1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

Leadership, particularly at the highest level, can often be a solitary role. Typically, there is no one to offer critical analysis or provide constant feedback on how to improve, or to approach a problem from a radically different perspective. People usually tend to align with our thinking without strong opposition. Encouraging an environment that is open, transparent, and safe for providing feedback is crucial for my personal growth. We all strive to learn and grow, regardless of our level, age, or the stage of our careers.

Furthermore, leadership in a widely distributed team spanning different counties and regions is a complex undertaking. People have diverse communication styles, thought processes, emotional expressions, and collaboration methods. Mastering these aspects to create a highly productive team is a skill that requires time and experience.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Ever since I can remember, I have aspired to be a leader, constantly seeking ways to make a lasting impression and impact on the world. Fortunately, when I joined the Israeli military at the age of 18, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand the transformative power of data on various communities, and I instantly fell in love with it.

In a way, the military served as a training ground for me to assume leadership at a young age. I led a large team and tackled world-class problems ranging from security and innovation to finance, providing me with a comprehensive, end-to-end perspective on the role of a leader.

I worked my way up, driven by determination, perseverance, and perseverance. Even when others dropped out of the race, I continued to push forward, guided by a clear vision of how I, personally, could generate impact with purpose.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

To be honest, this is an area where I need to improve. I find myself working around the clock, primarily because I genuinely enjoy it and don't perceive it as 'work.' However, this presents a challenge for me in terms of setting boundaries and establishing a structured schedule.

My typical day begins with reading emails and getting a grasp of the agenda. I then navigate through a series of meetings, often switching between them, and return to emails and catching up on the latest technology news in the evening.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Powerful and effective leadership is not about playing politics; instead, it relies on experience, exposure, and skills. In my opinion, individuals who excel at political maneuvering within large organizations but lack the necessary experience and skills will struggle to sustain success in the long term. Confidence in the experience, skills, and exposure we have gained throughout our careers is the key to long-term success and growth.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

It's truly challenging to select just one book, but when I glance at my library, I can't overlook the profound impact that Dale Carnegie's 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' had on my life, and leadership style, at such a young age. Additionally, I have a fondness for Shimon Peres' book, 'No Room for Small Dreams,' as it resonates with my visionary nature and relentless determination to pursue my dreams

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

I strongly believe that the key to success in life and demonstrating exceptional leadership lies in having a clear vision. Vision is the driving force that motivates us, the reason we eagerly jump out of bed in the morning and the final thought that occupies our minds before we sleep. However, a vision alone, without a strategy and a means of execution, is somewhat limited in its power. It is the combination of this vision with determination, perseverance, and persistence that propels us forward and enables us to achieve great things in life.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

The first thing that comes to my mind when thinking about leadership is the word: Responsibility. For me, leadership entails a tremendous sense of responsibility that surpasses everything else. Essentially, we serve as role models, inspiring people to embrace our dreams and vision, and this brings about significant responsibilities for those who believe in us and choose to follow our path. In leadership, every decision we make affects not just ourselves but also has a collective impact, maintaining balance and continuously drawing people into our vision. It is a powerful trait, but it comes with great responsibility and big personal sacrifices.