My professional journey spans over 25 years, during which I have held various leadership roles in technology and digital transformation across multiple industries, including retail, fintech, healthcare, and sports. I began my career in IT support and infrastructure management, gradually moving into strategic roles such as Regional IT Head, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), and Technology Consultant for organizations like MAGRABi Retail Group, Confederation of African Football (CAF), and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

What drew me to the technology industry was its dynamic nature and the ability to drive meaningful change through innovation. Technology is not just a tool but a catalyst for business growth, efficiency, and societal impact. My passion for solving complex problems and creating scalable solutions led me to focus on digital transformation, fintech, and startup ecosystems, where I could leverage my expertise to build and optimize technology infrastructures that deliver tangible results and contribute to Egypt’s economic development.

2. Brief us about the company and your role. What inspired you to start this venture? What is the core mission of the company?

Juhayna Group is a powerhouse in Egypt, renowned for its leadership in the FMCG industry and its significant presence in the FMCG sector as one of the top 10 companies in egypt The company’s success is built on a foundation of quality, innovation, and customer-centricity. As the Chief Technology Officer (CTO), my role is to spearhead the company’s technological vision, ensuring that our digital infrastructure supports our growth and enhances operational efficiency. While I didn’t start this venture, I was inspired to join Juhayna because of its mission to deliver high-quality products and services that enrich the lives of its customers. The core mission of Juhayna Group is to innovate sustainably, empower communities, and set industry benchmarks through excellence in everything we do.

3. What is your strategic vision for your company, and how do you plan to drive innovation in the fintech industry?

My strategic vision for Juhayna Group is to position it as a global leader in FMCG and Agricultue industries by leveraging cutting-edge technology. To drive innovation, we are intersting in technologies like blockchain, AI, and data analytics to enhance transaction transparency, improve risk management, and deliver personalized solutions. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, Juhayna’s growth but also contributes to Egypt’s digital economy.

4. How does your company prioritize customer needs and satisfaction in its operations?

At Juhayna Group, customer satisfaction is at the core of everything we do. We prioritize customer needs by leveraging technology to create seamless, personalized experiences across all touchpoints. For example, our e-commerce platforms and futuer mobile apps are designed to make it easy for customers to access our products and services. We also use data analytics to understand consumer preferences and tailor our offerings accordingly. In the FMCG sector, we ensure transparency, security, and efficiency in every transaction, building trust with our clients. Regular feedback loops and customer surveys help us stay aligned with their expectations, allowing us to continuously improve and innovate.

5. What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the fintech industry, and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges in the fintech industry is ensuring robust cybersecurity while maintaining seamless user experiences. With the rise of digital transactions, the risk of cyber threats has increased significantly. To address this, we’ve implemented advanced encryption technologies, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring systems. Another challenge is regulatory compliance, especially in a dynamic market like Egypt. We’ve overcome this by working closely with regulatory bodies and investing in compliance management systems that adapt to changing laws. Lastly, fostering trust in digital financial services has been critical. We’ve achieved this by prioritizing transparency, educating our customers, and delivering consistent, reliable services.

6. What are some of the biggest challenges in developing and scaling a digital health platform like WeHealthify?

While Juhayna Group is primarily focused onFMCG, I can draw parallels to challenges in scaling digital platforms. Key challenges include ensuring data privacy and security, especially when dealing with sensitive health information. Scalability is another hurdle, as platforms must handle increasing user loads without compromising performance. Interoperability with existing systems and ensuring a user-friendly interface are also critical. To overcome these, we would adopt a phased approach, starting with a robust MVP (Minimum Viable Product), gathering user feedback, and iterating quickly. Partnering with healthcare providers and leveraging cloud-based solutions would also be essential for scalability and reliability.

7. What are some of the biggest opportunities you see in the industry?

The FMCG and agliclutre industries are ripe with opportunities. In FMCG, the rise of blockchain, AI, and digital wallets presents a chance to revolutionize financial services, making them more accessible and secure. For Juhayna, the growing demand for digital health and wellness products is an exciting opportunity to expand our portfolio. Additionally, the increasing adoption of e-commerce and digital payments in Egypt opens doors for us to enhance customer engagement and reach new markets. Sustainability is another major opportunity—by leveraging technology to reduce waste and optimize resources, we can align with global trends and meet consumer demand for eco-friendly practices.

8. How do you keep abreast with the changes in your industry and prepare yourself for continuous growth?

Staying ahead in a fast-paced industry requires constant learning and adaptability. I regularly attend industry conferences, webinars, and workshops to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies. I also subscribe to leading tech and business publications and participate in professional networks to exchange ideas with peers. Within Juhayna, we foster a culture of innovation by encouraging our teams to experiment with new tools and methodologies. Additionally, we invest in upskilling our workforce through training programs and certifications. This proactive approach ensures that we are always prepared to embrace change and drive continuous growth.

9. What is your and your team’s goal for the next five years, and what steps are you taking to achieve it?

Our goal for the next five years is to solidify Juhayna Group’s position as a leader in both the food and beverage and fintech sectors while expanding our digital footprint. Specifically, we aim to:

· Enhance Digital Transformation: Fully integrate AI, IoT, and blockchain into our operations to improve efficiency and customer experiences.

· Expand Market Reach: Leverage e-commerce and digital marketing to tap into new customer segments, both locally and internationally.

· Drive Sustainability: Implement green technologies and sustainable practices across our supply chain.

· Innovate in Fintech: Develop cutting-edge financial solutions that cater to Egypt’s growing digital economy.

To achieve these goals, we are investing in R&D, fostering partnerships with tech innovators, and building a culture of agility and collaboration within our teams.

10. What is that one quote you absolutely live by or find helpful?

One quote that has always resonated with me is: “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” – Steve Jobs This quote reminds me that staying ahead requires constant innovation and a willingness to take calculated risks. In my role as CTO, I strive to embody this mindset by encouraging my team to think creatively, challenge the status quo, and embrace change. It’s a philosophy that has guided me throughout my career and continues to drive Juhayna’s success.