Olga Persukova, currently serving as the Executive Director of Business Development & Sales at KCi Group, is a passionate professional in the fields of Administration and Procurement. With over four years of dedicated service, she has established herself as a reliable and competent individual in her roles. Her current position as Office Administrator and Procurement Controller at the American University in the Emirates, Dubai, UAE, showcases her ability to oversee clerical staff performance and maintain meticulous control over office supply inventory.
Olga places great value on building and nurturing a strong professional network. She consistently engages with peers, mentors, and industry experts to exchange ideas, gain valuable insights, and learn from their wealth of experiences. Mentorship is also an essential part of her growth strategy, and she actively seeks guidance from seasoned professionals who have walked the path she aspires to follow. Their wisdom and advice serve as invaluable assets on her journey.
Transformative Career Journey
After completing her studies in international law in Ukraine, Olga’s career took a transformative turn in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Initially, she worked closely with the Vice President of Finance at a reputable university based in Dubai, taking on the responsibilities of multiple roles, including procurement, HR support, health insurance management, financial oversight, participation in the exam committee, and even occasional receptionist duties. This dynamic experience spanned five years and honed her versatile skill set and deep understanding of various aspects of the business world. Later, she transitioned to the role of Executive Assistant in a private office, which offered valuable insights but didn’t match her preference for a fast-paced environment. Nevertheless, her time in the UAE enriched her cultural understanding and respect for the diverse roles contributing to organizational success. Notably, her journey involved intense competition, with approximately 8,000 candidates across eight challenging rounds to secure her position, refining her ability to navigate the corporate ladder while staying true to her aspirations.
These formative experiences, from her academic background in Ukraine to her multifaceted roles in the UAE, have molded her into the adaptable and ambitious professional she is today. As the Executive Director Business Development & Sales at KCi Group, she is eager to leverage this wealth of experience to contribute to the organization’s continued success.
Multifaceted Role
At KCi Group, Olga’s role is dynamic and multifaceted, much like the character Mystique from X-Men who adapts to different situations. She is responsible for a range of tasks and responsibilities that contribute to the overall success of the company:
- Strategic Vision: One of her key responsibilities is to envision and define the company’s sales and business development strategy. This involves setting clear goals and objectives, identifying opportunities for growth, and outlining the path to achieve them.
- HR Assistance: She often finds herself assisting in HR-related matters, recognizing the importance of having the right team in place to execute the company’s vision. This can include talent acquisition, training, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
- Operational Efficiency: She is dedicated to ensuring that the company operates efficiently. This includes overseeing necessary paperwork, streamlining processes, and allocating resources effectively.
- Mentorship and Teaching: In addition to her formal title, she often takes on a mentorship and teaching role within the company. She believes that aligning everyone’s knowledge and skills is essential for maximizing efficiency and productivity.
The happiest part of her daily routine is witnessing the growth and enthusiasm of the new employees. She has great admiration for those who are hungry for knowledge, show unwavering commitment, and are not limited by challenges. Seeing them consistently push their boundaries and grow beyond their previous limitations brings her immense pride and happiness.
Committed individuals like these are truly valuable assets to the company, as they elevate the organization’s overall worth. Their dedication and continuous improvement contribute to the company’s success and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
Insights on Balance Between Individual Heroics and Team Processes
In Olga’s perspective, successful organizations achieve a delicate balance between individual heroics and team processes. She believes that individual contributions and innovation are vital for driving progress and achieving outstanding results, yet strong teamwork and well-defined processes are equally essential for sustained success and operational efficiency. While individual heroics can lead to breakthroughs and exceptional performance, relying solely on them can be risky. It may create an unsustainable culture where a few individuals carry the organization’s success, potentially resulting in burnout and a lack of scalability. On the contrary, team processes and collaboration offer a structured framework for achieving collective goals. These processes ensure knowledge sharing, distribute responsibilities, and coordinate work effectively, fostering resilience and adaptability.
As the executive, Olga emphasizes the significance of both individual excellence and collaborative teamwork. She and her team value each member’s unique skills and contributions, integrating them into a well-structured and cohesive team framework. This approach allows them to leverage individual strengths while ensuring that their success doesn’t depend solely on one person.
