Most Innovative Global COOs 2025

By 2025, the role of the modern COO has shifted to focus on managing daily operations. They leverage AI, automation, and data intelligence to expedite processes, foster agility, and enhance customer experiences. They champion cross-functional efforts, sustainability programs, and inclusive work cultures, making their firms competitive in national markets. TradeFlock’s ‘Most Innovative Global COOs 2025” celebrates best global COOs, highlighting some of the leaders who are redefining the role of the Chief Operating Officer amid sweeping change. This elite list honors global COOs who blend strategic foresight, operational expertise, and technology to achieve long-term growth and organisational strength.

Whether leading digital transformation or clarifying complex supply chains, the Most Innovative Global COOs of 2025 are adaptable, imaginative, and results-driven. Through carefully curated insights into their leadership philosophies, breakthrough strategies, and measurable impacts, TradeFlock offers an in-depth look at their careers. This edition is inspiring and serves as a valuable resource for operational leaders shaping the future of global business.

Duéle Viet Tung

COO

Akabot

Duéle Viet Tung transforms banking automation by solving integration and scalability issues. Leading AI-driven solutions, he’s enabled 50% of Vietnam’s banks to cut processing times by 80–95%, boosting efficiency.

Andreu Marco

COO

Chalhoub Group

Andreu Marco revolutionises luxury retail with digital innovation, sustainable practices, and agile operations. His leadership drives operational excellence, integrating advanced technology and eco-friendly initiatives to meet evolving consumer demands and navigate industry challenges effectively.

Baran Yurdagul

Chief Operating Officer

Vodafone Qatar

Baran Yurdagül is transforming Middle East telecommunications with his expertise from Turkcell, Turk Telekom, and Omantel. Leading 5G launches and customer-centric initiatives, he drives innovation, aligning with Qatar’s digital vision.

David Oruya

COO

Access Shipping Agency

Dr. David Oruya has transformed East Africa’s maritime logistics by resolving vessel delays, as seen in a bold rerouting decision in Dar es Salaam, and advancing digital twins for predictive logistics, enhancing efficiency.

Deron Brown

President and COO

PCL Construction’s U.S. Operations

Deron Brown revolutionises construction by tackling delays, safety, and sustainability. His innovative use of BIM, drones, and data-driven decisions enhances efficiency, fostering a culture of safety and inclusivity.

John Waldron

President and COO

Goldman Sachs

John Waldron navigates economic uncertainty by enhancing risk management and client advisory services. His leadership in digital transformation and advisor-focused strategies has bolstered Goldman’s resilience and client trust in volatile markets.

Karen L. Hanlon

EVP and COO

Highmark Health

Karen L. Hanlon transforms healthcare by addressing inefficiencies and enhancing patient experiences. Her leadership in digital transformation and the Living Health strategy streamlines operations and improves care delivery across the industry.

Nikkie Randhawa-Singh

Senior Vice President

Shiji Group

Nikkie Randhawa-Singh transforms hospitality technology in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East. With experience from Micros-Fidelio and Oracle, she drives cloud adoption, localizes solutions, and prioritizes empathy to streamline operations and enhance user workflows.

Sheila Antrum

Senior Vice President and COO

KGiSL (Malaysia)

Sheila Antrum drives operational excellence, overseeing patient services, finances, and quality. With over two decades at UC, she led hospital acquisitions and co-founded the Women of UCSF Health group.

Zainudeen P.B.

Co-Founder and COO

Hotpack Global

Zainudeen P.B. transformed the packaging industry with sustainable, innovative disposable food packaging. From a small UAE trading company, he built a global manufacturing leader, exporting to over 100 countries while prioritising eco-friendly practices.