DIGITAL Transformation

Even though his interest in technology began at a young age, Yuri Aguiar’s formal career in technology started with a chance encounter – being in the right place at the right time! 

After graduating with Physics as his major he thought he was ready to take on any profession, but his euphoria was short lived – he was rejected at multiple job interviews because he didn’t know how to use a typewriter or a fax machine.

By sheer coincidence he was introduced to the world of professional software development and had to sell his prized musical instruments to pay for his first certification. Starting as a humble data entry operator he graduated roles over a period of 15 years to reach the position of a Global CIO. Yuri prides himself on leading small yet efficient teams of independent thinkers that challenge the status quo. He is often seen in team rooms brainstorming at a whiteboard with his sleeves rolled up.

A perpetual student, he recently completed his Masters in Digital Marketing to better understand challenges around consumer data. His thesis on ‘The Evolution of Consumer and Marketer Responses to Technology Enabled Marketing’ studied consumer habits across multiple social media channels, geographies and demographics. 

He is currently pursuing interests in the data science area with innovational experiments in advanced content intelligence while working on a patent around augmented reality.

An avid music and aviation fan, he loves spending downtime on a flight simulator. His love for music continues to find expression outside of work. Yuri has partnered with colleagues to organize charity concerts for Breast Cancer, War Veterans and for victims of the tsunami in Japan – often drumming with the band.