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Shiva S.
CIO at OrientSwiss - e-Commerce Marketplace CIS & MENA
Professional Background
Shiva S. is a visionary leader and entrepreneur, currently at the helm of ZoodMall, a prominent B2C e-commerce marketplace that has made significant strides in Central Asia and the MENA regions. Under Shiva’s leadership, ZoodMall has successfully raised over $13 million in its Series A funding round, and is now launching fundraising efforts for its Series B.
ZoodMall operates across seven countries and caters to more than 100 million consumers, transforming the mobile shopping landscape by offering millions of both branded and non-branded affordable products. The platform stands out by adapting successful marketplace models, akin to Joom in Russia and Wish in the USA, and tailoring them to address local market challenges, including language barriers, payment solutions, and logistical constraints. This innovative approach helps to deliver a seamless shopping experience to an underserved demographic of low to mid-income consumers, who are increasingly mobile-ready in the target markets.
A hallmark of ZoodMall’s strategy is the introduction of cutting-edge solutions such as ZoodPay, which offers a Buy Now Pay Later service that enhances the purchasing power of consumers. Collaborations with leading mobile service operators like Zain, and strategic partnerships with various e-commerce platforms and logistics providers, set ZoodMall on a trajectory to solidify its position as a market leader.
Education and Achievements
Shiva S. boasts an impressive academic background that has equipped him with a robust foundation in finance, economics, and entrepreneurial practices. He earned his Bachelor of Science with Honours in Economics from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), which is renowned for its rigorous approach to economic theories and practical applications in the business world.
Shiva further honed his expertise in finance through an MBA with a focus on Finance, Valuation, and Entrepreneurship from the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley. This program is celebrated for fostering innovative business thinking and entrepreneurship, skills that undoubtedly contribute to his success in the e-commerce sector. Moreover, Shiva’s academic credentials include completing Chartered Accounting studies at Ernst & Young in London, where he achieved first-time passes throughout the four-year program. This experience provided him with an in-depth understanding of financial principles and accounting practices, foundational knowledge that informs his strategic decision-making at ZoodMall.
Professional Experience and Career Journey
Shiva S.’s career trajectory reflects a diverse and dynamic professional journey. He has held several key positions that underscore his expertise in investment and strategic finance. As the Chief Investment Officer at OrientSwiss SA, he played a pivotal role in driving investment strategies and fostering financial growth. His previous role as Chief Investment Officer at Sarava further solidified his reputation as a knowledgeable figure in investment management.
Additionally, Shiva has amassed extensive experience in high-stakes finance roles at various institutions, including serving as Vice President at Strategic Equity Group and as Associate Vice President at McGladrey Capital Markets. His career also includes valuable experience from his time at Ernst & Young, where he worked as a Senior Accountant, gaining critical insights into financial auditing and reporting.
Shiva’s commitment to professional development is evident from his participation in a leadership program with Nortel Networks, where he was an Associate, further honing his leadership abilities and business acumen. Following that, he dedicated time to a private family office during a career break, where he likely expanded his understanding of family-owned investment strategies and personalized finance solutions.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Shiva S. has consistently demonstrated a talent for identifying lucrative opportunities and driving sustainable business models. Leading ZoodMall through its growth phases, especially securing significant funding and fostering strategic partnerships, are notable achievements that underscore his capabilities as a business leader. His strategic foresight in launching essential services like ZoodPay exemplifies his innovative mindset, catering to the evolving needs of a broad consumer base.
As ZoodMall continues to grow, bringing accessibility and affordability to millions of shoppers, Shiva's vision drives the company forward. His strategic development initiatives not only reinforce ZoodMall’s position in the market but also contribute to economic growth within the regions it serves.
Achievements
Shiva S. is recognized for his leadership in fundraising efforts, successfully raising over $13 million in Series A for ZoodMall.
ZoodMall has gained a reputation for enhancing consumer experience in e-commerce within Central Asia and the MENA region.
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