Bridging Global Vision with Local Impact/The Catalyst for Transformation
Ayman Mansour
Information Technology Infrastructure Manager
IKK Group- Isam Khairi Kabbani Group
With cybercrime expected to cost businesses over $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, the pressure on IT leaders to protect and innovate has never been greater. Technology is now the backbone of progress, but it’s also under constant attack, making the role of IT professionals more crucial than ever. Ayman Mansour, the Information Technology Infrastructure Manager at IKK Group (Isam Khairi Kabbani Group of Companies), is at the forefront of addressing these challenges. A certified Lead Auditor in ISO 20000 IT Services Management and ISO 27001 Information Security, Ayman believes that;
“IT isn’t just about keeping systems running—it’s about empowering businesses to thrive in an unpredictable digital world.”
With over 19 years of experience, Ayman has mastered key areas like systems administration, data backup and security, and endpoint protection while leading teams to implement cutting-edge solutions. His leadership has been pivotal in optimising network infrastructure and reducing troubleshooting time by 50%, ensuring uninterrupted operations at IKK Group.
With a reputation as a “Tech-Guru” and a creative problem-solver, Ayman continues to lead groundbreaking initiatives that integrate AI and emerging technologies. TradeFlock spoke with Ayman to explore his journey, his vision for the future, and how he’s shaping the digital age for the better.
What leadership lessons have most shaped your approach to systems and security?
One of the most impactful leadership lessons I’ve learned is the importance of balancing technical expertise with strategic vision. Early on, I focused on solving immediate issues, but stepping into leadership taught me to prioritise long-term planning—like developing risk assessments and aligning systems with business goals. I’ve also learned the value of communication: translating technical complexities into actionable insights for stakeholders fosters collaboration and trust. Mentoring others has been equally transformative, showing me that empowering my team to innovate and grow strengthens security and operational resilience. Ultimately, leadership taught me that great systems are built by great teams.
In what ways have Lebanon and Asia influenced your perspective on IT security?
Leading in Lebanon and the Arabian Gulf has been a masterclass in adaptability and cultural intelligence. In Lebanon, where resourcefulness is key, I embraced innovative problem-solving and trust-based leadership. Meanwhile, the Gulf’s fast-paced, process-driven environment taught me the value of structured frameworks and advanced technologies. As I often say, ‘Balancing global best practices with local realities is the key to sustainable innovation.‘ This blend of experiences has shaped my ability to lead multicultural teams, navigate complex regulations, and align IT security strategies with business goals—ensuring robust defences while driving growth in diverse and dynamic environments.
How are you addressing Asia’s unique IT security hurdles in your current role?
Asia, particularly Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region, is like the digital frontier—exciting but full of unique challenges. The rapid adoption of 5G, IoT, and AI under Saudi’s Vision 2030 has created incredible opportunities and an expanded attack surface. In addition, with the intricate web of regulatory frameworks, from the National Cybersecurity Authority to regional data laws, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
To tackle this, I prioritise real-time threat intelligence to stay ahead of advanced threats, work closely with local experts to ensure compliance with ever-evolving regulations and implement zero-trust architectures alongside employee training. This balanced approach keeps innovation thriving while safeguarding against the complex and evolving cyber landscape.
How do you balance technical breakthroughs with aligning business strategy?
Balancing technical innovation with business leadership starts with aligning technology to what truly matters—business growth, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. I believe leadership is about being the bridge between visionary ideas and measurable outcomes. By involving marketing, sales, and finance stakeholders, I ensure that technical advancements address real-world challenges while fostering collaboration. Evaluating ROI and scalability help prioritise initiatives, and phased rollouts mitigate risks while driving impact. Delegating authority empowers innovation within my team while I focus on guiding the vision and ensuring every innovation aligns with business goals, creating sustainable success.
Can you share a pivotal cybersecurity challenge and your resolution strategy?
Ransomware doesn’t knock—it kicks the door in. When a sophisticated attack targeted our critical systems a few years back at IKK Group, the entire centralized IT team and I acted promptly. We isolated possibly affected systems, leveraged offline backups, and conducted a forensic analysis to close vulnerabilities. As I often say, ‘Preparation turns chaos into control.’ By enhancing email security, segmenting networks, and boosting phishing awareness, we not only overcame the threat but fortified our defences for the future. It was a powerful reminder of the value of swift action, teamwork, and proactive security measures.
What inspires your vision for IT security and infrastructure at IKK Group?
At IKK Group, we see IT infrastructure and security as the backbone of our digital transformation—a foundation that must be resilient, scalable, and future-ready. 'Resilience is not a feature; it’s a strategy,' and that’s exactly what drives our efforts.
I’m focused on modernising with cloud-enabled architectures, AI-driven analytics, and a zero-trust security model while fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness. In the near term, I’m excited about initiatives like hybrid cloud migration and centralised IAM, which enhance efficiency and security. These steps position IKK Group to lead with innovation and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
