Unlocking the Power of Collaboration: A Conversation with Nicole Keith
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, effective collaboration is key to driving innovation and productivity. Nicole Keith, Chief Product Officer at Omnicom Health Group, knows this all too well. With a diverse background spanning product, IT, sales, and marketing roles, Nicole has developed a unique perspective on what makes teams tick.
Embracing Change and Redefining Roles
Omnicom Health Group’s recent rebrand presented an opportunity for Nicole’s team to reflect on their working habits and identify areas for improvement. One crucial lesson they learned was the importance of minimizing middle management. By empowering team members to take ownership of their projects, Nicole’s team was able to streamline their workflow and become more productive.
The Delicate Balance of Management
Nicole believes that the best thing middle managers can do is step out of the way and enable their teams to find their own solutions. This approach not only fosters collaboration but also encourages selfless leadership. By doing so, managers can create an environment where their teams can thrive and produce high-quality work.
A Selfless Leader’s Perspective
Nicole’s varied background has given her a unique understanding of the importance of setting clear conditions for her teams to succeed. She believes that managers must be sensitive to the initial conditions that can impact the outcome of a project. By providing a clear direction and enabling their teams to work together, managers can create an environment that fosters growth and innovation.
The Power of the Trifecta
Nicole’s approach to building effective teams revolves around the concept of the trifecta: a team of three consisting of a project manager, technical architect, and business representative. This structure allows for effective communication, technical know-how, and subject-matter expertise, ensuring that all aspects of a project are covered.
Micro-Innovations: The Key to Success
Nicole is a strong advocate for micro-innovations, which she believes can lead to a series of smaller wins that can accumulate over time. To foster micro-innovations, Nicole emphasizes the importance of coordination across the entire organization, from finance to legal and security, as well as support from clients and leadership.
By embracing change, redefining roles, and empowering teams, Nicole Keith has created a collaborative environment that drives innovation and productivity. Her approach serves as a valuable lesson for product leaders and managers looking to unlock the full potential of their teams.