Innovation at the World Food Programme. An interview with Christa Dodoo, Global Head of FM Services

I had the great pleasure to interview Christa Dodoo, the global head of FM services at the World Food Programme. In this wide reaching interview, we also touched on her experience working with the IMF as well, and the attitudes and learnings from running innovation programmes.

Some fantastic advice given, and hopefully interesting thoughts from Christa, who manages 680 offices, across 125 countries. Not to mention looking at innovation in the field, which is where the WFP make a real difference to people's lives.

My thanks, as always to my partners in this series, for making it happen. Equiem, who you need to 'transform your commercial spaces into world-class destinations'. I have known the team there for years. One of the best. Secondly, the Executive Education team at Said Business School. Being a student of theirs, I can assure you they have some of the best?executive courses you can find

What does Innovation look like at the World Food Programme?

A fascinating perspective which brings in both the way that Christa manages her buildings, but also at the emergency response processes they have in the field. Also she touches on the 'return to office' policy at the WFP with a 60/40 split of office/remote work.

What frustrations do you have about the innovation journey?

A regular perspective here, but interesting. The reluctance to embrace innovation.

What does leadership mean to you?

'An opportunity to do something right'. I loved this answer from Christa. She explained it so well.

What tip would you give future innovation leaders?

Christa brilliantly explained her reliance on the teams around her, and how she said that trusting in your teams is the most important step when it comes to innovation. She talks about all being in it together.

What does digital transformation mean to you?

A slightly different perspective to others. An opportunity to look at tools and data was discussed. An ability to gather the information that gives you the ability to instigate change.

What lessons have you learned on your innovation journey?

A fascinating take on Christa's time at both the World Food Programme, but also at the IMF. A need to overcommunicate with all people. A need to bring in people from outside, as well as a need for design thinking workshops.

How are you developing your ESG strategies?

A really interesting look at both the building, but also the travel strategies at the WFP. This clip includes some of the pledges they have made, and some of the difficulties they face.

How did you develop your innovation strategy?

I hope you enjoyed this interview with Christa.

Who else should I interview?