People & Culture

UMB Bank's CEO on building hgh-performing teams for sustainable success

In today's fast-paced business environment, building and leading high-performing cross-functional teams is crucial for driving success. Industry Today Africa (ITA) sat down with Sheila Kusi, Marketing Director for Beauty, Wellbeing, and Personal Care at Unilever, Ghana and Francophone Africa, to discuss the key strategies for building and leading such teams.

A clear purpose and well-defined goals are essential for high-performing teams. According to Sheila, when team members understand the 'why' behind their work, they feel more connected and motivated to achieve the objectives. This clarity enhances decision-making and keeps the team on track through measurable milestones. A strong purpose fosters motivation and accountability, which are essentials for building a high-performance team.

Assembling a team with diverse skill sets is also vital for tackling complex challenges. Sheila notes that cross-functional teams bring together individuals with different expertise, backgrounds, and perspectives, enhancing the team's ability to solve problems and innovate. Each member contributes unique strengths, whether in technical knowledge, creative thinking, or strategic planning. This diversity fuels collaboration and allows the team to approach challenges from various angles.

Trust is the cornerstone of high-performing teams. Sheila stresses that leaders must foster trust by exhibiting honesty, openness, and dependability. When team members feel safe to share ideas, concerns, and feedback without fear of judgment, collaboration flourishes. This psychological safety enables teams to solve problems efficiently and adapt quickly to challenges.

Open and honest communication is critical for high-performing teams. Sheila emphasizes the importance of transparent communication, ensuring everyone is informed and on the same page. Teams that can quickly adjust their strategies and processes in response to changing circumstances are better equipped to maintain momentum and meet their goals. Adaptability, coupled with a results-oriented mindset, leads to well-rounded solutions.

Empowering team members to take ownership of their tasks is also crucial. By delegating effectively and providing the necessary resources and support, leaders can unlock the full potential of their teams. Clear accountability and performance reporting ensure that team members are motivated to deliver quality work and meet deadlines.

Investing in team members' professional development is essential for building a high-performing team. Sheila notes that coaching, mentorship, and training programs can help team members grow and develop their skills. This investment not only benefits the individual but also enhances the team's overall performance and capabilities.

Sheila's experience in leading cross-functional teams has taught her the importance of flexibility and adaptability. "As a leader, you need to be able to pivot quickly when circumstances change," she says. "This requires a combination of strategic thinking, creativity, and a deep understanding of the team's strengths and weaknesses."

By adopting these strategies, leaders can create a positive and productive work environment that drives success for both the team and the organization. Sheila's insights provide valuable guidance for leaders seeking to build and lead high-performing teams in today's fast-paced business environment.

In conclusion, building and leading high-performing cross-functional teams requires a deliberate approach that emphasizes clarity, strong leadership, open communication, diversity, adaptability, and a results-oriented mindset. With the right strategies and mindset, leaders can unlock the full potential of their teams and drive success in their organisations.