Business Chief US and Canada September 2023 | Page 15

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or those who don ’ t know about
AspenTech , how would you describe the company ’ s core activities ? At AspenTech , we combine engineeringfirst principles and deep domain knowledge with cutting-edge digital technologies like high-performance computing , AI and edge connectivity to help customers optimise their assets and operations .
The foundation for virtually all our sustainability efforts is centred around the ‘ dual challenge ’: helping customers meet the increasing demand for resources from a growing population with rising standards of living , while also addressing their sustainability goals .
What are the biggest challenges you face in your role as CEO ? I like to think about my role as CEO as being similar to that of the head coach of a sports team . It ’ s up to me ( in consultation with our board ) to set our corporate direction , identify top priorities and set goals to reach for as we advance in a particular direction . An important part of the role is putting the right people on the field , but it ’ s also about aligning the organisation around a set of common goals . I also firmly believe diversity is among the most important differentiators in any company . The most innovative ideas don ’ t come from everyone thinking the same way , but happen when people of varying backgrounds , experiences and perspectives work together in an atmosphere of mutual respect .
The role of CEO has become even more challenging over the past few years . Very few , if any , executives could have foreseen the disruptions we would be facing : a worldwide pandemic , the challenges of working remotely , supply chain issues and more . My challenge is to build an organisation that can weather those disruptions , whatever they might be .
To do it , we focus on organisational excellence , investing in our human capital , building a strong , supporting culture and remaining agile . Making those commitments requires time , dedication and communication , but the end result is worth the effort .

I firmly believe diversity is among the most important differentiators in any company

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