By Natasha Naidoo, Head of Industrial Adhesives at Henkel South Africa
The contemporary corporate world is undergoing a pivotal transformation, propelled by the increasing recognition that diversity in the workplace drives innovation, profitability, and sustainable growth. However, despite the acknowledgment of the value women bring to leadership roles, their underrepresentation in executive positions and on corporate boards remains a significant challenge.
The Value of a Diverse Workforce
As a leader in the industrial sector, I’ve witnessed the undeniable impact of diversity on a company’s success. My own first-hand experience is supported by research that has consistently shown that companies with diverse leadership teams outperform their peers. A McKinsey report revealed that organisations with greater gender diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to achieve above-average profitability. This correlation is not coincidental; it is rooted in the different perspectives and approaches that women bring to decision-making processes, their enhanced problem-solving capabilities, and the way they foster creativity.
These statistics underscore for me the importance of advocating for diversity within and throughout our organisations. At Henkel South Africa, I’ve seen how creating an inclusive environment not only enriches our workplace culture but also drives our success. It’s imperative, then, that women leaders champion diversity and push for policies that ensure everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
Taking Ownership of Skills and Abilities
Empowerment in leadership begins with taking ownership of our individual skills and abilities, and confidently steering our decisions toward meaningful outcomes. However, true leadership transcends individual capability—it is the collective strength of a team that ultimately drives sustainable success. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that while confidence in my expertise and strategic acumen has been essential in propelling me forward, it is equally important to cultivate a diverse, empowered team to achieve larger organisational goals.
Effective leadership is not just about excelling personally; it requires recognising the talents of those around us, investing in their development, and creating pathways for future leaders to succeed. By actively mentoring others, we are not only strengthening the foundation of our own roles but ensuring the continuity of the business. This approach builds a dynamic where success is a product of collaboration, innovation, and shared ownership. It is this network of empowered individuals, each contributing their unique skills, that makes an organisation resilient, adaptable, and capable of long-term growth.
In this regard, I believe that building and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow is not just a responsibility but a strategic imperative for sustainable success. It is about ensuring that the business has the depth of leadership to continue evolving, with each leader contributing to a shared vision of progress.
Leading with Confidence
Confidence is the cornerstone of effective leadership. It instils trust, empowering those around us to take ownership of their decisions and actions. Confidence, however, is not about having all the answers; rather, it’s about fostering an environment where people feel secure enough to make decisions autonomously. At Henkel, we embrace a leadership philosophy that encourages an entrepreneurial spirit—one that nurtures accountability, creativity, and proactive problem-solving among team members.
In my experience, trust is the bedrock that allows for this type of autonomy. By demonstrating confidence in our teams, we empower them to take calculated risks, make independent decisions, and feel accountable for the outcomes. This empowerment unleashes a new level of innovation and agility within the organisation, enabling it to respond more effectively to challenges and opportunities.
In times of uncertainty, this trust becomes especially crucial. Providing stability and clear direction, even when the way forward is not entirely visible, can help foster a sense of security and determination in the team. It is through this confidence—both in ourselves and in our teams—that we can maintain momentum toward achieving long-term goals.
Building Networks for Growth
Throughout my career, I’ve placed a strong emphasis on cultivating professional relationships, and my engagements in the industry have not only provided me with invaluable insights but have also opened doors to new opportunities. Networking is a strategic tool for career advancement and personal growth, and building robust networks is essential for navigating the complexities of the corporate world. These connections serve as valuable sources of advice, diverse perspectives, and opportunities for collaboration and mentorship. But I believe that networking is not just about career advancement; it’s about creating a support system that can offer guidance during challenging times and to remaining open to continuous learning.
Embracing Innovation
Innovation is an important element of success in business, and in the industrial sector, it is critical to maintaining a competitive edge. Championing innovation requires a mindset that is open to new possibilities and unafraid of failure, and as women in leadership, we should not shy away from proposing new ideas, even if they carry risks. It is through this willingness to explore the unknown, to embrace change, and to think creatively that we can drive our organisations towards greater efficiency, profitability, and sustainability.
Staying Positive in Adversity
Resilience in leadership is most often tested during challenging times. Maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of difficulties, is not about denying the challenges but about finding constructive ways to address them. It is how we respond to adversity that impacts our team’s morale and overall performance.
Remaining positive during events such as a corporate restructuring or a market downturn can help mitigate anxiety and keep the team focused on achieving long-term goals. Resilience is crucial for navigating the inevitable ups and downs of the business world, ensuring that the organisation remains relevant and adaptable.
Conclusion
As the corporate landscape continues to evolve, the role of women in leadership becomes increasingly vital. We, as women leaders, are not only driving business success but also paving the way for more inclusive and dynamic workplaces. By taking ownership of our skills, developing strong and diverse teams, leading with confidence, empowering others through trust, embracing innovation, and staying positive in the face of adversity, we are shaping the future of business in profound and impactful ways. The journey towards gender parity in leadership is ongoing, but with continued effort and commitment, it is a goal that is well within reach.
