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Unlock Our Dubai Leadership Conference’s 2025 Agenda

Theme: Leadership That Walks The Talk

Step into a world of transformative ideas at our CXO 2.0 Conference’s Winter Edition in Dubai, where the theme, ‘Leadership That Walks The Talk,’ takes center stage. Our dynamic three-day leadership development summit will explore strategies to empower leaders in navigating challenges, embracing uncertainty, and driving impactful change. With insights from global leaders and industry trailblazers, our agenda is designed to equip you with the tools to lead boldly and thrive in an ever-changing world. Experience a redefined approach to leadership, tailored for tomorrow’s unpredictable realities.

  • Registration, Morning Coffee, And Refreshments

    Ready to make the most of the next three days? Start here! Grab a coffee, find your footing, and connect with your peers during this casual networking session. It's your prime opportunity to make those initial introductions and build a network before the conference begins.

  • Opening Note: CXO 2.0 Conference Dubai, 2025

    Welcome to the CXO 2.0 Conference Dubai, 2025. You're here alongside top leaders, the architects of innovation, and the catalysts of change. Prepare to immerse yourselves in cutting-edge ideas, practical strategies, and essential leadership insights, actively reshaping the pathways to success in our evolving business world.

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: CEO, Therapist & Cheerleader: The Many Hats Of Modern Leadership

    The demands on today's leaders will extend far beyond the boardroom. They will be tasked with charting the strategic course of their organizations, igniting passion within their teams, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement and adaptation. This insightful discussion at our leadership conference will unpack how accomplished CEOs can master this delicate equilibrium while enabling them to lead with purpose and build resilient organizations.

    Speakers:

    Kamal Chaballout

    Michelle Grigsby-Hackett

    Najla Taherrah Wortham

    Pamela Derrico

    Marco Gam

    Robert Misch

    Rajnish Virmani

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Keynote: AI At Full Power: Benefits, Challenges, And The Myth Of AI Data Center Energy Shortage

    As AI scales, so does its appetite for power and water—raising fears of an unsustainable future. But are we facing a real shortage, or just outdated thinking? In this keynote, Patrick Laing challenges the energy crisis narrative, revealing smarter, faster solutions already within reach. From optimizing data centers to recapturing wasted energy, learn how we can support AI’s explosive growth without overloading the grid. It’s time to rethink how we power intelligence—efficiently, sustainably, and boldly.

    Speakers:

    Patrick Laing

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Keynote: Rethinking AI & Analytics For A Zero-Trust World

    In an era where digital threats are constant and trust is earned, organizations must evolve how they approach intelligence and data-driven decisions. This session explores the shift toward more secure, transparent, and accountable systems. Discover how forward-thinking leaders are building resilient strategies that protect assets while unlocking new value across the enterprise.

    Speakers:

    Gerard Antony

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Keynote: The Trust Blueprint: Human-Centered Leadership In A Transactional World

    Samina Chowdhury will share a compelling perspective on leading with empathy and intention in high-pressure environments. This keynote at our leadership conference in 2025 will explore how strong relationships, emotional intelligence, and clear values can drive lasting impact in teams and organizations. Attendees will gain actionable insights to navigate complexity with clarity, while creating a culture rooted in respect, alignment, and mutual accountability.

    Speakers:

    Samina Chowdhury

  • Recognition Session

    Celebrating leadership that makes a difference, this break session honors visionaries, innovators, and changemakers driving real transformations and shaping industries. Witness their excellence being recognized and be inspired.

  • Lunch & Networking

    Enjoy a delicious meal while building valuable connections. This is an excellent opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and promote professional growth in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

  • Business Card Exchange Session

    A simple card exchange can lead to meaningful collaborations. In this session, meet like-minded professionals, share insights, and make connections that last beyond the conference.

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: When To Pivot: Recognizing And Acting On Strategic Red Flags

    Every great leader faces a critical moment: stay the course or change direction. The ability to recognize when a strategy is no longer working is a skill that defines top executives. This panel will uncover how leaders spot red flags early, pivot with confidence, and turn challenges into opportunities. Attendees will gain insights into making tough decisions that align with long-term goals and drive organizational growth.

