While in-person learning holds value, digital platforms ensure immediate access to learning opportunities.
Hina Zahid
In this edition of our new Leadership Development Interview Series, we sat down with Hina Zahid to learn how her team at Coca-Cola İçecek (CCI) thinks about leadership and develops skilled leaders using a “blended” approach.
Hina, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your work?
I am Hina, working for Coca-Cola İçecek (CCI) for 13 years. My responsibility involves organizational design and capability development across 11 countries within CCI’s portfolio. CCI operates in markets like Turkey, Pakistan, Central Asian countries, Iraq, Jordan, and Syria. We’re a significant and high-performing bottler in the Coca-Cola system, focusing on supply chain, manufacturing, distribution, which is the entire value chain.
What does leadership mean to you, and which skills do people need to succeed as a leader?
Leadership as per CCI’s leadership framework, entails three primary aspects: character, capability, and capacity. Character is shaped by values and culture, while capability involves elements like leadership IMPACT behaviors,business acumen and strategic thinking. Capacity pertains to potential factors such as curiosity, agility, empathy, and resilience. These qualities create a foundation for effective leadership.
What does leadership development look like at your company? Which tools and programs do you have in place, and how do you currently select new leadership talent to develop?
We focus on three pillars: leadership development, functional development, and digital learning. Our flagship programs employ a blended learning approach, involving assessments and tailored learning paths. We collaborate with institutes for curriculum development, centering on CCI-centric aspects like capability and capacity factors. We select participants through a talent identification process by coordinating with countries and assessing high potential individuals.
What was your biggest success story with implementing or improving a leadership development initiative? We’re also interested in hearing stories about what didn’t work!
The U30 program and Accelerate Masterclass have been significant successes. U30 nurtures young leaders through leadership and strategy teachings tailored to CCI’s context, and it received accolades within and outside the company. However, constant improvement is key so that we can continue to create value. For instance, adding simulation elements to the curriculum for more engagement was a positive step.
What are some current challenges with leadership development overall in your company? What are hard parts about developing leaders?
Leaders becoming increasingly occupied with business aspects presents a challenge. Balancing business priorities and personal development requires a mindset shift. Additionally, instilling a culture of cross-functional acumen is crucial, especially in elevating leaders from functional expertise to broader business understanding.
Have you considered using AI tools in developing the future generation of leaders? Why/why not?
Absolutely, our strategy aims at creating an agile learning culture, necessitating digital solutions. While in-person learning holds value, digital platforms ensure immediate access to learning opportunities. We’ve started incorporating AI elements, envisioning programs in the metaverse and virtual coaching sessions. The aim is to enhance digital dexterity and accommodate diverse learning needs.
What applications of AI seem most promising to you from a leadership development standpoint? Where does AI fall flat?
AI holds promise in providing nimble, personalized learning experiences, particularly for younger generations. It’s beneficial for upskilling, reskilling, and fostering digital dexterity. However, AI isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Some areas, like personalized coaching or addressing language barriers, may require further advancements in AI capabilities to be fully effective.
To learn from more experts on how to grow leaders at your company, check out our full list of interviews here.
If you’re looking to grow future leaders at your own company, get in touch to see how Bunch can enable you to give every person in your company a personalized, continuous development program in just 2 minutes a day.
