“The People Around You Determine How Far You Will Go” – Vincent Egbe Shares Leadership Nuggets at WIMBIZ 2024
At the 2024 Women in Management, Business, and Public Service WIMBIZ 2024 Conference, Vincent Egbe, Managing Director of GBFoods Africa-Nigeria, called on leaders to embrace purpose-driven leadership, transparency, and a commitment to service. Speaking at the second plenary session on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Egbe’s insights offered a powerful roadmap for navigating leadership challenges in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Egbe’s message centered around prioritizing service over ambition and fostering environments where teams can thrive. He emphasized that the key to effective leadership is not competition, but collaboration toward a shared vision. “No matter how great an idea is or how strong you are as a leader, the people around you will determine how far you will go,” he said, stressing the importance of surrounding oneself with people who are driven by purpose, not power.
During the panel discussion, titled “Conquering New Frontiers”, Egbe was joined by prominent leaders, including Dalu Ajene, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria; Aderonke Akilo, GM of Strategy at Ardova Plc; and Arinola Kola-Daisi, Director at Lagos Internal Revenue Services. The session, moderated by Efuntomi Akpeneye, Group Chief Legal Officer at Oando Energy Resources, was designed to inspire women in business to break barriers and embrace innovation.
Drawing on his extensive global experience, Egbe spoke about the fine balance between ambition and a commitment to service. “There’s a fine line between people with a sense of service that exceeds their sense of ambition,” he noted. He also warned that leaders should avoid surrounding themselves with individuals who prioritize power over contribution, as they can hinder collective success.
Egbe further emphasized the importance of transparency in leadership. “Decisions should be based on facts, and you need to be willing to change your mind when necessary,” he said, highlighting the need for adaptability in an ever-changing business environment. He also urged leaders to approach challenges with a mindset of problem-solving rather than competition. “Always come with the mentality to solve problems, not to compete,” he advised.
A key part of Egbe’s leadership philosophy is the role of storytelling in inspiring others. He encouraged leaders to communicate consistently and clearly, reinforcing a shared vision. “Invest in strong, consistent storytelling. You need to stick to a message to help others see possibilities,” he said.
In closing, Egbe urged leaders to take on challenges wholeheartedly and create environments where team members can contribute meaningfully. “Choose a challenge that you’re going to give your all to, and then create an environment where your team can genuinely contribute,” he concluded.
Egbe’s powerful message resonated throughout the conference, aligning with the event’s theme of “Dream. Dare. Do.” His words inspired attendees to rise above today’s complexities and take bold steps toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
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