Name: Blessing Jegede

Title: Team Lead, Data Analyst

Organisation: Risk Control Services Nigeria Limited

Meet Blessing Jegede, a dynamic force at the intersection of data analytics and leadership. With a passion for addressing business challenges, Blessing is a Data Analytics Professional with a proven track record in the Supply Chain Industry. Armed with expertise in handling colossal datasets, Blessing excels in collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to extract valuable insights.

Blessing's journey into data analytics was fueled by a background in the sciences and a deep interest in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This led to an educational pursuit and certification in Supply Chain Management, where the focus on Analytics became a pivotal element in ensuring the smooth functioning of the entire supply chain.

Known for a natural curiosity that drives problem-solving, Blessing's leadership extends beyond technical prowess. As a teacher, the ability to explain complex concepts clearly has proven invaluable, allowing her to deliver relevant information to stakeholders and make data-driven insights accessible to all.

In the world of data analytics, Blessing's superpowers lie not only in technical expertise but also in effective time management, clear communication, and active listening. When not decoding raw data, you'll find Blessing engaging in the art of teaching or enjoying quality movie nights with friends and family.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Mwaka's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

Handling ambiguity in projects poses a unique set of challenges for me. But, strategies like defining clear objectives, communication, flexibility, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement turns each project into success.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey into leadership is a tale woven with threads of my heritage, where the spirit of leadership courses through generations. In the same way my mother experienced her parents exercise leadership, I witnessed my mother, a powerful figure in their community, orchestrate leadership. She led various initiatives and associations with grace and strength.

The invaluable leadership lessons I absorbed from her landed me a position of influence as a prefect in Secondary School (High School). I embraced the responsibility of fostering a positive and inclusive environment within the school and working collaboratively to address challenges.

One of the defining actions of my leadership was initiating meetings to express concerns, ideas, and potential solutions.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My day kicks off at 5 am. Between 7 am and 8:30 am, I delve into personal development, aligning my mindset for the challenges and opportunities of the day.

By 8:30 am, workday officially begins, and my first task is to tackle issues that have found their way into my inbox overnight. From 9 am to 1 pm, I immerse myself in tasks and projects, leveraging the morning energy for maximum efficiency.

At 1pm, I step away from the work domain, embracing a moment of relaxation.

Resuming work at 2 pm, I navigate through the afternoon with a renewed vigor. The day concludes at 5:30 pm, marking the end of dedicated work hours.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A lesson that has become evident is the critical importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning within the team.

In the rapidly evolving field of data analytics where input (resources) equals output (value), staying abreast of new technologies, methodologies, and industry trends cannot be emphasized enough. This does not only enhances individual capabilities but also contributes to the overall success of our projects.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

One book that has had a profound impact on my leadership is 'Measure What Matters' by John Doerr.

The book, which delves into the concept of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), has been instrumental in shaping how I set and align goals.

It emphasizes the importance of clarity, focus, and alignment in achieving objectives.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

Develop a growth mindset:

Focus on your strengths, Manage your weaknesses, Seek out new experiences, be open to feedback, and view challenges as opportunities for development.

A growth mindset not only fuels personal and professional growth but also inspires and influences those around you.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One meaningful story that comes to mind is a moment that highlighted the importance of active listening in managing relationships with stakeholders.

We were working on a complex data project and tensions arose due to differing expectations and evolving project requirements. Recognizing the need to address this issue, I scheduled a meeting with the stakeholder to understand their perspective and find common ground.

I asked open-ended questions to encourage him to share his thoughts and feelings. Doing this, I found out that the stakeholder's concern was valid and we were able to pivot the project direction without compromising the overall objectives.

The lesson here is that identifying interests, demonstrating empathy, and understanding will not only navigate a challenging situation successfully but also foster a more collaborative and positive relationship.