FOCUS GROUP AND FORUM

James Mathew – CEO & Managing Partner of UHY James (Chartered Accountants & Managing Consulting) is a trusted Leader in Finance Driving Business Confidence in the UAE & across the region.

Leadership & Professional Impact

James Mathew wields 30+ years of experience in audit, advisory, risk, tax and consulting and has served 1500+ clients at every stage of their growth in the UAE and across the region.

Cross-Border Strategic Advisory

James is trusted in UAE business circles to deliver insightful perspective on complex cross border environments and align financial transparency in dynamic business landscapes.

Strategic Partner to Global Investors

James has positioned himself as a trusted advisor to 4,000+ international investors seeking to establish and scale operations in the UAE.

Influence Across Professional and Business Networks

James’ collaborative leadership style and nuanced entrepreneurial acumen has been leveraged by major professional bodies in the UAE where he has been elected to hold influential governing positions.

Key Contributions & Achievements

• James worked in various leadership roles in the Dubai Chapter of ICAI for 8 years and was elected as the 31st Chairman in 2013.
• James is the Independent Director and Chairman - Audit Committee of Aster DM Healthcare Limited – a leading healthcare company listed in India.
• James was among one of the first audit professionals from MENA region to be elected twice to the Global Board of the 8th largest audit network in 2018–2019, reiterating his profound professional insight into the financial architecture of a business.
• Appointed as one of the Founder Directors of the ‘Indo Gulf and Middle East Chamber of Commerce’ (INMECC).
• Appointed to the Board of Assessors of Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award for 5 years based on expertise in the UAE’s business landscape.

Convener: Professional & Business Services

• Powering through with 30+ years of business experience in the UAE, having been elected twice to the Board of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC) Dubai in 2015 and 2017 & having served as Secretary General for the term 2015–2017, I am optimistic as the Convener for Professional & Business Services I will bring forth immense value, pragmatic insights to IBPC members with entrepreneurial aspirations.
• Matching pace with the UAE’s evolving economic & compliance landscape is easier when businesses can access real time insights and financial advice. My ringside view into how businesses in the UAE flourish in a regulatory environment will add value to the financial journey of IBPC member led businesses

Investments Director at Dubai Investment industries (wholly owned by Dubai investments PJSC) | Board Director | Sector Builder – Healthcare, Education & Pharma

A seasoned investment and business leader with over three decades of experience in conceiving, structuring, developing and governing large-scale institutions across healthcare, higher education, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and skill development in the UAE, India, Egypt and Morocco. Currently serves as Board Director in FIVE companies spanning from manufacturing to large hospital in UAE. Additionally, he is also the CEO of two large manufacturing companies in UAE.

Mr. Sreekumar is also a member on the executive board of an Educational charitable trust running two AICTE approved Engineering colleges in India and a member of the coveted DHBG (Dubai Hospital business group) under the chamber of commerce. He is an IBPC member since inception, actively contributing from the early formative years and the Convenor MMC Focus Group in the previous term.

RELEVANT SECTOR LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Healthcare

• King’s College Hospital London, Dubai Hills – Served on the Project Steering Committee and as alternate Board Director till 2019
• Clemenceau Medical Center, Dubai – Serving as Board Director since 2020.
• Globalpharma, Dubai – Serving as Executive Management Committee Member

Education

• MODUL University Dubai and University of Balamand, Dubai – Head of Investment / Board Member
• CADMUS Schools (SABIS brand), Egypt and Morocco – Governing & supporting international K-12 education expansion.
• Vidya Academy of Science & Technology (VAST), India – two engineering colleges – Promoter Trustee and long serving Office Bearer

HIGH-IMPACT PROGRAMMES & EVENTS DELIVERED

• Pharma-focused events in collaboration with Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI)
• Healthcare investment forums and panel discussions with leading doctors, hospital leaders and investors
• CEPA – Opportunities for Indian Businesses in the UAE (Healthcare, Pharma & Education lans)
• Wellness Day and Preventive Healthcare sessions for business communities
• Day-long Quality & Skill Development Programme with CII for manufacturing and allied industries

IBPC Experience & achievements

Actively contributed to the IBPC ecosystem growth, through partnerships with industry bodies, technology leaders and diaspora innovators.