    Speakers:

    Dr. Anil Pillai

    Joseph Frankie III

    Apurv Mehraa

    Kunal Sinha

    Anand Govindrajan

    Charu

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Keynote: TBD

    Speakers:

    Mahnaz Khazen Shadman

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Succession Planning: Are You Grooming The Right Leaders?

    A company’s success isn’t just about today—it’s about preparing for tomorrow. Developing future leaders is essential for long-term stability and growth, and therefore, businesses put a major focus on their training. At our leadership summit, top-tier leaders will share strategies for building a robust succession plan, identifying rising talent, and ensuring a smooth leadership transition.

    Speakers:

    Irene Riad

    Gerard Hargreaves

    Syed Haider Hussain

    Moustafa El-hadidi

    Sarthak Raychaudhuri

    Rajnish Virmani

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion: Making Leadership Accountable For Results

    Is diversity just a mere metric, or is leadership truly driving change? Many organizations are seen as committing to DEI initiatives, but the absence of robust accountability mechanisms often leads to stalled progress. This panel will discuss how leaders can move beyond statements to measurable action, ensuring real impact at every level of an organization. Here’s your chance to discover methods for integrating DEI into leadership strategies and holding teams accountable for tangible results.

    Speakers:

    Awatif Yahya

    Dr. Bijal seth

    Mona Abdulrahim-Santl

    Capt. Sushant Singh Bhatia

    Deepika Jangra

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Guiding Teams Through Radical Change Without Losing Them

    Does a great strategy mean nothing if your team isn't on board? When businesses experience radical shifts, leaders face the challenge of managing resistance, boosting morale, and securing buy-in. This panel will offer insights into how executives guide their teams through transformation, maintain trust, and ensure continued productivity, even in times of uncertainty. The experts will outline strategies for keeping teams engaged and aligned with the organization’s evolving vision.

    Speakers:

    Dr. Pamela Derrico

    Mansour Javidan

    Tobias Fausch

    Armond James

    Anne William Dias

    Kelly Egode

    Joanna Purdy

  • Recognition Session

    This conference segment celebrates the professionals who dared to venture beyond the familiar, embracing risks with purpose-driven leadership. We applaud their determination to transform abstract ideas into tangible realities.

  • Networking Hour

    Conversations today could lead to partnerships tomorrow. Take this opportunity to engage with those you feel resonated with, share takeaways, and explore potential collaborations in a relaxed setting.

Note: The timing and topics of sessions are subject to changes depending on speakers’ availability or other unforeseen circumstances.

  • Registration, Morning Coffee, And Refreshments

    Grab your coffee and dive into conversations with fellow innovators and leaders. This is your chance to exchange ideas, spark connections, and set the stage for an inspiring day of insights and collaboration. Let the mingling–and the great conversations–begin!

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Scaling With Strength: How Women Are Driving Global Growth

    Women aren’t just part of the growth story—they’re driving it. Across industries and borders, women leaders are scaling businesses with a blend of strategic focus, emotional intelligence, and grit. This session is about what that leadership really looks like in action. No fluff, no theory—just real conversations about how women are building strong teams, expanding into new markets, and making bold decisions that move the needle. It’s growth powered by vision, not ego—and it’s changing the way the world does business.

    Speakers:

    Vijayashree Parameswaran

    Laura Trendall

    Adele Odoherty

    Mika Yamakawa

    Bahar Aljammoor

    Abeer S. Al-Humaimeedy

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Keynote: TBD

    Speakers:

    Alan Krishnan

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Turning Ambition Into An Unstoppable Brand

    From unknown to unforgettable—what’s the secret to market leadership? At our conference on leadership, industry experts reveal how authenticity, consistency, and purpose fuel brand success. Discover strategies to stand out, build customer loyalty, and harness digital platforms to stay ahead of the competition. This engaging panel will unpack the blueprint for turning ideas into a powerful, lasting brand that captures attention and drives impact.

