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Our Talent Management team launched our So You Think You Want To Be a Leader initiative earlier this year—a new six-month development program designed to help mold aspiring leaders.
Program mentors facilitate small, co-led discussions and assist mentees along their journey to leadership by sharing personal experiences in leadership. Lola Akibola, SVP, Assistant Treasurer, reflects on her experiences with mentorship and the importance of paying it forward.
What made you want to serve as a mentor for the SYT program?
It gives me the opportunity to pass it on. I’ve had such amazing leaders throughout my career who took the time to coach me, push me, and cheer me on. I wanted to do the same for others outside of my own team. The other reason was representation. It’s important for our participants who are minorities to see someone that looks like them in leadership and to be able to discuss challenges that are unique to them.
Did you have a leader throughout your career that has helped to shape your growth?
Absolutely! I have been extremely fortunate to have several fantastic leaders throughout my career who saw my potential beyond even what I could see. Their confidence in me has propelled me to push through my challenges and meet my goals. That is the power of leadership.
What do you see as the hardest part about becoming a leader? What advice would you give those interested in pursuing a leadership role?
The hardest part of leadership is people! Interpersonal skills are so fundamental to leadership. My primary advice is to be prepared to pivot from a “me” mindset to “we.” You are not only responsible for the work your team produces, but their development and the dynamics of your team. My other would be to be that your reputation is your brand so make sure to be deliberate about it.
What is something you would tell your 25-year-old self about becoming a leader?
Leadership is more than a title or the day-to-day work you are tasked with. It’s about the impact you get to have on other people.
What has been the most memorable part of the SYT program thus far?
The most memorable part of the program so far has been getting to meet with future leaders, share ideas, and learn from some of the most outstanding and talented people we have in this company!
