Behind the Scenes with Our Leaders
What inspired you to pursue a leadership role, and how did you get started on your journey?
Leadership wasn’t something I intentionally aimed for; it evolved naturally. My motivation to ensure things work and keep evolving led me down this path. Perhaps being the big brother to three younger siblings played a role. My passion for IT — beyond just development — also fueled my journey, encompassing hardware, networking, IoT, and more, a journey that, I hope, will never end!
Can you share a pivotal moment in your leadership journey that significantly shaped your approach or perspective?
At Tadaweb, I found a professional canvas to express myself. Working within a small team, I immersed myself in every facet of the development lifecycle. We strived to amaze future customers, adapting our goals with the resources at hand. The trust and autonomy bestowed upon us during this journey profoundly shaped my current leadership role.
What practices or habits do you believe are essential for effective leadership?
Leading by example is my immediate response. Whether in professional or private life, consider how you’d behave and how you’d welcome feedback. It’s a powerful force — show the way, engage in discussions, and naturally foster consensus. Other key principles include assuming the best from others, playing devil’s advocate when needed, and skillfully making compromises (Belgian politics 😉). These form my main ingredients for successful leadership.
Who has been a significant mentor or influence in your leadership journey?
Life itself has been my primary mentor. It may sound ridiculous, but the way you tackle challenges and obstacles shape us profoundly. Listening to feedback, learning from both successes and mistakes. Everyone I’ve worked with, past and present, has left a significant impact. If I were to name a recent influence, Tracey Trewin stands out 😊 Her discernment in navigating various circumstances is astonishing.