“The ambition and drive that is the DNA of this organisation energizes me to do better every day,” says Ahmed Khan, Human Resource Director, of the Middle East, Turkey and Africa and Worldwide Alliances at Lenovo, a Partner of our leadership program, when asked about the motivating company culture at Lenovo. With more than 14 years of experience in human resources, Ahmed discusses transitioning into the tech sector, diversity and inclusion, artificial intelligence and championing women. Read our interview to find out more!

What led you to work for the tech sector and in particular, for Lenovo?

My career journey in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) began in the FMCG industry, working on transformational projects with PepsiCo and Mars, Inc. When a head-hunter approached me about an opportunity at Lenovo, I was unsure - both of the industry, and Lenovo as an organisation. After my initial refusal, I decided to research Lenovo, discovering that the company, which had begun as a small brand, within ten years had become the #1 manufacturer of personal computers in the world. The rest, so they say, is history. The ambition and drive that is in the DNA of this organisation energizes me to do better every day.

The ambition and drive that is the DNA of this organisation energizes me to do better every day.

Lenovo employs over 54,000 people worldwide. What is Lenovo’s company culture and why does it resonate with both employees and consumers?

Lenovo is an entrepreneurial organisation. The level of empowerment and freedom with which we get to operate is truly unique. We have the opportunity to do exciting work and engage with people in a family atmosphere. The environment is that of a small family business where strong relationships are built, while being a part of this large complex organisation. The key for success at Lenovo is simple: set ambitious, bold goals and deliver results by following through on those commitments. We are a company of owners and we work with a high level of entrepreneurial spirit.

Diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of Lenovo’s global values. How do you promote multicultural awareness within your local team at Lenovo?

Lenovo Middle East, Turkey and Africa is highly diverse, and we have worked to build an inclusive culture. Diversity alone does not mean much - the power of our differences is in inclusion. We achieve this by reiterating our strong work ethic and creating opportunities for people to connect in social settings. We promote openness and candour wherein employees are able to speak their mind without the fear of negative consequences. There are also regular social activities that allow our employees to understand each other’s cultural values.

Diversity alone does not mean much – the power of our differences is in inclusion.

Lenovo is a proud supporter of our Women Talent Pool program and will be sponsoring our future Executive Gathering in Dubai, highlighting the key issues of “Tech for Good” and “Women in Leadership.” What is your vision to promote women in the tech sector?

Women at Lenovo are integral to our success. Women not only bring a unique perspective but also enable breakthrough-thinking. Any industry, not only the tech sector, should strive to achieve a well-balanced, diverse and inclusive environment. Our vision in the Middle East, Turkey and Africa is to be an employer of choice, by attracting and championing women and creating a best-in-class environment which gives women the flexibility and tailored development they need in order to stay and grow.

Our vision in the Middle East, Turkey and Africa is to be an employer of choice, by attracting and championing women and creating a best-in-class environment which gives women the flexibility and tailored development they need in order to stay and grow.

Artificial intelligence (“AI”) is an ever-evolving phenomenon, with many automated systems simulating human behaviour, eliciting potential concerns for working professionals. As a Director of Human Resources, what are the three most valuable skills professionals should master to empower themselves in this age of AI?

Artificial Intelligence is a much-talked topic that is not fully understood. It is critical that professionals understand the value and impact of Artificial intelligence in their own line of work.

Below are a few skills that should be mastered, in order to remain relevant:

1. Awareness: What AI really means and the impact of AI in our line of work;

2. Adaptability: As machines learn to perform tasks that are typically done by humans, it is important that we adapt new ways of working;

3. Change Management – It is important that our people, processes and systems pave the path for the next evolution. Being aware and adaptable will help us to prepare and manage change.

One of your life mantras is to “strive to leave a legacy.” In what ways do you incorporate this personal mantra into your professional career?

Every year, I ask myself the question: “What do I want to be remembered by?” We manage multiple priorities every day, and it is very easy to fall into a never-ending loop of “operational busyness.” I make the time to reflect on the bigger impact that I want to make on the organisation and the people. While I drive the multiple business priorities, I dedicate time on a weekly basis to work on one element that contributes towards building my legacy.

Since our interview was published a month ago, and given the current situation, we have asked Ahmed to share with us some words on how Lenovo is responding to Covid-19.  Here is his answer:

We are guided by our People First philosophy in everything that we do.  We have worked to provide guidance and support at regional level and empowered the teams on the ground to respond swiftly and objectively to the escalations in each of the countries.  Times like these are a true test of an organization’s robustness.  Our employees are living our culture of ownership and thriving even in these difficult times.