The rise of enterprise Quality Leaders: AI, strategy & the road to the C-Suite
In this episode, Chris Howell and Bart Derde explore how quality professionals can evolve into enterprise leaders, potentially reaching roles like CEO.Reflecting on their experience at Reckitt and other global organisations, they discuss the cultural and systemic barriers holding quality leaders back - and how to overcome them.From navigating stakeholder complexity to embracing AI and data for value creation, this conversation champions a new model of leadership for the pharma and FMCG industries.They introduce an innovative leadership program designed specifically for quality professionals to expand their impact, communicate with top management, and lead transformation through technology.Packed with insights, this episode is a roadmap for any quality leader ready to embrace enterprise thinking.What You'll Learn:1) The Shift from Functional to Enterprise LeadershipLearn why quality leaders must think beyond compliance and start shaping the strategic future of their organisations to become enterprise-level decision-makers.2) Leveraging Technology and Data for Quality TransformationDiscover how AI, large language models, and integrated systems can unlock root causes, streamline processes, and turn data into a strategic asset.3) Overcoming the "No" Stereotype in QualityUnderstand how quality professionals can reposition themselves as collaborators and innovators - moving from gatekeepers to business enablers.About the Guests:Chris Howell is a seasoned quality leader with deep experience in both operational roles and strategic leadership. He has championed the evolution of quality from a compliance function to a value-creating powerhouse. Chris is passionate about using emerging technologies and enterprise thinking to elevate the role of quality across industries.Bart Derde brings over 35 years of experience across supply chain and quality leadership. He has held executive roles at companies like GSK and Haleon, and is a fierce advocate for breaking down silos and enabling cross-functional leadership. Bart co-created a groundbreaking leadership program to help quality professionals evolve into enterprise thinkers.Links and Resources:https://qualitytalenthub.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-howell-99325610/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-derde/Time Stamps:00:01 – Opening reflections on working together at Reckitt01:13 – Why quality leaders struggle to communicate with executives03:39 – Moving beyond being “the person who says no”05:32 – Enabling value creation through tech and AI08:11 – The vision for enterprise-quality leadership training10:52 – The untapped power of quality data across systems14:46 – Why quality leaders rarely become CEOs18:28 – The role of curiosity in enterprise leadership23:06 – Bridging quality with marketing and other functions30:56 – Breaking down silos between supply chain and quality37:55 – From leaders of quality to leaders of companiesKeywords:Quality leadership, enterprise thinking, pharma, FMCG, AI in quality, large language models, SOP automation, compliance, CEO pipeline, value creation, stakeholder management, functional silos, future of work, quality training, digital transformation, leadership development
