Itamar ben Hemo, the CEO of the Israeli tech startup Rivery, exemplifies the intertwining of professional dedication and personal sacrifice that has characterized many lives in Israel since the outbreak of conflict. Following the devastating attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, Hemo, an expat who was visiting Israel, felt compelled to interrupt his professional life and join the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in combat. This decision came after a heartbreaking day that saw the loss of over 1,200 lives and numerous hostages taken by terrorists, prompting him to quickly gather his military gear and re-engage with his paratrooper unit. His journey from civilian tech entrepreneur to active military participant illustrates the profound commitment many Israelis share toward their nation, especially during times of crisis.
Hemo’s experience in the IDF was filled with harrowing moments, including participating in operations to rescue survivors from the aftermath of the Hamas attacks. Despite the chaos and danger surrounding him, he managed to balance his military responsibilities with his commitments to Rivery, holding management meetings amidst the turmoil. His military service lasted for three months, during which he exhibited remarkable resilience and dedication—traits that highlight the strength of spirit found within many individuals caught in similar circumstances. Tragically, Hemo was wounded in combat when a bullet struck him close to his heart, leading to significant injuries that required a lengthy recovery period in the hospital. His commander also sustained serious injuries, underscoring the perils faced by those on the front lines.
After recovering from his injuries, Hemo returned to his role at Rivery, with a supportive team that helped ensure the company’s operations continued seamlessly during his absence. This phase marked the intersection of his personal battle for recovery and his professional ambitions, as he returned to a tech landscape that required both innovation and perseverance. Hemo’s experience reflects the broader reality of many Israelis who juggle military service and civil careers, often at great personal sacrifice. Rivery’s employees rallied around him, maintaining business workflow and focusing on long-term goals even in the face of adversity, highlighting the unwavering spirit of collaboration that thrives in challenging situations.
The resilience of Hemo and his team paid off when Rivery garnered attention from Boomi, a leading American data management company, resulting in a significant acquisition. Announced recently, the acquisition is estimated to be valued at around $100 million, and while the exact financial details remain undisclosed, it marks a considerable milestone for Rivery and the Israeli tech ecosystem. Rivery’s innovative platform for end-to-end ELT (extract, load, transform) technology has become a valuable asset for medium to large enterprises, operating under a model that emphasizes a no-code approach to data management—a shift that resonates well with today’s technological demands. This merger promises to heighten Rivery’s capabilities and expand its market presence.
Rivery serves a diverse range of clients, including notable names like Bayer and SodaStream, solidifying its standing within the global market. The acquisition by Boomi not only showcases the tech startup’s achievements but also symbolizes resilience and optimism in Israel’s high-tech sector amidst ongoing turmoil. The country has faced prolonged periods of conflict and political instability, yet the successful acquisition of Rivery illustrates robust international confidence in Israel’s technological advancements and innovative potential. This confidence is critical as it signals to both investors and companies that there is still a thriving market landscape worth engaging with—one that can weather crises and emerge stronger.
Overall, Itamar ben Hemo’s story is one of courage, adaptability, and success against the backdrop of national strife. His experience encapsulates the duality faced by many Israelis who find themselves navigating between their professional aspirations and their roles as defenders of their homeland. The monumental acquisition of Rivery by Boomi is a testament not only to the hard work and tenacity of its team but also to the broader narrative of resilience within the Israeli tech industry. As this sector continues to thrive, it remains a beacon of hope and innovation, demonstrating that even amid conflict, progress and collaboration can prevail. This dual path of military service and technological prowess reflects a uniquely Israeli identity, where personal sacrifice intertwines with national pride and entrepreneurial spirit.