1. Convener of IBPC T&T focus group (FG) 2024-2026. IBPC member since 202
2. As convener, built a KPI driven team focused on: Membership, Impact events & Inclusivity.
3. Delivered boutique showcases for IBPC in Green Minds (@ Sustainability), Digital Armor (Cybersecurity), Tech Talks (Indian diaspora tech titans) & AI.
4. Built & operated new practices in IBPC for team building – e.g. Marusu Saturdays.
5. Mentored & developed the roll out of IBPC Youth Conclave, a new chapter in IBPC.
6. Contributed to membership engagement and ecosystem partnerships with NASSCOM, DTT and ITEF.
7. Tightly aligned with IBPC values, the governing leadership & the Secretary general, at all times.

Pedigree

1. IICA - Independent Director.
2. ESG - Cambridge UK.
3. MBA - INSEAD Singapore.
4. Post grad – International business, Symbiosis Pune.
5. Grad - BE Industrial Engg, Univ of Pune

Overall Experience

1. Chief Revenue Officer & Board Member – RevDau AI, Cloud & Tech company across UAE, India, NA.
2. 30+ year’s experience.
3. 20+ years IBM MEA, APAC.
4. Ex IBM MEA board member for Cloud & AI.

Overall strengths

1. P&L management, Regional representation for SME businesses, large accounts & opportunity management.
2. Advisory, Services leader with 30+ years in the Industry.
3. Leading multi technology enterprise landscapes.
4. Trusted advisor with strong CXO relationships.
5. Outcome driven engagements, Annuity programs, Outsourcing.

Governance, transparency and collaborative leadership.

Connect technology, enterprise, ecosystems for impact.

Mantra: Join the dots, see the pattern, build the network.

Impact in region as a brand builder

1. Recognized thought leader & public speaker in Telecom, Digital Innovation, Enterprise management & Circularity.
2. Board member of leading business bodies – IBPC, IPF-BC & ITEF.
3. Accredited Toast Masters.
4. Board member of Dubai tech Talks.
5. Part of social empowerment programs in India – rural empowerment in Swades, temple & forts restoration.

Dr. Neelivethil Rajeev is a leader who blends deep expertise with genuine humanity, someone whose three decades of experience across the MENA and APAC regions have shaped not only industries, but also people and communities. Described in the document as “a prominent figure in the business and social spheres of the MENA & APAC region,” he has built a career defined by purpose, integrity, and a commitment to elevating others.

For more than 3 decades, Dr. Rajeev has been the driving force behind ESPA, one of the region’s most respected names in MEP and HVAC solutions. His colleagues often speak of his ability to see possibilities long before others do. The profile notes that “he has emerged as the face of ESPA, steering the company to prominence,” a reflection of both his strategic vision and his ability to inspire teams to achieve more than they imagined.

Beyond corporate leadership, Dr. Rajeev is deeply invested in the future of design, innovation, and professional development. As an Ambassador for the International Federation of Interior Architects and Designers (IFI) and an active member of the Indian Institute of Interior Designers (IIID), he champions creativity, global collaboration, and the growth of young professionals. His advisory role with the Water Management & Plumbing Skill Council (WMPSC) under the Government of India highlights his belief in building skills that uplift communities and strengthen national capabilities.

Dr. Rajeev’s influence extends across continents through his active involvement in business councils representing India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Spain, South Africa, Italy, Australia, and Eurasia. The document captures this impact perfectly, describing him as “a catalyst for economic progress and international collaboration.” His leadership as President of the Fire & Security Association of India (FSAI) – International Chapter further demonstrates his dedication to safety, resilience, and the built environment.

What truly sets Dr. Rajeev apart is his ability to connect with people. A seasoned global traveler, he is known for his warmth, eloquence, and the way he brings clarity to complex ideas. As a sought-after speaker and writer, he shares insights that are not only intellectually rich but also deeply inspiring, rooted in real experience and a sincere desire to make a difference.

Dr. Neelivethil Rajeev is more than a leader; he is a mentor, a bridge-builder, and a visionary who leads with both head and heart. His global perspective, industry expertise, and human-centered approach make him an exceptional choice for any committee seeking a thoughtful, future-focused, and collaborative member.

OBJECTIVE
To work for the community and help businesses through the platform of IBPC by being part of the volunteer team as Convenor of Retail, Hospitality and Tourism (RHT) Business Group, IBPC Dubai

ABOUT MYSELF
With more than 30 years of experience in sales, marketing, communications, and business leadership, I bring a broad and practical understanding of business development, brand building, and industry collaboration. My professional journey has taken me across India, Oman, and the UAE, where I have worked with leading organizations, government bodies, and global brands. This experience has allowed me to develop strong networks and a deep understanding of the retail, hospitality, marketing, and trade sectors.

