Financial Leadership in a Dynamic Market
Behind every successful enterprise lies a robust financial strategy—one that extends beyond budgeting and balance sheets. It involves understanding market trends, leveraging data-driven insights, and ensuring financial decisions drive long-term growth.
Giovanni Funes Nova, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Bahri & Mazroei, brings nearly three decades of experience in finance, having worked across multinational corporations and the banking sector. His strategic vision has been instrumental in enhancing business performance, optimizing financial operations, and spearheading digital transformation within organizations.
Managing Complex Financial and Operational Structures
At Bahri & Mazroei, a leading provider of infrastructure and smart city solutions in the UAE, Giovanni oversees financial operations while also managing key central functions, including Contracts Management, Controlling, IT, and Credit Control. His leadership focuses on operational efficiency, cost optimization, and leveraging advanced analytics to enable data-driven decision-making.
Since its establishment in 1968, Bahri & Mazroei has built a reputation as a trusted name in electrical and lighting solutions, systems integration, and technological innovation. Giovanni ensures that the company’s financial operations align seamlessly with its broader strategic objectives for sustainable growth and expansion.
Driving Digital Transformation in Finance
Giovanni recognizes that the future of finance in the Middle East is deeply linked to digital transformation. With rapid technological advancements, financial functions are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and cloud-based solutions.
Under his leadership, Bahri & Mazroei has implemented AI-driven solutions to enhance operational efficiency, including risk assessment tools in contract management and an AI-powered recruitment system. Additionally, an innovative AI-based inventory management project is currently underway, reinforcing the company’s commitment to technology-driven business improvements.
By integrating Power BI tools, Giovanni has enhanced the company’s ability to generate dynamic dashboards, automate reporting, and provide real-time business insights. These advancements empower key stakeholders to make informed strategic decisions with agility and precision.
Mentoring the Next Generation of Finance Leaders
Beyond his executive role, Giovanni is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of finance professionals. He encourages young professionals to move beyond traditional accounting roles and develop a holistic understanding of business operations.
His advice to finance professionals is to broaden their expertise by incorporating legal frameworks, contract management, project execution, and financial planning into their skill set. This approach equips them with the knowledge necessary to assume leadership roles and remain valuable assets in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Giovanni’s leadership philosophy is rooted in his belief that simplicity drives success:
“Make it simple, make it successful.”
He emphasizes that financial leadership should not be overcomplicated—clarity, strategic thinking, and adaptability are essential for making meaningful business decisions.
Final Thoughts
As CFO of Bahri & Mazroei, Giovanni continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s financial strategies, business expansion, and technology integration.
By combining financial excellence with digital innovation, he reinforces Bahri & Mazroei’s position as a forward-thinking industry leader in the Middle East, paving the way for a more advanced and sustainable future.
