Often, the perception is that making a career in the creative space does not require an intentional effort as compared to traditional careers such as becoming an accountant, a lawyer, or a doctor. However, exploring creative careers can demand just as many methodic career projections as any other career.
Ama Asiedu, the Supply Chain Manager at EchoHouse Africa created a method for her career path with EchoHouse Africa. Her journey in this agency is a testament to her ability to adapt quickly, her growth mindset, and her leadership potential.
After pursuing a BA in Economics at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and serving as an Executive Assistant for one year, Ama was quickly tired of the monotony of her job and she was on the hunt of a creative outlet.
Ama, who initially aspired to be a lawyer when she was in the Junior High School and Senior High School, joined EchoHouse in 2016 as a Project Manager for the Vodafone 10 cedi shop project.
When the opportunity came to join EchoHouse and work on experientials for various brands such as Nestle, Vodafone and others, the Economics graduate and lawyer dreamer jumped at the opportunity.
“It was very exciting for me and totally different from what I had studied at school. Before I joined EchoHouse, i just remember being tired of the monotony of my work and i needed a break. I really needed a creative outlet,” Ama said.
However, after a couple of months, Ama truly found her mojo, – working in a creative field but attempting to bringing in structure in a very unstructured environment.
Ama believes, you can still achieve innovative creativity output while operating in a structured system.
Her ability to learn quickly was evident as she seamlessly transitioned into the finance department and eventually spearheaded the establishment of EchoHouse Africa’s supply chain function. This significant achievement involved creating a database, negotiating with suppliers, and finalizing financial processes with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Her leadership skills were brought to light as she built her team taking on the responsibility of supply chain solutions in Ghana and other West African markets as EchoHouse Africa embarked on the African expansion agenda.
According to her, her success is a result of the supportive environment at EchoHouse Africa, particularly her line manager’s laissez-faire approach, which allowed her the space to experiment and develop her leadership style. “I have realised that thriving at the workplace is all about collaboration,” Ama said in an interview. Ama believes in giving her team clear goals and allowing them the freedom to achieve them, with her guidance always available.
Highlighting some lessons she picked up along the way while on the journey to becoming a leader in EchoHouse, Ama said it is “important to have patience and be understanding when working with diverse personalities.” “By being patient, leaders can give individuals the time and space they need to express themselves, contribute their ideas, and collaborate effectively,” she believes.
Her reflections on her time at EchoHouse highlight several high points, including establishing the supply chain function, managing the company’s relocation, and overseeing team growth. These experiences have instilled in her a strong belief in empowering others and fostering a collaborative work environment.
A problem-solver at heart, Ama views challenges as opportunities for improvement, not roadblocks. She tackles them head-on through collaboration with her boss by clearly explaining the situation and her proposed solutions. Then, she listens to his ideas to figure out the best way to move forward.
Looking to the future, Ama has a clear vision: a fully independent EchoHouse supply chain department with a team spanning multiple countries. Her ambition is matched by her confidence in the support system for women leaders at EchoHouse, including the SheUnit women’s resource group.