    Speakers:

    Najib Sabbagh

    Caitlin LoCascio-King

    Jihane Labib

    Marcos Baros

    Subramanian Krishnamoorthy

    Raoul Davis

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: The Automation Advantage: How To Work Smarter, Scale Faster, And Save Time

    Why work harder when you can work smarter? Automation is revolutionizing how businesses operate, allowing leaders to streamline workflows, boost efficiency, and accelerate growth. At our global leadership summit, industry experts will outline how organizations are leveraging AI, machine learning, and process automation to scale faster while minimizing costs. Learn to optimize your operations for greater efficiency and productivity.

    Speakers:

    Venkataramanan Chakrapani

    Harun Hujic

    Derek Zar

    Amit Parija

    Tobias Fausch

    Gan Leng Chong

  • Recognition Session

    This session shines a light on individuals whose dedication and leadership inspire other professionals. Their contributions shape the future of their industries, and their commitment serves as a model for others striving for excellence.

  • Lunch & Networking

    Conversations flow best over a great meal. Take a break, share insights, and strengthen connections in a relaxed and engaging setting. This is the perfect time to turn casual discussions into meaningful collaborations that extend beyond our leadership conference.

  • Speaker Session: TBD

    Speakers:

    Sima Azadegan

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Keynote: TBD

    Speakers:

    Irene Raid

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: How Do Entrepreneurs Build Game-Changing Startups From Nothing?

    Every iconic startup begins with a simple idea — but what does it really take to transform that idea into a disruptive business without major funding, connections, or infrastructure? This session brings together trailblazing entrepreneurs who will share the realities of starting from scratch: overcoming early hurdles, making bold decisions, and finding creative ways to scale. From bootstrapping strategies to building the right team and mindset, explore how ambitious founders turn nothing into something extraordinary and leave a lasting impact on their industries.

    Speakers:

    Aravind Suresh

    Brian J. Bauer

    Kanishk Bedi

    Monzer

    Harish Chouhan

  • Fireside Chat: How Global Partnerships Can Fuel Economic Growth.

    The biggest business breakthroughs aren’t happening in isolation—they’re happening through collaboration. In an interconnected world, global partnerships are tapping new business opportunities, accelerating innovation, and driving economic expansion. This fireside will discuss how industry leaders are leveraging strategic alliances to scale faster, navigate international challenges, and create sustained economic growth.

    Speakers:

    Sanjay Chandrasekhar

    Harun Hujic

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Disrupt Or Be Disrupted: Navigating Emerging Technologies

    What happens when the pace of innovation outstrips your ability to adapt? In an era where emerging technologies are redefining business models overnight, staying relevant means more than just keeping up—it requires proactive transformation. This panel at our leadership summit will explore how leaders can embrace change strategically, navigate tech-driven disruption, and position themselves at the forefront of tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

    Speakers:

    Pradeep Nair

    Laura Trendall

    George Kavvalakis

    Dr. Vikash Raj

    Gerard Antony

    Guy Marong

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Your Name Is Your Empire: Turning Your Reputation Into Your Legacy

    Your brand is the essence of your organization – its values, personality, and purpose extend far beyond products or services. Industry trailblazers turn their reputation into a legacy that extends beyond business. This session will uncover how leaders build credibility, influence, and lasting impact through thought leadership, personal branding, and strategic credibility. Speakers will outline proven strategies to create long-term success and elevate your presence in a competitive landscape.

    Speakers:

    Nicola Middleton

    Deepti

    Dwayne Nathan Jack

    Mohamad Rabia Itani

    Subramanian Krishnamoorthy

  • Recognition Session

    Witness the acknowledgment of remarkable leaders whose contributions are driving meaningful change in their fields. This celebration honors individuals whose innovation and leadership continue to shape industries and inspire future trailblazers.

  • Networking Hour

    It’s time to engage in meaningful conversations, exchange insights, and build relationships that extend beyond the conference. A quick chat today could turn into a game-changing opportunity tomorrow.

Note: The timing and topics of sessions are subject to changes depending on speakers’ availability or other unforeseen circumstances.

  • Registration, Morning Coffee, And Refreshments

    Start your day with an energizing coffee while you network with key industry figures, make initial connections, and set the scene for insightful discussions.

