Name: Masero Collins

Title: CEO & FOUNDER

Organisation: INVOLUSION

CEO, Vice President of Engineering | Ex-CTO | Product Strategist | Leadership Development | Startup Mentor | Fintech | InsureTech | Mobility Tech | VAS

Seasoned head of engineering and technology, boasting a rich 12-year journey in the information technology and services realm. My expertise spans leadership, strategy, IT service management, project management, software engineering, and ICT strategy. Committed to innovation and excellence, I've dedicated over a decade to shaping and steering tech initiatives to new horizons.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Masero's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

The most challenging aspect has been balancing the technical demands of my role with the human side of leadership. Leading a technical team requires understanding intricate details, while also keeping the bigger picture in mind. Moreover, managing teams in different regions and cultural contexts requires a high degree of empathy and adaptability. Balancing between the unique cultural nuances, aligning everyone towards a unified vision, and ensuring consistent deliverables across various time zones was quite challenging.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey began in 2012 a Lead Software Engineer. Over time, I recognized gaps in our project execution and took initiatives to streamline processes. My leadership abilities were recognized when I became the Technical lead, where I spearheaded key projects. These experiences, coupled with my educational background, dedication to tech strategy, product development, commitment to mentorship and team management, paved the way for more strategic roles, such as VP of Engineering and CTO.

My growth into leadership was driven by a combination of technical expertise and a passion for aligning teams with company missions.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My days typically start early with a quick meditation and some physical exercise. This is followed by a quick review of emails and setting the day's agenda. Morning is reserved for meetings, both with internal teams and external stakeholders. Post-lunch, I focus on strategic work, project oversight, and mentorship sessions. Evenings are generally for personal development, catching up on industry news, and reviewing performance metrics. Before bed, I reflect on the day's accomplishments, set the agenda for the next and ensure some downtime with family.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Working with startups around the globe reminded me that effective leadership isn't just about providing direction but also about listening. Each startup had its unique challenges and strengths, and I learned that adapting my leadership style to their needs was crucial for tailoring strategies more effectively for mutual success. I was also reminded of the importance of adaptability. With the ever-evolving nature of technology, it's crucial to remain agile, not just in product development but in leadership approaches. Constantly adapting to new challenges and the diverse needs of global teams is paramount.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

The book 'Leaders Eat Last' by Simon Sinek greatly impacted my approach to leadership. It emphasized the importance of creating a culture of trust and safety. This book reinforced my belief in servant leadership, where my role is to serve my team, ensuring they have the resources and environment they need to thrive.

It also taught me the importance of agility, iterative feedback, and the principle of 'Build-Measure-Learn.' Applying these concepts, especially during product launches, made a significant difference in our outcomes.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

Always prioritize people over processes. Technology and strategies will evolve, but it's the people in your team who drive true innovation and growth. Nurture them, listen to them, and create an environment where they can be their best selves.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One of the most memorable moments was the digitization of flight, bus, and train ticketing in East Africa. Bridging the gap between technology and transportation, and witnessing the tangible impact it had on people's daily lives in East Africa, gave me immense satisfaction. One day, I received a letter from a small business owner who expressed how this digitization had enabled her to expand her business across regions without the logistical nightmare she previously faced. It served as a testament to the transformative power and tangible impact of technology when applied right.