MDS SI, IDC & IBM ESG summit: Leading a Sustainable Future
The event explored the evolving landscape of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices
MDS SI, IDC and IBM collaborated to host a successful Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) summit entitled ‘Leading A Sustainable Future.’ The event, on May 23, took place in the Immersive Room at the SEE Institute in Sustainability City in Dubai. The SEE Institute is the first sustainable venue in the UAE.
The event included keynotes and panel discussions featuring senior analysts and executives from leading organizations across various industries sharing their expertise and perspectives on the evolving landscape of ESG. The summit brought together over 65 leaders from various tech sectors.
According to the IDC website for the event, sustainable strategies and technologies are increasingly vital in modern business, enhancing efficiency, resilience and competitiveness.
IDC predicts that spending on purpose-built sustainability services is expected to surge from $37.7 billion in 2023 to nearly $65.0 billion in 2027, representing a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.9%. This growth reflects a rising commitment to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into organizational frameworks.
As an example of those positive IDC growth metrics, MDS SI has been an early presence in the development of ESG best practice in the MENA regions and the Group has been active using ESG to enable sustainable business transformation across key markets and with major clients from a range of sectors.
MDS SI is now offering in-depth advisory approaches to ESG strategies and methods implementation for operational and sustainable solutions through the Group’s Platinum Partnership and expertise with IBM. Importantly, MDS SI is the only IBM Platinum Partner focusing on sustainability solutions implementation.
At the heart of the discussion all day was one core message – ‘Driving Corporate Value through ESG Excellence.’ Gaby Matar, Executive Vice President of MDS SI Group, explained the Group’s commitment to this theme as he welcomed the attendees to the event and gave an overview of the subjects of the day.
“At MDS System Integration Group, we have been diligent in demonstrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices across the Group. Our people understand the importance of ESG, and we believe our customers appreciate our knowledge of these pillars and how they enhance the value of their interaction with us,” said Gaby.
“When looking at the broader Midis Group, our culture of good governance and our recognition of the need to integrate sustainability into everyday business thinking have long been the foundation of our global brand. We would like to express our gratitude to our partners, IDC and IBM, as well as all the speakers and attendees, for their insights. We look forward to continuing our journey towards a more sustainable and prosperous future together” concluded Gaby.
Presentations followed from the main speakers of the day, beginning with Saad Toma, General Manager, IBM MEA, who spoke about “Sustainability: Turning Ambition into Action with AI.” Dr. Ibrahim Al-Zu’bi, Chief Sustainability Officer, ADNOC presented a keynote entitled “ESG Principles and Why ESG Matters for Business Resilience, Competitiveness, and Long-term Success.” Gaya Magie, Director Asset Management Solutions, Sustainability Software, IBM spoke about “Infused Asset Lifecycle Management for a Sustainable Future.”
Also of note was the presentation from Alex Sanders, Director of Consulting and PreSales, eSolutions, who explored “Innovating ESG Performance: Strategizing, Implementing, and Operationalizing for the Next Decade.”
There were two informative panel discussions where experts examined how businesses can weave Environmental, Social, and Governance considerations into the fabric of their corporate strategies. The first session – “Future of ESG: Trends, Priorities, and Predictions” – featured notable figures with views on the likely trajectory of innovation and achievement in ESG practices.
The second session – “Integrating ESG into Corporate Strategy” – featured industry leaders who discussed practical methods for aligning sustainability goals with business objectives, embedding ESG into company culture, and the role of leadership in championing ESG initiatives.
MDS SI, part of the Midis Group, has been ranked #1 by IDC in terms of IT Services revenues across several countries in the GCC. Comprising 60+ companies spread across 13 countries and 20 major cities, MDS SI group employs 2,600+ professionals and has 5000+ customers across the region. Having been in the market for more than five decades, MDS SI has extensive experience in delivering the most innovative technologies and solutions, and empowering customers in their Digital Transformation journey.
MDS SI Group focuses on the following key technologies/solutions: Digital Transformation (Cloud, AI, Data Management, Automation, Analytics etc.), Data Center Infrastructure Services, Managed Services, Cybersecurity Services, Business Solutions, Professional Services, End User Computing, Mobility and Communications, Enterprise Infrastructure, Technical Services (Maintenance, outsourcing and call center), Site and Power Solutions, ELV and AV, Mobile and Containerized data centers, manufacturing of Telecom Shelters.