Evaluating Potential Team Members
When assessing potential team members for any organization, Olga places significant importance on specific fundamental traits that go beyond conventional qualifications and credentials. Foremost among these is commitment and drive. She deeply values individuals who display a resolute commitment to their personal growth and the tasks they undertake. Candidates who are willing to go above and beyond, invest in self-improvement, and take ownership of their responsibilities are indispensable contributors to any team.
Additionally, Olga looks for candidates whose actions speak louder than words. Beyond impressive resumes and qualifications, she seeks individuals who have a track record of tangible accomplishments and results. These candidates tend to be the most valuable team members, capable of translating their skills and expertise into real-world achievements.
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, adaptability is a paramount trait. Candidates who exhibit a readiness and capacity to embrace change, acquire new skills, and pivot when necessary are well-equipped to thrive in dynamic environments. Collaboration is another critical factor, as effective teamwork is fundamental in most organizations. She values candidates who can seamlessly collaborate within a team, communicate adeptly, and contribute positively to group dynamics. Problem-solving skills are highly regarded, as the ability to assess challenges and devise innovative solutions is an invaluable asset. Problem solvers can help organizations navigate obstacles and capitalize on opportunities effectively. Resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks, is an attribute she holds in high esteem. Team members who can recover from challenges, learn from failures, and maintain a positive outlook contribute to a healthier and more productive work environment. A strong work ethic remains a timeless and indispensable quality. Dedication and a commitment to consistently delivering quality results are qualities that make candidates valuable assets to any organization.
Finally, passion and enthusiasm for the industry or field of work are often infectious. Olga shares that team members who approach their roles with genuine enthusiasm and a sincere love for what they do can inspire and motivate their colleagues.
Innovative Technology Transforms Business
According to Olga, the IT industry, particularly with companies like Zoho, has undergone significant transformations driven by technological advancements. Among these shifts, cloud computing stands out as a game-changer, making software and services more accessible and cost-effective. Zoho Sign, for example, serves as a compelling illustration of these changes. It has revolutionized legal matters in trading by providing a secure and legally binding way to sign documents anytime and from anywhere in the world. In the past, she had to send original copies to locations thousands of miles away and wait for the counterparty to sign, as there was no efficient method for obtaining a legally binding signature. This is especially crucial considering the substantial contract values in their business.
Guided by a Set of Principles and Values
Olga’s journey to success has been shaped by a combination of factors and principles that she holds dear. Firstly, she firmly believes that success is intricately tied to the high standards she sets for herself and her aspirations for the future. It’s about continually pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. However, over time, she has come to realize that success is also influenced by factors like luck and adaptability. Adaptability and versatility are qualities she highly values. As she has progressed in her career, she has learned that being flexible and versatile are essential traits for navigating the complex and ever-changing business landscape. These qualities enable her to pivot when needed, embrace change, and approach challenges with creativity and resilience.
Mistakes, although often challenging, have been some of Olga’s most valuable teachers. She firmly believes in the adage that we learn from our mistakes. While it may be the hard way, these experiences have provided her with valuable lessons that have contributed to her growth and success. They’ve taught her resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of continuous improvement. Furthermore, she considers adaptability and the ability to persevere through challenges as critical talents in the world of business. Deals are often won through creative problem-solving and the capacity to pivot when circumstances change. These qualities not only facilitate success but also garner respect in the realm of business. In essence, her journey to success has been a combination of ambition, adaptability, the willingness to learn from mistakes, and the ability to seize opportunities as they arise. These values and qualities continue to drive her in her role as the Executive Director Business Development & Sales at KCi Group, where she is committed to furthering the company’s growth and success.
Approach To Balancing Her Professional and Personal Life
One of the most significant risks Olga has undertaken in her professional journey has been the pursuit of a delicate balance between her career and personal life. In the fast-paced business world, it’s easy to become entirely consumed by work, but she firmly believes that true success encompasses a harmonious blend of both professional accomplishments and personal fulfillment. In her view, success isn’t solely defined by business achievements; it’s about achieving a sense of equilibrium and contentment across all aspects of life. Effective time management has been pivotal in striking this balance. It allows her to allocate time not only to her career but also to her family and personal well-being. Equally important is the ability to separate her own beliefs and values from external influences. Negativity can be detrimental both to family life and one’s career. Setting clear boundaries and cultivating a positive mindset are critical to maintaining happiness and achieving success.
