“AI is the next revolution for the human race – this is as big as the invention of computers,” said Hatem Dowidar, Group CEO of e& at the Arabian Business Leadership Summit 2024.
Dowidar offered a compelling view on artificial intelligence (AI) and the broader technological and leadership challenges of our time alongside sharing his views on leadership.
Artificial Intelligence: The next revolution
“AI is here; it’s real; it’s not a concept anymore,” stated Dowidar, setting the tone for a profound discussion on the transformative power of AI.
Dowidar pointed out that AI democratises many actions previously reserved for specialised experts. “Now, the layman can write to AI in plain language,” he said. This accessibility means that complex tasks can be executed by a broader range of people, enhancing productivity and innovation across various sectors.
Governance and ethical use of AI
While AI holds immense potential, Dowidar stressed the importance of governance. “AI has a big challenge, which is the governance of AI for several things.”
He highlighted issues such as AI hallucination, where AI generates false data, and the creation of deepfakes, which involve producing realistic audio and video content using existing images and sounds.
“We need to make sure that there is ethical use of AI,” he asserted, calling for robust frameworks to manage data consent, intellectual property, and security.
Investing in connectivity
Reflecting on e&’s role in the technological ecosystem, Dowidar shared, “We have been investing over the last 40 years in connectivity.” He underscored the critical importance of infrastructure to support AI and other technological advancements.
This investment is not just about enabling new technologies but also about enhancing everyday applications, from remote working to Internet of Things (IoT) solutions aimed at sustainability and carbon footprint reduction.
Leadership in the digital age
Transitioning to the topic of leadership, Dowidar cited figures like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and companies like Apple as exemplars of innovative leadership. “Working on values really becomes the compass for leaders,” he said, asserting the importance of integrity and moral guidance in steering organisations.
He also highlighted the multi-stakeholder mentality, asserting that businesses must balance the needs of customers, shareholders, and the broader community. “Companies that keep thinking of the customer only, lose the trust of the shareholder and vice versa,” he stated, advocating for a holistic approach to decision-making.
When discussing team building, Dowidar identified two main criteria: alignment with company values and capability. “How does that person fit with the values of the company?” he questioned, adding that intelligence, which encompasses capability and experience, is crucial for executing job responsibilities effectively.
Time management and prioritisation
Dowidar concluded with advice on managing the demands of leadership. “You can be doing many things, but you have to understand that at any point, you have to be doing one thing,” he advised.
He highlighted the importance of focusing on the task at hand and understanding the dynamics of prioritisation. “I always say that as long as you are clear on what’s important and focus on the one thing you have at hand, you will get it done,” he remarked, sharing a practical approach to balancing multiple responsibilities.
The CEO at the Arabian Business Leadership Summit underscored the transformative potential of AI and the critical importance of ethical governance and connectivity infrastructure.
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