Channel Post speaks with Carol Anne Dias, Regional Sales Director – Middle East & Africa at AOC & MMD about her journey from nowhere to the top and leading one of the largest display manufacturers representing AOC and Philips brands of monitors in the Middle East.
Tell us about your leadership style and philosophy.
Well, I believe in more of a democratic & team leadership style, and love to encourage participative approach for my team and promote an atmosphere to exchange ideas and allow them to be a part of decision-making processes. This helps the whole team to work as a single unit to achieve one common goal of success. Another area, I appreciate is creativity that enables us to think out of the box.
What made you choose IT as a career opportunity?
My background was more into the aviation and travel industry before I moved into Dubai in 2002. And, that time my only goal was to work in Middle East and as the luck could have it my first break came in from the IT industry where I grew from ground zero and since then I have never looked back.
How has your unique background prepared you for success in the industry?
To get to the top, it’s key for someone to work through from ground zero. As for me, looking back from where I started as a promoter in 2002, to an account manager into distribution set up and then to a vendor gave me loads of experience and opportunities at each step. This journey helped me understand the markets better and provided me deep insights into the business dynamics that aided me to grow up the ladder and reach the top. I sincerely believe every step was a learning curve and to me learning on way has been my biggest success.
What was your most interesting job?
Each job was unique in its own way, which actually paved the way for me to move forward, hence to pinpoint one particular role will not do justice alone.
What advice would you give to women looking to break into the field of computer technology?
I wouldn’t say it’s a bed of roses, as being a male-dominated industry, its key for a woman to set the goal and whatever hindrance comes her way, she needs to be strong and keep moving forward without letting the barriers affect her in any which way.
What is the greatest transformation in technology you’ve witnessed in your career?
Technology has always been transformative and evolving every day, but I think Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is going to be the next evolution of technology itself.
What are your thoughts on the next transformation in the tech industry?
As described earlier, Machine Learning and AI will be the game changer. Holding on to desk related jobs will be difficult very soon hence being multitasking will be the way of life and a key element to ensure your space in the job market.
E-commerce is another area that will continue to spread wide and will transform the entire business landscape.
Are you involved in any sort of volunteer work? Can you give us some details?
I have had worked with Red-crescent in the past and also from time to time I had been associated with religious groups to help the orphans at an orphanage. To be honest, off late I have been out of touch with activities in my life.
What’s next for you in terms of your career in the tech industry?
Broadening my avenues into Artificial Intelligence (AI) is something of interest as the industry gathers momentum towards that space.
