Paul Bellavance - GCC AI Strategy and People Expert

Biography:

Paul Bellavance is a GCC AI Strategy and People Transformation Expert with over 25 years of experience. His specialties include organizational transformation, AI strategy, executive coaching and strategic HR. Working with CECai and in collaboration with Ryelle Strategy Group, Paul helps organizations across the GCC to navigate complex change, align their workforce with AI-driven strategies, and achieve sustainable success.

Paul’s expertise includes post-merger integration, government excellence initiatives, and telecom sector transformations. Recognized as a subject matter expert by the Federal, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi governments, he has led major transformation projects that strengthen organizational culture, foster leadership development, and enhance employee engagement.

Leveraging exclusive tools like Swarm Intelligence and proprietary AI frameworks, Paul empowers organizations to make smarter decisions, accelerate innovation, and build resilient, AI-ready teams. His approach combines a commercial mindset with a focus on stakeholder engagement, value alignment, and transparent communication to ensure seamless transitions and measurable outcomes.

Key Achievements:

Post-Merger Integration:

• Integrated 2,500 IT employees between Bell and CGI, aligning strategic objectives and fostering a high-performance environment.

Telecom Sector Transformation:

• Directed major telecom transformation initiatives in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, guiding organizations from government entities to publicly traded companies.

UAE Government Excellence:

• Led over eight assessment cycles for top UAE government entities, including Dubai Municipality and the Federal Energy and Infrastructure Ministry (2017-2024), supporting national excellence goals.

DEWA Excellence Partnership:

• Elevated operational standards and achieved strategic excellence objectives during a two-year consulting mandate with DEWA.

AI-Powered Workforce Development:

• Designed and implemented AI and leadership development programs, significantly increasing productivity in GCC organizations.

Specialization Areas:

• AI Strategy and Integration
• People Transformation and Workforce Development
• Organizational Change and Value Alignment
• Post-Merger Integration
• Public Sector Excellence Programs
• Digital and Operational Transformation
• Leadership Development and Employee Engagement

Approach:

Paul’s approach blends a commercial mindset with AI-driven strategy execution and stakeholder engagement. Through his collaboration with Ryelle Strategy Group and the execution excellence of CECai, he ensures GCC organizations are equipped to lead in the AI era with resilient teams and innovative strategies.

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