GET TO KNOW...
On the lighter side of things, we ask the
industry experts what makes them tick. . . .
Gihane Mourad,
Sales Director, Financial Services and Retail
for MENA, Gemalto
W
What drove you to get into tech and
your first role in the industry?
I would have to say that technology found
me. After I joined Schlumberger in 1998
I was offered the opportunity to work in
volume products. Back then the industry
was experiencing an exciting time, with
the introduction of ‘digital payment’
with payphones. The evolution of digital
transactions has come a long way since
then, as have I.
In terms of influences there have been so
many, and I have always had a hunger to
learn and to share knowledge with others.
“
I AM MOST
PROUD OF THE
WORK THAT
HAS SIMPLIFIED
PEOPLE’S LIVES
THROUGH
TRANSACTIONS.
www.intelligentcio.com
I have been fortunate to have had the
opportunity to work with inspiring mentors,
great colleagues and of course, joining
Gemalto, a leader in digital security.
Can you mention some of the key
achievements of your career?
I have had the blessing of being able
to work across various fields of digital
transactions, from telcom operators to
banks and a mix of government with eKYC
projects. Having experienced many key
moments throughout my career, I am
most proud of the work that has simplified
people’s lives through transactions.
Whether that be making a call from a
payphone or riding the metro with a tap and
go system. From making purchases easily and
safely in stores or online to be able to open
a bank account from the comfort of your
kitchen table while sipping on your morning
coffee, I find the way that technology has
transformed our lives fascinating.
Besides fairness and being the right
thing to do, diversity in the tech
industry is important because of the
value women can bring to employers,
clients and customers. How have
you made your mark in the industry
working on projects specifically?
Diversity is hugely important in any
industry and I am passionate about
encouraging my female colleagues
and championing their achievements.
I am actively involved in the ‘Gemalto
Connected Women’, an internal
professional women’s network that offers
mentoring and knowledge sharing with a
focus on leadership, communication and
gender balance.
INTELLIGENTCIO
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