Olga also recognizes the value of seeking guidance when necessary, such as from a mentor. Their insights and support can prove invaluable in navigating the complexities of balancing career and personal life. As for her vision for the next five years, she aspires to continue prioritizing this balance. She aims to be successful not only in her career but also in her personal life, nurturing meaningful relationships and pursuing personal growth and happiness. In the dynamic realm of business, risks are part of daily life. In her line of work, she encounters risks regularly, whether they stem from market fluctuations, supplier challenges, or regulatory changes. Adaptability and the ability to swiftly adjust and reroute are essential skills. This involves engaging with new individuals, navigating evolving rules and communication methods, and making timely decisions to capitalize on opportunities or address challenges.
Insights on Adaptability, and Achieving Success
In the workplace, Olga Persukova, Executive Director Business Development & Sales at KCi Group, maintains a structured and focused approach to align her team with the company’s objectives. She emphasizes the importance of adhering to established procedures for maintaining consistency and quality in their work. While promoting innovation and independence among colleagues, she also recognizes the necessity of a strong organizational framework for achieving their goals. This balanced approach has played a significant role in KCi Group’s ongoing success and reputation.
Outside of work, Olga exhibits a more dynamic and tough-loving personality, influenced by her experiences growing up around boys. This dual nature makes her adaptable and versatile in various aspects of life. In essence, her ability to navigate this balance between structure and innovation, both professionally and personally, showcases her adaptability and resilience, which have contributed to her growth and success.
Philosophy on Leadership and Networking
According to Olga, success in any leadership role is the result of a collective effort rather than an individual endeavor. It hinges on the combined hard work, expertise, and collaboration of all team members across various departments and teams. Symbiosis and synergy within the organization are essential for achieving overarching goals, fostering innovation, and driving growth. This underscores the significance of cultivating a corporate culture that prioritizes teamwork, open communication, and mutual support.
Olga also believes that a successful leader comprehends the power of harnessing the talents and contributions of every individual toward the shared vision and mission of the organization. It is through this collective effort that industry leadership is achieved and sustained. Moreover, participating in events like the B20 Summit and the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance has reinforced her belief in the importance of networking for business leaders. Engaging with peers and professionals in the industry opens doors to new opportunities and possibilities for expansion and growth. Building relationships and connections within your field can be instrumental in unlocking new horizons and staying ahead in the dynamic business landscape.
Advice for New Leaders
Olga’s advice to someone entering a leadership role for the first time is that it’s a significant transition, and success in such a position requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, patience and humility are key virtues in leadership. It’s essential to be patient with your colleagues, recognizing that everyone brings unique strengths and weaknesses to the team. Avoiding arrogance is crucial, as it can erode team dynamics. Building an effective team involves acknowledging and nurturing the potential in each team member. When it comes to handling mistakes or issues within the team, it’s advisable to provide support publicly while addressing concerns privately. Publicly supporting a colleague, even when they’re wrong, can help maintain trust and morale. Addressing problems privately ensures that misunderstandings are resolved constructively and provides opportunities for growth.
Olga sees another vital aspect of leadership is valuing your team. It’s essential to remember that a company’s success fundamentally depends on its people. If you have team members with a history of success in other organizations, trust that they can bring their expertise to your company, provided they’re in a healthy working environment. Open and transparent communication is a cornerstone of effective leadership. Encourage your team to openly share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. Effective communication helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. While hierarchy is a natural part of organizations, it’s essential not to misuse rank to exert undue power or control over others. Treat all team members with respect and fairness, regardless of their position within the organization.
Additionally, ensuring that benefits and opportunities are distributed fairly among team members promotes inclusivity and teamwork. Equitable access to resources and opportunities fosters a sense of belonging and unity within the team. Create an environment where team members feel comfortable approaching you and sharing their thoughts and concerns openly. Encourage a culture where constructive feedback is not only welcomed but also acted upon to drive continuous improvement.
Olga states that successful leadership involves a combination of patience, humility, and a focus on building and supporting a strong team. Effective communication, fair treatment, and a commitment to addressing issues constructively are essential elements of successful leadership. She adds by fostering a positive and collaborative workplace culture, you can lead your team to greater success and growth.
Written by Steve Sanchez.