I began my career in India as Corporate Communications Manager at JK Industries, where I developed a strong foundation in corporate communication, brand positioning, and strategic marketing. Early exposure to large corporate environments helped shape my approach toward building strong brand identities and managing stakeholder relationships.

My career later took me to Oman, where I worked with ADINC and the advertising agency of the Omar Zawawi Establishment, one of the country’s leading business groups. During this period, I worked closely with the Government of Oman on various marketing and promotion initiatives. These included promoting Oman Air, positioning Salalah as an international travel destination, and supporting the Omani Products Promotion Program in international markets including Africa, GCC, and India. I also had the privilege of being part of the Omani delegation to the 11th GCC Conference, which further expanded my exposure to regional economic collaboration.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with and promote several well-known global and regional brands including Kodak, Exide, US Robotics, Britannia, GlaxoSmithKline – Panadol, Sensodyne, Horlicks, Abbott, LG, Nikai, Armaf, Philips, Sadia Johson & Johnson, Dubai Tourism and many others. These engagements allowed me to work across multiple sectors including consumer electronics, FMCG, healthcare, retail, and lifestyle products.

My work in the media and communications sector also includes collaborations with Khaleej Times and Al Khaleej Country Reports, as well as serving as an agency partner for Star TV.

These experiences strengthened my understanding of regional media, advertising strategies, and cross-market communication.

In the UAE, I have held several senior leadership roles including Director on the Board of Fakhruddin Group and Assistant General Manager at Nikai, where I was involved in marketing strategy, brand development, and market expansion. While serving with Fakhruddin Group, I was honored to receive an award from Warner Brothers for Product Launch, recognizing the success of a major campaign initiative.

Entrepreneurially, I currently serve as CEO of Prism Advertising LLC, CEO and Managing Partner of JustB for Events Managing LLC, CEO and Managing Partner of Noor Altawzee General Trading. I also serve as a Consultant to the Electronics Group of Dubai Chambers and as Executive Director of BNI North Dubai, which is the world’s largest business networking organization, where I work closely with business leaders to build strong referral-based communities.

While serving as a Convenor of the Retail and Hospitality Business Group at IBPC Dubai, I aim to leverage my experience, industry connections, and collaborative approach to support member engagement, promote sector growth, and create meaningful opportunities for knowledge exchange, Policy Advocacy and business partnerships. I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and impact of IBPC Dubai.
Some of the recent achievements are:

• Golden Bugs Bunny Award for the Launch from Warner Bros.
• Member of the Year Award by BNI Middle East for 2 Consecutive Years
• Executive Director BNI North Dubai – inducted over 250 members and formed a new Region for BNI UAE
• Taking on special projects for Al Khaleej and KT for the Special Country Reports for Korea, Canada, UK, Switzerland, Malaysia, RTA, Burj Khalifa to name a few
• Planning and Executing the biggest Event that Ministry of Commerce and Industry India ever done by the Ministry to promote brand India in association with CII, IBF and FIEO – The India Show in UAE
• Supported Kazakhstan government in Gulf Food 2026

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management from IPM Lucknow

Bachelor’s degree in commerce (1991) from Lucknow University, India.

OTHERS

Long standing member of IBPC - IBPC Membership No. 1085

Date of birth: 20 October 1969

Marital status: Married

Nationality: Indian

Advait Thakur is an astute business leader with close to two decades of international experience at Orange.

His work sits at the intersection of three of the most consequential forces reshaping our world Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability, and Digital Transformation, with key responsibilities for revenue growth across. Deep focuses on capital discipline and operational optimization, execution of cost-efficiency and performance enhancement with unique governance style.

His work has taken him to many geographies, and the variety of engagements allowed him to provide his experience and exposure to others on advisory and shaping policies.

Advait's network of influential leaders and executives of world is cross-functional at all levels, and he has been a professional speaker, panel moderator in industry events and round.

He holds his Master of International Business Administration (MBA) from Ludwigshafen University of Business & Society, Germany and studied international trade, policies and sustainability.

He is a Certified AI Expert in Business Strategies & Applications from the University of California, Berkeley Haas, one of the world's most respected AI leadership programmes.

