VIEWPOINT LEADERS, STRATEGISTS AND SUSTAINABILITY; THREE WORDS, ONE COMMON DENOMINATOR:
People
The theme for the World Economic Forum in 2017 is “Responsible and Responsive Leadership.”
T
his encapsulates in just two it seems on a constant basis—absorbs enerwords the actions that lead- gy and drains creative thinking. Thankfully, ership in every organization strategy is now beginning to become an isis called upon to engage in, as sue that senior leadership is dedicating much there is an ever-tighter con- more time to and are now the ones that nection between how an organization envis- shape, develop and monitor strategic plans ages its role in society and its responsibility for sustainable growth. in having a long-term view on sustainable Finally, sustainability. The “it” word for the corporate performance. This year’s choice is last few years. A term that has evolved from a poignant one; one that affirms the urgen- its “humble” beginnings as a new fad for cy for organizations to have a marketing or HR to dabble vision, inspired leadership and in for a few green actions, to for a corporate culture that pronow being the “mother” word motes and embraces changes. for corporate survival in an Leadership and its importance exponentially changing world. to an organization is not a new We are currently in the midst theme, concept or something of a 4th industrial revolution, that has not been previously one that is transforming and discussed in great detail, depth disrupting and about to affect — BY — and expanse. all aspects of both our business SIANA KYRIACOU Strategy, though some may find and personal lives as we know Partner + COO, KPMG it now hard to contemplate, has it, or indeed have learned to not always been at the forefront know in the past few years. of management’s priorities. It is a cliché but Responsive leadership must recognize these the everyday running of an organization and cataclysmic changes, the effect and the afthe crisis management that takes place—now termath they have on society and ultimately
LEADERSHIP MUST RECOGNIZE CHANGES the people who work in their organizations, the suppliers they do business with and the communities they interact in. Successful leadership, for me, is one that recognizes these changes and the effects they bring and, more importantly, recognizes their potential, harnesses their power and makes them work to their advantage for sustainable growth. It is leadership that cultivates a culture of both innovation and entrepreneurship in the organization, where their people are alert and willing to take risks, to try out things. It is one that has an attitude of “can do” and can do differently, by being aware of what is out there in the market place and then owning it…to tailor it, adapt it and make it work for them. And above all, it is leadership that gives people space to be …disruptive… and bold with a passion!
THE AMERICAN-HELLENIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Become a Member
bponline.amcham.gr
To become a member of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, one of Greece’s most preeminent and proactive business organizations, apply on the Chamber website at www.amcham.gr, send an e-mail to info@amcham.gr, call the Chamber at 210-699-3559, or fax the Chamber at 210-698-5687-7 and request an application form.
To subscribe to Business Partners, send an e-mail to info@amcham.gr, call the Chamber at 210-699-3559, or fax the Chamber at 210-698-5687-7.
48 | BUSINESS PARTNERS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2017