SEPTEMBER 20259I ensure they feel seen, valued and supported. Empowering others to lead creates a foundation for long-term success.Leadership also involves setting a vision and leading by example. Establishing ambitious yet attainable goals and clearly communicating them is essential. A leader inspires the team to take ownership of the mission and aligns their efforts toward shared success.Actions, however, speak louder than words. Leading by example means demonstrating a strong work ethic, making decisions with integrity and taking responsibility for setbacks. If I expect my team to embrace change, deliver excellence, or tackle challenges with resilience, I must embody those qualities myself.Navigating ChallengesLeadership often shines brightest during uncertainty. The rapid pace of technological advancements in banking, from AI to digital platforms, presents both opportunities and challenges. As a leader, I prioritize staying ahead of trends while equipping my team with the skills to adapt. This approach allows us to meet customer needs and improve operations.During challenging times, I focus on transparency, addressing problems head-on and maintaining a long-term perspective. By modeling calm, solutions-oriented thinking, I help my team navigate complexities and deliver results.Fostering Inclusion and Continuous GrowthCreating an inclusive environment is a cornerstone of effective leadership. The strongest organizations embrace diversity--of thought, experience and background. I encourage open communication and different perspectives, fostering a culture where collaboration and innovation thrive.In banking, inclusion is especially critical. We serve diverse communities and our teams should reflect the clients we support. A leader's role extends beyond business objectives; it's about cultivating respect, empathy and a sense of belonging within the workplace.Leadership is also a journey of continuous growth. I believe the best leaders are lifelong learners who adapt, seek feedback and grow from challenges. Staying informed on industry trends, embracing new ideas and learning from missteps are all part of evolving as a leader.The Legacy of LeadershipUltimately, leadership is about impact. I measure success not just by goals achieved but by relationships built, leaders developed and lives touched. Leadership, to me, is a privilege--an opportunity to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy.As I reflect on my leadership journey At FirstBank, I'm grateful for the mentors, colleagues and teams who've shaped me. They've taught me that leadership is not about having followers; it's about creating leaders. That's the legacy I strive to build every day. Leadership is about impact. I measure success not just by goals achieved but by relationships built, leaders developed and lives touched. Leadership, to me, is a privilege--an opportunity to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy
< Page 8 | Page 10 >