In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Peppermint Company stands as a shining example of what innovation, creativity, and leadership can achieve. At the heart of Peppermint’s tech-driven vision is Kevin Sabbe, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Peppermint Cambodia. With a career that spans several countries, industries, and leadership roles, Kevin’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of technology and the importance of fostering a collaborative, innovative environment within tech teams. In this interview, Kevin shares insights on his career path, the future of technology, and how Peppermint is driving change across Cambodia and the broader region.
From Developer to CTO: A Journey of Growth and Leadership
When asked about his journey to becoming CTO, Kevin reflects on his early days as a developer, which laid the foundation for his leadership style today. “My journey started as a developer, and over time I moved into a lead developer role.” His path was not linear, but rather shaped by continuous learning and the ability to adapt to new challenges.
Kevin’s experience at the Kirirom Institute of Technology in Cambodia also played a crucial role in his development as a leader. “I taught Python through bootcamps to a total of 200 students over nine bootcamps. This experience gave me a broader perspective on technology and leadership.” Teaching gave him not only technical expertise but also a deeper understanding of how to inspire and lead others. It was a stepping stone toward his role as CTO, where he could combine his love for technology with his passion for leadership.
“Becoming CTO felt like a natural progression,” Kevin says, reflecting on the opportunity he seized at Peppermint. “When the opportunity came up, I was excited to take on the challenge.” One of the key elements of his success has been leveraging his extensive network. “I also leveraged my network to bring in talented people from my past experiences, which has been a key part of our growth.”
Vision for Technology in Cambodia and Beyond
At Peppermint, innovation is not just a buzzword but a core part of the company’s DNA. Under Kevin’s leadership, the company has set its sights on not only driving technological growth in Cambodia but also influencing the broader region. “At Peppermint, we’re committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation,” Kevin says. The company’s vision is to utilize technology to drive both short-term and long-term growth for businesses in the region.
Peppermint’s teams span across multiple countries, including France, Tunisia, Cambodia, and Japan, giving the company a unique advantage. “We’re not only focused on technology itself but also on how it can bring real, tangible value to people and businesses in our communities.” This multi-regional presence allows Peppermint to apply global insights to local markets, helping businesses grow sustainably while staying competitive.
Innovations Under Kevin’s Leadership
One of the most significant achievements under Kevin’s leadership has been the automation of internal processes using AI. This innovation has not only improved efficiency but also freed up time and resources for Peppermint to focus on delivering value to its clients. “We’ve worked on integrating AI in ways that add real value, not just internally but in our clients’ projects as well.”
AI isn’t just a tool for internal optimization at Peppermint; it’s a cornerstone of the company’s future-facing strategy. The company is integrating AI into client projects, ensuring that these technologies create tangible, real-world benefits.
Leadership Values: Balancing Innovation with Humility
When asked about his leadership style, Kevin emphasizes balance. “My leadership style is about balance—between innovation and practicality, between encouraging bold ideas and learning from our mistakes.” He believes that leading with humility is crucial, ensuring that all team members feel valued and heard.
“I try to foster an environment where collaboration is key,” Kevin says. He focuses on creating a team culture where challenges are faced collectively. “It’s important for me that the best ideas come forward, regardless of who they come from.”
This philosophy extends to how Kevin handles failure and success. Mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, and success is a shared celebration.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Creativity
Innovation is at the heart of everything Peppermint does, and Kevin has worked hard to create a culture that supports creativity. “We often host hackathons and themed events where small teams work together on a specific challenge,” Kevin explains. These events not only bring the team closer but also generate ideas that often end up being implemented in internal projects or for clients.
By fostering a culture of experimentation, Kevin ensures that creativity is woven into the daily work of his tech teams. “We don’t micromanage our teams and believe in giving them the freedom to explore their own solutions,” he says. This autonomy empowers the team, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability that drives innovation.
Future Trends in Technology: AI and Sustainability
Looking ahead, Kevin identifies two major trends that will shape the technology sector: AI and sustainability. “AI is already a big trend, and I see it continuing to grow rapidly,” Kevin predicts. The ability of AI to drive everything from automation to decision-making means that companies that successfully integrate it will gain a competitive edge.
Sustainability is another area where Kevin sees technology playing a pivotal role. “I also see a growing focus on sustainability, where technology will play a key role in optimizing resources and reducing environmental impacts.” Peppermint is already preparing for these trends by investing in research and development in AI and machine learning, ensuring that the company stays ahead of the curve.
Tackling Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
With its strong emphasis on R&D and adaptability, Peppermint is well-positioned to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by these trends. “We’re investing in AI and machine learning to ensure we’re prepared for the future,” Kevin says. The company is constantly evolving, with a clear focus on making emerging technologies practical and valuable for clients.
Sustainability at the Core of Technology Solutions
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword at Peppermint—it’s a core value. “Sustainability is a key part of our strategy,” Kevin explains. The company’s technology solutions are designed to help businesses become more efficient, which naturally leads to reduced waste and energy consumption. “We look for ways to optimize processes with digital tools, which not only improves performance but also supports environmental goals.”
Customer-Centric Technology
For Kevin and the team at Peppermint, customer experience is paramount. “Customer experience is at the heart of what we do,” Kevin states. By taking a user-centric approach, Peppermint ensures that its technology solutions are intuitive and meet the specific needs of clients. Data analytics also play a crucial role, allowing the company to personalize experiences and deliver more relevant, effective solutions.
Exciting Future Projects
While Kevin couldn’t reveal too much about what’s next for Peppermint, he did hint at exciting projects on the horizon. “We’re working on some exciting new projects involving generative AI and blockchain,” he shares. These innovations are expected to be unveiled in early 2025 and promise to create significant value for Peppermint’s clients.