Nourishing brands, consumers and talent
Nicole Roos is Nestlé’s MD for the Eastern and Southern Africa region
Tell me about the work you do.
Inspired by Nestlé’s purpose, the work I do centres on “nourishing ”— growing talent, growing consumers and shoppers, and growing brands. I am driven by our commitment to enhancing the quality of life of all those living in Eastern and Southern Africa.
Leading 23 diverse countries means I never experience the same thing in a day — challenges and opportunities keep me stimulated all the time.
What did you want to be as a child?
I was born on the same day as Christiaan Barnard and was inspired by his tenacity. I wanted to be a cardiac surgeon. However, this was short-lived as I realised I was squeamish around blood.
What do you think makes you good at the work you do?
I am naturally curious and always want to understand, listen, learn and grow. I am fuelled by challenges and love the opportunity to develop a strong strategy and see it through to execution.
Most importantly, relationships are at the core of my leadership approach and facilitating the growth of others is what fulfils me.
Tell me about the journey that led you to the work you now do.
I began my career as a marketing trainee at Nestlé in South Africa 20 years ago.
I have just been appointed the first female MD for the region, a historic moment for our region. I have enjoyed a remarkable career with Nestlé. I started in 2002 and haven’t looked back.
In 2008 I moved to the US where I worked as product manager and then senior project manager for formula and cereals for nutrition.
I returned to South Africa in 2010 as country business manager for infant nutrition and later headed the transformation of the coffee and beverages business for Eastern and Southern Africa.
What advice do you have for people who’ve recently taken on new jobs?
I addressed our employees in a town hall recently where I said “complete ownership” will define the style of leadership you want to take.
Being a leader in your own right is vital, so go for it.
You were recently appointed to your position. How easy has it been to adapt to the new job and get up to speed with your duties?
My career began at The Nest (Nestlé), so
I’m well aware of a lot of areas.
There are other areas that humble me, though, and I’m excited about having the opportunity to bring a lifelong spirit of continuous learning and improvement to the job. I’m confident our executive committee is resilient enough to deal with complexity on our continent.
What advice do you have for young people keen to enter your industry?
Be curious, bring ideas. Learn to collaborate and know that surrounding yourself with smart people is a good thing.