Stephane Timpano didn’t start his career with a traditional engineering background. However, the CEO of Aspire has always been fascinated by technology. Born in France to an Italian family, he pursued Political Science and Economics, earning an MBA from Bocconi University in Italy.
His career took off in consulting at EY and Bain, where he specialised in Telecom, Media, and Technology, gaining experience across more than thirty countries.
He first delved into tech product development at News Corp, contributing to the launch of SkyGo, their initial foray into streaming.
Now leading ASPIRE and A2RL, Timpano is focused on Robotics, Autonomy, and AI. The launch of the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, featuring AI-driven SuperFormula cars at the Yas Marina Circuit, is a highlight.
Timpano maintains a disciplined routine, starting his day at 5 am to stay ahead. And is also passionate about Lego, particularly building complex Star Wars models.
Could you tell us about your background, where you are from, and what first piqued your interest in technology?
I’ve always been deeply passionate about technology and innovation, even without a formal background in engineering or a PhD in the sciences. My Italian heritage and French education shaped my journey. Born in France, I studied Political Science and Economics before earning an MBA from Bocconi University in Italy.
Over the past twenty years, I’ve built a career in consulting at EY and Bain, rising to Senior Partner. There, I specialised in the Telecom, Media, and Tech industries across more than thirty countries.
My experience also includes executive roles in the media industry with companies like EMI Group and News Corp. Throughout my career, technology has been a constant focus, and over time, I’ve gravitated towards disruptive innovations, which are now at the heart of my work.
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What was the first tech product you built or were a part of?
My first foray into tech product development was with News Corp, where I was involved in creating SkyGo, the company’s first streaming app. This was around 2008/2009, when Netflix emerged as a streaming service and pay TV companies like News Corp were exploring similar avenues.
We built a fantastic product, but management hesitated to embrace online streaming via an app fully. As a result, Netflix ultimately dominated the market. Those years were transformative for the media industry and provided invaluable lessons for me. You can’t afford to hesitate in tech if you have a great product. Someone else will seize the opportunity if you do.
What fascinates you about technology and the sector you are in? Was it a well-planned path you took, or was it serendipitous?
What fascinates me most is technology’s ability to disrupt industries and transform our lives and work. Although my journey into the tech sector wasn’t meticulously planned, my career in consulting and media exposed me to the profound impact of technological innovation.
I have been driven by curiosity and the belief that technology when harnessed correctly, can create significant and lasting change. This journey ultimately led me to ASPIRE and A2RL, where I can contribute to pushing the boundaries of innovation even further.
Can you describe the essential products and innovations your company has introduced in the past year?
2024 ASPIRE will focus heavily on robotics, autonomy, and AI. In February, we hosted the finals of the Mohammed Bin Zayed International Robotics Competition (MBZIRC), one of the most advanced global robotics challenges, involving more than 50 teams from academia, research and industry.
The five finalists developed impressive solutions that involved a heterogeneous collaboration among unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned surface vehicles to perform complex navigation and manipulation tasks in a GNSS-denied marine environment.
Another standout achievement has been the launch of A2RL, the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, positioning it as one of the world’s pioneering AI-powered autonomous racing sports.
In April 2024, we successfully showcased multiple SuperFormula cars racing autonomously on the Yas Marina Circuit, witnessed by 12,000 spectators and over a million unique viewers online.
This event was the first of its kind in the region, and it demonstrated the immense promise of AI and autonomous technologies in revolutionising and advancing broader technological applications.
What impact have these products/innovations had on the industry and your target market?
The innovations introduced through ASPIRE, particularly with the launch of A2RL, have set a new standard in the autonomous and AI-powered sports industry. We’ve not only pushed the boundaries of what autonomous technology can achieve but also showcased its potential applications in broader sectors.
The advancements in autonomous vehicle technology demonstrated through A2RL have far-reaching implications for the future of mobility. They contribute directly to enhancing road safety by refining the algorithms and systems that could one day be integrated into everyday vehicles, reducing human error and making our roads safer.
How do you typically begin your day, and what is that one thing you ensure you do every day? What is that one perpetual item on your task list?
I’m an early riser, starting my day at 5 am. I use the early hours for breakfast and to tackle emails, ensuring that by 7 am, I’ve addressed all critical requests and set a clear course for the day. This approach allows me to stay ahead of my team and maintain a proactive stance, ensuring that the day unfolds smoothly and purposefully.
What initiatives has your company implemented to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity?
