Leadership is evolving rapidly in 2024, driven by individuals who are transforming industries. The top 10 leaders featured in this article embody different approaches that inspire innovation and drive success. Their leadership styles are not just methods—they are the reason behind their remarkable impact.
These leaders are reshaping the future through bold ideas and action. From advancing technology to championing sustainability, their work reflects how leadership can solve challenges and create opportunities. They show that great leadership is not about following trends but about setting new ones.
Top 10 Leadership Styles – Leaders Who Are Driving Innovation
Below is the list of the top 10 leadership styles you should definitely know about! Let’s get to it.
1. Ilya Likhov | Transforming the Global Energy Market with Neosun Energy
Ilya Likhov – hi-tech entrepreneur, visionary, founder and CEO of Neosun Energy – an International fast-growing solar EPC and manufacturing company.
He is a distinguished authority in the field of Solar Energy, and international business strategy with over 20 years of hands-on experience. Today his business approach is changing the global energy market.
“Neosun is entering the Energy market with a completely new business model. We are essentially disrupting the market by bringing in ideas usually used by IT giants.
Today, we are building a global solar EPC brand. We aim to be a company like Starbucks or McDonald’s but in the Solar Energy industry. We are opening branches worldwide to capture the largest market share possible.We are growing globally with unified standards, creating a strong umbrella brand. At the same time, we act locally by bringing our standards to regional markets. This is essentially a “franchise model” that allows us to stand out among thousands of local competitors and offer high-quality service and low prices to our end customers.” said Ilya Likhov.
LinkedIn | Website | NEOSUN Energy
2. Edwige Dazogbo | CEO of Edgy TV and Media Tech Visionary
Edwige Dazogbo, CEO of Edgy TV, is making waves in the media and technology world. Originally from Benin, West Africa, and now a Canadian entrepreneur, Edwige brings a unique global outlook shaped by living in 10 countries and an academic foundation in Communication, Cinema, and Business Administration from HEC and the University of Montreal.
With over 16 years of expertise spanning project management, sales, communication, marketing, and business administration, Edwige has built a reputation as a forward-thinking leader. Her ability to combine strategic vision with hands-on execution has positioned her as a transformative force in her industry.
Under her leadership, Edgy TV is expanding into technology-driven ventures. One of her boldest moves is launching Edgy Telecom, which aims to deliver 5G services and mobile phones in West Africa and Canada through a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). “Our media companies are growing rapidly, and entering the telecom space is a natural next step,” Edwige shares.
Edwige is also leveraging AI to enhance production systems, driving efficiency and innovation across operations. Additionally, she is working with partners to upgrade fiber internet infrastructure in Africa and expand IPTV box services to support the growth of internet service providers (ISPs) in the region. “These projects allow us to bridge technology gaps and support infrastructure development in emerging markets,” she explains.
Her vision and efforts reflect a deep commitment to both technological innovation and sustainable growth, making her a true trailblazer in media and technology.
3. Dr. Jane Thomason | Pioneering Web3 and the Metaverse
Dr. Jane Thomason, the chair of Kasei Digital Assets, is a leading voice in integrating Web3 and the Metaverse into everyday life. With a background that spans academia and practical innovation, she contributes to groundbreaking developments through her work with University College London’s Centre for Blockchain and editorial boards of major digital technology publications.
As an author of works like Blockchain for Global Social Change, Dr. Thomason emphasizes the transformative power of emerging technologies. “The convergence of Web3 and the Metaverse isn’t just about technology—it’s a societal shift where virtual and real-world benefits come together to enhance daily life,” she explains.
Dr. Thomason is passionate about how smart technology can revolutionize mental health care. She highlights the potential of gaming to offer immersive, interactive tools that improve psychological well-being. “AI, blockchain, and virtual reality are reshaping gaming, enabling personalized experiences that entertain and provide therapeutic value,” she notes.
She envisions a future where gaming seamlessly supports mental health initiatives. Relaxation-focused virtual reality games, for instance, could help reduce anxiety, while multiplayer games could foster teamwork and social connections. “The future of gaming lies in its ability to blend entertainment with real-world benefits,” Dr. Thomason adds.
A strong advocate for gamification, she believes it has the power to transform everyday activities. “By incorporating game design elements, gamification makes routine tasks engaging and enjoyable, turning them into meaningful experiences,” she says. Dr. Thomason’s work continues to shape the future of technology, proving its potential to improve lives and drive social change.
4. Dina Abdul Majeed | Revolutionizing Maternal Support with 360Moms
Dina Abdul Majeed, Founder and CEO of 360Moms, is transforming how mothers access support through innovative technology. Her platform connects mothers worldwide with certified experts to address parenting challenges, from health concerns to behavioral issues. “I started 360Moms to solve a problem and help people, but I continue because I believe tech can make a positive change for millions. It’s powerful when done right, and I won’t stop until I achieve that,” Dina shares.
