Finding & Nurturing Tomorrow’s Leaders 

What does every successful leader possess? Followers! Aside from that obvious answer, there is a range of characteristics that make for a great leader. Those qualities were at the forefront, online and in-person, during the past few weeks.

For example, at the recent annual meeting and industry convention of the American Cleaning Institute (click here), executives from BASF, Pilot Chemical and Procter & Gamble weighed in on what it takes to lead in 2024 and beyond. All three agreed that diversity plays an important role in finding the leaders of today and tomorrow. They’re not alone in that assessment. A few weeks ago, McKinsey issued its fourth report on the business case for diversity. As the report concludes: “By building inclusive and supportive workplace cultures where diverse leaders and allies are truly heard, companies can chart a path toward impact beyond financial performance.” 

There are plenty more leadership abilities to consider. In a world rapidly transformed by technology such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and Black Swan events, the ACI panel highlighted adaptability and flexibility as crucial characteristics of successful leaders. Maybe I’ve heard too many pre-game interviews, but I’d add another ability to that list: availability. If you hold a position of “leadership” in the office, the lab, wherever…come into work once in a while! 

Principals walk among their students, army captains are on the front lines. Heck, even wardens check in on the inmates now and again. True connections involve more face-to-face interaction and less monitor-to-monitor monitoring. I’m not alone in that assessment. 

Managing Your Career Columnist Dave Jensen notes employees don’t leave companies, they leave poor managers. This month, Jensen provides insights on what makes employees stay (click here).

In the household and personal products industry, there are plenty of leaders…category leaders, that is. Read on to learn more about the leaders in a range of disparate markets including OTC creams and lotions (click here), color cosmetics (click here) and sun care (click here).

We hope you enjoy this edition of Happi. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions.

Tom Branna
Chief Content Officer
tbranna@rodmanmedia.com