INTERVIEW
How would you describe your leadership style ? I believe that people aren ' t your greatest assets , they are your only assets . My platform and background for leadership has always been grounded in authenticity to who I am and centred on diversity and inclusion . I immigrated to the US from Chile when I was 10 years old and so I know the power and beauty that comes from leaning into what makes you different from other people , and that ' s what I want every person in my marketing organisation to feel – the value in bringing their most authentic self to work every day . The way our employees feel when they show up for themselves authentically is how they will also show up for our customers , and strong relationships drive growth .
I think this is especially true in light of a world forever changed by the pandemic . Living through such an unprecedented time has reinforced that we are all humans . We can ' t lead or care for one another without empathy and I think leaders everywhere have been reminded of this .
“ We have an amazing opportunity to create a brand that will stand apart by leading with our people first ”
MARIA BARTOLOME WINANS CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER , KYNDRYL
What ’ s the best leadership advice you ’ ve received ? When I was growing up as an immigrant in North Carolina , I often wanted to be just like everyone else . But my mother always told me : Be unique , be memorable – you have an authentic view and experience of the world that no one else will ever have , so don ' t try to be anyone else but you .
What does success look like to you ? I think the concept of success is multifaceted . From a career perspective , being in a job where you ' re respected and appreciated , and where you can see how your contributions are providing value by motivating your teams to be better – that ' s success ! From a personal perspective , there is no greater accomplishment than investing in the next generation . I love mentoring younger professionals – they are the future . I want my legacy as a leader to include providing value in work culture , but also in leaving a personal impact on the lives of professionals who will carry the workforce forward . Finding a position in life with a job and company that offers me a chance at all of that is what success looks like to me .
200 June 2021