Behind every successful digital transformation is a leader with a vision. Someone who can turn complex challenges into opportunities for growth.
In the second edition of Leadership Behind Mondia, we shine the spotlight on our Chief Technology Officer, Waleed Arafa. With a passion for building high-performing teams and aligning tech strategies with business outcomes, Waleed’s leadership has played a key role in shaping Mondia’s digital journey.
Let’s dive into his story, insights, and the mindset behind his approach to technology and transformation.
What’s the most rewarding part of leading the technology team at Mondia?
Playing a key role in developing new products and services that impact the company’s growth and success is incredibly rewarding. But what stands out the most to me is building a high-performing team that is capable of achieving ambitious goals. It’s inspiring to see what we can accomplish together.
If you could have one superpower to elevate your role as CTO, what would it be?
Having the ability to instantly understand the complexity of any technology or system and how it would impact the business. With this superpower, I could confidently put the right technology strategy in place to help achieve the company’s goals.
What is a memorable milestone in Mondia’s tech evolution?
Finalizing the migration of our infrastructure from on-prem to cloud was one of the most memorable moments in my journey. There was a real sense of excitement as we realized the potential to rapidly scale resources, implement high availability, and reduce costs. It marked a major turning point in how we operate and innovate.
Beyond the Office: Hobbies and Interests
When I’m not shaping Mondia’s tech vision, you’ll likely find me reading a good book, playing football, or spending time with my family.
How would you summarize your journey as a leader at Mondia?
One of my key contributions has been building and leading a high-performing technology team, while fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning. By aligning our technology strategy with business goals, we’ve driven significant efficiency improvements and positioned Mondia as a digital leader.
I’ve also been deeply involved in our shift to scalable platforms like AWS. This transition has enabled us to take on more complex projects with greater ease and reduced operational costs.
What’s made the journey truly meaningful, though, is empowering my team to grow, innovate, and own key initiatives. Watching Mondia evolve and knowing I’ve played a part in that, is incredibly fulfilling.
What skills or insights have you gained while leading Mondia’s tech strategy?
One of the most valuable insights I’ve gained is the importance of aligning technology with business objectives. In a fast-paced tech environment, it’s essential that our investments directly support our overall goals, whether it’s enhancing customer experience, scaling efficiently, or staying ahead of trends.
Another critical skill I’ve developed is fostering collaboration across cross-functional teams. Technology alone doesn’t drive success, it’s the synergy between departments like product, marketing and operations that creates real impact.
Clear communication and alignment are key to ensuring everyone is working toward the same vision.
Looking Ahead: Join the Journey
Stay tuned as we continue the Leadership Behind Mondia series—spotlighting the exceptional minds shaping our future.
Interested in working alongside innovative leaders like our CTO? Explore our open roles and be part of the journey!
