Vernon van Rooyen

Vernon addresses the concept of strategic drift, a phenomenon where an organisation's strategy gradually loses touch with the shifting external environment, ultimately resulting in a significant loss of direction and competitive edge. In this insightful talk, he delves into the critical role of executive leadership in preempting and effectively responding to the dynamic changes that characterise today's business landscape—including shifts in market conditions, technological advancements, and evolving organisational needs.

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By drawing upon his extensive experience at ATOS, Vernon offers practical guidance on how African operations can proactively counteract strategic drift through several key approaches. These include fostering adaptive leadership that is agile and responsive, maintaining transparent and effective communication channels across all levels of the organisation, and ensuring that corporate goals remain consistently aligned with the realities of day-to-day operations.

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Furthermore, Vernon highlights the importance of cultivating a culture of continuous learning and vigilance, where senior leaders are encouraged to keep a finger on the pulse of emerging trends and disruptors. He stresses the necessity of empowering teams to make informed, strategic decisions swiftly, thereby enabling organisations to pivot effectively in the face of unexpected changes.

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This session is particularly valuable for senior leaders seeking to safeguard their organisations from the risks associated with strategic drift, by building resilience and ensuring the long-term success of their ventures. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to align strategy with external opportunities and threats, thereby positioning their businesses to thrive in a constantly evolving environment.