ATRC, our parent company, prioritises hiring and attracting the best minds in research and technology. Our workforce reflects this commitment, with over 83 different nationalities represented, including a strong presence of talented Emirati and expatriate women.
This diversity isn’t just about statistics—it’s a cornerstone of our innovation strategy, bringing together various perspectives and ideas that drive our cutting-edge projects forward.
Tell us the importance of the MENA region for your organisation?
The MENA region is significant for our organisation due to its tech-forward mindset and its adaptability to new and emerging technologies. This region’s welcoming approach to new advancements in AI and autonomy makes it a fertile ground for innovation and for breakthrough initiatives like the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL). At ASPIRE, we aim to connect these market needs with cutting-edge research and development driven by our colleagues at TII, the Technology Innovation Institute.
By bridging the gap between demand and R&D, we foster a unique environment where innovation can thrive, ensuring that the MENA region remains at the forefront of technological advancements. As we continue to introduce and expand our work in AI and autonomy, we see immense potential for these technologies to address critical challenges in the region, from enhancing mobility solutions to driving economic growth.
What is your favourite go-to phrase or word?
Who dares Win!
What is the easiest part of leading a team, and what is the most challenging part?
The easiest part of leading a team is inspiring them with a shared vision—when everyone believes in the mission, the momentum almost builds itself.
The most challenging part, however, is ensuring that each team member feels heard and valued, especially when making tough decisions. Balancing vision with empathy is the tightrope every leader must walk.
How do you define your leadership style, and how has it evolved?
My leadership style has evolved significantly over the years, shaped by successes and setbacks. Today, I prioritise three fundamental principles: First, the ability to listen—to colleagues, stakeholders, and the market—is crucial for making informed decisions. Second, preparedness is essential; I always ensure a plan A, B, and even C, to stay ahead of unforeseen challenges. Finally, I believe a leader must set the standard for the team, leading by example in actions and attitude.
What is your favourite occupation outside of your professional life?
I’m a proud and avid Lego builder, with a collection of over a million pieces dedicated to creating intricate Star Wars vessels. My most ambitious project has been the Nebulon-B Frigate, a pivotal medical ship in the Rebel fleet from The Empire Strikes Back. Since no official large-scale Lego set exists for this vessel, I embarked on a six-month journey to design and assemble it from scratch, sourcing every piece to bring this iconic structure to life. It’s a blend of creativity, patience, and precision—qualities that resonate deeply with my professional ethos.
What advice would you give your 25-year-old self?
To my 25-year-old self, I’d say this: Be patient and focus on building solid foundations for your future. There’s a time for learning and a time for action—without solid preparation, success becomes elusive. Study well, plan carefully, and remember that life is not a race; growth takes time.
Are there days when you want to skip work? What do you do on those days? Where do you find inspiration from?
I made a conscious decision to focus my career on projects that I’m passionate about and to surround myself with people who inspire me. While challenging days are inevitable, when you’re engaged in work you genuinely care about and collaborate with those who motivate you, it becomes much easier to navigate through any obstacles.
How do you balance the demands of leadership with your personal life? Any tips for maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
Clear boundaries and disciplined time management are the only ways to achieve this. I prioritise my schedule, ensuring I’m fully present in work and personal settings. Setting aside dedicated time for family, hobbies, and relaxation is essential. My advice is to delegate effectively, trust your team, and remember that recharging outside of work is crucial for sustained success in leadership.
In your opinion, what are the key traits that make an effective leader in the tech industry?
You will need many qualities to be an effective leader in the tech industry. Still, for me, the most important one is your ability to create a clear connection between Technology and business needs. The technology must be aligned with the business’s mission. The Technology we aim to develop must solve a business challenge more quickly and efficiently; otherwise, you are missing something important.
What strategies do you use to stay current with technological advancements and industry trends?
This is a daily task! The world is evolving too quickly to keep up with all the new technologies and trends. I personally spend most of my time every day reading and listening to (credible) tech experts. I also appreciate sometimes going to selected conferences to meet tech leaders, discover new advancements, and connect with experts.
What are your plans and aims?
At ASPIRE, our vision is to drive innovation through impactful initiatives both within the UAE and globally through advancing cutting-edge technologies.
We’ve laid a strong foundation with our focus on Robotics and AI, and we are committed to exploring other priority sectors, such as Advanced Materials, Quantum Physics, and Biotechnology, in the future.
We will continue pursuing transformative solutions by launching grand challenges and optimising R&D grants and funds to ensure effective management and maximum impact.
