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20 Best CEOs of the Year 2024

Cisse Adama Sakande: Igniting Innovation, Driving Impact, and Redefining Excellence as CEO of Snedai Group

Cisse Adama Sakande: Igniting Innovation, Driving Impact, and Redefining Excellence as CEO of Snedai Group

“As CEO, Sakande has introduced forward-thinking strategies that encourage ongoing innovation, cater to client needs, and establish key partnerships, setting Snedai Group apart as an industry leader.”

Meet Cisse Adama Sakande, the dynamic CEO steering Snedai Group toward a digital revolution. With over three decades of experience, Sakande's unique fusion of technical know-how and strategic marketing brilliance has left an indelible mark on the digital technology and business domains.

Snedai, an Ivorian conglomerate, stands tall at the forefront of various sectors including biometrics, information and communication technologies, energy, transport, and real estate. It is Sakande's visionary leadership that has propelled the company to remarkable advancements across these diverse fields, solidifying its status as an industry leader.

Throughout his illustrious career, Sakande has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation and progress. His ability to navigate complex technological landscapes while simultaneously driving strategic initiatives has been instrumental in Snedai's success story. Sakande's forward-thinking approach has not only enabled the company to stay ahead of the curve but has also opened doors to new opportunities and partnerships.

Under his guidance, Snedai Groups has become synonymous with groundbreaking solutions and transformative ideas. Sakande's knack for identifying emerging trends and capitalizing on them has ensured that Snedai remains at the forefront of technological innovation, setting new benchmarks for excellence in the industry.

As Sakande continues to lead Snedai Group into the future, his vision, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence serve as a driving force, inspiring both his team and the broader tech community. With Sakande at the helm, Snedai Group is poised to continue its journey of innovation, shaping the digital landscape for years to come.

Embarking on a Remarkable Journey

Cisse Adama Sakande's journey into the world of technological innovation began in 1996 when he assumed the pivotal role of Director of Systems Integration at MCG International. Serving as a strategic partner of Oracle Corporation, Sakande introduced the Oracle Value Service (OVS) program to Africa, a move that significantly expanded Oracle's presence across Ivory Coast and West Africa. Through this initiative, he made Oracle's cutting-edge products more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), thereby catalyzing technological advancement in the region.

In 2001, Sakande transitioned to the role of Director of Information Systems at Sanofi Aventis Group, a renowned pharmaceutical company. Here, he dedicated his efforts to fortifying IT infrastructures across various Sub-Saharan African subsidiaries, which resulted in substantial improvements to the company's global operations. His strategic vision and implementation prowess played a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency and connectivity within the organization.

In 2010, Sakande joined the Vlisco Group, assuming the position of DSI/CIO at Uniwax, a subsidiary of the conglomerate. Here, he embarked on a comprehensive overhaul of information systems, leveraging his expertise to drive cost savings and establish a high-performance ecosystem within the company. Sakande's leadership and technological acumen continued to leave an indelible mark, further solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field of IT innovation.

Throughout his illustrious career, Sakande's unwavering commitment to leveraging technology for progress has not only transformed businesses but also empowered communities, marking him as a beacon of innovation and leadership in the ever-evolving landscape of technology.

Leading Technological Advancements

In 2015, Cisse Adama Sakande took on the role of Chief Information Officer (CIO) at the Snedai Group, where he led the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage project in Côte d’Ivoire. With his guidance, the project benefited from advanced technology, making healthcare more accessible to the people.

Two years later, Sakande rose to the position of CEO at Snedai Technologies. He introduced an innovative online platform, www.monpasseport.ci, which transformed the cumbersome passport application process, simplifying it for everyone. Additionally, his company won a major contract in August 2023 to build a cutting-edge Datacenter, valued at tens of millions of dollars.

Cisse Adama Sakande's journey showcases his exceptional knack for innovation and leadership in the technology sector. His strategic moves and groundbreaking projects have made a significant impact, earning him a reputation as a forward-thinking leader in the field.

Navigating Leadership, Innovation, and Influence

In the landscape of leadership, innovation, and influence, Cisse Adama Sakande's approach stands out for its blend of creativity, unwavering commitment, teamwork, and a strong sense of duty towards society. These qualities have elevated Snedai Group to a prominent position in the digital technology sector of Ivory Coast and West Africa.

As CEO, Sakande has introduced forward-thinking strategies that encourage ongoing innovation, cater to client needs, and establish key partnerships, setting Snedai Group apart as an industry leader. Sakande encountered challenges when transitioning Côte d’Ivoire’s passport application process from manual to digital. Despite obstacles, his persistence and influential backing led to a transformative shift that ultimately benefited citizens.

Core Values and Ethics

Sakande's leadership is anchored by timeless values and ethical standards, shaping a path defined by customer-centric innovation, transparency, excellence, and a deep investment in people. With a steadfast commitment to fostering growth and progress, Sakande prioritizes continuous learning through reading and active participation in conferences, while championing ongoing employee development.

His vision as a CEO encompasses expanding into new territories, leading with innovation, embracing digital inclusivity, upholding social responsibility, forging strategic partnerships, nurturing talent, safeguarding digital independence, and fostering sustainable development. Through these principles, Sakande aims to steer Snedai Group towards a future marked by meaningful impact and enduring success.

Recognitions and Accolades

Sakande's significant contributions have garnered him prestigious awards, such as the ‘Grand Prize for Digital Transformation’ in 2022 and ‘The Pan-African Grand Prix for Leaders 2023.’ He was also honored with the ‘Super Grand Prix for the Best Manager of Technological Innovation’ in March 2023.

Cisse Adama Sakande's journey epitomizes boundless enthusiasm for innovation and a steadfast commitment to driving positive change in the dynamic digital technology sector. His experiences as a CEO serve as a wellspring of inspiration for emerging leaders, illustrating the transformative power of vision, perseverance, and innovation.

About | Cisse Adama Sakande 

Cisse Sakande has built SNEDAI TECHNOLOGIES, a digital service company and a subsidiary of SNEDAI GROUP, from scratch. Now, as the Managing Director and CEo, he is responsible for strategic planning, decision-making, and ensuring its overall success. Cisse is also one of the most visible and innovative leaders in the African digital technology space.

“Sakande's leadership is anchored by timeless values and ethical standards, shaping a path defined by customer-centric innovation, transparency, excellence, and a deep investment in people.”