved Tribute
Abhishek Agarwal’s journey reminds us that leadership isn’t about being in charge—it’s about creating impact. It’s about showing up every day with integrity, lifting others as you climb, and building legacies that go beyond numbers.
This recognition—both the Certificate of Honour and the BOAF distinction—is our way of saying thank you. Thank you for leading with heart. For thinking beyond the immediate. For building a career that inspires others to believe that success, when built on purpose, can truly change the world.
Here’s to many more milestones, many more stories—and to a leader who continues to shape the future with clarity, courage, and conviction.
Abhishek Agarwal,
A Journey of Vision, Grit, and Global Impact
Every once in a while, we come across individuals whose journeys not only define their careers but also inspire the world around them. Abhishek Agarwal is one such individual – a leader who didn’t just climb the ladder of success but reshaped the rungs as he went, making space for innovation, inclusion, and integrity.
From Early Lessons to Global Leadership
Abhishek’s story isn’t just built on titles and milestones; it’s grounded in experiences, challenges, and choices that shaped him into the leader he is today. He began his career like many—curious, ambitious, and eager to make a difference.
From a young age, Abhishek showed a natural inclination for leadership and an inherent aptitude for learning. His early curiosity and drive for academic excellence laid the foundation for his career. He solidified this bedrock with impressive academic achievements, including an MBA from the renowned ENPC in Paris, France, and his experience as a Wharton alumnus.
Abhishek has ventured across multiple industries —from business services to cutting-edge technology—and gradually built a reputation for being someone who could see the bigger picture without losing sight of the details. Whether it was leading a team through digital transformation, navigating complex client ecosystems, or expanding a business into new territories, Abhishek brought a rare combination of clarity and empathy to every challenge.
Leadership That Looks Beyond the Boardroom
What makes Abhishek’s professional journey truly admirable isn’t just his impressive portfolio—it’s his approach to leadership. In boardrooms, he’s known for his strategic thinking and business foresight. Among his teams, he’s respected for his humility, mentorship, and the way he leads by example.
Abhishek champions a modern view of leadership, believing it has evolved from authoritative to empathetic and visionary. To truly thrive, leaders must prioritize empathy, adapt swiftly to change, possess strategic foresight, and communicate effectively. Abhishek’s success is a testament to his people-centric approach and community focus, underscoring the power of compassion. He emphasizes that a holistic leader balances these qualities with strong strategic acumen for sustained success.
His success has always been shared, rooted in collaboration, purpose, and a deep respect for people and processes.
And it’s this balance between business acumen and human insight that has made him such a compelling figure in today’s leadership landscape.
Why We Chose to Honour Abhishek Agarwal
When our editorial team began reviewing nominations for this recognition, Abhishek’s name stood out not just for his accomplishments, but for the impact behind them. We weren’t just looking at his titles or tenure, we were looking at the ripple effect of his work.
More than just a corporate leader, Abhishek is also a recognized thought leader and mentor. As a TEDx speaker and the bestselling author of ‘The 3I Effect,’ he actively shares his expertise on leadership, innovation, and personal development. He’s dedicated to inspiring the next generation by championing a mindset of continuous learning and personal growth in himself and his teams.
That’s why we’re proud to present Abhishek Agarwal with a Certificate of Honour—a gesture that acknowledges not only what he’s done, but who he is as a professional, a leader, and a human being.
Extending the Business of Fame (BOAF) Honor
Alongside this, we are also thrilled to extend to Abhishek the Business of Fame (BOAF) Honor—a global branding recognition given to individuals who are redefining the way business is done across borders and industries.
This is more than an accolade. It’s a platform that celebrates stories like Abhishek’s—stories of resilience, purpose, and evolution. It’s a recognition designed not just to applaud success, but to spotlight leadership that is courageous, future-ready, and globally relevant.
A Well-Deserved Tribute
Abhishek Agarwal’s journey reminds us that leadership isn’t about being in charge—it’s about creating impact. It’s about showing up every day with integrity, lifting others as you climb, and building legacies that go beyond numbers.
This recognition—both the Certificate of Honour and the BOAF distinction—is our way of saying thank you. Thank you for leading with heart. For thinking beyond the immediate. For building a career that inspires others to believe that success, when built on purpose, can truly change the world.
Here’s to many more milestones, many more stories—and to a leader who continues to shape the future with clarity, courage, and conviction.