Mark Dewey Sergio
LESF'14 / IMAP'15
Filipino
I’m passionate about developing and growing people, brands, and businesses. Over the past 17 years, I’ve had the privilege of leading teams at companies like Samsung, HTC, James Hardie, and USG Boral, and now Knauf. And the industry shift from tech to construction has been a rich learning experience.
Senior leaders set the tone for their teams and organisations.
What role do senior leaders play in fostering an inclusive environment that empowers women?
Senior leaders set the tone for their teams and organisations. And it’s fascinating how easily this can be overlooked, even by tenured leaders who may solely focus on tasks at hand and targets with little attention to the "how" behind their execution.
How have you used your influence to support other women in achieving more in their careers?
A mentor from my James Hardie days once told me that “Leadership is what you allow to happen.”
This insight has stuck with me and has shaped my approach to inclusivity. By providing clarity, opportunities, feedback, and development for everyone—regardless of gender and any differences—every individual can be themselves, test their abilities, and discover their potential. I’ve seen this to be true.
Performers will perform, leaders will lead but we must create that platform for them so they can try and contribute to the best of their abilities.
What tangible steps can organisations take to create a culture of equality at the leadership level?
What worked for me was experiencing the leadership of people who I ended up admiring for their ways. It profoundly influenced my own leadership style as I incorporated their behaviour and principles with mine. They modelled inclusivity, fairness, integrity, and a genuine interest in developing their teams.
Organisations should also invest in nurturing the “human” side of leadership over technical skills.
What advice would you give to those looking to champion women’s leadership in their organisations?
My advice is to model the behaviour you want to see in others. I've seen many initiatives that did not resonate because they felt like a tick box to have something to display rather than an authentic effort. I will go back to what my mentor said:
Leadership is what you allow to happen. If you want to promote and champion diversity, make it happen.
On a personal note, I’ve been happily married to my awesome wife, Yam, for 15 years. I love learning and I enjoy diverse topics, from Dostoyevsky to Terry Pratchett. I grew up around music and art with influences from the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Hendrix, Art Pepper, Chet baker and Tupac Shakur. I used to play basketball and now enjoy practicing yoga as much as I can.
Introducing a similar programme to the one Mark attended:
INSEAD's Transition to General Management is our flagship general-management-level programme designed with a dual focus on business foundations and leadership development. Be equipped with the comprehensive knowledge, tools and confidence you need to step up to general management.
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