Utilizing Unique Approaches to Learning and Leadership Programs
The problem of shifting consumer preferences coupled with a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) backdrop seems a big challenge that would require creative solutions.And creative did Nestlé Philippines become in dealing with its challenges as it chose unconventional ways in equipping its leaders and motivating its employees.For this endeavor, Nestlé Philippines has been harnessing its 14-year partnership with Management Strategies. It all started with the company’s annual Sales Kick Off, a yearly team building activity for the company’s sales personnel.How about an Amazing Race–themed team building activity as the company did in 2003, or go kart racing as was in 2006, or a Marvel superheroes-themed activity in 2010 for about a thousand employees?More than the positive impact to the participants, working with Management Strategies has also helped shape the company’s next generation of leaders. Management trainees teamed up with Management Strategies to put up the whole activity, and the lessons that they have learned from the experience are the same things that they are able to practice as they move up the ranks within the company.Management Strategies’ work with Nestlé also involved the leadership team where senior managers got a taste of leadership training outdoors with the Mount Pinatubo Climb in 2007, Mount Pulag climb in 2009, and diving in Subic between 2007 to 2012.“We never thought of these activities. I didn’t know you can link diving to leadership. Our employees enjoyed that. I didn’t realize that we can do a lot of things outdoors and not just activities related to leadership that are purely indoors,” said Renee Valdez, Human Resources Business Partner of Nestlé Infant Nutrition.The result was not only fun, but also a journey towards self-discovery and transformation for the employees, leaders, and the entire company.