Name:  Oxana Coca

Title: Business Intelligence Analyst / Ex-CIO

Organisation: S.R.L. SLAVENA LUX

With an economic background, I've excelled in diverse managerial roles for over 10 years, spanning food manufacturing, distribution, B2B sales, and IT.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

Embracing the concept of delegation and trusting my team's capabilities has been a transformative step in my leadership evolution.

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

My path to leadership has been marked by continuous learning, seizing opportunities, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Starting with a strong foundation in my field, I actively sought out challenges and gradually assumed leadership roles as I developed my skills.

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

My workdays are meticulously structured to maximize productivity. I start with strategic planning and priority setting in the morning, tackling high-impact tasks first. Afternoons are reserved for collaboration and meetings, leveraging peak energy levels. I reserve evenings for reflection, personal growth activities, and a digital detox to ensure a balanced lifestyle.

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

A recent leadership lesson underscored the importance of empathetic communication. Recognizing that active listening and understanding individual perspectives foster stronger team cohesion. It's a reminder that effective leadership is not just about guidance but creating an environment where every voice feels valued.

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 profoundly influenced my leadership is "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek. It shifted my perspective on prioritizing the well-being of my team. The book emphasized the significance of creating a supportive culture, where leaders prioritize the needs of their team members. This insight prompted a shift in my leadership approach, focusing not just on tasks but on fostering a collaborative and caring work environment.

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

I would advise a young leader to prioritize continuous learning and embrace adaptability. In today's dynamic world, the ability to learn, evolve, and navigate change is crucial for sustained leadership success.

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

One impactful moment was when a team member faced a challenging project. Instead of micromanaging, I empowered them with trust and guidance. Witnessing their growth and the project's success reinforced the significance of fostering autonomy and trust within a team.