Having established himself as a formidable presence in the technology sector, Ralph Waldo S. Ramos is currently the Technical Product Owner for Aani at Al Etihad Payments in the UAE. His journey is marked by a series of notable achievements and a steadfast commitment to continuous learning and innovation. His mantra, “Continuous learning and innovation are the keys to transforming challenges into opportunities,” underscores his approach to both his professional and personal life.
Ralph’s career began 12 years ago in Singapore, driven by a desire to seek challenging opportunities and make a significant impact on the international stage.
“The desire to work abroad was driven by a quest for challenging opportunities and a chance to make an international impact in the technology sector. Working abroad has offered me a broader canvas to apply my skills, learn from diverse cultures, and contribute to global tech advancements,” he explains to The Global Filipino Magazine.
Before taking on his current role at Al Etihad Payments, Ralph’s career trajectory included significant roles at esteemed organizations such as Accenture, UBS, Macquarie Bank, Emirates NBD, KPMG Lower Gulf, and Globe Telecom. His experience across these companies provided him with a diverse and rich background in technology and business.
“One of my career highlights has been the strategic overhaul of blockchain services at Du Telecom, which has now seen me transition into pioneering the instant payment ecosystem in the UAE with Al Etihad Payments,” Ralph shares.
As the first Filipino to become a Director at Du Telecom in the UAE, Ralph has broken barriers and set new standards for Filipino professionals in the technology sector. This accomplishment is a source of pride and motivation for Ralph.
“Being the first Filipino Director at Du Telecom has been an honor and a responsibility. It stands as encouragement to every kabayan that with perseverance and passion, no goal is out of reach,” he asserts.
In his current position, Ralph finds immense satisfaction in the dynamic environment of fintech.
“My work at Al Etihad Payments is a blend of my passions for technology and innovation. It’s immensely satisfying to be at the forefront of fintech, leading initiatives that define the future of payments. The constant evolution of technology and the opportunity to craft solutions that impact millions are what make my role so exhilarating,” he says.
Working overseas has provided Ralph with unique perspectives and growth opportunities.
“Working overseas offers an unparalleled perspective. It’s the intersection of global business dynamics, cultural exchange, and innovation. It’s where I’ve grown the most, both professionally and personally, adapting and thriving in an environment that is as challenging as it is rewarding,” he reflects.
However, Ralph’s journey has not been without its struggles. Adapting to new cultures, navigating the complexities of international business, and establishing credibility in a competitive industry were some of the challenges he faced.
“Every success comes with its own set of challenges. Adapting to new cultures, navigating the complexities of international business, and establishing credibility in a competitive industry were some of the battles I faced. My resilience, the support of my mentors and teams, and a steadfast focus on my goals were crucial in overcoming these obstacles,” Ralph recalls.
Looking ahead, Ralph plans to leverage his global insights and experiences to contribute to broader technological advancements.
“As I continue to evolve in my professional journey, my aspiration is to leverage the global insights and experience I’ve gained to contribute to the broader sphere of technology advancement. I’m keen on using my expertise to support not just Filipinos but also the global community in embracing technological innovation. Whether through mentoring, collaborative projects, or strategic leadership, I aim to be a catalyst for progress that uplifts communities and enhances human potential through technology,” he explains.
For fellow Filipinos struggling abroad, Ralph offers heartfelt advice.
“Stay resilient and keep learning. The challenges you face are often the best teachers. Invest in relationships and find mentors. Remember, every struggle is a step towards growth. Hold on to your values, and don’t lose sight of where you want to go,” he advises.
This article has been published in Volume 5, Issue 1 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.