Credentials beyond the boardroom and qualification, for his civic and community service leadership includes:

• Recognized evangelist and technology strategist
• Research fellow – Contributed to papers on AI, Sustainability, and Climate Tech Policies to develop a comprehensive framework
• Advocate of United Nations Climate Change initiatives, Paris Agreement, and COP ambitions
• Expo 2020 – Supported Indian startups and innovation in collaboration with FICCI, CGI, and Indian Embassy
• IBPC – Ideated and formulated the first Sustainability & ESG Forum (2023)
• IBPC Executive Committee Member – Startup & Innovation (2023)
• DLD & RERA – Appointed Chairman for Dubai Marina Community and Residences (2022)
• Global volunteer for Save Soil Movement (2019) – Sadhguru
• IBPC Convener - Energy & Climate (2026)

Sunny Narang is a seasoned professional with over 19 years of experience spanning banking, government relations across India and the UAE, and high-level event management. He currently serves as Senior Corporate Account Manager – Employee Workspace Solutions with HSBC in the UAE. In his role, he brings a strong track record in driving business growth, managing complex stakeholder ecosystems, and supporting executive priorities. Known for his trusted leadership and discretion, Sunny has consistently delivered value through strategic partnerships, cross-border collaboration, and by building high-performing teams in fast-paced, multicultural environments.

A notable highlight of his career was his role as Resident Representative – MENA at the India Pavilion during Expo 2020 Dubai. In this capacity, he worked closely with key stakeholders including the Indian Embassy, Indian Consulate across the Middle East, and UAE government entities to facilitate impactful engagements and foster meaningful bilateral partnerships. His contributions played a key role in showcasing India’s economic potential, innovation, and global outlook to a diverse international audience.

As Convenor for the Financial Services & Capital Markets Focus Group at IBPC Dubai for the 2026–2028 term, Sunny is committed to strengthening industry collaboration and dialogue. He aims to create platforms for knowledge exchange, enable meaningful engagement between stakeholders, and contribute to the continued growth of the financial services ecosystem, further reinforcing economic ties between India and the UAE.

Profile

• Senior executive with 40+ years of global experience across ports, logistics, free zones, and capital-intensive industrial assets.
• Combines operator credibility, transaction judgment, and governance discipline, developed through leadership roles at global port operators, sovereign-linked infrastructure platforms, and multinational industrial groups.
• Advises on logistic and trade-enabling infrastructure, concession frameworks, PPPs, capital structuring and fund raising, digital integration and governance.

Ports, Logistics & Free Zone Infrastructure (20+ years)
Former Chief Financial Officer – Middle East & Africa, DP World, and Board Member across multiple port, terminal, and logistics entities. Subsequently served as Head of International Finance, AD Ports Group. Covered Middle East • Africa • South Asia • Select European & Frontier Markets

• Two decades of leadership in global port and logistics ecosystems. Expertise in the development of integrated port, logistics and free-zone platforms and the oversight of multi-country portfolio.
• The professional scope covers the entire asset lifecycle, including high-stakes PPP negotiations, business modelling, and regulations frame work, capital fundraising for greenfield expansions, and strategic acquisitions and divestments.
• Specialization in post-acquisition governance resets and operational optimization ensures that complex infrastructure assets are supported by robust operations and control frameworks and high-performance digital models.

Industrial & Trade Background (20+ years)
Nearly two decades of leadership experience with Ford Motor Company, the Tata Group and MRF, spanning manufacturing, sales & marketing, multi-entity structuring, governance, and large-scale operational build-outs in regulated environments.

• Leadership in greenfield industrial development and entity structuring, specifically in establishing and operationalizing major entities spanning manufacturing, sales, and marketing; export; and global business services.
• Core competencies include leading financial, legal and governance frameworks from inception to profitability across multi-entity platforms. Expertise extends to managing federal and state government interfaces, navigating regulatory frameworks, and structuring joint venture partnerships.
• • Deep focus on capital discipline and operational optimization, execution of cost-efficiency and performance enhancement initiatives within high fixed-asset environments, and conducting industry benchmarking and strategic performance analysis to drive informed investment and operating decisions

Both the above, infrastructure and industrial backgrounds, have instilled a rigorous approach to investments, governance, regulatory navigation, JV management, execution control, cash flow, and profitable operation—principles directly transferable to long-life infrastructure and industrial assets.