  • SPEAKERS FINALIZED

    Panel Discussion: Let It Go, Let It Go: Building Managers You Can Actually Trust To Handle It

    Great leaders don’t micromanage—they empower. But how will you develop managers who take ownership, make decisions, and drive results? This conversation will delve into how leaders can cultivate trust, build capable teams, and delegate with confidence. You’ll learn strategies to empower managers with autonomy, accountability, and problem-solving skills, allowing you to focus on long-term growth instead of overseeing every detail.

    Speakers:

    Gerard Hargreaves

    Renaud Vandewalle

    George Kavvalakis

    Mohamed Shehata

    Dr. Kamran Khan

    Guy Marong

  • Keynote: TBD

  • Panel Discussion: Making Bold Decisions In Volatile Markets

    What if uncertainty were your greatest opportunity? Some of the most successful companies have been built in the most uncertain times. At our leadership conference, industry experts will unpack how bold decision-making, risk assessment, and rapid adaptation can fuel growth even in volatile markets. This is an excellent opportunity to learn how to lead with clarity, make confident choices, and stay ahead in an unpredictable business environment.

    Speakers:

    Kunal Sinha

    Dr. Maure Bond

  • Panel Discussion: From Bootstrap To Venture Capital—What’s Right For You?

    Every business needs funding, but not every funding path leads to success. Some entrepreneurs build empires with their own resources, while others secure millions from investors to scale quickly. This session will outline the pros and cons of bootstrapping versus venture capital, revealing what it takes to grow a business without compromising control. Speakers will share their experiences and provide guidance on choosing the funding model that best aligns with your long-term goals and growth strategy.

  • Recognition Session

    This session honors professionals who have set new benchmarks in leadership, innovation, and strategic excellence. Beyond their individual accomplishments, their achievements drive industry-wide progress and inspire the next wave of change-makers.

  • Lunch & Networking

    Make the most of your well-deserved lunch break by engaging in meaningful conversations–the perfect way to expand your network and exchange ideas in a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Business Card Exchange Session

    In this setting tailored for quality networking, engaging in meaningful conversations, and exchanging business cards. This is a brilliant chance to expand your professional circle.

  • Panel Discussion: From Imposter Syndrome To Confidence: How Women Can Lead Authentically

    What’s holding women back—their skills or their self-doubt? The fact that even the most accomplished leaders can experience impostor syndrome underscores the importance of recognizing our worth, regardless of occasional self-doubt. This panel will outline how women can embrace their expertise, silence self-doubt, and lead with confidence. Industry experts will share strategies for overcoming internal barriers, building executive presence, and stepping into leadership roles authentically, without feeling the need to conform.

    Speakers:

    Taniya Hussain

    Geeta Bhosle

    Awatif Yahya

  • Panel Discussion: The Next Big Thing: Where Innovation Meets Opportunity In Future Industries

    The future belongs to those who can spot opportunities before they become mainstream. During this session, industry experts will discuss the latest technologies, trends, and sectors that are poised to drive the next wave of business transformation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or executive, this panel will equip you with the insights needed to navigate emerging markets and seize the opportunities that will define the future.

    Speakers:

    Dwayne Nathan Jack

    Ahmed Ezzeldin

    Kenjiro Momi

  • Panel Discussion: Navigating Generational Differences In The Workplace

    Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z—can they work together? With different communication styles, work ethics, and expectations, generational gaps can create friction or drive innovation. This panel is intended for leaders to facilitate collaboration, bridge differences, and utilize diverse perspectives to build a high-performing workplace. Learn strategies to turn age diversity into a competitive advantage.

    Speakers:

    Katarzyna Kwiatkowska

    Lara Khouri

    Joanna Purdy

  • Panel Discussion: Lessons Corporations Can Learn From Startup Mentality

    Agility, speed, and innovation set startups apart, but it is often challenging for businesses to tick all the boxes. At this session, industry experts will reveal how large organizations can embrace startups' risk-taking mindset to stay competitive. Furthermore, this session is designed to help established and scaling businesses incorporate startup-inspired strategies, ensuring they remain dynamic, future-ready, and prepared for disruption.

  • Vote Of Thanks

    A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to making our business leadership conference a success, from thought leaders to engaged attendees. The conversations sparked here will drive change long after we part ways until we meet again at the next big gathering!

Note: The timing and topics of sessions are subject to changes depending on speakers’ availability or other unforeseen circumstances.

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