Sir Sam Jonah Advocates for People-Centered Approach to Sustainable Growth
Former Chief Executive of AngloGold Ashanti and former Chancellor of the University of Gold Coast, Sir Sam Jonah, has emphasized that true sustainable growth extends beyond financial figures and is ultimately about people.
Speaking at the Gold Coast University Leadership Conversation in Accra on Saturday, March 22, under the theme “Global Leadership and Corporate Governance Strategies for Sustainable Business Growth,” Sir Jonah underscored the importance of fostering a strong corporate culture where employees feel valued and empowered.
“Sustainable growth isn’t just about numbers. It is about people. I have always believed in creating a culture where employees feel valued and empowered to innovate,” he stated.
He highlighted AngloGold Ashanti’s commitment to investing in training and development programs to build local capacity, noting that collaboration with global experts not only upheld world-class standards but also instilled a sense of ownership and pride among employees.
Sir Jonah further asserted that for businesses to thrive, leadership must transcend mere financial performance, as a company’s ability to nurture and develop its workforce directly impacts its long-term sustainability.
He stressed the importance of intentional succession planning, emphasizing the need to identify high-potential talent early, provide them with challenging opportunities, and invest in their development to ensure continuity and stability. Mentorship, he added, is critical in preparing the next generation of leaders.
“At AngloGold Ashanti, we prioritize diversity, not just as a moral obligation, but as a business necessity. Diverse teams are better equipped to solve complex problems and drive sustainable growth, and leaders must actively champion diversity and create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive,” he stated.
On corporate social responsibility, Sir Jonah recalled AngloGold Ashanti’s initiatives to eliminate toxic elements from local communities that posed health risks. He emphasized that balancing social impact with financial stability required deliberate investment, particularly in a volatile gold market.
“We had to save precious lives on one hand, and on the other, we did not simply wait to be dictated to by market fluctuations. We diversified, hedged where necessary, and managed our risk,” he explained.
Sir Sam Jonah’s address reinforced the need for forward-thinking leadership that places people, innovation, and sustainability at the core of corporate success.
