Not everyone is able to work seamlessly within a global business setting, changing the way people interact, both with themselves, and with their counterparts.
However, not everyone has the same level of grit that has propelled Anouk to a position of global influence. It all started when she was young, and raised by her grandparents in Louisiana. (Which is not the place you typically think of global leaders in transformational change.) But in Anouk’s case, the wisdom of her grandmother is exactly the knowledge that gave her the fortitude and insight to excel in business around the world. From her, she learned: The power of hard work. She learned the power of goal-setting. And she learned how to lean into a good challenge. Aren’t these what the C-Suite is made of? Work. Goals. Challenge.
Over 30 years ago, Anouk started her corporate career in accounting in the oil and gas industry. Building a career that could have been straightforward, however, isn’t in Anouk’s DNA. She not only thrives on challenge; she cares about helping people make the most of themselves that they can be. Now, she works as a VP and Senior Partner for IBM, helping people transform themselves professionally. “I am most passionate about helping others,” she says. “Therefore, I spend a lot of time mentoring and coaching people. I also do a lot of community service and participate in various nonprofit organizations.” Her leadership style is people-centered. “I drive with simplicity, clarity and empower people to do their job responsibilities without micromanaging,” she says. “I challenge people to be their best, and I have high expectations.” (You can almost her the voice of her grandmother.) This is why she is always saying that her colleagues must know themselves. This is the only way they can bring themselves fully to work. It’s also the only way they can enjoy what they do!
Relentlessly authentic, Anouk is the first to tell people they need to be themselves. In a time when corporate social pressure makes people think they must hide who they are at the office, Anouk takes a totally different view. “Set goals, and then just do it and breathe and enjoy the journey. And on the journey, give grace to others as God gives it to us!”
There is a lot of coach in Anouk. She’s been able to bring this side of her to IBM, and help a lot of people on the way. Its been a journey of grit, and one of fulfillment and personal transformation.
Follow Anouk on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anoukbrumfield/
