Dr. Christopher Kolade, the first indigenous CEO of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, urged the management and staff of the company to consistently meet the expectations in their respective roles.
His remarks came during a fireside chat held to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of Cadbury Nigeria. Dr. Kolade underscored the necessity of adhering to core principles, asserting that a company’s performance reflects the quality of its people..
Drawing inspiration from Winston Churchill’s leadership during World War II, he highlighted the importance for leaders to adapt to evolving circumstances.
Dr. Kolade also emphasized that prioritizing people and embracing responsibility are paramount, sharing a personal experience from his tenure at Cadbury Nigeria.
He articulated the view that human capital is integral to the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and development.
Citing his personal philosophy, he expressed a foundational belief in beginning with faith, proceeding with trust, and relying on divine guidance for successful outcomes. Dr. Kolade stated, “Your responsibility leads to your status.
“Without responsibility, there is no status. If you lack awareness of your responsibilities, you may find yourself misdirected,” he said.
As a distinguished diplomat, academic, and corporate leader, he acknowledged that while change is constant, good principles remain steadfast.
“Times change and many factors shift; however, sound principles endure. Leaders are stewards of their time,” he noted.
Reflecting on his 23 years away from the company, he reiterated that people represent the most valuable resource within any business.
He observed that individuals often focus on status instead of responsibility.
Dr. Kolade outlined the four essential questions relevant to every human endeavor: What, How, Who, and Why.
“Without responsibility, there is no status. If you lack awareness of your responsibilities, you may find yourself misdirected,” he said.
He encouraged the audience to adopt the following seven foundational principles:
1. A business must contribute value to its people.
2. Individuals seek value that meets their standards of quality and worth
.3. People enhance business productivity through their contributions.
4. Each person has the potential to give their best or seek the best for themselves.
5. Individuals can improve performance through a desire to learn and apply new knowledge.
6. Success, failure, and mistakes are opportunities for valuable learning.
7. Commitment often leads individuals to exceed expectations for the benefit of the company.
His insights serve as a reminder that the engagement and development of people are essential for an organization’s success.