Biography of Imran Zia: Founder & CEO of Sigmaud & Zaheen Machines- Entrepreneur
Imran Zia’s Career Journey: A Story of Innovation and Data Analytics
Imran Zia is a prominent figure in Pakistan's tech and data
analytics landscape, currently serving as the Executive Vice President at the
Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP). At CERP, he leads the Data
Analytics and Advisory practice, helping both public and private sector
enterprises optimize their operations using evidence-based, data-driven
approaches. His work focuses on program design, business strategy, and process
excellence, leveraging the power of data to drive better decision-making. With
his expertise in analytics, Imran has become a key player in improving how
businesses and organizations use data to achieve operational success.
Early Education and Career Foundations
Imran’s journey began with solid academic foundations. He
completed his undergraduate studies in Computer Engineering at the University
of Engineering and Technology Lahore. This was followed by a Master’s degree in
Electrical Engineering from Cornell University, and an MBA from the University
of Chicago. His diverse educational background helped him build a strong
understanding of both the technical and business aspects of the rapidly
evolving tech and business environments. These qualifications paved the way for
his successful ventures in data science, technology, and business strategy.
Co-Founding Sigmaud: A Data Science and AI Venture
In 2019, Imran co-founded Sigmaud, a company that
specializes in using data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to help
businesses unlock their full potential. Sigmaud focuses on providing businesses
with advanced analytics tools and machine learning techniques to optimize their
strategies and decision-making processes. Under Imran’s leadership, Sigmaud has
made significant strides in helping companies harness the power of data to
improve their operations and achieve greater success in a highly competitive
market.
Leading SPRING Accelerator’s Operations in Pakistan
Before Sigmaud, Imran played a critical role at SPRING
Accelerator, where he served as the Country Head for Pakistan. In this
capacity, he worked closely with 11 social enterprises, mentoring them to scale
their businesses using data, analytics, and technology. His role involved
applying human-centered design principles to help startups refine their product
offerings and marketing strategies based on user research and data analytics.
This work allowed him to directly contribute to the growth of innovative businesses
in Pakistan, enhancing their reach and impact.
Co-Founding Zaheen Machines: Revolutionizing Energy
Efficiency
In addition to his work in data analytics and AI, Imran also
co-founded Zaheen Machines, a company focused on creating smart Internet of
Things (IoT) devices aimed at improving energy efficiency. One of the company’s
flagship products, Jal Bujh, is an energy conservation device designed to
optimize water heating systems. Jal Bujh was developed to help Pakistan save a
significant amount of natural gas during the winter months. By automating and
optimizing energy consumption, Zaheen Machines is contributing to the country’s
energy efficiency efforts while providing consumers with cost-effective
solutions.
Innovative Product Strategy and Development at Zaheen
Machines
Imran’s leadership at Zaheen Machines was centered around
the company’s product strategy, development, and management. The company’s
first product, Jal Bujh, was created to address a specific need in the
Pakistani market: reducing energy waste from water heaters. Imran’s team
designed the device to use machine learning algorithms to optimize the heating
process, making water heaters more efficient. This initiative has the potential
to save millions of dollars in natural gas usage every month. Imran’s role also
involved managing key business aspects, such as securing contracts with the
largest gas distribution company in Pakistan to deploy the product on a large
scale.
Biography of Imran Zia: Founder & CEO of Sigmaud & Zaheen Machines- Entrepreneur/data science and AI to optimize business/IoT devices like Jal Bujh
Past Experience in Silicon Valley and Industry Leadership
Imran's career also includes significant experience in
Silicon Valley, where he worked for leading tech companies like Oracle and
Altera (now part of Intel). In these roles, he gained invaluable experience in
product development, management, and consulting, which has shaped his approach
to running businesses today. Imran also served as the Chairman of PASHA, the
Pakistan Software Houses Association, and as the Managing Director of the
Pakistan Software Export Board. These leadership positions allowed him to
contribute to the growth of Pakistan's tech ecosystem and shape policies that
support the local technology industry.
Advising Fortune 500 Companies and Expanding Expertise
Imran’s expertise is not limited to startups and local
businesses. He has also provided advisory services to large Fortune 500
companies, particularly in the areas of supply chain optimization and customer
relationship management. By leveraging his background in data analytics and
machine learning, Imran has helped these large organizations streamline their
operations and achieve greater efficiency. His work with both startups and
established corporations demonstrates his versatile expertise and ability to tackle
a wide range of business challenges.
Strategic Management and Data-Driven Decision Making
One of Imran’s key strengths lies in his ability to combine
data-driven decision-making with strategic management. Whether it’s advising
businesses on product development, optimizing supply chains, or designing
AI-driven systems, Imran has consistently utilized data and analytics to make
informed decisions. His work is a testament to the power of data in today’s
business world, where evidence-based approaches are essential for success.
Imran’s strategic thinking and ability to harness data are integral to his
approach in helping organizations grow and evolve.
Passion for Innovation and the Future
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Imran is passionate
about innovation and technology. He has been actively involved in various
aspects of the tech world, including the development of IoT devices, energy
efficiency solutions, and AI/ML systems. His future vision includes building
more intelligent systems and expanding the impact of his ventures. Imran’s work
reflects a commitment to creating sustainable solutions that address pressing
issues in Pakistan, such as energy conservation and efficient resource
management.
Personal Interests and Life Outside Work
Outside of his professional career, Imran has a diverse
range of personal interests. He is a part-time farmer and an electric-powered
automobile enthusiast. His passion for innovation extends to his personal life,
where he explores new technologies and systems that can contribute to
sustainability and efficiency. This curiosity and hands-on approach to life
reflect the same innovative mindset that drives his professional endeavors,
making him a well-rounded individual with a keen interest in improving both business
and societal outcomes.
Timeline for story
Education: Imran holds an undergraduate degree in Computer
Engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology Lahore, a
Master’s in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University, and an MBA from the
University of Chicago.
Co-Founding Sigmaud (2019): He co-founded Sigmaud, focusing
on data science and AI to optimize business strategies and decision-making.
SPRING Accelerator (Country Head for Pakistan): Led
operations, mentoring 11 social enterprises to scale using data, analytics, and
human-centered design.
Co-Founding Zaheen Machines: Developed energy-efficient IoT
devices like Jal Bujh to optimize water heating systems, contributing to
Pakistan's energy efficiency.
Silicon Valley Experience: Worked at Oracle and Altera (now
part of Intel), gaining experience in product development and management.
Industry Leadership: Served as Chairman of PASHA (Pakistan
Software Houses Association) and Managing Director of the Pakistan Software
Export Board, helping shape policies for Pakistan's tech ecosystem.
Advising Fortune 500 Companies: Provided advisory services
in supply chain optimization and customer relationship management, leveraging
his expertise in data analytics and machine learning.
Data-Driven Strategic Management: Known for using
data-driven decision-making to optimize operations and design AI-driven systems
for businesses.
Passion for Innovation: Enthusiastic about creating
intelligent systems, IoT devices, and energy-efficient solutions. He is also a
part-time farmer and electric vehicle enthusiast.
