IWD 2024 - Kirstie Jones

What inspired you to pursue a leadership role?

I was inspired to think about pursuing a leadership role by some very inspirational leaders I have worked for and thought it would be amazing to be in a similar role. I also realised I had a flair for helping and supporting people to reach their goals and could lead groups, so a leadership role seemed like a good fit for me.

What is or are your biggest career achievements? 

My biggest achievements involve witnessing the people within my team soar and embark on remarkable career journeys. This, in turn, contributes to the organisation’s growth, development and ultimate success. As a leader, there’s nothing better than watching someone you’ve mentored success in their chosen field.  are watching the people who are part of my team fly and go on to have amazing careers. Also, I was delighted to be recognised by Salutem and be appointed as the Chief People Officer, that was a huge achievement for me.

How did you develop your leadership skills?

I had amazing mentors, and one stands out.  A CEO who was at the top of her game, but never forgot to take the time to help me develop and grow and to be direct with her feedback.  Without her support and guidance, I would not be the leader I am today.

How do you define your leadership style?

 Direct! I value directness but I’m also equally supportive as a leader.  My aim is to see those that I lead succeed, so don’t shy away from difficult conversations. At the same time, when they are doing brilliantly, I make sure to acknowledge their accomplishments and contributions.

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

 To do what you say you are going to do and only ask your team to do something that you are going to take the time to read/action. Also, own your mistakes, none of us are perfect and it’s important to acknowledge when you’ve made a mistake and outline how you plan to rectify it.

Have you achieved everything you wanted in your career so far? 

Not yet, every day I think of new things I might like to do as I grow through this role, so watch this space!

How important is personal development to your success, and how do you approach it?

 It’s huge, I have got better at listening to feedback and not being defensive as I have grown and developed.  This is crucial for your own development, sometimes something you perceive as a setback can be the thing that makes you stronger as a leader and supports your development.

How do you prioritise tasks when everything feels like a priority?

 Lists! I am a huge advocate of lists and not just write it down, I review them regularly and take time to stop and take five when I am feeling overwhelmed.  When everything is a priority, stop take five and come back to that list and re-order it – you will get it done, just have faith.

What was the hardest decision you have taken as a leader? 

Gosh there are so many hard decisions you must make as a leader. You must make tough decisions every day, but I think the most demanding of all is when you find it necessary to restructure within your own team.

What steps do you take to measure your own performance?

 I review my KPIs regularly. I also look at the engagement and turnover rates within our organisation, as well as my own team.  I like when my team gives me honest feedback and I always tell them it’s okay to suggest ways I can do better or do things in a different way. 

What does success mean for you as a business leader? 

I know I’m a successful business leader when the organisation is sustainable, profitable, and is a place where people want to work.

What advice would you give to someone starting off their career as a future business leader? 

Find yourself a good mentor, they are invaluable at giving you good direct feedback and advice that sits outside your current organisation or role.