360Moms goes beyond offering advice—it provides health consultations, educational courses, and a discount program to make essential services affordable and accessible. Dina’s background in digital solutions and advertising, including her time at Yahoo, has been key in designing a platform that empowers mothers to take charge of their families’ health and well-being.
Under her leadership, 360Moms uses cutting-edge technology to deliver personalized content and engage users effectively. This focus on innovation has positioned 360Moms as a leader in digital maternal support, offering a lifeline to mothers worldwide. Dina’s vision continues to drive meaningful change, proving the immense potential of technology in transforming lives.
5. Chris Redmond | Leading Innovation in Streaming and Media Marketing
Chris Redmond has emerged as a trailblazer in the global streaming and media landscape, driving innovation in recruitment and professional networks. As the founder of OTTRED, he has built a thriving platform connecting thousands of professionals across 62 countries. Through initiatives like his industry-leading podcasts, the OTTRED App, and global events, Chris has established himself as one of the top 10 marketing leaders in the Gulf and MENA region for 2024.
His latest initiative, The StreamingElite program, helps CEOs transform their LinkedIn presence into powerful branding tools. By leveraging his expertise in personal branding and professional networking, Chris ensures leaders can maximize their online impact and create lasting value for their businesses.
Chris is also the co-founder of RedHolt Recruitment, alongside his wife Amanda, focusing on the streaming and media sectors. His ventures include StudioRED, a production studio, and ownership stakes in a software company and a champagne brand. His entrepreneurial ventures showcase his diverse expertise and innovative mindset.
A strong advocate of LinkedIn marketing, Chris has developed a unique approach that has reshaped how his companies generate business. “In the last four years, we’ve relied entirely on inbound sales thanks to our clear methodology for LinkedIn marketing,” he explains. With a personal network of over 20,000 connections and a company following of 44,000, his strategy highlights the power of leveraging digital platforms for success.
Chris’s work reflects a commitment to driving growth and innovation in the streaming and media industries while empowering others to harness the potential of digital marketing and professional branding.
LinkedIn | Website | StreamingElite, LinkedIn training for the C-Suite
6. Amr Elzaky | Innovating Industrial Optimization at AIC
Amr Elzaky has built a distinguished career of over 20 years, focusing on enhancing industrial operations through innovation and expertise. As the leader of AIC, he draws on his background in Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) to provide clients with exceptional solutions. Beginning his journey in sales and marketing, Amr developed a client-focused approach that now defines his leadership style.
At AIC, Amr has transformed the company into a leader in advanced MRO solutions, partnering with global brands like ITW ROCOL® and ZERUST®. “We don’t just supply products; we create partnerships and offer solutions that improve operations for our clients,” he explains. This philosophy has been pivotal in AIC’s success, including a 20% reduction in unplanned downtime for a major manufacturing client.
Under Amr’s leadership, AIC delivers tailored maintenance programs and high-performance products that drive efficiency and reliability. “Our clients’ success is the ultimate measure of our achievements, and it fuels our drive to innovate and evolve,” Amr shares.
Looking ahead, Amr is spearheading efforts to incorporate AI into AIC’s services, aiming to revolutionize predictive maintenance. By combining sustainability with cutting-edge technology, he ensures AIC stays at the forefront of the MRO industry, delivering solutions that adapt to the needs of an evolving industrial landscape.
7. Juan José Thuemme | Championing Authentic Mexican Flavors Globally
Juan José Thuemme, a seasoned Global Flavorist at Etadar By Deiman, has dedicated more than 30 years to preserving and innovating the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine. Known for his commitment to authenticity, Juan has successfully adapted traditional Mexican flavors for international markets. “My mission has always been to celebrate and share the unique tastes of Mexican cuisine with the world,” he shares.
Among his many accomplishments, Juan has created groundbreaking sugar substitutes and signature flavors like zapote, capturing the essence of Mexico’s culinary heritage. He also founded Native Flavors, a school aimed at educating global audiences about the richness of Mexican gastronomy, further cementing his legacy as an ambassador of authentic tastes.
Despite challenges such as limited resources and supply chain constraints, Juan has led his team to innovate and maintain high-quality standards in flavor production. His leadership focuses on empowering his team through creativity and training, fostering an environment ready to tackle industry demands with confidence.
Juan is also a pioneer in leveraging Artificial Intelligence to refine flavor development. “AI is transforming how we create flavors, offering unmatched precision and confidentiality in the process,” he explains.
