Building a collaborative team with open-ended ambition

Finding ambitious companies that make good investments, have the potential to produce a material societal benefit and are in line with our demanding criteria is a difficult undertaking. The universe is large and complex; we cover four sectors globally.??

As we attempt to gather, organise and process large amounts of information in the face of unpredictability and complexity, our sustainable competitive advantage entails three critical components: aligned and dedicated people who can execute the philosophy with patience and adaptability, and collaborative processes that enable this effectively.??

So how do you build a highly motivated team with open-ended ambition in a sector in which luck, or the lack thereof, is one of the most significant success factors? At Inthallo, we take a holistic view of team culture. We actively shape it by focusing on six principles: approach, alignment, people, range, open communication & collaboration, and true wealth.?

Firstly, our culture is rooted in our differentiated approach, which we have outlined in previous blog posts? (here, here and here). We have shaped and developed clear values and outlined the behaviours we expect everyone to bring their role to life. They form part of our individual and team objectives. From our recruitment process to building relationships with partners to our team events, we integrate and demonstrate our values in everything we do. Everyone chips in. Everyone is an actor of our culture.

Secondly, we work hard to ensure we align our goals. We aim to create alignment through a dynamic flow of information between individuals and across the team through intentional meetings with agendas we all contribute to. This is particularly important as we learn and pivot to changes in strategy and new information. It is critical that each team member understands their core contribution to Inthallo and can make informed decisions with autonomy. We provide guidelines and encourage the team to consider what they could be focusing on rather than telling them what not to do.?

Thirdly, people work at their best when they are committed and engaged. We nurture these qualities through a focus on the well-being and strengths of the individual. Inthallo supports personal growth in a way which reflects unique needs, creates autonomy and feeds enthusiasm. To align our business and individual goals, we have developed a comprehensive progression framework, personalised development plans, 1-2-1 and team feedback meetings, and training opportunities at every level. When a new team member joins us, we trust that they are the right person for the job, and we give them the freedom to express this in a way that feels natural to them. Trust manifests in mutual respect and shared ownership; when we make a decision, the team backs us.?

To align our business and individual goals, we have developed a comprehensive progression framework, personalised development plans, 1-2-1 and team feedback meetings, and training opportunities at every level.

We trust in the power of range. We hire curious generalists excited to think broadly and read widely across and outside our verticals. We encourage each other to follow our interests and share our favourite ideas with the team. We acknowledge that we are not experts and draw on the expertise of those who are. We raise questions and possibilities rather than give answers and certainties. We encourage each other to develop and hold conflicting views.?

Our drive for open communication and collaboration means that we share our different perspectives respectfully and will disagree occasionally. We facilitate this by providing regular, transparent and honest feedback so that we can all improve. We welcome discussion and gently nudge where we can see a positive way ahead. We share work early and often, which enables the team to experiment, to look at problems in new ways, and to find answers in unexpected places.?

And lastly, we believe that true wealth is found in good health, a great family, and strong friendships. And the willingness to help others. People develop resilience through life experience, not at work, so we encourage each other to live full lives and surround ourselves with those who root for us. We trust in the compounding of goodwill and kindness and that by cultivating and sharing a supportive environment, we will be rewarded with a rich professional and personal network.?

We trust in the compounding of goodwill and kindness, and that by cultivating and sharing a supportive environment we will be rewarded with a rich professional and personal network.

A collaborative, thinking team is made out of many different ingredients, and with all the good intentions in the world, we don't always get it right. We can find it challenging to balance our curiosity with focus and sometimes fall into silo working when we don't make time for intentional team time during busy periods. Additionally, small teams have limitations, and there is a danger of becoming an echo chamber, so we value outside voices that broaden our horizons and give us new perspectives.

What do you consider a core ingredient of your team culture?

By Eva Klute