There are a few guiding principles that have steered me right in my career and a commitment to ethical standards is high on the list. Those values, founded in faith, have been vital to me over a long career that’s faced many headwinds. I place a high value on purpose – both personally and as an essential part of the culture of a truly successful organisation.
Relationships are important to me. People say I’m a good networker and I’m very happy to be in touch with so many of my former colleagues and team members. For me, the key to lasting relationships is authenticity. I’ve been well served by being who and what I am, without trying to change that. I know that isn’t always easy, especially when the dominant culture is not conducive to honesty and openness. But people can sniff out a lack of transparency. They can also tell when you’re being authentic and that’s been the key to effective leadership for me.
Being a good leader is something I’m proud of. As CEO of CUA, I made sure I got around to every branch and I believe that being present and connected to frontline staff helped immensely in embedding a fresh corporate purpose into the culture.