Looking ahead, Juan envisions a growing shift toward plant-based food options, driven by sustainability and rising costs. Under his guidance, Etadar By Deiman is poised to adapt to these changes, further influencing the global flavor industry while staying rooted in Mexican culinary traditions.
LinkedIn | Etadar By Deiman | Website
8. Hamza Afzal | Transforming SaaS Marketing with Data-Driven Strategies
Hamza Afzal, founder of SaaS Marketing Gurus, is a leading figure in the world of SaaS marketing, renowned for his innovative strategies that elevate product visibility and build brand trust. With a keen focus on data-driven approaches, Hamza has mastered the art of launching products and managing online reputations on platforms such as Product Hunt, PPC, SEO/SEM, and email marketing. His skillset allows him to turn marketing challenges into valuable growth opportunities.
Currently pursuing his studies in Germany, Hamza is expanding his global market knowledge to further enhance his ability to craft impactful marketing solutions. “This academic pursuit is more than just learning; it’s about refining my ability to deliver innovative solutions for my clients,” he shares.
Since beginning his career as a junior SEO specialist in 2013, Hamza has built a strong reputation in SaaS marketing. Over the last five years, he has helped more than 200 product owners launch successfully on Product Hunt with an impressive 90% success rate. He has also played a key role in enhancing the online presence of over 30 companies, improving their visibility across multiple platforms.
Hamza’s experience extends to launching over 10 products on AppSumo and other marketplaces, where he has supported product owners in branding and revenue generation. His SEO optimization expertise has been crucial in generating leads for more than 50 companies, while his social media management services have helped over 50 clients strengthen their brands and expand their reach.
LinkedIn | SaaS Marketing Gurus | Website
9. Surabhi Shenoy | Guiding Entrepreneurs with Strategic Growth and Resilience
Surabhi Shenoy is a serial entrepreneur and visionary coach who has made a profound impact on the tech industry and beyond. With over two decades of innovative leadership, Surabhi founded two multi-million dollar companies, including a tech firm that served India’s top banks. After successfully exiting both ventures, she now runs a boutique advisory firm that mentors entrepreneurs, focusing on sustainable growth and long-term success.
Surabhi’s entrepreneurial journey began in the U.S., where her work with startups and major companies like JPMorgan refined her strategic planning and quality assurance skills. In 2005, she co-founded Tejora Technologies, rapidly expanding it to serve global clients. Later, Surabhi ventured into the fitness industry with Elixir Fitness, building both businesses around a commitment to customer satisfaction and smart financial strategies.
The sudden loss of her husband in 2017 was a pivotal moment that tested Surabhi’s resilience. Despite the personal grief and the challenges of the pandemic, she not only stabilized the business but also managed to grow it further. Her decision to sell her tech business allowed her to focus on coaching and mentoring other tech entrepreneurs on bootstrapping, scaling, and executing successful exits.
Reflecting on her extensive career, Surabhi emphasizes the importance of strategic growth and resilience. “Entrepreneurship is about envisioning the future and executing with precision, often against formidable odds,” she shares. Today, she empowers tech founders with the knowledge and strategies they need to thrive in their entrepreneurial journeys.
LinkedIn | SaaS Marketing Gurus | Website
10. Gevara Salloum | Pioneering Automotive Marketing Leader in the Gulf and MENA Region
Gevara Salloum, National Parts Manager at ALTAWKILAT’s Caraagy Universal, is a trailblazer in automotive marketing within the Gulf and MENA region. As a founding member of the international brand Magneti Marelli at Samaco Company, Gevara played a crucial role in establishing the brand as a key player in a competitive market. His strategic foresight and deep market understanding were instrumental in creating a strong presence for Magneti Marelli in the region.
Building on this success, Gevara helped launch the National Spare Parts Company (NAP) under Petromin. Here, he laid the foundation for a robust supply chain and optimized operations, which led NAP to become synonymous with reliability and excellence in service delivery. His contributions significantly enhanced NAP’s market position, setting a high standard for the automotive parts industry.
At Caraagy Universal, Gevara is currently leading the development of an innovative spare parts department. His expertise in spare parts management, combined with a forward-thinking approach to operations, has led to improved inventory management, cost efficiency, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
Gevara’s leadership style is defined by a commitment to excellence and a keen ability to anticipate industry trends. His contributions continue to drive growth and innovation in the automotive sector, making him a respected figure in automotive marketing across the Gulf and MENA region.
Conclusion
The top 10 leaders featured here prove that leadership is about more than strategy—it’s about vision and purpose. Each of them leads in a way that sparks innovation and inspires others. Their unique styles remind us of the power of individuality in making a difference.
These leaders are changing the world one decision at a time. They set an example for future generations, showing that leadership is not just about guiding people but about shaping the future. Their stories are proof that innovation starts with bold leadership.
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