Reflections on Leadership: Jocot de Dios Bids Farewell to Manila Water
As we wrap up another insightful conversation on the Exec Exchange Podcast, hosted by Piers Clark, we rewind to a compelling episode featuring Jocot de Dios, the outgoing CEO of Manila Water. Over the last four years, Jocot de Dios has been a transformative force within the company, navigating both successes and challenges with a unique leadership style that has left an indelible mark on the organization and the wider water sector.
Introduction to Jocot’s Journey
Jocot de Dios brought with him a wealth of experience from both government and infrastructure roles when he stepped into Manila Water’s leadership position. As a lawyer by training, Jocot leveraged his multifaceted background to bring a fresh perspective to the water industry. His commitment to understanding every aspect of the business and his instinct for micromanagement, as he candidly admits, allowed him to grasp quickly the nuances of the sector and drive impactful change.
Achievements at the Helm
Reflecting on his tenure, Jocot remarked on several significant accomplishments during his time as CEO. Firstly, he takes pride in elevating the water narrative in the Philippines, ensuring the sector received the attention and recognition it deserves, rivaling the typically spotlight-hogging energy sector. Under his leadership, Manila Water saw unprecedented financial success with record-high revenues and net income, alongside notable operational efficiencies. Equally important was the company’s commitment to sustainability. Manila Water achieved ambitious Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 6 and receiving an “A CDP” rating for water, a first for any Philippine company.
Lessons Learned and Regrets
Despite the clear achievements, Jocot acknowledges areas for growth and reflection. He notes that cultural change and transformation could have been enacted faster, expressing a desire to have pushed certain initiatives more swiftly to better integrate and align the company’s culture with its operational goals. Furthermore, he reflects on his personal approach, wishing he had spent more time directly engaging with employees on the ground—a testament to his hands-on leadership style.
Looking Ahead: Hopes and Fears for the Water Sector
As Jocot transitions out of Manila Water and back into sectors like oil, gas, and power, he shares insights for the future of the water industry. He emphasizes the need for a heightened global narrative on water issues, particularly against the backdrop of climate change. Jocot advocates for increased financial activity and international collaboration within operational utilities to address these pressing challenges.
Advice for Future Water Leaders
In closing, Jocot offers sage advice to young professionals entering the water sector: Seek diverse experiences across various disciplines and organizations. By gaining a broad perspective and set of skills, young talents can eventually contribute meaningfully to solving their country’s water challenges, bringing back global expertise to serve local needs effectively.
Conclusione
This episode of the Exec Exchange podcast not only highlights the remarkable achievements and insights of Jocot de Dios but also captures the challenges and opportunities facing leaders in the water sector today. As Jocot embarks on the next chapter of his career, his reflections and experiences will undoubtedly continue to inspire future leaders in the industry. Stay tuned for more engaging conversations on the Exec Exchange podcast as we continue to explore the stories and insights from leaders shaping the water sector worldwide.