In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of technology, where innovation is the lifeblood of progress, few individuals stand out as true pioneers. Hamad Aish is one such individual—a visionary leader whose contributions to data center management and IT infrastructure have redefined industry standards. With over 17 years of experience, Hamad has not only mastered the technical intricacies of his field but has also emerged as a strategic thinker, a collaborative leader, and an inspiration to his peers. At Leaders under 40, his achievements are nothing short of extraordinary, making him a beacon of excellence in the tech industry.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Perseverance

Born on December 5, 1987, in Dubai—a city synonymous with innovation and ambition—Hamad Aish was destined to make his mark in the world of technology. From a young age, he was captivated by the power of innovation, initially dreaming of becoming an airplane engineer due to his love for travel. However, the tech boom of 2006 ignited a new passion within him, steering him toward the field of Computer Science. This decision would prove to be a defining moment in his life, setting the stage for a career marked by groundbreaking achievements and unwavering dedication.

Hamad’s journey into the tech world began while he was still pursuing his degree. Balancing the demands of education and work, he started as a Network Engineer at the Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD). This early experience was more than just a job; it was a training ground that taught him the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, and resilience—qualities that would later define his leadership style.

Rising Through the Ranks: A Career Defined by Excellence

Hamad’s professional trajectory took a significant leap when he joined the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), now part of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) following a merger in 2017. Over the years, he held several pivotal roles, each contributing to his growth as a leader and technologist. His career is a testament to his ability to navigate complex challenges, deliver innovative solutions, and inspire teams to achieve greatness.

Service Owner, Data Center Management (May 2023 – Present)
In his current role at FAB, Hamad oversees the smooth and efficient functioning of critical IT infrastructure. His leadership has been instrumental in driving some of the bank’s most ambitious projects, including the successful relocation of a data center from Al Ain to Dubai. This monumental task required meticulous planning, flawless execution, and the ability to manage risks effectively—all of which Hamad handled with remarkable expertise.

One of his most notable achievements in this role has been the closure of four legacy data centers, with 90% of services successfully migrated to the cloud. This initiative not only showcased his technical prowess but also highlighted his strategic vision for modernizing IT infrastructure. Under his guidance, the bank achieved a 15% reduction in Data Center Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) and a 56% decrease in annual maintenance contracts, resulting in significant cost savings and operational efficiency.

Senior Engineer Manager, Data Center (July 2021 – June 2023)
During this period, Hamad managed complex projects that required a blend of technical expertise and leadership acumen. One of his key accomplishments was overseeing the DC chiller replacement project, which ensured uninterrupted cooling and optimal performance of the data center. His ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver results under tight deadlines earned him widespread recognition and respect.

Senior Network Engineer (October 2011 – July 2021)
Hamad’s decade-long tenure as a Senior Network Engineer saw him responsible for the network infrastructure of Dubai and the northern emirates. His contributions were critical in maintaining high availability, reliability, and security of IT services, ensuring seamless operations for the bank.

A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership

Hamad’s career is marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements that have redefined data center management. His ability to anticipate industry trends, embrace emerging technologies, and drive digital transformation has set him apart as a leader who is not just keeping up with change but driving it.

One of his most significant contributions has been his focus on cloud migration and AI-driven solutions. By spearheading the migration of 90% of services to the cloud, Hamad has positioned FAB as a leader in digital transformation. His efforts have not only improved operational efficiency but also enhanced the bank’s ability to innovate and adapt to changing market demands.

Hamad’s leadership style is characterized by his ability to inspire and empower his team. Under his guidance, his team was awarded the “Best Team in Information Technology”—a recognition that speaks volumes about his ability to foster collaboration, encourage innovation, and deliver exceptional results.

Awards and Accolades: A Testament to Excellence

Hamad’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, each a testament to his impact on the tech industry. Among his most notable awards are:

Employee of the Quarter

Outstanding Leadership Award at Internet 2.0 Dubai

Nafis Award Winner (2024) in the supervisory jobs category

These honors reflect not only his technical expertise but also his commitment to driving innovation, fostering operational excellence, and inspiring those around him.

A Family Man with a Vision for the Future

Beyond his professional achievements, Hamad is a devoted family man. The birth of his daughter, Reem, in 2020, brought immense joy and a renewed sense of purpose to his life. Hamad’s upbringing in a large family instilled in him the values of collaboration, perseverance, and humility—values that continue to guide him in both his personal and professional life.

Hamad is a strong advocate for work-life harmony, emphasizing the importance of time management, self-reflection, and maintaining a healthy balance between career and family. His ability to excel in a demanding profession while being present for his loved ones is a reflection of his disciplined approach and unwavering focus.

Driving the Future of Data Center Management

As a leader, Hamad is committed to embracing emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoT). His vision for the future includes optimizing data center operations, fostering innovation, and driving digital transformation. Hamad’s ability to anticipate industry trends and adapt to changing landscapes positions him as a leader who is not just shaping the present but also paving the way for the future.

A Leader Who Inspires

Hamad Aish’s journey is a powerful reminder that true leadership is about more than just technical expertise—it’s about vision, resilience, and the ability to inspire others. His story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. At The Spotlight, we are proud to honor Hamad Aish as one of our Leaders Under 40.

Hamad’s achievements are not just a reflection of his individual brilliance but also a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His story inspires us to believe in the power of dreams, the importance of hard work, and the impact of visionary leadership.

Hamad Aish is a true embodiment of what it means to be a leader in the modern era. His journey from a young tech enthusiast to a visionary leader in data center management is a source of inspiration for aspiring professionals. At The Spotlight, we celebrate Hamad’s achievements and honor his contributions to the tech industry.

Here’s to Hamad Aish—a leader who is not only transforming the tech industry but also inspiring the next generation of innovators. His story reminds us that with passion, perseverance, and a clear vision, anything is possible.