Leadership Lessons with… Waleed Bin Huzaim, Director of Relations & Protocol – Government Entity – Saudi Arabia

We recently spoke to Waleed Bin Huzaim and delved into the dynamic landscape of corporate communication in 2024. In this discussion, we explore emerging trends, the transformative influence of artificial intelligence, and the crucial focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. Take a look.

What significant trends do you foresee in your industry in 2024?

The language of data analysis is considered one of the significant trends in the world of corporate communication, owing to its importance in intelligent predictions. It greatly assists digital media in understanding the trends, opinions and preferences of the target audience.

This significantly contributes to creating appropriate content and anticipating crises or issues before they occur, thereby minimizing their impact. Its importance is further magnified with the increasing speed of digital transformation across various industries.

Governance is also considered a vital trend in the field of corporate communication. It aims to optimize the use of digital technology, automate and develop operations, ensuring the effective utilization of technology in communication processes. It enhances communication, community engagement and decision-making.

Looking ahead to 2024, what significant changes do you anticipate within our industry? (please consider what you think is the catalyst for this change and what leaders can be doing to be take advantage of these changes)

The creation of a mental image is a crucial focus for all organizations, holding significant importance at the State level. It is closely tied to the field of corporate communication on a large scale. Positive mental image is linked to the analysis of public data, opinions and aspirations, and it can be built or reinforced through artificial intelligence.

Currently, guest management is considered an extremely important area, especially with the launch of the Saudi Vision 2023 and the rapid transformations and changes occurring in various sectors of the Kingdom, including tourism, investment, sports, entertainment and business.

The Kingdom territory has become a fertile environment for visitors from all over the world. This necessitates a focus on guest experience and attention to guest management on all levels, crafting a distinctive and pioneering mental image that sets our Kingdom apart from the rest of the world.

How do you think AI will impact the comms industry? What benefits do you see, and what concerns or challenges do you have?

Artificial intelligence (AI) can have a significant impact in this field by automating repetitive tasks and business processes, such as customer support, data analysis and creation of appropriate content with efficiency in work. This can save time and resources for communication specialists.

Additionally, AI will contribute to processing large amounts of data, providing valuable insights and solutions for decision-makers. All of this contributes to improving the level of services and increasing customer satisfaction.

However, there are concerns and challenges that are prevalent in the field of communications and across various sectors.

One major concern is the potential job displacement for human cadres due to electronic automation, leading to a reduction in positions and decrease in.

Privacy is also a significant concern, as the broadening use of algorithms may not always adhere to ethical, responsible, and transparent practices.

Furthermore, the issue of trust arises, as content generated by AI may raise trust issues between customers and companies. Addressing these challenges requires careful and extensive studies in the field to confront the potential or expected challenges and mitigate their impacts.

What are the top ESG trends for 2024 and what are their implications for Comms professionals?

There are several environmental, social and governance (ESG) trends that can be focused on.

For example, environmental sustainability and finding technological solutions to mitigate negative environmental impacts, such as clean energy solutions and green human resources practices, etc.

From the social aspect, diversity and inclusion will be emphasized, focusing on all segments of society regardless of ethnicity, gender or social backgrounds. This will contribute to a clearer image and greater understanding of external audiences and their ideas.

With technological advancements, digital governance will be a key focus, applying stronger standards to ensure privacy, cybersecurity and the protection of user and public rights. Digital platforms will adhere to specific policies and implement the instructions and ethical guidelines in their handling of data and information.

Moreover, there will be a significant role for creativity and innovation in all fields, leveraging promising opportunities and achieving a balance between environmental, social, and economic needs, in order to adapt to upcoming transformations in 2024 and thereafter.

What impact do you think COP will have on the industry?

The “Conference of the Parties (COP)” meetings have a significant impact on various industries, especially those related to climate issues, such as energy, transportation and manufacturing.

Most decision-makers will focus on everything that contributes to environmental sustainability and finding solutions that leverage clean energy technologies. Collaborating with the private sector, they will work hand-in-hand to address challenges that may impact the environment and adopt more sustainable initiatives.

How do you actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in your organization?

You can promote diversity and equality in the human cadres by adopting diverse recruitment policies, providing equal training opportunities, and encouraging a work environment that respects differences. Additionally, offering inclusive activities for all societal groups and genders without bias, promoting awareness, and conducting workshops on achieving understanding and collaboration among employees can contribute to enhancing the organization’s values.

Are you optimistic about 2024? If not, what challenges are you monitoring, and what measures are in place to address them? Or if optimistic, what factors contribute to this outlook?

Yes, I am very optimistic … Today in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we are working in accordance with an ambitious vision of an inspiring leader …

We have clear strategic plans and targets for the growing sector of relations and institutional communication. Every endeavor comes with its challenges, but we strive to address everything we confront through studies, data analysis, and providing modern tools while keeping pace with developments.