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John Samuel

Global Chief Operating Officer at CGS (Computer Generated Solutions)
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As COO, John oversees global operations for CGS, where his focus is driving productivity, operational efficiency, and the integration of advanced technologies to further enhance CGS’s client services. Under John’s leadership, CGS plans to expand its global footprint and implement innovative AI solutions to improve workflows and decision-making processes.

With more than 20 years of progressive technology operations experience, John has led global CGS technology teams, responsible for shaping the corporate digital strategy and overseeing IT initiatives, cybersecurity and implementation of productivity and process improvement tools.

Prior to CGS, John was Senior Vice President – Data Strategy, IT and Operations Infrastructure at Fareportal Inc., a global online travel agency and the parent company of brands such as Cheapoair.com and OneTravel.com. Mr. Samuel managed the Global shared services serving IT, Telephony and innovation, Work force management, Real-time mission control for contact centers, Data science and Data strategy. His teams were responsible for the IT infrastructure, operations, data centers, cloud, global network, telephony and contact center support throughout the globe. Mr. Samuel has extensive experience working with senior leadership to provide IT advice and guidance. His prior experience included many other senior leadership positions including COO of one of a kind private travel membership club.

He graduated with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and a minor in Computer Science & Information Systems from Manhattan College.

  • AI Governance: The Key to Unlocking ROI in Enterprise Projects
    John emphasizes the importance of governance in AI projects, warning that without it, initiatives risk becoming fragmented. He advises launching low-risk projects that demonstrate real value. "Start with purpose," John says, linking AI use cases to business priorities as a guiding North Star for successful AI integration.
  • Cloud Computing: The Catalyst for Innovation and Competitive Edge
    John highlights that cloud computing enables cost-effective adoption of AR/XR, AI, and generative AI, fostering innovation. "Flexible services like conversational AI enhance competitiveness by reducing costs." However, lack of leadership, investment, and talent can hinder vision realization. Cloud-driven insights improve agility, aligning processes with market demands, boosting sales, reducing costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
  • Pandemic IT Realization: Short-Term Fixes Were Unsustainable
    John reveals, “The true challenge hit when we realized the pandemic’s long-term impact.” Initial short-term fixes proved unsustainable, leading to reengineering processes and systems. The root cause was the lasting disruption and the permanence of hybrid work. In hindsight, better BCPDR plans and enhanced security controls for WFH would have been crucial.