Over the years, I have tried to develop a set of shared principles that I believe are critical in developing high performing organizations.
These are not top down principles (though it is critical that the leadership team lead by example), they are mutual commitments, made by each member of the team to all other members of the team, and for which we all hold ourselves accountable.
Even when times are tough, the commitment to continuing to meet these mutual obligations, helps deliver much needed clarity, trust and alignment.
Clarity. We will be driven by a clear mission, vision and strategy. Widely communicated and understood by all.
Focus. We will strive to prioritize and focus on those things that matter.
Ambition. We will work to build an exceptional business. We will strive to innovate, to break new ground, to deliver creative and disruptive products and services that excite and engage our customers and bring a sustainable competitive advantage to our business. We will work together cross-functionally to do this.
Initiative. We will all commit to taking the initiative. Not waiting to be told what to do. Acting like owners. Moving the ball forward every day.
Speed. We will endeavour to make decisions quickly and efficiently. We will execute quickly, but with discipline and with purpose, removing roadblocks and friction where we see them.
Sustainability. We will focus on long term, sustainable, enterprise value creation. That means building an economically compelling business. Building for scale. Avoiding cutting corners. Driving efficiencies. And seeking to build value each and every day.
Teamwork. We will strive for an uncomplicated corporate culture, where people pull together as one team. We can debate, and we can even argue, but once we decide, we will work together to make it a reality. We will deal with open issues quickly. We will leverage each other’s strengths. We will have each other’s backs.
Customer centricity. We will be driven by a clear and unique understanding of our customers and their needs. We will seek opportunities to serve customers in ways that others do not or cannot, and which are both economically compelling for us and beneficial to them.
Honesty and transparency. We will be transparent, straightforward and honest with our customers, regulators, and with ourselves. We will be honest about our strengths and weaknesses. We will have and show respect for one another. We will foster an environment in which is it safe to speak truth to leadership.
Reward. There will be a return on the time you spend here. We will ensure that this is a fun place to work. We will empower personal and professional growth. All our stakeholders will be aligned (staff, leadership, shareholders) by sharing in the enterprise value we create.
