Former CEO of the Year shares what it takes to be a good leader

As nominations continue to pour in for our IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2018, we’re chatting with past winners about what it takes to succeed. Today, Margot Slattery of Sodexo Ireland talks us through the most important elements of running a business. Considering she won CEO of the Year in 2016, we’re hanging onto every word.

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IMAGE Business Woman of the Year Awards 2018
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Margot says, “To be a good leader, you must be a good communicator. You need to be transparent, have empathy and want to make a difference.”

The Country President of Sodexo tells us she’s learned many lessons during her career, “but the key one is that you always need to stay close to your teams and clients. Everything, in the end, is about people and it’s important to remember that.”

She adds it’s vital to be able (and willing) to embrace change. Margot advises us to keep up lifelong learning; noting that there’s always room to grow (especially when it comes to technology). “I love meeting people and networking,” she says, “because you always learn from others.”

When it comes to the often-asked-about work/life balance, Margot admits it does not exist. “It’s all about making it work for you and being open to doing things differently.” If you need help balancing things, ask for it. The past BWOTY winner says her PA is a huge help, but as well as that, she’s flexible about how and where she works.

Lastly, we asked Margot for one piece of advice for nominees in this year’s CEO category. She said, “Embrace all of your life experiences; they will stand you well. We are always learning.”

Awarding those who have what it takes

Nominations for the IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2018 are now live. Will you nominate yourself, a friend or a colleague for one of the highly coveted titles? Simply fill in the nomination form before 5 pm on Friday, 12th October 2018 to be in with a chance to win.

On the evening of Monday 19th November, we will gather with Ireland’s most inspiring businesswomen for a luxurious gala dinner, during which we will recognise and celebrate their successes. We will reveal the winners in nine categories, plus the winner of the Lifetime Achievement award and the overall IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year 2018.

With only a limited time left to nominate, you’ll need to act fast. Good luck.