In collaboration with the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU), MAT ABACUS Business School held another impactful session of its CFO Leadership Academy at Mestil Hotel and Residences, focusing on the theme, Executive Presence and Influence. This was the third masterclass under the leadership series.
The session, which was held on 18 July 2024, attracted top financial executives and industry leaders who aimed to enhance their leadership capabilities and strategic influence within their organisations.
Renowned academic, Prof. Allan Katwalo, was a keynote speaker. He delivered a thought-provoking address on the topic of the nature of leadership, emphasising that true leadership potential can only be realised when individuals are given the opportunity to showcase their abilities.
“We cannot give leadership a big brush because it is always contextual,” he stated, highlighting the nature of leadership and its dependency on situational factors.
Prof. Katwalo further delved into the age-old debate of whether leaders are born or made, underscoring its significance in the processes of recruiting, selecting, and training future leaders. He outlined the inherent advantages of natural-born leaders, attributing their effectiveness to the unique combination of qualities they possess from birth.
Conversely, he acknowledged the benefits of nurturing potential leaders, noting that those who are supported, educated, and given practical experiences can develop essential leadership skills and competencies.
He also addressed opposing views, mentioning that some believe leadership excellence is not innate but rather a result of learning and experience.
“When we say a leader is made, it means that one can be taught and trained by attending courses and life experiences will add value to a person and enhance their leadership skills and competencies,” he explained.
Prof. Katwalo concluded his speech by discussing the behavioural theory in leadership development, which involves a cyclical process of stimulus, response, and reinforcement provided by instructors, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and development in leadership.
The CFO Leadership Academy continues to be a premier platform for financial leaders to gain insights, share knowledge, and refine their leadership skills, contributing to the growth and success of their respective organisations.
The CFO Leadership Academy’s structure comprises 4 quarters with 3 masterclasses in each. The conclusion of the third masterclass marks the end of the first quarter which had a leadership theme. The next quarter, themed, Strategic Agility commences on 22 August 2024.
