Managing Stakeholders and Time
As the CEO of AutoTraderSA , managing stakeholders and time can be challenging, but it's crucial to succeed in the role. With decades of experience under my belt, I have learned that the key to managing stakeholders is to create a team that has a company-wide perspective. Transparency is vital, and everyone needs to understand and appreciate the challenges in other functions.
In addition, sequencing priorities is critical. As the CEO, you need to focus on big projects and big-picture issues while allowing the rest of the team to deal with other matters. Spending enough time with the team that reports directly to you is also essential. This way, there are no gaps in communication, and you can ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Balancing different pools of time can be difficult, and I don't always get it right. I find myself in six to eight hours of meetings a day, which is not ideal. However, I try to have an open-door policy where people can see me when they need to. Sequencing priorities is the key, and it helps to keep your focus on the most important tasks.
As a CEO, I find motivation in making a difference, not just in the company but also in the communities around us. It's rewarding to see the impact that we can make, and it drives me to do better. Corporate citizenship is crucial, and it's essential to consider how we can add value to the country.
Finally, I believe that face-to-face meetings are essential. The work-from-home situation has been quite stressful for me, and I find it more stressful than productive. Meeting people in person and getting their energy is something that I find motivational and essential to succeed in my role.
To sum up, the role of a CEO in balancing stakeholder interests and time management is challenging yet achievable. Success hinges on forming a team with a holistic view of the company, prioritising tasks effectively, and dedicating ample time to direct reports. The drive to make an impact and contribute positively to the nation fuels motivation, while face-to-face interactions are key to achieving success.