Intelligent Tech Channels Issue 26 | Page 62

ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY What I truly see missing in the workplace is ‘accountability’ in many employees across all industries and a general application of skills. Recovery; data management or utilisation of data for business and Artificial Learning and business intelligence. What are the region-specific challenges when implementing new technologies in Africa? Skills is a definite consideration. In some instances, the east and west Africa regions are ahead of southern Africa when it comes to adopting new technologies, and vice versa, so we need to understand the markets. Brand awareness and ‘skin in the game’ are important, so having offices and staff in the regions does play an important part in the relationships, trust and sales process, and the adoption of technology. Pricing and exchange rates are also important considerations, together with logistics. What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months? I can see a clear move from the following: operational involvement to strategic 62 involvement and working through a tiered management structure and managing teams at an operational level to mentoring and managing teams at a management level. That has all resulted in a need for much clearer vision, communication and leadership. What advice would you offer somebody aspiring to obtain a C-level position in your industry? I believe good leadership and maturity run hand in hand. What I truly see missing in the workplace is ‘accountability’ in many employees across all industries and a general application of skills. If you want to lead, you need the following: know your business as best you can; surround yourself with a strong team; do more than what is required of you, not just enough to get by; think about, and understand, the consequences of your decisions and actions; understand the commercials of a business; have a vision, and plan. ˜