Intelligent CIO APAC Issue 58 | Page 80

GET TO KNOW field. The range of using AI is a long list, such as generating articles, creating educational materials and developing marketing campaigns to composing music and producing realistic visuals.
Another trending area is green energy and using new technologies to assist us in the modern world. Focusing on enhancing efficiency and reducing the costs of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and bioenergy, will have increasing importance going forward.
How do you deal with stress and unwind outside the office?
Stress is a common feeling that comes and goes for all of us working in the business of technology. I normally choose exercise on a bicycle track as my main stress relief. The nearby track in my area is over 20 km long and is surrounded by beautiful nature. So, it is very relaxing for me, especially when there is a nice breeze while cycling and I am can concentrate on my riding technique.
However, I believe even though we work in a demanding industry, we also need to find a proper balance.
What do you currently identify as the major areas of investment in your industry?
The technology industry is very wide and complex. Hence, I can only comment on investments relating to the narrow sub-technological field we are involved in, namely, the development and implementation of large digital projects. In this area, most projects that we are managing are largescale and often require the involvement of a government organizations, large business entities and multi-national investment funds.
What are the region-specific challenges when implementing new technologies in APAC?
Language barriers and cultural expectations are clearly the most significant regional-specific challenges for implementing new technologies across APAC. Even for me personally as part of the APAC region, there are always be certain cultural norms and unwritten rules I do not fully understand in certain regions.
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months?
The digital transformation is a never-ending process, with new developments, tools and capabilities. This, in turn, requires training, education, changes in perceptions and different mind sets. This is a continual challenge needs to be addressed on a daily, weekly and annual basis.
What advice would you offer somebody aspiring to obtain a C-level position in your industry?
The business of technology is very competitive and demanding. To reach a c-level position, one should concentrate on bringing the best in terms of technology, management, leadership and teamwork. Anyone aspiring to become an executive manager in a business or technology environment, must focus on continually expanding their potential and capabilities. p
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